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Category: European Union

  • MIL-OSI Russia: GUU students became finalists of the social video contest of the Student Media Rally “Our Values”

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    Students of the State University of Management took part in the Student Media Gathering “Our Values” in the Senezh Management Workshop, where they became finalists in the social video competition.

    The gathering will take place from September 14 to 18, 2024. More than 150 representatives of student media from 25 regions of Russia, as well as guests from 16 countries, took part in it: Argentina, Vietnam, India, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, Italy and others. The State University of Management was represented at the gathering by the head of the General Press SUM (GPS) media club Ekaterina Lavrova, deputy head of the media department of the IOM Student Council Valeria Lebert, and the head of the Garnet case club Larisa Sokolova.

    The program of the event included lectures, master classes, cultural evenings and open dialogues with famous speakers, such as Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Konstantin Mogilevsky, Director of the Information and Press Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Maria Zakharova, Head of the Media Monitoring and Analysis Department of the Press Service of the Federation Council Olga Anderson and others.

    During the five days of the event, each team had a task – to create a social poster and a social video on one of the 17 topics prepared by the organizers. Our students were given the topic “Service to the Fatherland and Responsibility for Its Fate” during the draw. Despite all the difficulties and sleepless nights that the girls faced, they coped with the task and reached the final of the competition works, where they were assessed by Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education Olga Petrova and Director of the Department of Information Policy and Comprehensive Security Andrey Tolmachev.

    Deputy Head of the Media Department of the IOM Student Council Valeria Lebert shared her impressions after the Gathering: “Having attended the Gathering of Student Media “Our Values” in Senezh, I realized how powerful the young generation is now. Everyone defends their position and goes all the way, showing stunning results. This was my first experience of such trips, and I want to call it successful. Thanks to the girls, the organizers and the State University of Management for such an opportunity and a great time!”

    The head of the case club Larisa Sokolova also gave a comment: “During the five days spent in Senezh, I rethought many things. The topics that the speakers raised touched me to the depths of my soul. At the end of the Gathering, I did not even want to leave, to part with the amazing people whom I had managed to love in such a short time. I am grateful to the State University of Management for this opportunity. When I return, I will convey to our students the meanings that I found in Senezh.”

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 09.23.2024

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    GUU students became finalists of the social video contest of the Student Media Rally “Our Values”

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Action to combat the canker disease affecting chestnut crops – E-001715/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001715/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Sakis Arnaoutoglou (S&D)

    Chestnut cultivation is one of the mainstays of the economy and of rural life in many mountainous areas of Greece, particularly the Pelion area. In recent years, however, aside from climate conditions, chestnut growers have been facing serious problems because of chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica), which has led to significant losses in production and destroyed thousands of trees.

    Despite the attempts at biological control and other management measures applied in some areas of Europe, the disease continues to spread, causing irreversible damage to crops. Chestnut producers have expressed concern for the future of their crops and the financial viability of their families. Their output this year is down by some 50%.

    Taking into account the critical nature of the situation and the need to support growers:

    • 1.What additional steps does the Commission intend to take to support research and the application of pioneering biological methods of controlling the disease, such as the use of hypoviral agents which have succeeded in other regions of Europe?
    • 2.Is there any provision for giving financial support to Greek growers affected by the disease in order to reduce the consequences of production losses and secure the viability of the crops?
    • 3.How does the Commission intend to promote the exchange of expertise and practices between Member States so that the blight on chestnut crops is dealt with effectively?

    Submitted: 15.9.2024

    Last updated: 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Dramatic situation in flood-hit areas and the need for EU solidarity – P-001757/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Priority question for written answer  P-001757/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Michał Dworczyk (ECR)

    My region, Lower Silesia and Opolskie, has been severely affected in recent days by the impact of ongoing extreme flooding: broken bridges, damaged roads, devastated hospitals, schools and public buildings, thousands of destroyed private farms, homes and other buildings. While it is still impossible even to begin estimating the losses, as hundreds of villages are still underwater, it is clear already that massive financial investment will be needed for reconstruction and to recover from the effects of the flooding, and that this will exceed the capacity of the affected communities. The consequences of this disaster will be felt for years to come. They will be a test of solidarity for the Union as a whole, and for the EU institutions a test of the effectiveness and efficiency of resilience and crisis response mechanisms. In this context:

    • 1.Is the Commission ready to provide urgent and adequate material and financial assistance to the regions affected by the flooding?
    • 2.Given the scale and extent of the floods, does the Commission consider that funding under the Solidarity Fund is sufficient to support the countries affected by this disaster, and is it planning to review the Fund in order to ensure that countries affected by the floods receive long-term assistance that is proportionate to their needs?
    • 3.Is the creation of a separate dedicated fund for the repair and construction of flood prevention infrastructure in the areas affected by this disaster, both in Poland and in other EU countries, possible and under consideration?

    Submitted: 18.9.2024

    Last updated: 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: UN Secretary-General and Heads of Multilateral Development Banks to enhance collaboration

    Source: European Investment Bank

    United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres and top UN officials met with the Heads of Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) Group on Sunday in a joint effort to better support countries in accelerating progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

    The high-level dialogue, which included five Presidents and three Vice Presidents of the major MDBs, further advances the partnership between the UN and the MDB systems. The IMF Managing Director also attended the meeting.

    MDB Heads shared with the UN leadership their reforms to become a better, bigger and more effective system with a renewed sense of urgency and determination. The Secretary-General underscored the importance of MDB reforms as part of his call to unlock greater volumes of affordable long-term resources to close the SDG financing gap.

    UN and MDB leaders discussed enhancing collaboration at the country level, especially in fragile and conflict-affected countries, as well as their efforts to catalyze private sector resources towards sustainable investments.

    MDBs also agreed to collaborate towards the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) next year in Seville, Spain, where public, private and civil society leaders and organizations will assess progress and chart a course forward on financing for the SDGs.

    Following the working meeting, Spain, Jamaica and Canada co-hosted an open dialogue with MDB leaders, the UN Deputy Secretary-General and high-level UN Member State delegates.

    MDB leaders highlighted their progress working as a system for greater impact and scale, the key role of concessional finance to support the poorest, and their work on financial innovation. MDBs also briefed Member States on their joint work, based on concrete deliverables outlined in the “Viewpoint Note”, a joint MDB workplan released in April 2024. These wide-ranging initiatives include scaling-up MDB financing capacity, boosting joint action on climate, and enhancing development effectiveness and impact.

    MDBs also discussed how they can channel Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) to significantly increase financing for the SDGs, including supporting initiatives such as the G20 Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty.

    Sunday’s meetings took place during the Summit of the Future, a unique gathering of the UN General Assembly focused on strengthening multilateral cooperation, including on international finance, to tackle shared global challenges, including climate change, poverty and inequality.

    Leaders from the following organizations attended the meeting:

    African Development Bank, Asian Development Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Council of Europe Development Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, European Investment Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, International Monetary Fund, Islamic Development Bank, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, United Nations Development Programme, United Nations, World Bank Group.

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union owned by its Member States. It is active in more than 160 countries and makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals.

    EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm dedicated to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance.  EIB Global is designed to foster strong, focused partnership within Team Europe, alongside fellow development finance institutions, and civil society. EIB Global brings the Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices across the world. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: ASIA/SRI LANKA – President Dissanayake: The New Face of the Nation

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    Colombo (Agenzia Fides) — Anura Kumara Dissanayake is the new president of Sri Lanka, as announced yesterday by the Electoral Commission, after the vote on Saturday 21 September. A left-wing MP, Dissanayake received – as announced by the Electoral Commission – over 5.7 million votes, followed by candidate Sajith Premadasa with 4.5 million. During the election campaign, Dissanayake aimed to gain the favor of the working class and found polarization among young people and in the middle-lower social classes, while Sri Lanka is trying to recover after an economic and political crisis that brought the country to its knees and exacerbated widespread poverty. Two years ago, tens of thousands of Sri Lankans rebelled and forced the then President Rajapaksa to flee the country, “and since then there has been a great desire for change in society: this is the result, which I would not hesitate to define as historic”, comments Fr. Basil Rohan Fernando, a priest of the Archdiocese of Colombo and National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies on the island. Fr. Fernando notes “a positive atmosphere in society: first of all, it should be noted that the electoral process was peaceful and transparent and then, in the aftermath of the vote, there were no clashes between opposing factions, as has often happened in the past”. Furthermore, he notes, “there is an atmosphere of great hope in society. The population wanted something new, they strongly wanted a change and so it was, the will of the people was expressed democratically”. If the international press calls Dissanayake “the “Marxist” president, Fr. Fernando notes: “The label should not cause alarm and is related to ideological positions of the past. The new president is well inserted in the democratic framework and his declared objective is to work for the poor and vulnerable, which is what the nation needs. It is believed that within a month the president will also call general elections for the renewal of Parliament and this will allow the nation to be given a totally new face, with the entry into active politics of educated and qualified young people, which will be a clear break with the old establishment, involved in corruption games”. On the Catholic community – about 1.5 million faithful out of 22 million inhabitants – the priest notes that in the “coastal belt, which includes Colombo, Chilaw and other places where most of the Sri Lankan Catholic population lives, support for Dassyake has been very high. This shows that there has also been consensus among the Catholic population. Generally I see the faithful satisfied and hopeful. The population expects a lot from the new president, “In particular, the Catholic Church does not forget the sensitive topic of the Easter attacks of 2019: “The hope is that even on that front, a serious episode of now five years ago, a wound in national history, we can sincerely and truly promote the justice that is still missing, with the recognition of those responsible and help to the victims”. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 23/9/2024) Share:

    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: AFRICA/DR CONGO – Religious confessions’ commitment to peace in South Kivu

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: The Holy See in Italian

    CDJP Bukavu

    Kinshasa (Agenzia Fides) – The important interreligious meeting for peace held on September 21 in Bukavu, capital of South Kivu, one of the three provinces in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, which have been tormented for decades by violence committed by dozens of armed groups, ended on a note of hope. The meeting was held at the archbishopric of the city and saw the participation of representatives of various religious denominations of the entire ecclesiastical province of Bukavu (Catholics, Kimbanguists, Muslims, Orthodox Christians, revival churches, Anglicans, Protestants, Salvation Army, Union of Independent Churches), as well as those of the diocese of Cyangugu, in Rwanda. The participation of Rwandan representatives is particularly significant and important. The government of Rwanda is accused by the Congolese government of providing support to guerrilla groups operating in the DRC, in particular to the M23, active especially in North Kivu. Kigali, in turn, accuses Kinshasa of tolerating the presence on its territory of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) for decades, considered an emanation of the old Rwandan regime responsible for the genocide of 1994. The effort of dialogue of all religious confessions was praised by the governor of South Kivu, who stressed the importance of collaboration between civil authorities and religious faiths to establish an exemplary system of government. Joining his voice with that of religious leaders, the governor recalled that building peace and good governance requires the involvement of all, beyond political or spiritual differences. During the meeting, the other emergency that this area of the DRC is experiencing, the Mpox epidemic (the so-called “monkeypox”), was also addressed. Dr. Deogratias Cigwerhe, a specialist in the field, provided a detailed anamnesis of the disease, determining its origin, the methods of transmission and the preventive measures to be adopted to limit its spread. His speech made it possible to raise awareness among participants about the dangers posed by the disease and the importance of collective efforts to prevent it. (LM) (Agenzia Fides 23/9/2024)Share:

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

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Celebrating a Century of Love: Old Marylebone Town Hall marks 100 Years with 100 Weddings | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    We are just days away from celebrating the 100th anniversary of Old Marylebone Town Hall, an iconic venue renowned for hosting weddings of legendary figures like Ringo Starr, Sir Paul McCartney, and Liam Gallagher.

    In honour of this milestone, 100 lucky couples will soon tie the knot, enter into civil partnerships, or renew their vows at this historic location for just £100—a fraction of the usual cost. Each couple can bring up to 8 guests and even 2 pets to share their special day.

    The team at Old Marylebone Town Hall has been working tirelessly to prepare for this momentous occasion. On the 1st October 2024, from 8:00 AM to 10:30 PM, the venue will host a diverse range of couples, celebrating love in all its forms on one of the most important days of their lives.

    Pop star Cilla Black and her personal manager Bobby Willis after their wedding at Marylebone Town Hall 25 January 1969

    Many of the couples share a deep connection to Westminster—whether through living, working, or studying in the area. Many even began their relationships in Westminster.

    For others, the venue holds special significance, with parents who were married or children registered at Old Marylebone Town Hall, making it the perfect place to celebrate their own love stories. Many couples have expressed their excitement about being part of such a historic event, adding a unique layer of meaning to their special day.

    Here are some of the reasons behind why the couples chose to get married on this special day:

    I used to work around Marylebone and walk past the town hall every week. Watching the couples walk down the iconic stairs and enjoying their happiest day, I said to myself that one day I’d like to get married there too. And I can’t believe that it’s going to happen soon, I’m so excited! It’s a dream come true.”

    It sounds so fun and way more ‘us’ than a big wedding. I love that we won’t be the centre of attention and that 99 other couples will be celebrating the same day. And also save a fortune. We have hired an afternoon tea bus for after but the money we have saved is all going on a bucket list honeymoon to Mauritius!”

    Marylebone Town Hall has always been one of my favourite venues and we were contemplating about where to get married, having been engaged for a year or so. On October 24th last year, I was on my commute home reading the Evening Standard, and I saw the article about the centenary. I always associate the Old Town Hall with the Beatles and the 60s, and the photos caught my eye. Both my fiancé and I will be 64 when we get married so it seemed a perfect match. ‘When I’m 64’ won’t be our music choice, but it very nearly was!”

    Councillor Ryan Jude, Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology and Culture says:

     We are thrilled to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Old Marylebone Town Hall, a venue that holds historical and cultural significance for Westminster. This milestone is not just a reflection of the building’s rich past, but also a celebration of the diverse couples who will be creating new memories here.

    I am excited to see so many people with personal ties to Westminster come together to mark this occasion. We look forward to continuing the tradition of love at this iconic venue for many more years to come.”

     Notes:

    • Media access is limited, and space for coverage is restricted.
    • Please complete this form, and we will follow up to confirm if we can accommodate your request. Only accredited media will be allowed on-site on the day.
    • For further media inquiries, please contact [email protected]

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More green fingers for work at Elemore Country Park

    Source: City of Sunderland

    A ‘not for profit’ community interest company that helps train older, vulnerable or adults with disabilities, is receiving a boost from the City Council.

    Bishopwearmouth Co-operative is based at the Bishopwearmouth Nursery in Chester Road. It has its own garden centre, tea rooms and offers gardening and landscaping services for the public.

    In 2023 it expanded to Elemore Country Park in Easington Lane with a garden centre and coffee shop.

    A key part of its work is how the company encourages and provides work and training opportunities in horticultural, floristry and other gardening services. All the opportunities are for older people, vulnerable adults, people who may have a learning disability, physical disability, or have mental health needs.

    Sunderland City Council’s decision-making Cabinet has now backed a £125,000 grant to help provide further training and work-based placements focused on Elemore Country Park. The funding was backed at the Cabinet meeting in City Hall on Thursday 19 September. It is to help towards providing six full-time placements for day and volunteering opportunities over the next two years.

    The City Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community Services, Councillor Kelly Chequer welcomed the support.

    She said: “As a council we are completely committed to supporting everyone in our communities and to reducing inequalities. The Bishopwearmouth Co-operative company continues to do great work with vulnerable adults and helping them to move on to greater independence.”

    “Alongside this important work with people, the funding helps support the ongoing investment in Elemore and our communities in the Coalfield area as we bring more improvements to this great new and still improving country park.”

    Elemore is following in the footsteps of other similar and successfully reclaimed colliery sites in and around Sunderland such as Hetton Lyons Country Park, Herrington Country Park and Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve. They are all examples of how land once set over to the coal mining industry can become new ecosystems and community assets. This summer Elemore hosted its second Family Music Festival on Saturday 24 August.

    Bishopwearmouth Co-operative CIC, currently employs 30 staff and has provided over a hundred job, training and volunteer opportunities since it was founded.

    Managing Director Shaun Donnelly said: “This is brilliant news it will allow Bishopwearmouth to build on its volunteer and day opportunities for vulnerable adults. The grant from the council will allow us to provide day opportunities and training in catering and horticulture, we will also continue to assist the community by working within Elemore Country Park and organising events. 

    “In addition to the park’s schedule of events, our team will continue working with other partners in the park assisting with tree planting and maintenance.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over 100 get health checked at city’s cancer bus

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    Organised by the local NHS in partnership with the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Public Health team, the cancer bus tour was an opportunity for local people to meet and talk with a range of clinicians about how to check for symptoms of cancer, the support services available and what to do if they’re concerned.

    Attendees were given information on the 3 main NHS cancer screening programmes of breast, bowel and cervical, including when people will be invited and what’s involved in the screening. Macmillan Cancer Support also attended and offered support for people living with and beyond cancer.

    Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: “We were pleased to be able to work with the NHS in the Black Country to bring the bus to Queen Square, and delighted that over 200 people came along to either have a health check or find out more about cancer and the cancer screening process.”

    Dr Mona Sidhu, Medical Director of Primary Care for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, added: “Early detection is the best form of defence against cancer and it’s vital that people know the signs and symptoms to look out for.

    “That’s why initiatives like the cancer bus tour are so important. They give us the opportunity to have one on one conversations with people who may not realise they are at risk, who may not recognise potential symptoms or may feel unable to act on them or are too fearful to.

    “It was fantastic to see so many people come forward so thank you to everyone who paid us a visit. And please remember, if you notice something that isn’t normal for you or isn’t going away, it’s important to speak to your GP. It probably won’t be cancer. But if it is, spotting it early can make a real difference.”

    To find out more about the cancer screening process, please watch the following videos:

    Breast    
    Bowel  
    Cervical   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Video: “Future Ours” – Art Exhibition on the SDGs

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    “Future Ours,” art exhibit for the occasion of the Summit of the Future opened at the UN Headquarters on 20 September.

    On the occasion of the Summit of the Future, the Permanent Mission of Denmark hosts the art exhibition “Future Ours” on the UN Plaza, opening on 20 September. Presented by Art 2030, a non-profit dedicated to harnessing the power of art for the SDGs, the large-scale public art project showcases the perspectives of twenty-one artists and collectives from around the world on how to address current and future global challenges. The exhibition explores how art can reweave a dialogue between social, economic, and ecological equity for the planetary community at large as it confronts passersby to the multifaceted crises impacting our world today and to alternative visions for change. Extending beyond the walls of the United Nations, the “Future Ours” posters are exhibited on hundreds of JCDecaux bus shelters throughout the five New York City boroughs.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtyicZmbSC4

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Change of British High Commissioner to Canada: Robert Tinline

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Robert Tinline has been appointed British High Commissioner to Canada.

    Robert Tinline

    Mr Robert Tinline has been appointed British High Commissioner to Canada in succession to Ms Susannah Goshko CMG, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. 

    Mr Tinline will take up his appointment during February 2025.

    Curriculum vitae         

    Full name: Robert Tinline

    Year Role
    2022 to present FCDO, Director Americas
    2020 to 2022 FCDO, Director COVID
    2017 to 2019 Joint Intelligence Committee, Chief of the Assessments Staff
    2015 to 2017 Head of HMG Counter Proliferation and Arms Control Centre
    2012 to 2015 UK Representation to the EU, Deputy Head of Mission
    2011 to 2012  Madrid, Deputy Head of Mission
    2010 to 2011 FCO, Head of Consular Assistance
    2008 to 2010 FCO, Head of Near East Department
    2007 to 2008 Basra, Deputy Consul General
    2005 to 2007 FCO, Press Office
    2003 to 2005 FCO, Counter Terrorism Department
    1999 to 2002 Bogotá, Second Secretary
    1997 to 1998 FCO, Security Policy Department
    1997 Joined FCO

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sellafield apprentice nominated for prestigious award

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Lucy Jarvis is a finalist in the Apprentice of the Year category at the Engineering Construction Industry Training and Development Awards.

    Lucy Jarvis, Sellafield Ltd

    Lucy, from Cockermouth, West Cumbria, is a technical degree apprentice and started at Sellafield Ltd in 2022.

    She works in a team managing quality assurance documents which ensure nuclear safety is protected when nuclear waste is packaged and stored.

    One of the highlights of her apprenticeship so far, was being involved in a project designed to overcome robot obsolescence on the Sellafield site.

    Another was representing Sellafield Ltd at the Nuclear Week in Parliament Skills and Apprenticeship Fair 2023.

    She said:

    I was quite surprised when I found out about the nomination. It was a really exciting time when I got the email and I’m looking forward to attending the ceremony.

    I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship so far. There have been lots of opportunities to network with different people and learn from subject matter experts. There’s a vast range of roles to venture into and my manager has been really supportive of my development throughout.

    The Sellafield Education and Skills team have been really supportive, they helped to arrange trips to the Vandellos reactor site in Barcelona and the CERN research centre in Switzerland as well as many national EDF sites.

    These visits have allowed me to reach my level 6 apprenticeship competencies as well as gain knowledge from other areas in the sector.

    But Lucy isn’t resting on her laurels, she already has plans for future career development.

    She said:

    Next year I will be starting my secondment in project management at Sellafield, and I will be finishing my foundation degree and starting my degree in plant engineering.

    The Engineering Construction Industry Training and Development Awards are an annual celebration of outstanding achievements in skill enhancement, highlighting exceptional young talent in the sector.

    Lucy will find out if she’s been successful at a ceremony in London on 5 November 2024.

    Her nomination is the third piece of good news for Sellafield’s apprentice scheme in as many months.

    In July, the company was named one of the top 100 apprenticeship employers in England.

    And earlier this month, another 300 vocational and degree apprentices and 150 graduates joined the business.

    The bumper intake underlined Sellafield Ltd’s commitment to investing in young careers and nurturing future talent to ensure the company continues to drive towards its century-long clean up mission.

    Michelle Lambon-Wilks, head of education and skills for Sellafield Ltd, said:

    We’re so proud of Lucy’s achievements. We’re all crossing our fingers she wins the award.

    But even if she doesn’t, she’s still a fabulous role model for other apprentices and young people considering a career in our industry.

    We’ll begin recruiting for next year’s cohort of apprentices in November 2024. Lucy is an example of how far you can go if you’re willing to take a chance and push yourself to achieve.

    Further reading

    Hundreds of new starters begin their careers at Sellafield

    Sellafield Ltd careers – graduates, placements and apprenticeships

    6 things that might surprise you about being a graduate engineer at Sellafield

    How to join our talent community

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Penitentiary construction, the Prime Ministerial Decree appointing Marco Doglio as Extraordinary Commissioner signed

    MIL OSI Translation. Region: Italy –

    Source: Government of Italy

    September 23, 2024

    The Undersecretary to the Presidency of the Council Alfredo Mantovano has signed, upon proposal by the Minister of Justice Carlo Nordio, in agreement with the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Matteo Salvini, the decree appointing Dr. Marco Doglio as Extraordinary Commissioner for Prison Construction.

    The Commissioner, appointed pursuant to Article 4-bis of Legislative Decree No. 92 of 4 July 2024, converted, with amendments, by Law No. 112 of 8 August 2024, shall be responsible for carrying out the works necessary to address the serious overcrowding situation in penitentiary institutions. He or she will remain in office until 31 December 2025 and may avail himself or herself, in carrying out his or her duties, of a support structure composed of a maximum of five experts.

    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: Digital transition of Vaud SMEs: an initial assessment of the SyNNergy program

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Swiss Canton of Vaud – news in French

    Breadcrumbs

    vd.ch
    News
    Digital transition of Vaud SMEs: an initial assessment of the SyNNergy program

    Published on 23.09.2024

    Two years after its launch, 19 consortia have already been created and supported through the programme.

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    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: International Peace Meeting of the Sant’Egidio Community.

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: President of the Republic of France in French (video)

    To follow the Presidency of the Republic: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elysee.fr Twitter: https://twitter.com/elysee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elysee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pr-sidence-de-la-r-publique

    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: 20.09.2024 Breslavia Work on ensuring safety continues

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    During the afternoon meeting of the crisis staff in Wrocław, Prime Minister Donald Tusk presented conclusions from his visits to the Lubusz and West Pomeranian Voivodeships. The issue of controls on the border with Germany was also discussed, which, thanks to government intervention, should not be a problem in the event of a flood threat. It is accelerating the reconstruction program for areas affected by the flood. Lubuskie and West Pomeranian Voivodeships ready to fight the element. During the afternoon meeting of the crisis staff in Wrocław, Prime Minister Donald Tusk shared his conclusions from the visit to the Lubuskie and West Pomeranian Voivodeships. “From my tour today, it is quite clear that they are well prepared,” said the head of government. Services and residents of areas that are still waiting for the flood wave are constantly working on security measures. The Prime Minister was impressed by the commitment he could see, among others: in Nowa Sól. However, in the south of the country the situation is still difficult. The Prime Minister listened attentively to reports from representatives of services working in this area. Border controls will not be an inconvenience. The Ministry of Internal Affairs, in consultation with the German equivalent of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, has determined that the services of both countries will do everything to ensure that the border controls reintroduced by our neighbors do not cause congestion due to the flood risk. “We worked to ensure that at the moment of the peak wave there were no threats related to, for example, a traffic jam on the border bridge or border control,” said Tomasz Siemoniak. Donald Tusk thanked the Minister of Interior and Administration for efficient operation. “I asked the Minister for European Union Affairs and the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration to make the German side aware as quickly as possible that their decision on border control cannot interfere with our flood protection operations. I will want to know whether it has had an effect, whether the movement at the border is faster, so that we can intervene again, if necessary,” the head of government noted. The Prime Minister reminded that Poland is critical of Germany’s decision to restore control at the border. Preparations for major reconstruction In connection with the decision to appoint Marcin Kierwiński as the government plenipotentiary for the reconstruction of flood-affected areas, the Prime Minister announced accelerated actions. “Our ambition should be to turn this dramatic crisis into an opportunity; to make things better in these places than before the flood. Smarter, more modern. I believe we are able to ensure this,” declared the Prime Minister. The head of government announced that a preliminary assessment of actual damage and losses is needed. The moment the first large city – Opole – canceled the flood alarm, you can start thinking more boldly about your next steps. Funds for the reconstruction of destroyed towns come not only from the state budget and the European Union, but also – in a beautiful gesture of solidarity – from other voivodeships and cities. Appeal to local government officials and officials The challenge for local government officials is the constant need for better communication with the inhabitants of endangered areas. The Prime Minister gave the example of a resident of Opatowice, Wrocław, who wrote to him via social media, asking for information about a possible evacuation. “It’s good that I noticed it, reacted and managed to sort it out. But we must do everything to ensure that such an informal path is not necessary,” appealed Donald Tusk. The head of government emphasized how important it is to diagnose the weakest points in coordination and communication in order to improve activities.  Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration Tomasz Siemoniak said that PLN 100 million has already been transferred to the voivodeships’ accounts for the payment of benefits under emergency aid. However, sometimes the problem is that the procedure for granting them is too long. “I know it’s difficult, but you have to put so much pressure on the officials that they really put their heart into it. Because if people with a flooded apartment or house found time to come to the office, it means that they really need this money urgently,” the Prime Minister asked local government officials. Officials should keep bureaucracy and procedural requirements to a minimum. Quick action against criminals preying on human tragedies. The Chief Commander of the Police informed during the staff meeting that officers had organized mobile posts to be able to respond more effectively to the needs of citizens. “Thank you very much for this ambitious intention to create mobile police stations in places where necessary, i.e. police officers who are on site – in a car, but in direct and constant contact with residents when necessary” – The Prime Minister commented on this initiative. Information was also provided about quick police interventions against people who, taking advantage of a dramatic situation, commit crimes. “Thank you for the good cooperation of all law enforcement and justice agencies. There are very good signs from the couple that they are caught immediately and sentenced immediately. I hope that this will continue,” concluded the Prime Minister. Criminals try to take advantage of people’s kindness. There are more and more fake collections on the internet. The services also operate efficiently in this area. “We are engaging the command of the Cyberspace Defense Forces component in these activities. We ask everyone to pay attention to the collection to which they want to donate money,” appealed the Deputy Prime Minister of the Ministry of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. We would like to remind you to verify collections for flood victims.  

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: 22.09.2024 Breslavia We provide safe places for children from flood-affected areas

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    On Sunday morning, another meeting of the crisis team was held in Wrocław. The Minister of National Education, Barbara Nowacka, presented the program “Green schools”, which is aimed at children from flood-affected areas. These are free trips to a safe place with psychological support and education provided. During the team, the Prime Minister appealed to Polish women and men not to cancel the trips they had planned to the south of Poland. “Green schools” The flood that passed through the south of Poland also affected children who now need psychological care and a safe shelter. “Everywhere we are, we see a problem with children, especially where schools and kindergartens are flooded. There are large numbers of them. Parents want to dry, clean up, and hence the idea of ​​the “Green school”” – said the Prime Minister during the team. “Green schools” are free trips for children from flood-affected areas. Safe transport, educational activities, food and psychological care are provided. It is also support for parents who now need to focus on removing the effects of the flood. “The first organized group is leaving today. Here, a big thank you to the city of Sopot, which you can always count on – 60 children are leaving from Kłodzko right now and will be there for two weeks” – Minister of National Education Barbara Nowacka said. She also addressed thanks to ministries, local governments, schools and entrepreneurs who support the organization of trips. “Special thanks to the Ministry of Infrastructure for the quick support from PKP. All children who will go to “Green Schools” will be provided with free travel” – thanked the head of the Ministry of Education. The Ministry of Sport provides places in central sports centers. A couple of facilities with very good infrastructure, where additional sports activities are provided for children. “2.5 thousand children will spend their stay in six central sports centers. Para access to sports activities and sports infrastructure – swimming pools, sports halls, climbing walls” – listed Deputy Minister of Sport and Tourism Piotr Borys. On the website zieloneszkoly.men.gov.pl you can report centers that are able to accept children from flood areas. The Ministry of National Education will ensure the safety of children and safe transport. Schools to schools There are 3,044 facilities in the area covered by the state of natural disaster, where about 412 thousand children and youth study. “As of Friday, the state of closure of educational institutions was 431 facilities. Some of them were closed because they were evacuation assistance points. […] We estimate that over 200 of these facilities require renovations – from minor renovations to complete renovations. […] We are ready to support them in rebuilding as quickly as possible,” the Minister of National Education reported. A school-to-school system has been launched, which allows educational institutions that suffered from flooding to report their needs. “You can list the needs that a given school needs. This is not just about the needs for urgent cleaning, but in the long run – what will be needed. Schools can support other schools,” Barbara Nowacka noted. The Minister of National Education assured that all children from all primary schools will be provided with the school textbooks they need. Tourism in southern Poland Only some places in southern Poland were flooded. The tourism and catering industry in this region now needs support from tourists. The Ministry of Sport and Tourism is preparing a social campaign so that tourists do not cancel their reservations. “We warmly invite you to take advantage of places that are tourist attractions, but which were not destroyed in the flood. Para bromear very important for the entire south of our country” – emphasized Piotr Borys. “Many tourist places are functioning normally, even those that were partially flooded. People who bought a holiday in these places will get an honest answer whether the place they wanted to go to is in a normal condition or whether there is damage there that makes this holiday impossible” – Lt. Donald Tusk. During the flood, many sports infrastructure facilities were also damaged. The Deputy Minister of Sport and Tourism assured that funds for their reconstruction have been secured. State actions The Government Agency for Strategic Reserves has submitted a request for 10 thousand dehumidifiers under the EU Population Protection Mechanism. “We are receiving more and more signals that there is a shortage of dehumidifiers. We are waiting for their delivery from European countries that have declared assistance under the population protection mechanisms” – informed the head of government. The Prime Minister announced that a staff meeting will be held in Warsaw, during which the necessary changes to regulations and laws will be prepared. On Tuesday, the Council of Ministers will deal with them.

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: 21.09.2024 We reach every place with help

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    We reach every place with help21.09.2024There are still places in Poland that are threatened by large waters. Services together with local government and residents are securing critical places. The embankments are reinforced with sandbags and constantly monitored. During the crisis headquarters in Głogów, the Prime Minister asked local government officials to report needs on an ongoing basis. He also announced the creation of a map of neglect that emerged in the face of the flood.

    The securing is still ongoing

    The Prime Minister appealed to local government officials to report their needs for specific equipment needed for flood protection – so that nothing is missing anywhere.

    You have to be everywhere, especially where the fight is going on. We are very keen to reach every place with the appropriate help, regardless of the scale of the phenomenon and the size of the town.

    – emphasized Donald Tusk. The head of government thanked for the organization, determination and dedication of all people involved in securing endangered areas and for helping flood victims.

    Even convicts from the local facility are also participating in saving the city. Everywhere I go I hear about the extraordinary commitment of people, services and local governments

    – said the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister reminded the services and local government to thoroughly verify whether information about the evacuation reached all residents. He assured that the police are constantly monitoring the areas from which residents evacuated.

    We are very effective in combating crimes directly or indirectly related to the flood situation. It is also important for people to know that if someone tries to raise a hand on your property, they will quickly pay a severe penalty for it

    – Donald Tusk reminded. Security in flood-affected areas is one of the key tasks of the state.

    Map of Neglect

    In the crisis situation, instances of neglect came to light, such as unmowed embankments or beaver burrows.

    We need to know what went wrong where, so that there are no more such incidents. If we are dealing with clear violations, there will be consequences

    – Prime Minister pointed out. The head of government announced the creation of a map of neglect in order to avoid similar situations in the future. He also announced readiness to introduce legal solutions that will allow for securing the embankments.

    Help organization

    People who are going to help in flooded areas are asked to listen to the services’ instructions.

    A huge request to listen to these tips on what to do and where, so that the road is not routed. There are very few of these access roads, so there must be even more subordination here

    – Deputy Prime Minister appealed, Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. Tomasz Siemoniak, Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration, encouraged donors to visit the websites of provincial offices, where hubs are indicated, which operate around the clock and accept goods for flood victims. Thanks to them, aid is better organized and support reaches those most in need immediately.

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: 21.09.2024 Report from Saturday’s headquarters in Wrocław

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Report from Saturday’s headquarters in Wrocław21.09.2024El prime minister Donald Tusk met once again in Wrocław with services and local government officials to discuss the situation in places that are still threatened by the great flood. During Saturday’s headquarters in Wrocław, he assured that the state will provide housing for all those affected by the flood.

    Preventive action

    The great flood continues to move through Poland. The services remain on full alert and monitor the situation, and where necessary, secure the area.

    In some places we are still in the middle of flood prevention and rescue operations.

    – the Prime Minister emphasized during the opening of the crisis headquarters. The head of government asked for information about places at risk to be provided as soon as possible, along with appropriate support, including sandbags.

    Post-flood reconstruction

    Yesterday, a decision was made to appoint a government plenipotentiary for the reconstruction of flood-affected areas, Marcin Kierwiński. Today at 1:00 PM, a meeting will be held with the voivodes to estimate the losses in flood-affected areas.

    This data does not have to be complete yet, but the data you provide, I would like it to be reliable, to be true. Para bromear is the most important thing at the moment.

    – said Donald Tusk. Voivodes’ reports are to take into account the losses that occurred in a given voivodeship due to the flood wave, including those resulting from rising groundwater.

    Replacement apartments for flood victims

    Due to the flood that swept through Poland, many people lost their homes and apartments. Some will only be able to return to their homes after some time, which is why the state provides flood victims with safe shelter.

    From the first days I have heard from people who have lost their apartments and houses – “where will we live?” We will provide housing for everyone, without exception.

    – the Prime Minister reported from Wrocław. During the headquarters meeting, the Prime Minister stressed that the state would make every effort to ensure that those affected by the flood would feel the consequences as little as possible.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council’s One Coventry approach with partners and residents is reshaping the city

    Source: City of Coventry

    Councillors will meet next month to discuss the progress being made to reshape the way it delivers services and helps residents through its One Coventry approach.

    The One Coventry Plan is shaping the way the Council works with its partners to improve the city and the lives of residents.

    The Plan covers the years from 2022-2030 and recognises that the role of the Council is changing. It aims to help it work with partners and residents in new, different ways to combat continued underfunding and benefit individuals, communities, organisations and the city.

    The One Coventry Plan focuses on three main areas:

    • Economy and skills – growing the local economy and ensuring everyone benefits
    • Continuing to work to reduce the inequalities that exist between people living in the richest and poorest communities
    • Tacking the causes and consequences of climate change

    The latest report measures progress against 62 challenging target areas. The Council is shown to have improved in 37 areas and remained the same in six.

    In its aim to increase the economic prosperity of the city and region, the Council has been involved in work that has seen:

    • A 69.1% year on year increase in city centre footfall
    • 91% of school leavers aged 16+ going on to sustained education, apprenticeships or employment
    • 818 Job Shop customers securing work

    Schemes underway in the city include City Centre South and the Palmer Lane redevelopment and work to create a City Centre Cultural gateway at the former IKEA building. Work has also seen the Job Shop move to a high-profile new city centre location where it can help even more residents into work.

    Work to improve outcomes and tackle inequalities within communities has seen successes including:

    • 91.1% of children attending a good or outstanding primary school
    • Over 3,600 people receiving adult social care support
    • 1,164 homeless cases prevented or relieved

    There has been progress in driving down incidents of fly-tipping through increased prosecution and education, along with work with partners in communities to help those in need through food banks and Family Hubs.

    Other successes included the Holiday and Food Activity programme that is run during school holidays and sees children across the city able to take part in positive activities and receive a meal; more people have been supported to live independently in their own homes; there has been an improvement in reading and writing levels for children in Key Stage 2; and obesity levels have fallen for youngsters in Year 6.

    In tackling the causes and consequences of climate change, the Council has worked with partners to:

    • increase the number and use of electric charging points
    • cut carbon dioxide emissions from its operations
    • cut the number of pedestrians injured on city roads

    There has also been a rise in the amount of household waste recycled and composted and the quality of pavements has improved.

    Cllr George Duggins, Leader of the Council, said:

    “Our One Coventry Plan focuses on enabling people to live their best lives in a vibrant and prosperous city. This can only be achieved by listening to, and collaborating with, those who live, work, visit, and do business in our city, by having different conversations and building on the great things that are already happening.

    “This latest report shows great progress in many areas and I am delighted with the way we are working together as a city to find new solutions. The Plan is helping us to give help to those in the most need, while developing the city and preparing it for the future in areas from the environment to retail, leisure and wellbeing.

    “There is still a long way to go, but we will continue to work with others to build on these early successes. Thank you to everyone who has been involved in the work so far, and I look forward to working with more partners and residents as we continue to reshape and build our city together.”

    In its work improve as an organisation, the Council has also seen greater diversity of its workforce to better reflect the city it serves, and more residents able to be helped through self-service channels.

    There has also been an increase in the number of households with access to full fibre to improve connectivity, with thousands of devices donated to community groups and good causes.

    Read more about the One Coventry plan.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Federal Gaming Commission and Basel-Stadt Police Uncover Illegal Gambling Premises

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Federal Gaming Commission

    Bern, 23.09.2024 – In cooperation with the Basel police, the Federal Gaming Commission (FGC) searched a premises in Basel on Friday evening where it suspected illegal casino gaming was being operated. It seized various objects and questioned the people present.

    On Friday, September 20, 2024, the CFMJ and the Basel-Stadt police dismantled an illegal gambling premises. The Basel police had previously received several reports from individuals that poker and computers could be played for money there. There was therefore a suspicion that casino games were being offered there without the necessary license. This contravenes the Gambling Act, as only casinos with a license are allowed to offer casino games.

    During the search, the intervention forces seized gaming equipment, computers and mobile devices. The people present were identified and questioned.

    The CFMJ is continuing its investigation. It is analyzing the seized devices as well as the statements of the people questioned. The accused risk custodial sentences of up to five years or financial penalties for violating the law on gambling.

    Address for sending questions

    Charlotte Schläpfer, communications specialist, T 41 58 465 63 15, charlotte.schlaepfer@esbk.admin.chNicole Odermatt, communications specialist, T 41 58 463 58 78, nicole.odermatt@esbk.admin.ch

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    Federal Gaming Commissionhttp://www.esbk.admin.ch

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: The Federal Gaming Commission and the Basel-Stadt police uncover an illegal gambling premises

    MIL OSI Translation. Government of the Republic of France statements from French to English –

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Foreign Affairs in French

    Federal Gaming Commission

    Bern, 23.09.2024 – In cooperation with the Basel police, the Federal Gaming Commission (FGC) searched a premises in Basel on Friday evening where it suspected illegal casino gaming was being operated. It seized various objects and questioned the people present.

    On Friday, September 20, 2024, the CFMJ and the Basel-Stadt police dismantled an illegal gambling premises. The Basel police had previously received several reports from individuals that poker and computers could be played for money there. There was therefore a suspicion that casino games were being offered there without the necessary license. This contravenes the Gambling Act, as only casinos with a license are allowed to offer casino games.

    During the search, the intervention forces seized gaming equipment, computers and mobile devices. The people present were identified and questioned.

    The CFMJ is continuing its investigation. It is analyzing the seized devices as well as the statements of the people questioned. The accused risk custodial sentences of up to five years or financial penalties for violating the law on gambling.

    Address for sending questions

    Charlotte Schläpfer, communications specialist, T 41 58 465 63 15, charlotte.schlaepfer@esbk.admin.chNicole Odermatt, communications specialist, T 41 58 463 58 78, nicole.odermatt@esbk.admin.ch

    Author

    Federal Gaming Commissionhttp://www.esbk.admin.ch

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  • MIL-OSI Translation: 20/09/2024 Moody’s reports on the closing of the credit rating agreement in Poland

    MIL ASI Translation. Region: Polish/Europe –

    Fuente: Gobierno de Polonia en poleco.

    Moody’s informa sobre el cierre del acuerdo de calificación crediticia en Polonia20/09/2024

    On September 20, 2024, Moody’s published a press release announcing the completion of the periodic review of the rating. The Polish classification is at A2/P1 for long- and short-term liabilities, respectively. The rating outlook is stable. In the press release, Moody’s, as a justification for Poland’s rating, points to the strong dynamics of the Polish economy and improving relations with the European Union. The agency forecasts GDP growth at 3% in 2024 and an increase in dynamics to 3.5% in subsequent periods and indicates the lower complexity of the Polish economy compared to countries with a similar rating and a strong institutional framework. According to the agency, although the budget deficit is likely to remain above 5% of GDP due to higher defense spending and will contribute to a gradual increase in debt to 57% of GDP in 2025, both the debt burden and its servicing costs will be offset by solid economic growth prospects. In addition, Poland’s heightened vulnerability to geopolitical risk is mitigated by OTAN’s security guarantees. The rating takes into account Poland’s demographic challenges in the medium and long term.Calificación outlookThe rating could be upgraded in the event of improved relations between the President and the coalition government, which would allow for the rapid restoration of full judicial independence, as well as support the implementation of other CAP initiatives. Also, if the expected weakening of Poland’s debt ratios turns out to be less pronounced and intensified fiscal consolidation efforts lead to the debt level stabilizing well below 60% of GDP, ultimately restoring the public sector balance sheet to its pre-pandemic level, it would be a positive factor for an upgrade. Downward pressure on the rating would appear in a scenario of a significantly faster deterioration of debt ratios. The rating would be adversely affected by a renewed deterioration in the rule of law, negatively affecting doing business in Poland.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1million research project to improve understanding and reduce risks from deadly landslides Images of landslides devastating communities, destroying homes and infrastructure and claiming lives have become a more familiar sight as the impacts of climate change are felt around the world.

    Source: University of Aberdeen

    Images of landslides devastating communities, destroying homes and infrastructure and claiming lives have become a more familiar sight as the impacts of climate change are felt around the world.
    New research led by the University of Aberdeen (UK) is aiming to improve understanding of the risks of landslides and to mitigate the impact – felt across generations – on those caught in their muddy wake.
    The project, which will see experts from the University collaborate with counterparts in India to focus on the Central Himalayan region, has been awarded combined funding of more than £1million.
    The UK researchers are supported by a grant from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), part of UK Research and Innovation, and specialists in India are funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, India (MoES).
    Rapid population growth and infrastructure development in the Indian Himalayan states – together with the increasing frequency of extreme precipitation events and the presence of glacial lakes – has increased the region’s vulnerability to landslides.
    Three-quarters of annual rain in the Himalayas arrives in the monsoon season from June to September. Within this rainy period are sudden and extremely intense cloudbursts, often concentrated on small areas.
    Precipitation-triggered landslides are already happening extensively across the Himalayas and are predicted to get worse.
    When a huge flank of a Himalayan mountain close to the study area failed and fell into the valley below in 2021, it was described as hitting the valley floor ‘like 15 atomic bombs’.
    The cascade of debris claimed more than 200 lives and destroyed hydro-electric infrastructure worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
    More recently, 41 Indian mine workers spent 17 days trapped underground following a tunnel collapse in the study area in Uttarakhand state in November, further underlining the need for greater understanding of ground stability and risks in these areas.
    The project will bring together geoscientists, experts in remote sensing and geotechnical analysis, social scientists and community engagement specialists to conduct mapping, monitoring, reconstruction, and analysis of landslides using satellite, drone, geotechnical, and tree-ring data.
    The team will also investigate community perceptions of hazards and develop socially acceptable mitigation guidelines.
    Participating scientists from The University of Aberdeen and India (from Birbal Sahni Institute of Paleosciences, Borehole Geophysics Research Laboratory, Jawaharlal Nehru University, GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment, and University of Jammu) have previously led pilot studies on landslides and cascading glacial hazards. The new funding will enable the integration of various datasets and perspectives to develop robust methods to assess landslide risks in high-mountain regions and to mitigate the impacts on communities.
    Project Lead Dr Anshuman Bhardwaj, senior lecturer in Geosciences at the University of Aberdeen, said: “Geohazards such as landslides cause extensive damage to essential infrastructure and local economies, leading to mass displacements. Understanding of these processes and their long-term impacts needs substantial research.
    “Our project will fill existing gaps in untangling the nexus between hazards, humans and infrastructure and aims to develop effective methods for monitoring and mitigating landslides in high mountains such as the Himalaya. By providing accurate hazard assessments, risk analyses, and community-based mitigation guidelines, our research will enhance resilience to geohazards and facilitate preparedness and increased awareness in high-mountain communities.
    “Considering that the UK is also facing increasing coastal erosion and landslides, the easily adaptable methodological framework of this project can be useful to implement locally.”
    The research will provide improved understanding of the relationship between slope failure mechanisms and slope materials, analyse and reconstruct past landslide events using tree-ring records, and model potentially destructive future glacial landslide events.
    The ground-breaking project integrates multiple disciplines to cover all aspects of landslides in a high-mountain catchment and will serve as a benchmark for similar research in other landslide-prone high-mountain regions, contributing to effective monitoring and mitigation of geohazards.
    Project Co-Lead Dr Lydia Sam, lecturer in Geosciences at the University of Aberdeen, added: “There is a lack of comprehensive hazard assessment models that consider both, the environmental as well as social aspects and our project is a much-needed step in that direction.”
    Indian Project Lead Dr S. Nawaz Ali explained: “The project will inform policymakers about landslide-prone regions, ensuring sustainable development of critical infrastructure. Mitigation strategies, such as identifying optimal shelter locations, alternative routes for food supply, trade and migration routes, slope stabilisation strategies, drainage and vegetation management, and adaptable land use planning will enhance resilience to geohazards.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Unlock your future: Plymouth’s biggest careers fair is here!

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Some of the city’s biggest and best-known employers are returning to take part in this year’s Launchpad Live, a two-day future careers event offering a unique glimpse into the city’s fastest-growing industries.

    Hosted at the Plymouth Life Centre, Launchpad Live will run on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 September 2024 and aims to inspire and raise aspirations of local young people and improve awareness of career choices and future progression pathways.

    Who are the employers attending?

    The event will feature a powerhouse of over 50 employers and organisations such as:

    • Babcock
    • University Hospital Plymouth NHS Trust
    • Plymouth City Council
    • Princess Yachts
    • Plymouth Community Homes
    • Kier BAM
    • Willmott Dixon
    • Vistry Group
    • Rowe IT
    • Theatre Royal Plymouth
    • Vospers
    • PFK Francis Clarke
    • Greenlight Safety and Training
    • Duchy College
    • HM Armed Forces
    • National Marine Park
    • City College Plymouth
    • Skills Group
    • Discovery College
    • Plymouth Manufacturers Group
    • Skills Launchpad Plymouth’s Youth Hub and the city’s sector skills partnerships –
    • Building Plymouth (promoting construction and the built environment)
    • Caring Plymouth (promoting health and social care)
    • Welcoming Plymouth (promoting hospitality, tourism and retail).

    These organisations are not just looking for employees, they’re looking for the future leaders of their industries.

    A hands-on experience

    With all Plymouth schools bringing along groups of students, more than 2,200 pupils will experience interactive zones, complete with the latest immersive technologies. Those attending will explore, learn, and engage directly with industry experts across Plymouth’s core sectors, including:

    • Marine, Engineering and Manufacturing
    • Health and Social Care
    • Construction and the Built Environment
    • Technology, Business, Legal and Creative Services
    • Armed Forces and Government Services
    • Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment and Retail
    • Green and Sustainable Careers

    Launchpad Live is where opportunity meets innovation, offering unparalleled exposure to both traditional and emerging career paths. Whether you’re a student curious about your future or a business leader looking to inspire the next generation, this event is for you.

    The event is being organised by Plymouth City Council in partnership with YMCA Plymouth, Discovery College and City College Plymouth.

    Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships said: “This fantastic event will give thousands of young people the chance to meet employers, to learn about the exciting career opportunities available and better understand the investment and growth sectors that present future ambitious employment in Plymouth. It’s really important that we help employers and training providers, including further and higher education institutions, to showcase these opportunities directly with our young people, helping them to make better informed choices for their post-16 next steps.”

    Jonathan Keable, Chair of the Plymouth Employment and Skills Board and Leader of FSB Plymouth, said:
    “I’m incredibly proud to see over 50 of our city’s leading employers come together to not only showcase incredible opportunities but to actively inspire the next generation. This event is a testament to the commitment of our businesses and organisations in investing in Plymouth’s future workforce. Together, we are giving our young people the confidence and tools to dream bigger, reach higher, and shape their own destinies. A huge thank you to the organisers for delivering this transformative event. The line-up is outstanding, and I encourage anyone looking to take the next step to join us to explore your options and take action, because this is your chance to make it happen.”

    Tom Lavis, CEO of YMCA Plymouth said:

    “As a Plymouth charity that has supported young people’s aspirations in the city for 175 years, YMCA is delighted to bring this exciting careers event to life in partnership with Plymouth City Council. We believe it’s vital to showcase what fantastic opportunities are out there to young people and their parents. We’re very proud of how we have been able to make this event truly accessible for young people and the wide scope of employers and trainers, which has now made this an annual landmark event for the city.”

    Open to the Public!

    Launchpad Live will be open to the public on Thursday, 26 September, from 4pm to 6pm. Don’t miss this chance to meet employers, explore career options, and discover pathways that could change your life. All other times on both days are reserved for school bookings only.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Landmarks lit for NHS Organ Donor Registration Week

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Landmarks across the city are being lit pink to mark this important reminder to register as an organ donor.

    This year is the 30th anniversary of the NHS Organ Donor Register and the city landmark light up is in line with calls from campaigners to talk about organ donation and getting more people registered as donors.

    Landmarks including the Northern Spire Bridge, Penshaw Monument, Hylton Castle, Fulwell Mill, the White Lighthouse at Seaburn, Keel Square and High Street West, will be lit in pink for five nights starting from dusk on Monday 23 September until dawn on Saturday 28 September.

    Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Michael Mordey; Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Safer Communities, Councillor Kelly Chequer and Mayor Councillor Allison Chisnall have backed calls for more people to become and register as organ donors.

    The calls came as they met and supported North East organ donation campaigners, including Beatrix Archbold, who had a heart transplant when she was a toddler.

    The Archbolds have been lobbying the Government to make organ donation awareness in schools compulsory.

    Cllr Chequer said: “Beatrix is a very engaging and charming little girl with bags of energy and fun. She had suffered heart failure when she was a toddler, spent a year in hospital, and it was the brave decision of a donor family that has helped give Beatrix a new lease of life with a heart transplant.

    “Because the donor family had made a difficult decision on organ donation, their sad loss but selfless decision helped saved Beatrix’s life. Within a month of receiving her heart transplant, Beatrix was able to return home.

    “An organ donor can save and help improve up to nine lives and so putting your name onto the NHS Organ Donor Register really is a life-saving registration. If more people join and register, then more lives can be saved.”

    It is quick and easy to register your decision on the NHS Organ Donor Register. Call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Old School House highly commended at Building Excellence Awards

    Source: City of Sunderland

    Sunderland City Council’s project to transform a former school building into specialist homes has been highly commended at the regional LABC Building Excellence Awards.

    The awards are the largest business to business awards in the building control sector in the UK, and the Old School House in Washington was highly commended in the Best Small Social Housing Development category. 

    The awards recognised the scheme, which restored and extended the former Biddick School to create 15 specialist apartments for vulnerable adults.

    The new apartments were completed by JDDK Architects and Brims Construction after being developed by the council’s Housing Development Team as part of plans to deliver more homes for the residents most at need in the city. Under these plans, the city council is providing much-needed homes and one-storey accommodation for people living with disabilities as well as older residents.

    All apartments at the Old School House benefit from a high-quality specification developed with the end user in mind and the development boasts a landscaped courtyard for residents to enjoy, including seating designed by a local artist. 

    Councillor Kevin Johnston, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing, Regeneration and Business, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been highly commended for the housing scheme at Washington Old School.  

    “These homes have been specially designed to meet the needs of vulnerable adults, so we’re delighted that the Old School House is making such a positive difference to residents’ lives and that this has been recognised.

    “This scheme sits beautifully alongside a community of homes that we developed as a local authority in 2021. It is just the latest project we have carried out to ensure the city benefits from a wider range of properties to support the needs of vulnerable residents and those living with disabilities.”

    JDDK Architects put the project forward for the award. Speaking about the work that went into the scheme, JDDK’s Associate Director Matthew Holmes said: “Working on this scheme was a challenge but the results speak for themselves, and this is down to the great team that worked together throughout the project.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: The Force and Technological Singularity

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    This week, as part of the first ever Modernising Policing week, the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) will shine a light on the areas being explored to transform law enforcement nationally.

    Today, we present “Thin Digital Line”, an innovative new podcast series led by Exception, the innovative Digital Transformation specialist, and former Deputy Chief Constable of Lincolnshire Police and NPCC Drugs Lead, Jason Harwin KPM.

    This six-episode series (which is now available across all major podcast platforms) explores how emerging technologies and data could shape British policing, discussing the impact of digital advancements on the future of law enforcement.

    Each episode features in-depth discussions between Jason and senior leaders from NPCC and forces, offering unique insights into the transformative potential for policing.

    Jason Harwin KPM, host of Thin Digital Line, added

    “This series is not just about predicting the future, but also about preparing for it. We are entering an era where AI, digitisation, and cyber will revolutionise the way the service operates. It’s essential that we start this dialogue now, to ensure that policing continues to evolve alongside society. Through these conversations with distinguished colleagues from the NPCC and various forces, we hope to shed light on how policing is adapting to these fast-emerging trends.”

    Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, NPCC chair and guest on Thin Digital Line, added:

    “The Thin Digital Line series offers valuable insights into the ways in which policing could navigate an increasingly digital world. It offers a glimpse into our digital priorities, explores how our approach is already being shaped by digital advancement and looks at how we might adapt our service ahead of the year 2045.”

    Episode one features Gavin Stephens QPM, and Tony Blaker QPM, Digital, Data and Technology Coordination Committee Chief of Staff. It explores the concept of technological singularity and its implications for policing, delving into how advancements in AI and automation could transform the future of law enforcement, including the roles of human officers versus machines.

    You can listen to it here:

    As part of the first ever Modernising Policing week, the NPCC will shine a light on the areas being explored to transform law enforcement nationally. Throughout the week you will see updates from the teams working to transform policing, from those working in data, facial recognition, AI, and more. We will also be highlighting the work of our partners, such as the Office of the Police Chief Scientific Adviser and academia, taking place to drive change and propel policing in to the 21st century. 

    Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, NPCC Chair said: 

    “This week we are hosting the first ever Modernising Policing week to celebrate some of the efforts to innovate locally, regionally and nationally. 

    “It’s important we recognise the contribution that our staff and officers are making in areas like developing Artificial Intelligence, automation, improving data and driving real change in policing. 

    “We know that technological developments will be the single biggest driver of reform in policing in the coming years and embedding new technologies is the only way we can hope to continue delivering the service the public deserves and expects.”

    You can find out more about the teams working in this area on our website: Modernising Policing (npcc.police.uk)

    Confirmed Podcast platforms that will be broadcasting Thin Digital Line include:

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Signing Day Sports Identifies Synergies from Acquisition of Swifty Global, Expected to Drive Accelerated Revenue Growth, Cost Savings, and Global Expansion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SCOTTSDALE, Arizona, Sept. 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Signing Day Sports, Inc. (“Signing Day Sports” or the “Company”) (NYSE American: SGN), the developer of the Signing Day Sports app and platform to aid high school athletes in the recruitment process, today provided an update regarding its financial position and its plans to acquire Dear Cashmere Group Holding Company (OTC:DRCR), doing business as Swifty Global (“Swifty”), highlighting the strategic and financial synergies that are expected to drive accelerated growth and operational efficiency for both companies.

    Extinguishment of Convertible Notes

    As of September 23, 2024, the outstanding convertible senior secured promissory notes of the Company, with an original balance of more than $0.6 million, had been fully extinguished, primarily from conversion into shares of common stock.

    The improved financial position strengthens the Company’s prospects for growth and future capital raising.

    Key Highlights from the Acquisition

    As previously announced, Signing Day Sports entered into a binding term sheet to acquire 95-99% of the issued and outstanding shares of Swifty, a global online sports and casino technologies company. Swifty is debt-free with a proven track record of growth, revenue generation and profitability. The acquisition is expected to significantly enhance Signing Day Sports’ revenue generation, technical capabilities and profitability from the expansion of both companies.

    • Strong Financial Performance: Swifty achieved revenues of over $128 million and a net profit of approximately $2.44 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, despite significant investments of nearly $3.1 million in software development and licensing.
    • Global Expansion: Swifty is expanding internationally. Swifty recently acquired licenses to offer a full integrated suite of products in Ireland and South Africa, which are expected to have significant online sports and casino markets with limited competition.
    • Fast Development of Revenue Generating Technology: Swifty plans to offer data feed services for the online sports gambling industry in the near future. Swifty has determined that data feed services are expensive and limited in choice, which creates an opportunity for Swifty, and that many sports, like boxing, have limited or no live data feed available to allow real-time betting. The Signing Day Sports team has significant experience working with critical sports datapoints and creating sports measurement technologies, which could assist Swifty in developing this revenue stream.

    Strategic Synergies

    The integration of Swifty is expected to bring several operational advantages and new revenue opportunities for Signing Day Sports:

    • Cost Efficiency: Swifty’s in-house engineering team is expected to reduce Signing Day Sports’ operating costs by over 50%, enabling the company to reinvest those savings into growth initiatives. It is also expected to increase the speed at which Signing Day Sports can roll out new products and technological enhancements to its current offering and optimize monetization of the product and user base.
    • Revenue Growth in SaaS: At their core, both Signing Day Sports and Swifty are SaaS model businesses. Swifty’s scalability, technological resources, and technology initiatives are expected to bolster the growth of Signing Day Sports’ app user base, enhance user retention and provide additional opportunities to monetize renewing subscribers with additional revenue streams.
    • New Revenue Streams: Swifty is expected to further expand Signing Day Sports’ current product offering while also broadening the Company’s exposure to new sports and athletes outside the U.S. Signing Day Sports has accumulated more than 10,000 registered users, which it plans to increase at an accelerated rate in the fourth quarter of 2024 and 2025. The Company’s focus is to develop new strategic revenue streams, and improve revenue metrics per user, with the same aim of fully monetizing this growing user base.
    • New Market Exposure: Since its beginning as a football student-athlete recruitment platform provider, Signing Day Sports has expanded its platform to support baseball, softball, and men’s and women’s soccer. Swifty is expected to bring exposure to new markets in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, as well as exposure to emerging sports without established recruitment models. The Company anticipates that early adopters in these emerging sports markets are a significant market and plans to broaden its platform to capitalize on these prospective revenue streams.
    • Enhanced User Engagement: Swifty’s team is expected to introduce exciting new features to Signing Day Sports, including gamification elements such as live scoreboards, top competitor leaderboards, fantasy leagues and real-time performance tracking, which are designed to boost engagement, organic user acquisition and user retention.

    “With Swifty expected to join the Signing Day Sports family, we anticipate being better positioned than ever to deliver an enhanced user experience while accelerating our expansion into new markets,” said Daniel Nelson, CEO of Signing Day Sports. “This acquisition represents a pivotal moment in our growth journey, and we are confident in the significant value it will bring to our platform, collaborators, student-athletes, and stockholders.”

    James Gibbons, CEO of Swifty, added, “Swifty is excited to bring our technological capabilities and global reach to the Signing Day Sports platform. Together, we will create new opportunities for student-athletes and coaches worldwide while driving operational efficiencies that will further our mutual goals. We look forward to working with Signing Day Sports as we scale into new markets and continue to innovate for the benefit of our users.”

    For further information about Signing Day Sports and Swifty, please see their communication channels listed below:

    Website: https://swifty.global
    X: @swiftyglobal
    Telegram: @swiftyglobal
    Email: hello@swifty.global

    Website: https://signingdaysports.com
    Ecommerce Website: https://signingdayshop.com
    Investor Relations Website: https://ir.signingdaysports.com
    X: @sdsports
    Email: support@signingdaysports.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “could,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “project” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including without limitation, the Company’s ability to complete the acquisition of Swifty and integrate its business, the ability of the Company, the sellers and Swifty to enter into definitive stock purchase agreement(s), obtain all necessary consents and approvals in connection with the acquisition, obtain NYSE American clearance of a new initial listing application in connection with the acquisition, obtain shareholder approval of the matters to be voted on at the shareholders’ meeting described in the press release, obtain sufficient funding to maintain operations and develop additional services and offerings, market acceptance of the Company’s current products and services and planned offerings, competition from existing online and retail offerings or new offerings that may emerge, impacts from strategic changes to the Company’s business on its net sales, revenues, income from continuing operations, or other results of operations, the Company’s ability to attract new users and customers, increase the rate of subscription renewals, and slow the rate of user attrition, the Company’s ability to retain or obtain intellectual property rights, the Company’s ability to adequately support future growth, the Company’s ability to comply with user data privacy laws and other current or anticipated legal requirements, and the Company’s ability to attract and retain key personnel to manage its business effectively. These risks, uncertainties and other factors are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s periodic reports which are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks, uncertainties and other factors are, in some cases, beyond our control and could materially affect results. If one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors become applicable, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual events or results may vary significantly from those implied or projected by the forward-looking statements. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future performance. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Investor Contact:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    212-671-1020
    SGN@crescendo-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong movies shine in Berlin (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong movies shine in Berlin (with photo)
    Hong Kong movies shine in Berlin (with photo)
    *********************************************

         The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Berlin (HKETO Berlin) supported the film festival Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema in Berlin, Germany, from September 20 to 22 (Berlin time).      The film festival presented six Hong Kong films, namely “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”, “The Lyricist Wannabe”, “Time Still Turns The Pages”, “Throw Down (Restored)”, “Love Lies”, and “Fly Me To The Moon”. Actors Philip Ng, Lo Chun-yip, actress Angela Yuen, and director Norris Wong engaged with local audiences after the screenings of the respective movies.     HKETO Berlin hosted a reception before the screening of the opening film “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”. The Director of HKETO Berlin, Miss Jenny Szeto, delivered the opening remarks, welcoming some 100 guests. Miss Szeto thanked the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the Hong Kong International Film Festival and its local partner, the Berlin NewGen Film Festival, for bringing outstanding Hong Kong movies to Berlin.      “The Government is dedicated to promoting Hong Kong’s cultural footprint and in particular, supporting the development of our film industry. Among other things, we actively encourage and support industry professionals to participate in film festivals around the world to elevate the visibility of Hong Kong films and showcase our talented creators. The Making Waves programme is a shining example of this commitment.”     Launched in 2022, Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema is funded by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency to help Hong Kong films go global. To date, it has showcased the work of many promising Hong Kong filmmakers in over 20 cities. About HKETO Berlin     HKETO Berlin is the official representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in commercial relations and other economic and trade matters in Germany as well as Austria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia and Switzerland. 

     
    Ends/Monday, September 23, 2024Issued at HKT 19:28

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –