NewzIntel.com

Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: One day until Dinosaur Trail takes over city centre

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    An exciting new dinosaur trail is set to roar into Aberdeen’s city centre tomorrow.  

    Local businesses taking part gathered today to mark one day until the Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail begins, a two-week event from 12th to 27th October with free parking available in two city centre car parks. 

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “We are delighted to welcome the Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail into Aberdeen throughout the school holidays. 

    “This is set to be an exciting trail that all ages can follow and I would like to extend my thanks to all the businesses involved. There are lots of ways to access the city centre, including free weekend parking in certain places.”  

    Education and Children’s Services Convener Councillor Martin Greig said: “The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail is a great way for families to come together to explore and enjoy our vibrant city centre. 

    “This will hopefully be a fun and memorable experience that will encourage people to make the most of their city centre throughout the year.”

    Visitors and locals will be able to discover 18 brick dinosaur models located in various city centre businesses, including a Stegosaurus, Triceratops and adorable baby dinosaurs. 

    Participants will be able to get an insight into how each model is made and learn more about the creations, including how many bricks were used to build the model and learn a fun dinosaur fact. 

    There will also be a Hidden Lego Minifigure Trail, where small Lego figures have been hidden across ten shop windows around the Upperkirkgate and Belmont Street area for people of all ages to find in a treasure-hunt style challenge. 

    Once each minifigure is found, there is the chance to enter into a prize draw to win an Aberdeen Gift Card worth £20. 

    Additional activities including dinosaur-themed bookbug and storytelling sessions will take place throughout the October Holidays in businesses hosting the trail.  

    The Iconic Bricks Dinosaur Trail has received £30,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. 

    Free weekend parking will be available in the Denburn and Frederick Street car parks throughout the October holidays and the first weekend in November. Parking for £1 will be available after 5pm at Virginia Street, the Gallowgate, Frederick Street, Summer Street, Chapel Street, West North Street, and the Denburn. Normal charging rates will resume from 8am. 

    For more information on the event and travelling into the city centre, visit our website. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NHS Pay

    Source: Scottish Government

    Pay increase formally offered to Resident Doctors

    An incremental pay increase offered to Resident Doctors, formerly known as Junior Doctors, and Dentists in Training will ensure NHS Scotland remains an attractive place to work and train in, Health Secretary Neil Gray has said.

    If accepted by trade union members, the investment of more than £64 million in 2024-25 will see an 8.5% pay increase backdated to 1 April 2024, with a further 2.3% increase applied from 1 October 2024. 

    The offer will make significant progress towards tackling pay erosion and is in line with the shared aims of the multi-faceted 2023-24 pay deal, which included commitments to contract reform and work on a pay bargaining review mechanism.

    Health Secretary Neil Gray said:

    “Following weeks of constructive engagement with BMA Scotland, I am pleased to have agreed a pay offer that will ensure that our Resident Doctors, and Dentists in Training continue to feel valued while allowing NHS Scotland to remain the place of choice for them to work and train in.

    “I want to express my thanks again to Scotland’s hardworking Resident Doctors, and Dentists in Training. I am pleased we have been able to work together to honour the agreement from 2023-24, with this offer making significant progress towards resolving pay erosion.

    “I am grateful for the continued efforts around the table and, with the unions now consulting their members, I hope it will be accepted.”

    BACKGROUND

    This pay deal represents a £64.1 million investment and means a doctor at the start of their career will receive a salary increase of £3,418 in 2024-25. For those at the end of their training, the rise will be £7,088 over the same period. 

    The starting salary for a Dentist in Training will increase by £4,239 in 2024-25. For those at the end of their training, the rise will be £5,902 over the same period. 

    New 2024-25 Pay Scales

    Resident Doctors

     

    Pay Point

    Pay Scale 2023/24

    Pay Scale  01 April 2024

    % Uplift

    £ Uplift

    Pay Scale  01 October 2024

    % Uplift

    £ Uplift

    Cumulative % increase

    Total £ Increase

    Foundation year 1

    0

    £31,082

    £33,724

    8.5%

    £2,642

    £34,500

    2.3%

    £776

    11%

    £3,418

    Foundation year 1

    1

    £33,024

    £35,831

    8.5%

    £2,807

    £36,655

    2.3%

    £824

    11%

    £3,631

    Foundation year 1

    2

    £34,964

    £37,936

    8.5%

    £2,972

    £38,808

    2.3%

    £873

    11%

    £3,844

    Foundation year 2

    0

    £38,553

    £41,830

    8.5%

    £3,277

    £42,792

    2.3%

    £962

    11%

    £4,239

    Foundation year 2

    1

    £41,075

    £44,566

    8.5%

    £3,491

    £45,591

    2.3%

    £1,025

    11%

    £4,516

    Foundation year 2

    2

    £43,597

    £47,303

    8.5%

    £3,706

    £48,391

    2.3%

    £1,088

    11%

    £4,794

    Doctors in training

    0

    £40,995

    £44,480

    8.5%

    £3,485

    £45,503

    2.3%

    £1,023

    11%

    £4,508

    Doctors in training

    1

    £43,504

    £47,202

    8.5%

    £3,698

    £48,287

    2.3%

    £1,086

    11%

    £4,783

    Doctors in training

    2

    £47,007

    £51,003

    8.5%

    £3,996

    £52,176

    2.3%

    £1,173

    11%

    £5,169

    Doctors in training

    3

    £49,126

    £53,302

    8.5%

    £4,176

    £54,528

    2.3%

    £1,226

    11%

    £5,402

    Doctors in training

    4

    £51,680

    £56,073

    8.5%

    £4,393

    £57,362

    2.3%

    £1,290

    11%

    £5,682

    Doctors in training

    5

    £54,235

    £58,845

    8.5%

    £4,610

    £60,198

    2.3%

    £1,353

    11%

    £5,963

    Doctors in training

    6

    £56,793

    £61,620

    8.5%

    £4,827

    £63,038

    2.3%

    £1,417

    11%

    £6,245

    Doctors in training

    7

    £59,384

    £64,432

    8.5%

    £5,048

    £65,914

    2.3%

    £1,482

    11%

    £6,530

    Doctors in training

    8

    £61,903

    £67,165

    8.5%

    £5,262

    £68,710

    2.3%

    £1,545

    11%

    £6,807

    Doctors in training

    9

    £64,461

    £69,940

    8.5%

    £5,479

    £71,549

    2.3%

    £1,609

    11%

    £7,088

    Dentists in Training

    Pay Point

    Pay Scale 2023/24

    Pay Scale  01 April 2024

    % Uplift

    £ Uplift

    Pay Scale  01 October 2024

    % Uplift

    £ Uplift

    Cumulative % increase

    Total £ Increase

    Min

    38,553

    £41,830

    8.5%

    £3,277

    £42,792

    2.3%

    £962

    11%

    £4,239

    1

    41,075

    £44,566

    8.5%

    £3,491

    £45,591

    2.3%

    £1,025

    11%

    £4,516

    2

    43,597

    £47,303

    8.5%

    £3,706

    £48,391

    2.3%

    £1,088

    11%

    £4,794

    3

    46,117

    £50,037

    8.5%

    £3,920

    £51,188

    2.3%

    £1,151

    11%

    £5,071

    4

    48,638

    £52,772

    8.5%

    £4,134

    £53,986

    2.3%

    £1,214

    11%

    £5,348

    5

    51,158

    £55,506

    8.5%

    £4,348

    £56,783

    2.3%

    £1,277

    11%

    £5,625

    6

    53,679

    £58,242

    8.5%

    £4,563

    £59,581

    2.3%

    £1,340

    11%

    £5,902

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Keyham gardens fully restored by Plymouth’s construction industry

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Work to repair the boundary walls and back gardens for three homes in Keyham, following the bomb incident earlier this year has been completed. 

    As part of the ongoing support Plymouth City Council has given residents most impacted by the Keyham bomb incident in February, the Council called on the support of the local construction industry to repair the damage left behind by the Army. 

    Building Plymouth is an award winning, Council-led partnership with the construction industry. With nearly 70 member organisations, they engage with clients, contractors, consultants and the supply chain and have delivered a number of successful community initiatives to help improve the quality of life in the city. 

    As a gesture of goodwill, Building Plymouth arranged for local contractors, consultants and suppliers to work together to help repair the damage that was left in the gardens after the incident. Over recent months, eighteen local companies volunteered their time, materials and equipment equivalent value to £40,000 in-kind to support residents in Keyham who’s properties were damaged by the army during the efforts to remove the unexploded bomb.   

    The first phase of the repair works involved repairing the boundary line at the rear of the properties – rebuilding the walls, erecting fencing and installing new back gates in order to make the area fully secure. The second phase of the works was to restore two gardens located either side of where the bomb was safely removed. This included creating new garden designs, laying the new decking, installing steps and fencing, reinstating destroyed masonry, as well as creating a stylish pergola.   

    Councillor Tudor Evans, Leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “I have been overwhelmed by the kindness of our construction industry. They have stepped in and helped these homeowners and their work has truly been outstanding. The gardens have not only been restored, but the craftmanship and skills shown have been second to none.  

    “Whilst it is not the Council’s role to pay for repairs to private properties following an emergency, together with Building Plymouth we have done everything we can to support the homeowners in Keyham. I would like to thank all the construction companies who have given their time, materials, equipment, collectively providing £40,000 in-kind support. You are a credit to Plymouth.”  

    One of the homeowners, Martyn Hammond, said: “The quality of work is outstanding! It didn’t feel like too much trouble and they listened to what I had previously and went over and above to reinstate my garden. I feel so happy to have my garden back again, considering back in February when this area was like a big sack of sand and now, I’m getting my plants restocked and am back in my happy place to sit and chill again. Thank you so much to everyone who has helped to make this happen.” 

    Resident Lee Elliott added: “We can’t express our gratitude enough to the skilled workforce who have been here to help us – the quality of work is top quality, the carpentry is out of this world, everything has gone to regulation with no corners cut. It was a kind freebie but everyone has completely gone above and beyond! Thank you to everyone involved particularly Obedair Construction who stepped in to help restore our garden and exceeded our expectation and the Award Group for doing our boundary fencing and back gate installation to give back our privacy. We have finally got our little sanctuary back.” 

    Steve Warren-Brown, Managing Director from YGS Landscapes who acted as overall managing contractor on the garden projects, said: “Working brilliantly together as a team of volunteers through the Building Plymouth partnership has delivered a positive legacy after such a traumatic experience for three affected residents. As a local landscaping contractor, we knew we should play our part in helping to recover the Keyham gardens and it has been amazing to see so many construction friends stepping up to help. Thank you to everyone involved, this is another fantastic team effort coordinated through Emma Hewitt’s inspiring leadership of our Building Plymouth partnership.” 

    Emma Hewitt, Building Plymouth Lead for Plymouth City Council, said: “It has been a real privilege to get to know the residents through leading this garden recovery project and am delighted that we have exceeded their expectations. We couldn’t have made this happen without the generosity of the local construction industry. I continue to be so proud of what we achieve together through Building Plymouth, a huge thank you to everyone involved.”   

    Many of the contractors who gave their time for free.

    The companies involved in this project were:    

    • YGS Landscapes – the landscaping contractor managing design and delivery of the overall project and installation of the decking and steps in one garden 
    • Travis Perkins Plymouth – supplying building and landscaping materials for the entire boundary line and two gardens reinstatement  
    • Foot Anstey – providing legal advice and drafting the memorandum of understanding for residents to agree to the scope of works being offered  
    • Airey and Coles – undertaking the structural assessment of remaining stone wall and providing the design and advice of delivering the new boundary line  
    • South West Highways – providing advice on highways and ensuring traffic management and resident communications 
    • Gilpin Demolition – dismantling of the existing boundary wall to make the structure safe ahead of the works 
    • Award Group – erecting fencing and installing the new back gates  
    • The Plym Group – erecting blockwork and repairing stonewall damage 
    • Obedair Construction – delivered one complete back garden including laying the new decking, installation of steps, reinstating destroyed masonry, as well as building a pergola 
    • Richard Harding Ltd – provided carpentry services to help deliver one of the back gardens  
    • Arborcure – installed the specialist fencing in one garden  
    • Red Air Media – filming onsite to track the progress of the community project 
    • Jewson – providing the free hire of a micro digger and mixer 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: VDEC Pre-clinical team helps to develop organ-on-a-chip to protect human health

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Scientists at VDEC use ‘organ-on-a-chip’ models to study infections and immune responses, aiming to improve vaccine testing and reduce reliance on animal research.

    Executive summary

    Scientists are constantly trying to improve the use and efficiency of models in research. As such, they are exploring a move away from traditional tissue or whole-body models. This move is proving to be a successful route to protecting human health against a variety of pathogens.

    Target

    The Pre-clinical team at UKHSA’s Vaccine Development and Evaluation Centre (VDEC) has developed an expanding capability in the use of microphysiological systems (MPS), an example of this are the ‘organ-on-a-chip’ models.

    Essentially, we can grow a range of different cell types in 3D structures that represent tissues and mimic human organs in miniature chambers supplied with very small volumes of growth medium (a substitute for human blood). Although we started out simply by infecting these systems with various strains of pathogens, we are now developing the ability to introduce parts of the human immune system as well so that we can model and understand how our bodies fight infectious disease and how we can enhance or supplement that protection.

    Aims

    Understanding the correlates of protection for new and emerging coronaviruses is at the forefront of science strategy around the world. The pandemic potential of coronaviruses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) has been proven in recent years. Understanding how they evolve, and impact humans is of utmost importance. Once we can understand how this works, we are then able to (or we then have another method to) test the efficacy of vaccines against evolving variants.

    One model that highlights the importance of developing such systems is the adaptation of human alveolus MPS. The SARS-CoV-2 infection model described here (1) replicates the breathing-like stretch observed in lung epithelial cells and other biochemical characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infection, allowing this to be used as a successful model of infection in live human tissue.

    Options

    An additional future benefit of this cutting-edge research is that it should help to reduce our reliance on animal research. Although that is a long-term view, it may also be possible that by increasing the complexity of the MPS models and analytical tools we use to interrogate them, we may one day be able to replace some aspects of animal research in medical research.

    Outcome

    Working alongside the teams that are developing and testing the MPS technology are teams using established challenge models, allowing direct comparison of human tissue replicating a whole organ system. The team at VDEC currently have 2 human lung-on-chip models. The first, a human bronchial airway and the second, human alveolus. Both models have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 in order to investigate the effect of this virus against various lung tissue types. A ‘non-breathing’ lung-on-chip alveolus model has also successfully been infected with SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV, allowing characterisation of the differences between severe coronavirus infections.

    Future work

    Leading on from the success of the SARS-CoV-2 MPS, further work to develop a MPS model that can rival the current ‘gold standard’ MERS model is currently being carried out by the team at VDEC. This could provide clear evidence that MPS models are equally as effective as current models, refining the process of challenge studies across the board. We are working to extend the range of tissue types available for testing, for example working with brain and gut (2), as well as lung tissue to investigate movement of virus from organ to organ or to study difficult-to-study syndromes like long COVID or premature ageing.

    The team is also pivoting transcriptomics, whole genome sequencing as well as sophisticated histopathological techniques to analyse these tiny samples. This means we will be able to detect small changes in the biochemistry, microbiology, and immunology of infected human cells very early on in the infection process to help us test new ways to protect humans. We have begun countermeasure testing antiviral drugs but intend to include vaccines testing as well using MPS technology, with a view to provide an alternate approach to certain aspects of human clinical trials. MPS-based technologies could allow detection of uniquely human issues with vaccine or therapeutic candidates ahead of human clinical trials, which could add an early ‘go’ or ‘no-go’ step as well as saving money downstream.

    The use of MPS technology also allows our scientists to study infections from a new standpoint, as various environmental or immunological elements can be added or removed to investigate their impact. An example of this is that lung tissue can be infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the presence of individual immune cell populations to help us reveal and understand the significance of their roles in disease and recovery.

    At VDEC we are at the forefront of this exciting technology, pushing its potential to the limits of human disease research and therapeutics for the benefit of public health.

    Download this case study as a PDF

    References

    1. Šuligoj, Tanja and Coombes, Naomi S and Booth, Catherine and Savva, George M and Bewley, Kevin R and Funnell, Simon GP and Juge, Nathalie. ‘Modelling SARS-CoV-2 infection in a human alveolus microphysiological system’. Access Microbiology (2024). 6:9.

    2. Jones EJ, Skinner BM, Parker A, Baldwin LR, Greenman J, Carding SR and Funnell SGP. ‘An in vitro multi-organ microphysiological system (MPS) to investigate the gut-to-brain translocation of neurotoxins’. Biomicrofluidics (2024). Sep 13;18(5):054105. doi: 10.1063/5.0200459. PMID: 39280192; PMCID: PMC11401645.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Warsaw Human Dimension Conference 2024: UK closing statement

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Deputy Ambassador Brown says that progress on democracy and fundamental freedoms cannot be taken for granted at this time of shrinking civil space and growing authoritarianism.

    Location:
    Warsaw
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    Thank you, Madam Chair. Good morning, everyone.

    As we reach the end of the third Chair’s Warsaw Human Dimension Conference in three years, I would like to thank Malta as our Chair in Office for holding this meeting and enabling government officials, civil society, international experts and human rights activists to come together to take stock of how participating States are implementing their human dimension commitments.  

    The opportunity to take stock is why all participating States agreed to an annual meeting in this format in the early 1990s. We again condemn Russia’s decision to block the mandated Human Dimension Implementation Meeting and call on the Russian Federation to stop their illegal war; withdraw their troops from Ukraine; cease their malign activities, including disinformation; and, respect OSCE principles and commitments.

    Thank you, Tea, and your teams at ODIHR for preparing and delivering this meeting and for the work you do throughout the year to help us all in the implementation of our commitments. That ODIHR has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize is recognition of your vital daily work.  Like others I am waiting in excited anticipation to hear the news from Oslo.  

    I salute those of you who have spoken in plenary sessions and side events over the past fortnight. We have heard about the impact of Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and systematic dismantling of rights and freedoms at home too. We have also heard about challenges to human rights and democracy in other parts of our region, reminding us that work to uphold our shared human dimension commitments is always required, and that progress cannot be taken for granted at this time of shrinking civil space and growing authoritarianism.     

    We have again been struck by the expertise and bravery of civil society organisations during this meeting. It is they who represent citizens and they that record and report violations at grassroots level. It is no exaggeration to say that without civil society, governments understanding of the extent of human rights violations on the ground would be sharply reduced. As we approach next year’s 50th anniversary of the Helsinki Final Act, we hope that civil society’s important role will receive the prominence that it deserves. As my Ambassador said in his opening statement, they truly are the spirit of Helsinki.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 October 2024

    Invasion of Ukraine

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor intends to appoint Council leader Kaya Comer-Schwartz as new Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime

    Source: Mayor of London

    • Kaya Comer-Schwartz has served as the Leader of Islington Council for more than three years, where she led transformation of youth services and £2m investment supporting survivors of violence against women.
    • The appointment of the Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime is subject to a confirmation hearing by the Assembly Policing and Crime Committee.

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has appointed Kaya Comer-Schwartz as London’s new Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime.

    Kaya Comer- Schwartz was born and raised in London and has been an Islington councillor for more than a decade. She has served as Council Leader for more than three years. She previously worked as Executive Member for Community Safety and Children, Young People and Families, championing equality, public safety and community cohesion.  

     

    Kaya was responsible for the transformation of the Council’s Youth Justice Services and oversaw a £2 million investment in vital services for survivors of violence against women and girls – ensuring key services were available and accessible for all of the borough’s diverse communities.

     

    She has also worked on a pioneering local action plan following the publication of the Baroness Casey Review and worked closely with communities and the local police to identify clear steps to rebuild confidence and trust in the service. 

     

    The appointment follows the announcement last week that Sophie Linden*, who has served as London’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime for the last eight years, is stepping down to take up a new position as a senior adviser to Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice, Shabana Mahmood MP.

     

    The appointment of a new Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime is subject to a confirmation hearing by the London Assembly Policing and Crime Committee.

     

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Nothing is more important to me than keeping Londoners safe. Kaya brings extensive experience to the role, working to make Londoners safer and improving trust and confidence in the police, which we know leads to reductions in violence and crime.

    “I’m pleased to appoint Kaya Comer-Schwartz as London’s new Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime and I’m confident that she will help us to continue reforming the police and deliver a safer London for everyone.”

    Kaya Comer-Schwartz said: “I’m thrilled to have been proposed as London’s new Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime.

     

    “From dealing with the aftermath of the Finsbury Park terror attack to empowering communities and the police to stand together following the far-right riots this summer, I am proud to have championed justice, community cohesion and public safety throughout my career.

    “I am excited about the prospect of bringing my skills, knowledge and experience to the role and driving the urgent reforms needed to the police to deliver a safer and more equal London.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Breakthrough in longstanding Dutch missing person case

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    LYON, France – The remains of Dutch national Angelique Hendrix, who disappeared in 1990, have been identified after an international DNA match was made via INTERPOL. 

    Angelique Hendrix was identified through international DNA match 34 years after she disappeared

    In 1991, Belgian authorities found unidentified human remains in Maasmechelen, just across the border from Angelique’s home in Stein, Netherlands.

    The case remained unsolved until a recent change in Belgium’s legislation allowed its DNA profiles to be shared with INTERPOL’s I-Familia database. It contains DNA data from biological relatives of missing persons.

    Dutch authorities had previously shared DNA data from Angelique’s family with I-Familia, which led to the match when Belgian authorities submitted DNA data from the human remains to INTERPOL.

    Further research and collaboration involving Belgium and the Netherlands confirmed Angelique’s identification.

    Created and managed by INTERPOL, the I-Familia database relies on voluntary DNA submissions from family members of missing persons. The database is used to compare DNA profiles with those from unidentified deceased persons and international missing persons cases.

    This case represents the first I-Familia match for both Belgium and the Netherlands since the database was launched in 2021. I-Familia contains more than 21,000 DNA profiles from 78 countries and is used exclusively for solving missing persons cases. It is not connected to INTERPOL’s criminal databases. 

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said:

    “The major breakthrough in Angelique’s identification was thanks to the efforts of Belgian and Dutch law enforcement and the crucial role of I-Familia in providing answers to families of missing persons.

    “For missing persons cases, international cooperation plays a vital role in enabling investigators to put together the various pieces of the puzzle surrounding a person’s disappearance.”

    The I-Familia database is also an important part of the separate Identify Me international appeal launched earlier this week, which seeks the public’s help in uncovering the identities of unknown deceased women found across six European countries.

    Members of the public with any information on the circumstances of Angelique’s disappearance can contact the Dutch police via http://www.politie.nl/angelique.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ireland’s ‘Most Wanted’ arrested in United Arab Emirates

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    LYON, France – One of Ireland’s most wanted fugitives, Sean McGovern, has been arrested in the United Arab Emirates following cooperation via INTERPOL.

    The 38-year-old, an alleged high-ranking member of the Kinahan Organized Crime Group, was taken into custody by Dubai Police on Thursday 10 October.

    The arrest follows the publication of an INTERPOL Red Notice, or international wanted persons alert, to support the ongoing collaboration between Irish and UAE authorities.

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said:

    “One of Ireland’s most wanted individuals has been arrested thanks to the combined efforts of the Irish authorities and the United Arab Emirates.

    “Cases like this underline the value of international police cooperation via INTERPOL’s global network, and again highlights that no fugitive can consider themselves safe from justice.

    McGovern, who is wanted for charges including murder and directing an organized crime group, will be held in the UAE pending extradition proceedings.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: York’s Role in Leading Climate Action for the Region

    Source: City of York

    York is at the forefront of regional efforts to tackle the climate crisis as part of the newly launched Yorkshire and Humber Climate Action Plan 2024.

    Following significant engagement across the region, the comprehensive plan has gained unanimous support from all 15 local authorities. York’s leader, Councillor Claire Douglas, is a key voice in driving these changes, serving as Vice Chair of the Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission.

    The action plan outlines critical steps the region must take to achieve net zero by 2038, with a focus not only on reducing emissions but also ensuring a just transition that benefits all communities and ecosystems.

    York Residents: Take Action through the Retrofit One Stop Shop

    As part of the report, York was highlighted for its commitment to making the retrofit journey simpler for residents through its use of funding for a Retrofit One Stop Shop York (ROSSY).

    This initiative, which will be called YorEnergy, encourages residents to contribute to the climate fight by improving the energy efficiency of their homes and is part of the city’s commitment to both small and large-scale efforts that support the region’s climate objectives. Whether it’s simple home upgrades or larger investments, residents can now access support and resources to make these changes easier.

    Cllr. Claire Douglas, Leader of City of York Council and Vice-Chair of Yorkshire and Humber Climate Commission said:

    “The YHCC Climate Action Plan is about taking practical steps to combat the climate change that we’re all experiencing.

    “We understand more now about the impacts of climate on our communities but also the challenges that there are around implementing some of the actions that we know we need to take.

    “It’s really important that we share examples of the best practice that’s taking place in our communities and this is a great opportunity for people to see what others are already doing.”

    Cllr. Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency said:

    “York is ambitious to reach Net Zero.

    “We have increasingly stark reminders of the impacts of carbon emissions, with more wildfires this summer, prolonged rainfall and flooding, and Florida currently suffering the impact of Hurricane Milton.

    “We also want warmer homes with lower bills in winter, cooler homes in hotter summers, clean air for all, and nature and people to thrive together, and are pleased to have been A rated for climate action by the independent Carbon Disclosure Project for two years running.

    “The Yorkshire and Humber Climate Action Plan strengthens our resolve to deliver on our climate commitments and gives clear guidance on how we in York, and as a region need to adapt. We’re delighted that our retrofit agenda has been highlighted in the plan, as this is a crucial part of our work, and reinforces York’s role as a leader in the region’s climate response.”
     

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Ambassador For A Day 2024: British Embassy Manila

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The British Embassy Manila invites female students in the Philippines, aged between 14 to 17 years old, to enter a competition to be an Ambassador for a Day.

    What is Ambassador For A Day

    Have you ever wondered what the day-to-day work of an Ambassador is like? The competition will give the winner the unique opportunity to shadow the British Ambassador to the Philippines and learn about the work of an Ambassador and other diplomacy leaders.

    Why you should enter this competition

    Women and girls represent half of the world’s population and therefore also half of its potential. We must ensure equality of opportunity and equitable outcomes for everyone. This is why we are encouraging women to make their voices heard on topics that affect us all.

    We invite young students to become leaders and advocates for change by offering them the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes of the British Embassy Manila.

    Who can enter

    You can enter this competition if you are:

    • a female student in the Philippines
    • between 14 to 17 years old
    • available to spend a full day of activities with us at the British Embassy

    How to enter

    To enter, you must write an essay in English answering the following question in no more than 500 words: “If you were the Ambassador for a day, what would you do to help create a society free from violence against women and girls?”

    Important tips:

    • Please bear in mind that the topic for International Day of the Girls is “girl’s vision for the future”.
    • Creativity will be an important judging criteria.
    • The competition’s jury will be comprised of a diverse panel representing different backgrounds to ensure a fair and inclusive evaluation process.

    Please read the information in detail on our Terms and Conditions.

    How to submit entry

    Read the  Terms and Conditions for entering the Ambassador for a Day 2024 competition (ODT, 396 KB) and email your essay and Ambassador For A Day participation form to ukinthephilippines@fcdo.gov.uk on or before 11 November 2024.

    Deadlines

    Make sure you enter the competition on time:

    • deadline for applications: 11 November 2024
    • competition winner contacted: 20 November 2024
    • competition winner announced: w/c 25 November 2024

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Text adopted – Strengthening Moldova’s resilience against Russian interference ahead of the upcoming presidential elections and a constitutional referendum on EU integration – P10_TA(2024)0016 – Wednesday, 9 October 2024 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    The European Parliament,

    –  having regard to its previous resolutions on the Republic of Moldova,

    –  having regard to the Association Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Moldova, of the other part(1), which includes a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area,

    –  having regard to the Republic of Moldova’s application for EU membership of 3 March 2022, and the European Council’s consequent granting of candidate country status on 23 June 2022,

    –  having regard to the convening of the first Intergovernmental Conference on Moldova’s accession to the EU, held in June 2024,

    –  having regard to Articles 2 and 49 of the Treaty on European Union,

    –  having regard to the joint statement of 13 June 2024 by the US, Canada and the UK on exposing Russia’s subversive activity and electoral interference targeting Moldova,

    –  having regard to Rules 136(2) and (4) of its Rules of Procedure,

    A.  whereas on 20 October 2024, the Republic of Moldova is scheduled to hold a presidential election and a constitutional referendum on EU integration, amid ongoing Russian interference and attempts to destabilise the political situation and electoral process in the country;

    B.  whereas the Russian Federation has been using economic blackmail, provocation, disinformation, illegal funding of political parties, cyberattacks and other hybrid means to undermine the stability, sovereignty, constitutional order and democratic institutions of the Republic of Moldova; whereas Russia’s subversive activities in Moldova seek to undermine popular support for the European path chosen by the people of Moldova and to incite destabilisation; whereas the active measures envisaged include establishing and promoting front organisations disguised as non-governmental organisations and ‘cultural centres’, disseminating online and offline disinformation, establishing strong pro-Russian political and societal constituencies and returning the Republic of Moldova to a state of dependency on Russian hydrocarbons;

    C.  whereas in 2023, the EU imposed sanctions on key Moldovan oligarchs and pro-Russian actors, such as Ilan Shor, Vladimir Plahotniuc, Igor Ceaika, Gheorghe Cavaliuc and Marina Tauber, on the basis of a recently established sanctions regime targeting persons responsible for actions aimed at destabilising, undermining or threatening the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova; whereas allies of Mr Shor have reportedly actively recruited, arranged logistics for and provided financial compensation to individuals to join their protests; whereas on 3 October 2024, a large-scale electoral fraud operation was uncovered, financed by pro-Russian oligarch Ilan Shor, revealing that over USD 15 million had been transferred in September 2024 to over 130 000 Moldovan citizens involved in this voter bribery scheme; whereas on 18 September 2024, two close allies of Ilan Shor – deputy Marina Tauber and the Governor (Bashkan) of Gagauzia, Evghenia Guțul – met with the spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, and subsequently gave false information about the EU and the Republic of Moldova’s future within it;

    D.  whereas one of the tools used by the Russian state is the state-funded RT network (formerly Russia Today), which has moved beyond media activities, becoming actively involved in cyber operations, covert influence, military procurement and information warfare across various regions; whereas in June 2024, the US, together with the UK and Canada, exposed Russia’s efforts to engage in subversive activities and electoral interference targeting the Republic of Moldova;

    E.  whereas in September 2024, the US imposed sanctions on three entities and two individuals for their involvement in Russia’s destabilising actions abroad, including in the Republic of Moldova; whereas these covert efforts have included RT personnel providing direct support to fugitive Moldovan oligarch Ilan Shor, the key perpetrator of the 2014 USD 1 billion bank fraud scandal; whereas, according to the US State Department, RT and its employees, including editor-in-chief Margarita Simonyan, have directly coordinated with the Kremlin to support Russian Government efforts to influence the Moldovan presidential election of October 2024, with the apparent aim of inciting unrest in the Republic of Moldova;

    F.  whereas the Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova has reported an unprecedented level of intensity in Russia’s actions aimed at anchoring Moldova within its sphere of influence; whereas this hybrid threat is targeted at democratic processes and undermines European integration by amplifying radical separatist tendencies in the south of the country, particularly in Gagauzia (UTAG), using propaganda, manipulating the information space, interfering in the electoral process and conducting subversive operations; whereas Moldova’s national security services have stated that Russia is funding the ‘no’ campaign, with around EUR 100 million for pro-Russian political groups, and spreading disinformation on social media to sow doubt about the legitimacy of the electoral process; whereas in 2023, Ukrainian intelligence reported that it had intercepted a plan by Russia to stage a coup and oust Moldovan President Maia Sandu;

    G.  whereas the Republic of Moldova has taken steps to combat Russian interference, including by banning pro-Russian political parties that are operating outside the law, sanctioning oligarchs, suspending media outlets that spread disinformation, and increasing customs controls; whereas Moldova’s updated national security strategy attributes disinformation campaigns and other hybrid attacks to Russia;

    H.  whereas the unprovoked, unjustified and illegal war of aggression launched by the Russian Federation against Ukraine profoundly affects regional security and stability, endangering the Republic of Moldova’s macroeconomic situation, financial stability, democratic development and social cohesion, while further increasing the incidence and severity of poverty, inflation and emigration; whereas the Russian Federation, in cooperation with domestic Russia-sponsored actors, galvanises and uses the resultant widespread economic, geopolitical and security uncertainty to delegitimise and foster opposition to the Moldovan Government’s pro-European policies;

    I.  whereas despite the dramatic effects of the war on Ukraine and these destabilisation attempts, the Republic of Moldova has managed to significantly consolidate its democracy, continue its reform trajectory and develop its relations with the EU; whereas the improvements in the country’s democratic system have been reflected in its progress on various international indexes; whereas the Moldovan Government’s enhanced implementation of current agreements demonstrates its commitment to closer cooperation with and integration into the EU;

    J.  whereas the Republic of Moldova is a close and valued partner of the EU; whereas its application for EU membership, and the European Council’s decision to grant candidate country status to the Republic of Moldova on the understanding that nine steps are taken, demonstrates a strong joint ambition for swift EU integration; whereas through the Association Agreement and the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, in force since 2016, the EU and Moldova have committed to promoting political association and achieving economic integration;

    K.  whereas on 3 March 2022, the Republic of Moldova applied for EU membership, and on 23 June 2022, was granted candidate country status by unanimous agreement of all 27 EU Member States; whereas the EU opened accession negotiations with the Republic of Moldova during the first accession conference at ministerial level, held in Luxembourg on 25 June 2024, following the European Council’s decision of 14-15 December 2023 to open accession negotiations with Moldova, and the Council’s approval of the negotiating framework for these negotiations on 21 June 2024; whereas EU accession remains a merit-based process that requires the fulfilment of the EU membership criteria;

    L.  whereas every sovereign state has the inherent right to defend itself and to invest in its defence and resilience capabilities, and such actions are consistent with the Republic of Moldova’s status of neutrality;

    M.  whereas the Council has adopted assistance measures worth EUR 137 million for the benefit of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova under the European Peace Facility since 2021;

    N.  whereas on 24 April 2023, the EU set up the Partnership Mission in the Republic of Moldova (EUPM Moldova) under the common security and defence policy, with the objective of enhancing the security sector’s resilience in the areas of crisis management, hybrid threats, including cybersecurity and countering foreign information manipulation and interference; whereas on 21 May 2024, Moldova became the first country to sign a Security and Defence Partnership with the EU, which will help strengthen cooperation on security and defence policy between the EU and Moldova;

    O.  whereas, according to several reports, many priests from the Metropolis of Chișinău and All Moldova have travelled to Russia, where they received funds with the intention of using them for electoral purposes in the Republic of Moldova;

    1.  Stands in solidarity with the people of the Republic of Moldova and reiterates its unwavering support for the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova within its internationally recognised borders;

    2.  Strongly condemns the escalating malicious activities, interference and hybrid operations by the Russian Federation, pro-Russian oligarchs and Russian-sponsored local actors aimed at undermining the electoral processes, security, sovereignty and democratic foundations of the Republic of Moldova, fostering divisions within Moldovan society and derailing the country’s pro-European trajectory, ahead of the upcoming presidential election and the constitutional referendum on EU integration;

    3.  Reiterates its call on the Russian authorities to respect the Republic of Moldova’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to cease its provocations and attempts to destabilise the country and undermine its constitutional order and democratic institutions; reiterates its calls on Russia to withdraw its military forces and equipment from the territory of the Republic of Moldova, to ensure the full destruction of all ammunition and equipment in the Cobasna depot under international oversight and to support a peaceful resolution to the Transnistrian conflict, in line with the principles of international law and the 1999 Istanbul Summit Declaration of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe;

    4.  Calls for the EU and its Member States to ensure that all necessary assistance is provided to the Republic of Moldova to strengthen its institutional mechanisms and its ability to respond to hybrid threats; calls for increased EU support for Moldova in countering disinformation, hybrid threats and cyberattacks; underlines that this should entail boosting Moldova’s capacity to combat disinformation, strengthen its cybersecurity infrastructure and enhance resilience against external malign influences; emphasises the particular importance of countering false Russian narratives, while underscoring their malign interference in the Republic of Moldova and the ways in which they are used to justify Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine;

    5.  Calls on the Council to adopt additional targeted sanctions listings against individuals and entities responsible for supporting or carrying out actions which undermine or threaten the Republic of Moldova’s sovereignty and independence, as well as the country’s democracy, stability or security, and the rule of law; calls for the EU and national authorities to make sure those sanctions are duly implemented; reiterates its call on the respective hosting states and territories to extradite Ilan Shor, Vladimir Plahotniuc and other individuals sought for trial in the Republic of Moldova;

    6.  Highlights the important role played by EUPM Moldova; calls for the EU and its Member States to ensure that EUPM Moldova performs to the best of its ability, taking stock of progress and adapting its operations if necessary to make it as efficient as possible, while proposing to further extend its mandate beyond May 2025, adapt its scope and increase the mission’s resources; calls for the EU and its Member States to increase their support for Moldova’s Center for Strategic Communication and Combating Disinformation; calls on the Commission to report on the results of the EU support package for Moldova of June 2023, particularly the stated aim of countering foreign information manipulation and interference, and building capacity for independent media, civil society and youth;

    7.  Applauds the Republic of Moldova’s steadfast support for Ukraine since the start of Russia’s war of aggression; commends the Republic of Moldova for welcoming 1,5 million Ukrainian refugees throughout the war, of which an estimated 125 000 remain in the country; calls for the EU and its Member States to ensure continued support for Moldova and its people in addressing the challenges facing the country as a consequence of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, including large numbers of refugees, inflation, threats to its energy supplies and violations of its airspace;

    8.  Reaffirms its commitment to the Republic of Moldova’s future membership of the EU; believes that its membership in the EU would constitute a mutually beneficial investment in a united and strong Europe; welcomes the widespread support in the Republic of Moldova for its European integration; stresses that the Republic of Moldova’s European integration represents not only a path towards greater economic prosperity, but also a safeguard for political stability and security in the face of external threats;

    9.  Calls for the acceleration of the screening process and the timely organisation of subsequent intergovernmental conferences, where negotiations on Cluster 1 on Fundamentals should be initiated; calls for the EU to adequately support accession-related reforms by developing robust and adaptable financial instruments tailored to the Republic of Moldova’s specific needs with a view to effectively addressing its economic and structural challenges, and ensuring the country remains resilient and capable of implementing the necessary reforms throughout its EU accession process; urges the acceleration of Moldova’s gradual integration into the EU and the single market by allowing participation in new initiatives and EU programmes, which will deliver tangible socio-economic benefits in specific areas even before the country formally joins the EU; reiterates its call, in this regard, for the EU to take swift and significant steps towards the permanent liberalisation of its tariff-rate quotas;

    10.  Calls for more consistent support for the Republic of Moldova in its EU accession process, including increased technical assistance by sending additional EU advisors to the Moldovan authorities, as a contribution to strengthening capacity-building;

    11.  Calls for the adoption of a new growth plan for the Republic of Moldova so as to adequately finance and support Moldova in achieving economic convergence with the EU; believes that this plan should finance investments in infrastructure, human capital and the digital and green transitions, facilitating sustainable economic growth; calls for the full integration of the Republic of Moldova into the ‘Roam Like at Home’ initiative by the end of 2025;

    12.  Calls on the Commission, in this regard, to include the Republic of Moldova in the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance and to prioritise funding for candidate countries in its proposal for the next multiannual financial framework (2028-2034), ensuring the path towards EU membership;

    13.  Welcomes the Republic of Moldova’s significant progress in implementing EU accession-related reforms and encourages the Moldovan authorities to continue the ambitious reforms on democracy and the rule of law; calls for the EU and its Member States to prioritise and allocate additional resources to efforts to support the rule of law and anti-corruption reforms in the Republic of Moldova in order to address vulnerabilities, including those related to corruption in the security sector, justice system, public administration and media, which could enable Russian interference and disinformation; encourages the Moldovan Government to continue working with all stakeholders towards a sustainable and comprehensive justice and anti-corruption reform, in line with EU and Venice Commission recommendations;

    14.  Underlines the importance of advancing the country’s reform process in order to improve living standards, particularly for vulnerable groups, and to provide the younger generations with attractive prospects for life and work in the country, thereby increasing societal resilience to hybrid attacks and reducing the number of citizens seeking better living conditions elsewhere in Europe; highlights the need for the social acquis to be better represented in the Commission’s assessments and recommendations;

    15.  Reiterates its support for stronger cooperation on security and defence policy between the EU and the Republic of Moldova; commends the Republic of Moldova for becoming the first country to sign a security and defence partnership with the EU and calls for this partnership to be put into practical action; calls for the EU to progressively include the Republic of Moldova in upcoming legislative initiatives and programmes relating to European security and defence; supports the continued work under the High-Level Political and Security Dialogue between the EU and the Republic of Moldova to enhance cooperation on foreign and security policy;

    16.  Calls on the Member States to increase the European Peace Facility’s funding for the Republic of Moldova to further enhance the country’s defence capabilities;

    17.  Reiterates its call for the EU and its Member States to continue supporting the efforts of the Moldovan authorities to maintain macroeconomic stability and enhance its energy security by supporting the construction of new electricity interconnections with neighbouring countries; calls for the EU and its Member States to financially support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects as a clean and sustainable way of reducing Moldova’s energy demand and diversifying its supply, while ensuring energy affordability, in particular for the most vulnerable groups;

    18.  Urges the EU and its Member States to further strengthen cooperation with Moldova through targeted measures in order to enhance the country’s resilience to hybrid threats, including by improving strategic communications about the EU, supporting journalists and civil society in countering disinformation, promoting independent Russian-language media content and enhancing public information literacy; calls for additional resources and technical know-how to assist the Moldovan Government’s strategic communications, internal coordination and capacity-building against hybrid attacks and disinformation; commends the efforts of Moldovan civil society in supporting the Moldovan Government’s fight against disinformation and promoting democratic values; calls on the Commission and the Member States to continue supporting media literacy and media independence, as well as the strengthening of Moldova’s critical digital infrastructure, including through the replacement of Russian-origin information and communications technology systems; calls for the EU and its Member States to expand and intensify their direct engagement with Moldovan citizens by including them in various EU and bilateral programmes and projects, such as citizen consultations, and to foster people-to-people connections;

    19.  Calls on the Commission to assist the Moldovan Government in putting pressure on social media platforms to address disinformation effectively;

    20.  Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Council, the Commission, the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, the governments and parliaments of the Member States, the President, Government and Parliament of the Republic of Moldova, the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Council of Europe and the Russian authorities.

    (1) OJ L 260, 30.8.2014, p. 4.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Explosive issue of housing – E-001940/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001940/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)

    For thousands of working people and their families, housing is an explosive issue. In Greece, 74.2% of tenants spend more than 40% of their income on accommodation, while 74% of young people are still living ‘with Mum and Dad’. The price of buying a house has also gone up enormously, by 66.4% as compared to 2017, as also reflected in data from the Bank of Greece.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.What is the Commission’s view of the demand for no auctioning of social housing or of business premises for the self-employed, as expressed in the ongoing mass mobilisations that have stopped working-class properties going under the hammer and ordinary families, often including even members with disabilities, unemployed people, etc. being turned out of their houses?
    • 2.What does it think of the fact that the ‘My Home 2’ and ‘Upgrading My Home’ programmes financed by the RRF (Recovery and Resilience Facility), using money that comes out of the heavy taxes paid by ordinary people, are in practice a burden on working-class households with loans, producing a further skyrocketing of prices in the real-estate construction, operation and management sectors, the building materials industry and the banking sector, and boosting the profitability of their business groups?
    • 3.What is its view regarding the need for integrated housing planning under the responsibility of the state, aimed at meeting the needs of working people and involving the re-establishment of ΟΕΚ (the Greek Workers’ Housing Organisation) and support for an exclusively state-run construction programme, a ban on the auctioning-off of social housing, an upgrading and expansion of student halls of residence and the use of apartments and hotels for free accommodation for students?

    Submitted: 3.10.2024

    Last updated: 11 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Students discover UK Parliament on Learn with the Lords Day | House of Lords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Learn with the Lords Day brought students from across the country to Parliament to learn more about the role and work of the House of Lords and meet a Lords member.

    Hear from the students who took part about what they learned.

    Find out more and apply for a session in your school https://learning.parliament.uk/en/learn-with-the-lords/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb8NMbhKkYI

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update following allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Following media coverage relating to allegations against the late Mohamed Al Fayed and our public appeal for people to come forward and speak to police, the Met has been contacted by numerous people reporting their experiences.

    We continue to ask anyone who has been a victim of Al Fayed, or anyone with information they feel that police should be aware of relating to his activities, or those who facilitated the offending, to get in contact. Specialist detectives are available to listen to you, formally record any allegations, and signpost you to any support you may need.

    Commander Stephen Clayman said: “Since the broadcast of the documentary and our recent appeal, detectives have received numerous pieces of information, predominantly relating to the activities of Mohamed Al Fayed but some relating to the actions of others.

    “This has led to us record 40 new allegations, relating to 40 victim-survivors and covering offences including sexual assault and rape across a time period between 1979 and 2013. These are in addition to allegations we were aware of prior to the broadcast.

    “I recognise the courage it will have taken for people to take that step to speak to us about their experiences and I want to reassure anyone who has yet to make contact that we have specially trained detectives who will listen to you and support you.

    “All these reports will need to be formally logged and assessed to see if there are any allegations of criminality that can be pursued. This will take time, but we will ensure those who contact us are kept updated with progress.

    “We also continue work to make contact with lawyers representing individuals who have come directly to them, to ensure they are aware of our request to speak to police so any crimes can be recorded and the relevant support provided.

    “While the majority of information we have received relates to Al Fayed’s ownership of Harrods, we are contacting representatives of other organisations linked to Al Fayed to ensure anyone affected is identified and has the opportunity to speak with us.”

    There are various ways to contact police about your experience:

    – call the Complex Investigation Team on 020 8217 6582 or 6586 between 8am and 6pm Monday to Sunday;
    – call 101 at any time and quote CAD1920/26Sep;
    – email CSCMailbox-.ComplexInvestigationTeam@met.pnn.police.uk
    – use the following online portal here where you can provide information.

    It is important to make clear at this stage that it is not possible for criminal proceedings to be brought against someone who has died.

    This means there is no prospect of any conviction relating to Al Fayed himself.

    However, we continue to explore whether any other individuals could be pursued for any criminal offences.

    A full review of allegations previously made to police continues. We have now identified 21 separate allegations reported to us about Al Fayed prior to the recent media broadcast. This review will ensure there are no new lines of enquiry based on new information which has emerged and will include liaising with the Directorate of Professional Standards where appropriate.

    Previous allegations:

    In addition to the 19 allegations we were already aware of, a further two allegations have now been identified relating to Al Fayed. These 21 allegations resulted in crimes being recorded involving Al Fayed relating to 21 separate women and were reported to the Met between 2005 and 2023.

    The offences were alleged to have taken place between 1979 and 2013. Of these reports, four were allegations of rape, 16 were sexual assault and one related to trafficking.

    Between 2005 and 2023 we approached the Crown Prosecution Service on five occasions – two of these, in 2009 and 2015, were to pass full files of evidence. The remaining three approaches were for early investigative advice.

    In all 21 allegations that were reported to police there was no further action taken against Mohamed Al Fayed.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: TUV supports court action to save the Boyne Bridge and challenges Translink attitude to architectural charity

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement by TUV MLA Timothy Gaston:
    “TUV has supported the campaign to preserve the Boyne Bridge for years and commends Billy Dickson BEM for the phenomenal effort he has put into the grassroots efforts to keep this historic part of Belfast’s heritage.
    “The demolition of the bridge will cause massive disruption to traffic flow in the city, regardless of whether Translink wins in the courts.
    “It is disgusting that Translink should seek to threaten the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, a charity, with a £100,000 per week bill if they dare to challenge the demolition of the bridge in court.
    “This is a matter I will be raising with the Minister for Infrastructure by way of a priority written question which I will submit today.”
    Note to editors
    Mr Gaston’s question is as follows:
    To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to make representations to Translink asking them to drop their threat to seek £100,000 a week costs from the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society should they go ahead with court action seeking to preserve the Boyne Bridge.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Inside ‘Learn with the Lords Day’: teachers share their stories | House of Lords

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    Did you know you can apply for a free Learn with the Lords session for your school? A member of the House of Lords will visit your class to deliver a presentation and answer questions from pupils.

    The Learn with the Lords programme brings @UKParliament to life for students and helps them develop a better understanding of the vital role of the UK Parliament’s second chamber.

    Hear from teachers who took part in a special Learn with the Lords Day, which brought students from across the country to Parliament to learn more about the role and work of the House of Lords and meet a Lords member.

    Find out more and apply for a session in your school https://learning.parliament.uk/en/learn-with-the-lords/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-t4qE_0q83s

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 11/10/2024 Meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Vice-President of the International Committee of the Red Cross

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Meeting at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with the Vice-President of the International Committee of the Red Cross11/10/2024On Thursday, October 10, Mrs. Henryka Mościcka-Dendys met in Warsaw with Mr. Gilles Carbonnier, Vice-President of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

    Poland attaches great importance to the activities of the Committee and to compliance with international humanitarian law. During the meeting, representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross informed about the tasks being carried out and the challenges they face during the current armed conflicts. Deputy Minister Mościcka-Dendys presented the guests with copies of the 5th Report on the implementation and dissemination of international humanitarian law in the Republic of Poland in the years 2019-2023, a cyclical publication resulting from the cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with other ministries and non-governmental entities. On this occasion, the Deputy Minister emphasized that the purpose of the Report is to continue the review of national legislation and practice in the field of compliance with the norms of international humanitarian law.

    ***The International Committee of the Red Cross – ICRC (ing. Comité Internacional de la Cruz Roja – CICR) is an independent, neutral organization providing protection and humanitarian assistance to victims of war and other armed conflicts. The organization was founded in 1863 and is headquartered in Geneva.

    Photo: Sebastian Indra/Ministry of Foreign Affairs

    Photos (2)

    MILES AXIS

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Translation: 11/10/2024 Savings Bond Sales Results in September

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    In September, we sold savings bonds worth PLN 5,775 million. In September, we sold the following bonds: 3-month (OTS1224) – PLN 127.8 million, 1-month (ROR0925) – PLN 1,881.1 million, 2-year (DOR0926) – PLN 415.9 million, 3-year (TOS0927) – PLN 2,087.0 million, 4-year (COI0928) – PLN 925.6 million, 10-year (EDO0934) – PLN 299.5 million. The most frequently purchased instruments were 3-year bonds – TOS. Individual buyers allocated PLN 2,087.0 million for their purchase (36% share in the sales structure). Interest was also enjoyed by 1-year bonds – ROR (33%) and 4-year – COI (16%). Next, savers chose 2-year bonds – DOR (7%) and 10-year – EDO (5%) and 3-month – OTS (2%). Customers allocated nearly PLN 38.4 million for the purchase of family bonds dedicated to beneficiaries of the Family 800 program. Family bonds are directed exclusively to people receiving benefits under the Family 800 program, who want to save for the future needs of their children. The beneficiaries of the program have different obligations depending on the amount of the childcare benefit granted. Family bonds are available for sale on an ongoing basis, so you can purchase them at any time. All types of bonds can be purchased at PKO Bank Polski branches and Customer Service Points of the PKO Bank Polski Brokerage House and in the network of bond sales points of Bank Polska Kasa Opieki SA. Our bonds are also constantly available online in bank services and the PeoPay mobile application.

    September – most frequently chosen bonds

    In September, our clients allocated nearly PLN 5.8 billion for the purchase of retail bonds. The greatest interest was enjoyed by 3-year TOS bonds with a fixed interest rate – 36% share in sales. Another eagerly chosen savings product from our offer were 1-year bonds with a variable interest rate, based on the reference rate of the National Bank of Poland, which constituted 33% of the total sales value.

    – comments Jurand Drop, Undersecretary of State in the Ministry of Finance. October is the month of saving

    October 31st is World Savings Day, which is to remind us how important it is to manage our finances wisely and consciously. It is worth making generating and increasing savings a permanent element of household budgets. Treasury bonds support diez processors. All you need to do is choose the type of bond in which you want to invest your funds, deposit them and the rest is done automatically, without any additional costs. The registration account where our instruments are recorded is kept free of charge. Depending on the selected bond, interest is paid on an ongoing basis – during the life of the bond or at the end of the selected period. The maintenance-free nature of bonds is a great benefit for our clients, who can devote the time saved to other activities.

    – adds Minister Gota.Savings bonds in retail sales

    Type of bond

    Offer de Details (sale from October 1-31)

    Selling price

    OTS01253-monthly

    Three-month bonds are bonds with a fixed interest rate of 3.00% per annum. Interest is calculated on the value of PLN 100, and interest is paid after the end of saving (after three months from the date of purchase).

    PLN 100100.00 PLN when exchanging

    ROR10251-annual

    Annual bonds are variable-rate bonds. In the first month, the interest rate is 5.75% per annum. In subsequent monthly interest periods, the interest rate is equal to the NBP reference rate and a fixed margin of 0.00%. Interest is paid monthly.

    PLN 10099.90 PLN when exchanging

    DOR10262-year-old

    Two-year bonds are variable-rate bonds. In the first month, the interest rate is 5.90% per annum. In subsequent monthly interest periods, the interest rate is equal to the NBP reference rate and a fixed margin of 0.15%. Interest is paid monthly.

    100 PLN99.90 PLN when exchanging

    TOS10273-year-old

    Three-year bonds are bonds with a fixed interest rate of 5.95% per annum. In the first year, interest is calculated from the value of PLN 100, and in subsequent years from the value increased by the interest for the previous year (so-called capitalization of interest). Interest is paid after the savings have ended.

    100 PLN99.90 PLN when exchanging

    COI10284-year-old

    Four-year bonds are bonds that pay interest based on inflation.1 The interest rate in the first year of saving is 6.30%. In subsequent years, the interest rate is equal to inflation plus a fixed margin of 1.50%. Interest is paid after each year of saving.

    100 PLN99.90 PLN when exchanging

    EDO103410 summer

    Ten-year bonds are bonds whose interest rate is based on inflation1. The interest rate in the first year of saving is 6.55%. In subsequent years, the interest rate is equal to inflation and a fixed margin of 2.00%. In the first year, interest is calculated on the value of PLN 100, and in subsequent years on the value increased by the interest calculated for the previous year (so-called capitalization of interest). Interest is paid after the savings are completed.

    100 PLN99.90 PLN when exchanging

    ROS10306-year family bond

    Family Six-Year Bonds are bonds intended for beneficiaries of the Family 800 program. Their interest rate is preferential in relation to the bond included in the standard offer and is based on inflation1. The interest rate in the first year of saving is 6.50%. In the following years, the interest rate is equal to inflation and a fixed margin of 2.00%. In the first year, interest is calculated from the value of PLN 100, and in the following years from the value increased by the interest calculated for the previous year (so-called capitalization of interest). Interest is paid after the savings are completed.

    100 PLN

    ROD103612 summer family obligation

    Family Twelve-Year Bonds are bonds intended for beneficiaries of the Family 800 program. Their interest rate is preferential in relation to the bond included in the standard offer and is based on inflation1. The interest rate in the first year of saving is 6.80%. In the following years, the interest rate is equal to inflation and a fixed margin of 2.50%. In the first year, interest is calculated from the value of PLN 100, and in the following years from the value increased by the interest calculated for the previous year (so-called capitalization of interest). Interest is paid after the savings are completed.

    100 PLN

    1 the rate of increase in the prices of consumer goods and services, adopted for 12 months and announced by the President of the Central Statistical Office (GUS) in the month preceding the first month of a given interest period. How can I buy Treasury bonds? State Treasury bonds can be purchased: How to open an IKE-Bonds Account and an IKZE-Bonds Account? An IKE-Bonds Account or an IKZE-Bonds Account can be opened at any branch of PKO Bank Polski or POK of the PKO BP Brokerage House. You can also obtain remote access to your IKE- and IKZE-Bonds Account under the terms and conditions specified in the “Regulations on the use of access to the Registered Account in the field of Treasury bonds via telephone or the Internet”.

    MILES AXIS

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s development assistance for global health and SRHR makes a difference and saves lives

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden’s development assistance for global health and SRHR makes a difference and saves lives – Government.se

    Please enable javascript in your browser

    Press release from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    Sweden is an active force for child and maternal care, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and other health care around the world. Support to health care in Ukraine, access to SRHR, and fundamental health and vaccination campaigns are important focus areas. Cooperation with civil society is also being strengthened. The annual development assistance for health report, published today, 11 October, outlines all of this and much more.

    “Investments in global health lead to a safer and healthier world, in which more people are given the conditions to live and shape their own prosperity. Sweden’s broad efforts for global health and SRHR are often critical – not least operations to get vaccines and medicines to those most in need, but also our efforts to strengthen health and medical care in low- and middle-income countries,” says Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa.

    Last year, Sweden’s development assistance for health totalled approximately SEK 5.7 billion. The annual development assistance for health report outlines Sweden’s overall support to global health and SRHR. It has been published every year since 2012 and is based on statistics from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). 

    In 2023, bilateral health assistance to Ukraine increased, helping to ensure access to basic and life-saving care – an area that has been hard-hit following Russia’s full-scale invasion. The Government’s drive to support civil society organisations has contributed to preventive measures in low- and middle-income countries, including against sexual and gender-based violence. 

    Press contact

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Switzerland and US sign new agreement on the exchange of trainees and young professionals

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in English

    Bern-Wabern, 11.10.2024 – Switzerland and the US today signed a new agreement in Bern on the exchange of trainees and young professionals. The agreement will make it easier for young Swiss people to receive training in the US, and for Americans to do the same in Switzerland, for short periods. This new agreement replaces the agreement from 1980.

    State Secretary for Migration Christine Schraner Burgener signed the new agreement in Bern today. It will take effect from 30 November, and is aimed at young Swiss people between 18 and 35 years old. Those wishing to participate must either be in training or have a vocational diploma or higher education qualification. People who do not meet these requirements may still be eligible if they have some professional experience. In particular, they must be seeking to complete their studies or to improve their skills in their specialisation.

    For both Swiss and American participants, residence and work permits are issued for up to 12 months, with the possibility of a 6-month extension.

    Purpose of the agreement

    The new agreement makes it easier for young professionals from both countries to obtain visas, and opens up the exchange programme to a wider range of people than under the 1980 agreement. The immersive experience of training abroad allows participants to improve their language, cultural and social skills.

    Under the old programme, more than 100 people each year from Switzerland and as many from the United States benefited from an exchange in the 1980s and early 1990s. This number has fallen steadily since the 2000s, mainly because of changes in the requirements for obtaining a US visa.

    Switzerland also has trainee exchange agreements in place with Argentina, Australia, Chile, Canada, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, the Philippines, Russia, South Africa, Ukraine, Tunisia and Indonesia. Switzerland also has individual agreements with the member states of the European Union; however, these are no longer applied because the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons between Switzerland and the EU offers more favourable conditions.

    Since the first trainee agreement was concluded (with Belgium in 1936), almost 40,000 Swiss trainees have been able to work temporarily abroad. Conversely, more than 58,000 foreign trainees have had the opportunity to experience the Swiss work environment.

    Address for enquiries

    SEM Information and Communication, medien@sem.admin.ch

    Publisher

    State Secretariat for Migration
    https://www.sem.admin.ch/sem/en/home.html

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Venezuela: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on post-election developments

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Venezuela: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on post-election developments – Government.se

    Please enable javascript in your browser

    Statement by Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    The European Union continues to follow developments in Venezuela with great concern. Reports from international election observation missions clearly state that the presidential elections on 28th July did not meet international standards of electoral integrity.

    Despite its own commitment, the National Electoral Council of Venezuela (CNE) has not yet published the official voting records (“actas”) of polling stations. Without evidence to support them, the results published on 2nd August by the CNE cannot be recognised. Any attempt to delay the full publication of the official voting records will only cast further doubt on the credibility of the officially published results.

    Copies of the electoral voting records published by the opposition, and reviewed by several independent organisations, indicate that Edmundo González Urrutia would appear to be the winner of the Presidential elections by a significant majority.

    The European Union thus calls for further independent verification of the electoral records, if possible by an internationally reputed entity.

    At this critical time, it is important that demonstrations and protests remain peaceful. The European Union calls for calm and restraint. Venezuelan authorities, including security forces, must fully respect human rights, including freedom of expression and of assembly.

    The European Union is seriously concerned about the growing number of arbitrary detentions and the continued harassment of the opposition. The European Union calls on Venezuelan authorities to put an end to arbitrary detentions, repression and violent rhetoric against members of the opposition and civil society, and to release all political prisoners.

    The European Union welcomes the efforts of regional partners, with whom it remains in close contact, to promote dialogue and a negotiated solution to the crisis.

    Respecting the will of the Venezuelan people remains the only way for Venezuela to restore democracy and to solve the current humanitarian and socio-economic crisis.

    The statement published on the website of the European Council

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s development assistance for health 2023

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Sweden’s development assistance for health 2023 – Government.se

    Please enable javascript in your browser

    Report from Ministry for Foreign Affairs

    Published

    In 2023,Sweden’s development assistance for health totalled approximately SEK 5.7 billion. Support to health care in Ukraine, access to SRHR, and fundamental health and vaccination campaigns are important focus areas.

    Download:

    Sweden’s development assistance for health amounted to approximately
    SEK 5.7 billion in 2023, accounting for 10.4 per cent of Sweden’s total
    development assistance, excluding deductions for asylum costs. Approximately SEK 3.4 billion (equivalent to 61 per cent) of this was channelled via the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The remaining funds, just over SEK 2.2 billion (corresponding to 39 per cent), were channelled via Sida’s bilateral, regional and global strategies.

    The total amount of development assistance for health has varied over the years. In 2020–2021, it was record high in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Percentage-wise, total development assistance for health in 2023 decreased slightly compared to pre-pandemic levels. During the period 2019–2023, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs managed a larger financial share of Sweden’s development assistance for health than Sida.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Gradual trade recovery underway despite regional conflicts, policy uncertainty

    Source: World Trade Organization

    The October update of the WTO’s Global Trade Outlook and Statistics largely reaffirms the April forecast, pointing to a gradual recovery in merchandise trade despite widening regional conflicts and increasing policy uncertainty. However, at the regional level, we have seen weaker-than-expected European trade and stronger-than-expected Asian exports.

    Since the last report, inflation has fallen, as expected, in advanced economies, prompting central banks to begin lowering interest rates. We expected these developments to boost consumption and investment, thereby increasing demand for imports. In particular, we projected that Asian economies would lead the trade recovery, while North America, Europe and other regions would contribute more modestly, yet positively.

    Broadly speaking, these expectations have materialized. As shown in Chart 1, we now anticipate a 2.7% increase in global merchandise trade volume in 2024, slightly up on our previous estimate of 2.6%. However, the forecast for 2025 has been revised downward, from 3.3% to 3.0%. Trade growth in 2024 and 2025 will likely be accompanied by real global GDP growth of 2.7% at market exchange rates, both this year and next.

    While the overall figures for global trade and output have remained stable, notable shifts in regional trade growth are emerging. Downside risks to the forecast have also intensified, particularly with the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, which could further disrupt trade flows.

    Two key differences stand out between the current forecast and the previous one. First, trade growth in European economies has been weaker than expected, affecting both imports and exports. Second, export growth in Asian economies has been stronger than expected.

    As illustrated in Chart 2, Asia is expected to contribute more than any other region to global export growth in 2024, adding 2.8 percentage points to the projected 3.3% growth in exports. The region is also expected to contribute 1.4 percentage points to the 2.0% import growth foreseen for this year. Meanwhile, North America is expected to contribute 0.6 percentage points to import growth in 2024, partly offsetting Europe’s negative contribution of -0.8 percentage points. Regional trade contributions should stabilize in 2025, aligning more closely with medium-term trends.

    The stronger-than-expected export performance in Asia has been driven by increased exports of electronics, automotive products and other manufactured goods from China, with other Asian economies such as India, Viet Nam and Singapore also reporting robust export growth. On the downside, Europe’s export decline has been led by a contraction in the automotive and chemicals sectors, both of which are concentrated in Germany.

    The outlook for services trade remains more positive than for goods, with the value of global commercial services trade in US dollars rising 8% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024. More comprehensive services data will be released later this month, but continued strong growth is anticipated for the second quarter.

    Returning to merchandise trade, we are seeing increasing evidence of trade fragmentation driven by geopolitical concerns. Trade is increasingly conducted among like-minded economies, a trend accelerated by the war in Ukraine. However, we have yet to observe a broader shift towards regionalization or near-shoring on a global scale.

    The full report is available here.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK government seals further £225 million investment in Teesside renewables industry with financing deal

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    One of the largest factories in the global offshore wind sector will expand and support even more jobs after UK Export Finance worked with Korean investors to secure new financing.

    • UK Export Finance and Korea Trade Insurance Corporation have guaranteed new financing for a major South Korean investment into Teesside.

    • This has unlocked new £225 million in financing from Standard Chartered Bank and HSBC UK for SeAH Steel Holding’s construction of a wind tech factory near Redcar. 

    • The financing supports an additional investment which will help the mega-factory to produce wider range of components for the offshore wind sector and meet latest industry demands.

    Based in Teesside, one of the world’s largest offshore wind technology factories will become even bigger after new government support for a South Korean investor. 

    Supported by backing from UK Export Finance (UKEF), SeAH Wind UK has now made an additional £225 million investment into wind technology manufacturing in Teesside. This brings their total investment into the site at Teesworks Freeport up to £900 million. 

    This was made possible after SeAH Steel Holding received financial guarantees from UKEF and Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure) – the UK and South Korean export credit agencies – meaning that it could access £225 million in new financing for its ongoing factory build. 

    UKEF and K-Sure first supported the project in 2023. New support brings their joint backing for this project up to £590 million, with Standard Chartered Bank and HSBC UK providing the finance. 

    Wind monopiles act as the foundation for most offshore wind turbines and are critical to the growth of the global renewable energy sector. Upon completion of the factory, SeAH Wind UK will export to US and European markets. 

    New financing means that the factory will be able to produce even bigger monopiles and a wider range of products to meet industry demands, supporting the UK’s place in the global offshore wind supply chain. 

    The project will create up to 750 jobs by 2027 – a milestone in the development of a thriving offshore wind and renewables industry in North-East England.  

    Chris Sohn, Chief Executive of SeAH Wind UK, said: 

    With the proactive support of UKEF, our project is progressing smoothly. As we approach the completion of the factory construction, we are committed to ensuring its successful finalisation. We aim to become the first monopile manufacturing company in the UK and make a significant contribution to the UK economy.

    Tim Reid, CEO of UK Export Finance, said: 

    This investment shows that there is international confidence in the UK economy and its ability to support the industries of tomorrow.

    UK Export Finance is helping to secure overseas investment in Teesside and around the UK through its financing offer. By working with HSBC UK, Standard Chartered and K-Sure to support investment into this project, the government is bolstering North-East England’s position as a leader in renewable energy expertise.

    Ian Stuart, CEO of HSBC UK, said: 

    We are delighted to provide our continuing support to SeAH Group for its new offshore wind monopile manufacturing factory in Teesside, North-East England. Through its expanded manufacturing capabilities, the factory will significantly contribute to the needs of the offshore wind industry and play an essential role in addressing the growing demand for renewable energy. This project underscores the importance of export finance in helping our clients grow their operations globally and facilitating their journey to net zero.

    Yoshi Ichikawa, Head of Structured Export Finance for Europe, Standard Chartered, said:  

    We are proud to build on our previous financing provided in November 2023, to support SeAH Group’s additional investment and enhancement of the UK supply chain in the wind sector. It is an example of the important role we play in helping our clients and sectors to make credible progress on their net zero ambitions, while supporting economic development across our markets.

    SeAH Wind UK, a subsidiary of South Korean steel company SeAH Steel Holding, announced its decision to invest and broke ground at Teesworks Freeport in 2022.  

    The ongoing construction has already created major contracts for the UK supply chain in manufacturing, construction and logistics, including a £100 million contract for British Steel. 

    UKEF’s support was provided under the Export Development Guarantee (EDG) product, which is available for overseas companies investing in new UK exporting opportunities and has also secured a major investment into Welsh paper manufacturing at Shotton Mill, Deeside.

    Notes to editors

    • UKEF’s Export Development Guarantee (EDG) helps companies who export from or plan to export from the UK access high-value loan facilities for general working capital or capital expenditure purposes. 

    • Of the new financing, UKEF guaranteed over £157 million whilst K-Sure guaranteed over £67 million.  

    • This follows previous financing worth £367 million in 2023, of which £257 million was guaranteed by UKEF and £110 million by K-Sure.

    Contact

    Media enquiries:

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions of Innofactor Plc’s Extraordinary General Meeting and the organizing meeting of the Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Innofactor Plc Stock Exchange Release October 11, 2024, at 13:00 Finnish time

    Removing the transfer restrictions on the remuneration shares of the members of the Board of Directors

    In previous Annual General Meetings, Innofactor has approved decisions regarding the remuneration of the Board of Directors. It has been decided that Innofactor requires Board Members to hold the shares they receive as annual compensation for the duration of their Board Membership. This means that there is a restriction on the transfer of these shares during their tenure.

    According to the proposal presented in the meeting invitation, the General Meeting decided to remove all transfer restrictions on all shares received as compensation by the Board Members elected at Innofactor Plc’s Annual General Meeting on March 27, 2024, prior to the date of the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    Board of Directors’ remuneration

    The General Meeting decided that the remuneration for the Chairman of the Board and Board Members will remain unchanged, in accordance with the decision made at Innofactor’s Annual General Meeting on March 27, 2024. However, for the Board Members elected at the Extraordinary General Meeting, the remuneration will be paid entirely in cash, proportionate to the length of their term, taking into account any remuneration already paid to the continuing Board Members. Therefore, the General Meeting decided to pay the Chairman of the Board 5,000 euros per month and Board Members 2,500 euros per month for the duration of their term, with the monthly cash remuneration for continuing Board Members reduced by 50 percent if they have already received a share-based remuneration. No separate meeting fees will be paid.

    Additionally, the General Meeting decided that the remuneration already paid to the Board Members in accordance with the decision made at Innofactor’s Annual General Meeting on March 27, 2024, will be paid in full, and no repayment of the already paid remuneration will be required based on the length of their term.

    The General Meeting decided that for those Board Members who were not re-elected and whose term ended at the conclusion of the Extraordinary General Meeting, the monthly cash remuneration, as determined by the decision of the Annual General Meeting, will be paid until the date of the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    Composition of the Board of Directors

    The General Meeting decided that the Board of Directors shall have four members. Mr. Sami Ensio and Mr. Risto Linturi were re-elected as members to the Board of Directors, and Mr. Antti Kummu and Mr. Timo Larjomaa were elected as new members of the Board of Directors for a term that begins at the conclusion of the Extraordinary General Meeting and ends at the conclusion of the next Annual General Meeting. The term of those Innofactor Board Members who were not re-elected ended at the conclusion of the Extraordinary General Meeting.

    At the organizing meeting held after the Extraordinary General Meeting, Mr. Antti Kummu was elected as Chairman of the Board.

    The Board elected Mr. Antti Kummu as the chairman of the remuneration committee and Mr. Timo Larjomaa and Mr. Risto Linturi as its members.

    The minutes of the Extraordinary General Meeting will be available on Innofactor Plc’s web site at https://www.innofactor.com/invest-in-us/general-meeting/ as of October 25, 2024, at the latest.

    Espoo, October 11, 2024

    INNOFACTOR PLC

    Board of Directors

    Additional information:
    Sami Ensio, CEO
    Innofactor Plc
    Tel. +358 50 584 2029
    sami.ensio@innofactor.com

    Distribution:
    NASDAQ Helsinki
    Main media
    http://www.innofactor.com

    Innofactor
    Innofactor is the leading driver of the modern digital organization in the Nordic Countries for its about 1,000 customers in commercial and public sector. Innofactor has the widest solution offering and leading know-how in the Microsoft ecosystem in the Nordics. Innofactor has about 600 enthusiastic and motivated top specialists in Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway. The Innofactor Plc share is listed in the technology section of the main list of NASDAQ Helsinki Oy. http://www.innofactor.com #ModernDigitalOrganization #PeopleFirst #CreatingSmiles #BeTheRealYou

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 5th Joint BoC – ECB – NY Fed Conference – Welcome Speech

    Source: European Central Bank (video statements)

    Luis de Guindos, Vice-President of the ECB, gives the Welcome speech for the 5th Joint BoC – ECB – NY Fed Conference on 1. October, 2024 in Frankfurt, Germany.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8S0OZ2DAIc4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £1million extra support secured for York residents

    Source: City of York

    Financial support to help residents cope with the cost of living crisis is being extended until the end of end of March 2025.

    The Council has been allocated £1,037,906 for the next six months and residents are urged to make sure they claim all benefits that they are eligible for.  

    This Household Support Funding (HSF) from the Government will be used in York to provide a variety of financial assistance to help residents meet essential expenses. These include:

    • £500,000 – a direct payment will be made before Christmas to working aged people who receive Council Tax Support
    • £180k – a discretionary application scheme will be available to support any other residents struggling to meet their bills, including pensioners
    • £70k – support for the Council’s food and fuel voucher scheme
    • £80k – advice and support to maximise residents’ income and promote take-up of unclaimed benefits
    • £80k – community food and support to run Warm Places this winter
    • £60k – administration and delivery of two Talk Money information and support campaigns
    • £10k – York Energy Advice funding for offering advice and energy-saving measures for households
    • £30k – support to identify, contact and support financially-vulnerable residents to claim.

    Councillor Katie Lomas, joint Executive Member for Finance, Performance, Major Projects, Human Rights, Equality and Inclusion, said:

    “Nearly half of the £1,037,906.47 we’ve been allocated through the Household Support Fund (HSF), will be issued as direct payments for working-age residents who are receiving Council Tax support. This translates to a cash payment of around £115 for every qualifying resident and we’re contacting those who are eligible, to make sure they receive this vital support.

    “Of the remaining funds, £180,000 will be allocated to a discretionary support scheme, which will be open to applications to anyone struggling with their finances. We’ll also be allocating money from the HSF to continue supporting Warm Places and energy advice services to support people with the effects of rising energy costs this winter, as well as community food support and support to take up unclaimed benefits.”

    Councillor Bob Webb, with joint responsibility for financial inclusion, said:

    “We reckon as many as 1,600 people in York are missing out on Pension Credit. It’s really important that they know about it and claim the extra £100s as well as unlocking other benefits like the Winter Fuel Payment.

    “We know that between April and June 2024, an extra 31 residents claimed Pension Credit who are benefiting from a total extra £134,825 to help them through these uncertain financial times.

    “We’re writing to over 450 residents who we know are eligible for Pension Credit because they already claim Council Tax Support and Housing Benefit. Information on the 1,150 or so other eligible people is held by the Government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and can’t be shared for data protection reasons. So, we’ve been reaching out to them through other council services and voluntary sector organisations, to help people check their eligibility and to support them to apply.”

    Anyone who needs help to claim Pension Credit can click here, or contact these local support services:

    Anyone who needs help to claim Council Tax Support can click here or contact these local support services:

    • Age UK York – 01904 634061
    • OCAY – 01904 676200
    • Citizens Advice York – 0808 278 7895
    • CYC Benefits Advisors – 01904 552044
    • Peasholme Charity – 01904 466866
    • York Carers Centre – 01904 715490.

    More information for residents on other benefits is here or click here. 

    The next Talk Money campaign to encourage residents to claim all they can, spend less and get good advice, will run from Monday 4 November to Friday 15 November.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Island Voices lecture series explores the theme of ‘Home’

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Island Voices lecture series explores the theme of ‘Home’

    11 October 2024

    A series of literary lunchtime lectures are currently running in the Tower Museum as part of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Island Voices programme.

    This year the lectures will explore the theme of ‘home’ in the work of local writers from the English, Irish and Ulster-Scots traditions.

    Island Voices features talks by Belfast-born Réaltán Ní Leannáin, Maureen Boyle from Sion Mills, and Alan Millar from the Laggan Valley in East Donegal, the series will explore identity and belonging within the context of our shared languages of English, Irish and Ulster-Scots.

    Irish Language writer Réaltán Ní Leannáin opened the series with a lecture entitled ‘From Burgu to Belfast’.

    The next lecture on Thursday, 24 October will feature Sion Mills writer Maureen Boyle speaking about ‘Writing ‘Strabane’ – Blessing a Town Into Poetry’.

    In 2018 Maureen was commissioned by Radio 4 to write a poem on the town her family came from for a series called ‘Conversations on a Bench’.  In this talk, Maureen will explore the process of the poem’s creation, the motivation to write it, the research involved and the process of translating research into poetry.

    The final lecture in the series features Alan Millar with his talk ‘Hame an awa – Scots wurds in Irish toonlands’. It will take place on Thursday, 28 November.

    Born and reared in the Laggan of East Donegal, Alan Millar will explore the interconnections of locality and language running through his own work, using as his touchstone the glossary and subscribers list of Newton-Cunningham poet George Dugall’s ‘The Northern Cottage’, published exactly 200 years ago this year. The glossary, filled with Ulster-Scots dialect still spoken today, is layered through with many words now lost to the Laggan, but still alive in other places, creating a sense of shared Scots language, running past into present, between Fintown and the Shetlands.

    Encouraging people to attend the series of lectures Cllr Lilian Seenoi Barr, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council said: “Home means something different to each individual. It doesn’t always have to be a place, home can be a feeling in your heart or even a memory of a time when you felt safe.  Home is so important to us all and I would encourage everyone to go along to these lectures to see how central the theme is to all the voices which call our island home.”

    Pól Ó Frighil, from Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Languages Team, which organises the event, added: “We are delighted to have these three incredible writers joining us for Island Voices this year. The backgrounds and life experiences of Réaltán, Maureen and Alan mean they each have a unique concept of ‘home’ and it will be wonderful to see how this has translated into their works.

    “We hope that our programme of lectures adds to the greater public understanding of the unique literary traditions of English, Irish and Ulster-Scots.” 

    All talks in the series are free but booking is essential. Each one will begin at 1pm and there are light refreshments available from 12.30pm. To book your place please contact the Tower Museum, T: (028) 7137 2411 or email [email protected] 

    Further information: Pól Ó Frighil, Languages Team, Derry City and Strabane District Council, [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for murder after detectives retrieve CCTV that disproves his claim of self-defence

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man who claimed self-defence after he murdered Bajram Luli has been jailed.

    Sabin Manda, 32 (27.08.92) of no fixed address appeared at Inner London Crown Court on Friday, 11 October where he was sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum of 17 years.

    Manda had previously been found guilty of murdering 27-year-old Bajram Luli at the same court on Thursday, 26 September.

    The pair had been involved in a dispute over drugs in Sudbury Heights Avenue, Greenford, on 11 March 2024.

    Manda claimed he attacked Bajram in self-defence after fearing for his own life. However following the incident he went ‘off the grid’ claiming he was worried about possible retaliation.

    In the meantime, detectives had secured CCTV footage which captured the attack and showed it was unprovoked. As a result of extensive enquiries using a range of techniques Manda was located and arrested.

    Detective Inspector Adam Guttridge, Specialist Crime South, said: “The investigation team worked long and hard to locate footage of this incident that helped disprove Sabin Manda’s version of events.

    “Our enquiries confirmed that he launched an unprovoked attack on Bajram and Manda will now face many years in prison where he can contemplate the consequences of his actions.

    “I sincerely hope that can only hope his conviction brings some comfort to Bajram’s family. My thoughts are with them today. ”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Paddy Tyre Tribute Concert Planned for the Guildhall

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Paddy Tyre Tribute Concert Planned for the Guildhall

    11 October 2024

    The life and music of Derry man Paddy Tyre will be celebrated at a special concert in the Guildhall on December 5th.

    Paddy, well-known throughout the City and District, passed away suddenly on July 8th, just hours after he and his family met with the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr. The family had requested the meeting to seek the mayor’s support for a charity walk organised by Paddy’s daughters, Rosin Hamill, Aoife Tyre and granddaughter Kirstie Hamill, to raise funds for the Foyle Down Syndrome Trust. Rosin and Aoife’s children, Zara and Tiernan, were both born with Down Syndrome just 11 days apart 

    Tragedy struck after their visit with the mayor, as Paddy passed away suddenly that evening. In honour of Paddy’s memory, Mayor Barr committed to hosting a concert – it is planned for the day before Paddy would have celebrated his 76th birthday.

    Reflecting on the day, Mayor Barr said: “Paddy was such a warm, engaging man, and we shared a wonderful afternoon in the Mayor’s Parlour. He spoke with so much love for his family and music. We even laughed about his ‘famous’ bacon and egg pub breakfast, which he promised to make for me. His passing that same evening was such a shock, and my heart broke for his family. Organising this concert to honour Paddy feels like a fitting way to remember someone who brought so much joy through music.”

    Helping to organise the concert on behalf of the Tyre family is Paddy’s daughter Rosin, she explained: “We were brought up with music, it was such an integral part of our family and our daily lives, so this concert is a very fitting way to remember our daddy. After Zara and Tiernan were born music became even more important to us as we have seen the effect music has on them. It has helped their social skills, their language skills, their mobility… everything really. Zara was her Granda’s princess, and he waited patiently on her each day to play one of her many favourite nursery rhymes that was always jazzed up using a bass guitar, we had nursery rhyme time like no other. Tiernan loved to watch his Granda play the guitar and has now started to play himself, following in his Granda’s footsteps. With the proceeds from this concert going to charity this is their Granda’s last way of supporting the charity that has and will continue to support both his grandchildren. We are obviously all dealing with losing our dad so suddenly, but planning this concert is really helping us. Music was so important to daddy, and we are getting such strength from it now.” 

    Paddy’s wife Evelyn added: “Paddy’s love for music has always been there, and I remember buying him his first guitar in 1970 from local music shop Deery’s. The first band he played in was The Saints, and music has always been a massive part of our marriage, family and home.” 

    In his heyday Paddy Tyre was a member of the Derry Showband scene and even performed in a play that was written about the Showbands in the Rialto, after this he made his living gigging and playing in venues all around the country. As he settled into retirement it was the Strabane-based Music to Your Ears Group where Paddy found a new home. Made up of men who love to sing and perform together, Paddy found a camaraderie which he cherished. He performed regularly with the group bringing back to life many of the tunes he had enjoyed in his showband days. 

    Fittingly, it is now the Music to Your Ears Group who will lead this tribute to Paddy. Led by Eamon Lynch and Mickey Joe Harte the group will perform on the Guildhall stage and will also provide the backing for other musicians on the night. Performers confirmed so far include many who Paddy played with over the years including, Legacy, Jim McDermott, Damian McAdams, Martin McColgan and Son, along with a special performance from the Foyle Down Syndrome Group. 

    Paddy’s children will also be performing on the night in a very personal tribute to their dad. There will also be pre-recorded performances from young Zara and Tiernan. 

    Rosin added, “We had so much support already, from the musicians and bands which Daddy worked with over the years and have agreed to perform on the night, and from local people already asking where they can get tickets. 

    “All proceeds from the concert will be split between the Foyle Down Syndrome Group and the Mayor’s charity – The Bud Club. My mum Evelyn, and all of us as a family, are very grateful to the mayor for giving us the opportunity to host an event like this in our daddy’s memory, we hope people come along to support the charities and enjoy the music.” 

    Tickets are £10 and are available from Foyle Down Syndrome Trust, Thrift Charity Shop in Northside Shopping Centre, from any family member or by contacting [email protected].

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –