Source: European Parliament
On Thursday, 13 February 2025 (10.00-11.30), the DAFR delegation will hold a meeting in Strasbourg (DE MADARIAGA S5) on the risk of the regionalisation of the conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The meeting will be webstreamed.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Ryan Rudy Elledge, 30, of Sherrills Ford, N.C., was sentenced today to 84 months in prison and four years of supervised release for distributing fentanyl, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.
Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, Sheriff Donald G. Brown II of the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, and Chief Tyler Whisenant of the Maiden Police Department, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.
According to court documents and proceedings, law enforcement began investigating Elledge in January 2023, for suspected fentanyl distribution in and around Catawba County. On February 17, 2023, officers executed a search warrant at Elledge’s residence, seizing more than 71 grams of fentanyl and over $21,000 in cash. In February 2024, law enforcement began a second investigation, after learning that Elledge was selling drugs again from his home in Newton, N.C. On February 22, 2024, a confidential informant purchased fentanyl and other narcotics from Elledge. The following day, officers executed a search warrant at Elledge’s residence, seizing fentanyl and methamphetamine. Court records show that Elledge admitted to distributing more than a kilogram of fentanyl and over 200 grams of methamphetamine.
On August 20, 2024, Elledge pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. He is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.
In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the ATF, the Catawba County Sheriff’s Office, and the Maiden Police Department for their investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alfredo De La Rosa with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Eustolio Sanchez-Ramirez, age 38, of Chiapas, Mexico, was indicted on February 5, 2025, by a federal grand jury on a charge of Illegal Reentry.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the indictment alleges that on or about December 19, 2024, Sanchez-Ramirez was found in Dauphin County Pennsylvania after previously having been removed from the United States. The indictment also alleges that Sanchez-Ramirez had been removed from the United States through Brownsville, Texas, and reentered without first obtaining legal permission to do so.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and the Harrisburg Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Williams is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is two years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
# #
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Earlier today in federal court in Central Islip, three Bloods gang members, Dwayne Murray, Kendrick Seymore and Lavalle Wilson, were arraigned on new charges in a 46-count second superseding indictment before United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack. That indictment also charges an additional defendant, high-ranking Bloods gang member Sheim Tevin Ramsey-Davis (Ramsey-Davis), with racketeering and racketeering conspiracy, violent crimes in-aid-of racketeering, brandishing and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, robbery, fraud and narcotics trafficking. Ramsey-Davis was arrested on January 30, 2025, in Augusta, Georgia and will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date.
The second superseding indictment includes the following new charges against Murray, Seymore and Wilson for crimes they allegedly committed in Suffolk County between 2016 and 2022:
John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Raymond A. Tierney, Suffolk County District Attorney; James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New York Field Office (ATF NY); and Kevin Catalina, Commissioner, Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), announced the arrest and charges.
“With these new and very serious charges, law enforcement continues its objective of dismantling the Bloods on Long Island, and of prosecuting gang members who are drivers of gun violence and numerous other crimes in Suffolk County,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “My Office and our federal and local partners will not relent in our efforts to remove this threat in order to make our communities safer.”
Mr. Durham expressed his appreciation to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia and FBI’s Resident Agency in Augusta, Georgia, for their assistance with the case.
“The crimes alleged here strike at the very fabric of our community through violence, intimidation and corruption. Each count in this indictment, from murder to firearms trafficking, represents not just a crime, but a family traumatized, a neighborhood living in fear, or young people pulled into a cycle of violence,” stated Suffolk County District Attorney Tierney. “My office will continue working alongside our federal and local partners to dismantle all such criminal enterprises and restore safety to the communities they have terrorized.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy stated: “These three gang members allegedly engaged in an array of criminal activity –murders, armed robberies, and narcotics trafficking – designed to bolster their financial and internal social statuses as well as punish rival entities. This series of new charges emphasizes the various extreme measures the defendants will allegedly implement to support their gang’s operations. Alongside our law enforcement partners, the FBI remains steadfast in its mission to eradicate the gang violence and criminality polluting our communities.”
“This indictment underscores the collective commitment with ATF NY and our law enforcement partners,” stated ATF NY Special Agent in Charge Miller. “Dismantling violent gangs that terrorize our communities and threaten public safety remain a top priority. It is our obligation to bring every resource to bear in the face of brazen acts of violence. We remain fully committed to enhancing public safety through identifying and eliminating the key drivers of violence. Thank you to the efforts of the men and women of ATF NY Long Island Joint Firearms Task Force, FBI, Suffolk County Police Department and EDNY.”
“These defendants have terrorized the community for years, committing a spree of violent crimes,” stated SCPD Commissioner Catalina. “It is through the diligent work of investigators from multiple agencies that we are able to levy new charges. The department along with our law enforcement partners remains committed to working together to fight the brutality of gang members.”
As alleged in court filings, the defendants engaged in numerous acts of violence on behalf of the Bloods gang, including robberies, home invasions, numerous shootings and four murders. The defendants are members of a Bloods set known as the Gorilla Stone Bloods (GSB), which have “kaves” located in various towns on Long Island. Murray and Ramsey-Davis were the leaders of the “Money Gang Kave.” The second superseding indictment adds charges stemming from the defendants’ years-long use of violence to target their rivals and armed robberies to enrich the members of the gang.
Specifically, on September 26, 2016, Murray, who was the leader of a set of the Bloods, shot a victim multiple times to increase his own status within the Bloods. On May 28, 2020, Ramsey-Davis, at Murray’s direction, fired numerous shots at two individuals believed to be associated with a rival gang who were seated in a parked car in front of a residence in Bellport. Murray, Seymore and Ramsey-Davis, along with other gang members, also routinely scouted lucrative robbery targets and committed several armed robberies and home invasions in Suffolk County in 2020 and 2021. In addition, Ramsey-Davis and his co-conspirators sold large amounts of narcotics, including fentanyl. They also engaged in numerous fraud schemes, including identity theft, credit card and bank fraud and defrauding state unemployment systems. Ramsey-Davis also purchased and sold firearms, and supplied lower-level members of the gang with guns.
Previously, Murray and Seymore were charged with racketeering, murder, attempted murder, firearms offenses and narcotics trafficking, and Wilson was charged with attempted murder, firearms offenses and narcotics trafficking.
The charges in the second superseding indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark E. Misorek and Andrew P. Wenzel and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Donald N. Barclay and Dena C. Rizopoulos are in charge of the prosecution, along with Paralegal Specialist Dejah Turla.
The Defendants:
DWAYNE MURRAY (also known as “Wayno”)
Age: 33
Residence: Coram, Long Island
SHEIM TEVIN RAMSEY-DAVIS (also known as “KG”)
Age: 26
Residence: Augusta, Georgia
KENDRICK SEYMORE (also known as “KR”)
Age: 22
Residence: Coram, Long Island
LAVALLE WILSON (also known as “Val,” Skip,” “Flip” and “Wes”)
Age: 30
Residence: Shirley, Long Island
E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-401 (S-2) (JMA)
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Jordan Vega, age 29, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on February 4, 2025, by United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani to 188 months’ imprisonment to be followed by five years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute, and distribution of fentanyl and other controlled substances.
According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Vega was involved in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and other controlled substances throughout Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties beginning in January 2022 until the time of his arrest on April 20, 2023. The investigation revealed that Vega managed a network of drug traffickers and utilized co-conspirators to facilitate drug orders and drug distributions. After a series of undercover purchases of controlled substances from Vega and others beginning in February through March 2023, Vega was arrested on April 20, 2023. At the time of his arrest, Vega attempted to obstruct justice by directing the concealment of approximately 5,000 bags of fentanyl and other contraband located in a stash house in Hazleton. The obstruction attempt and managerial role were taken into consideration at sentencing.
Vega was indicted by a grand jury in Scranton on April 18, 2023, along with Alex Hernandez, age 25, also from Hazleton and a member of Vega’s conspiracy. Vega appeared in federal court in Scranton on July 19, 2024, and plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute and distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Hernandez was previously sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment for his role in the conspiracy.
The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton – Safe Streets Task Force, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Olshefski prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin and fentanyl. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses.
This case is also part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
###
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
FLOYD, Va. and INDEPENDENCE, Va., Feb. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Skyline Bankshares, Inc. (the “Company”) (OTC QX: SLBK) – the holding company for Skyline National Bank (the “Bank”) – announced its results of operations for the fourth quarter of 2024.
As previously announced, the Company acquired Johnson County Bank (“JCB”) on September 1, 2024, with the Company as the surviving corporation. For accounting purposes, the Company is considered the acquiror and JCB is considered the acquiree in the transaction. As such, all information contained herein as of and for periods prior to September 1, 2024 reflects the operations of the Company prior to the merger.
The Company recorded net income of $2.5 million, or $0.45 per share, for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared to net income of $1.1 million, or $0.19 per share, for the third quarter of 2024 and net income of $2.2 million, or $0.39 per share, for the same period in 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2024, net income was $7.4 million, or $1.34 per share, compared to net income of $9.7 million, or $1.74 per share, for the year ended December 31, 2023. Fourth quarter 2024 earnings represented an annualized return on average assets (“ROAA”) of 0.82% and an annualized return on average equity (“ROAE”) of 11.23%, compared to 0.83% and 11.05%, respectively, for the same period last year. Excluding nonrecurring merger-related expenses of $923 thousand relating to the acquisition of Johnson County Bank, net income would have been $3.2 million, or $0.58 per share, for the fourth quarter of 2024. This would represent an annualized ROAA and ROAE of 1.06% and 14.54%, respectively, for the fourth quarter of 2024.
President and CEO Blake Edwards stated, “The fourth quarter of 2024 was marked by many notable accomplishments. Earnings were strong, especially when adjusted for direct merger-related costs, with an adjusted annualized ROAA of 1.06%. During the quarter our core loan growth was $31.4 million, which is an annualized rate of 13.13%. Our net interest income increased in both the three-month and twelve-month periods ended December 31, 2024, while our net interest margin increased to 4.10% for the quarter ended December 31, 2024, compared to 3.78% for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Net income also increased from the third to the fourth quarter when adjusted for nonrecurring, merger-related costs.”
Edwards continued, “We continued the integration of Johnson County Bank during the fourth quarter of 2024 with the core data systems conversion completed in November. Our experienced team worked tirelessly to make this transition as seamless as possible for the Johnson County employees and customers alike. This is an exciting chapter in the history of our bank, and we are excited to bring our commitment to excellence and dedication to the businesses and people of Johnson County, Tennessee. We look forward to creating a positive impact in Tennessee while continuing to offer an unmatched customer experience in our existing markets. I believe we remain well positioned for growth and success in the future and know that our employees will continue to deliver on our brand promise of being “Always our Best” for our customers each and every day.”
Highlights
Fourth Quarter and Year Ended December 31, 2024 Income Statement Review
Net interest income after provision for credit losses in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $11.4 million compared to $8.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. Total interest income was $15.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2024, representing an increase of $3.7 million, or 31.67%, in comparison to the fourth quarter of 2023. Interest income on loans increased in the quarterly comparison by $3.7 million, primarily due to organic loan growth, and the addition of loan balances from the JCB acquisition which added approximately $87.2 million. Management anticipates this loan growth will continue to have a positive impact on both earning assets and loan yields. Interest expense on deposits increased by $1.2 million in the quarterly comparison as a result of rate increases on deposit offerings, and the additional interest-bearing deposits from the JCB acquisition. Management anticipates interest expense on deposits could increase in the near term as competitive pressures for deposits may result in continued increases in rates on deposit offerings, especially on time deposits. Interest on borrowings decreased by $121 thousand in the quarterly comparison.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, net interest income after provision for (recovery of) credit losses was $38.4 million compared to $35.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Interest income increased by $10.2 million, primarily due to an increase of $10.1 million in interest income on loans. Interest expense on deposits increased by $6.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same period last year. As previously discussed, this is a reflection of the increased competitive pressures for deposits as well as the additional interest-bearing deposits from the JCB acquisition. Interest on borrowings increased by $266 thousand in the year-over-year comparison, due to short-term borrowings to help fund loan growth.
Fourth quarter 2024 noninterest income was $2.1 million compared with $1.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2023. Service charges and fees increased by $263 thousand in the quarterly comparison.
For the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, noninterest income was $7.3 million and $7.0 million, respectively. Included in noninterest income for the year 2024 was $221 thousand from life insurance contracts and a net realized security loss of $141 thousand. The net security loss resulted from the recognition of unamortized premiums on a called bond. Included in noninterest income for the year 2023 was income of $129 thousand related to loan hedge fees from a correspondent bank that was recorded in other income, a $197 thousand gain on a sale leaseback, $69 thousand from life insurance contracts and security losses of $16 thousand. Excluding these items noninterest income increased by $614 thousand in the year-over-year comparison, primarily as a result on an increase in service charges and fees of $502 thousand and an increase of $22 thousand in mortgage origination fees.
Noninterest expense in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $10.3 million compared with $7.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, an increase of $2.4 million, or 30.22%. Salary and benefit costs increased by $489 thousand due to the increase in employees resulting from the JCB acquisition, combined with routine personnel additions and salary adjustments, as well as increased benefit costs. Occupancy and equipment expenses increased $134 thousand and data processing increased by $330 thousand in the quarterly comparisons primarily due to branch expansion costs and the costs associated with running two core processing systems before the core conversion for Johnson County Bank occurred. Also included in noninterest expense in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $923 thousand in merger-related expenses related to the acquisition of Johnson County Bank.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, total noninterest expenses increased by $5.7 million compared to the same period in 2023, primarily due to employee costs and branch costs discussed above. Salary and benefit cost increased by $1.1 million. Occupancy and equipment expenses increased by $604 thousand, and data processing increased by $788 thousand in the year-over-year comparison. Merger-related expenses related to the acquisition of Johnson County Bank were $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Net income before taxes increased by $364 thousand in the quarterly comparison causing an increase in income tax expense of $16 thousand. In the year-over-year comparison, net income before taxes decreased by $2.7 million, resulting in a decrease in income tax expense of $443 thousand.
Balance Sheet Review
Total assets increased in the fourth quarter of 2024 by $11.1 million, or 0.92%, to $1.22 billion at December 31, 2024 from $1.21 billion at September 30, 2024, and increased by $171.8 million, or 16.42%, from $1.05 billion at December 31, 2023. Total loans increased during the fourth quarter by $31.3 million, or 3.29%, to $984.5 million at December 31, 2024 from $953.1 million at September 30, 2024, and increased by $166.8 million, or 20.39%, compared to $817.7 million at December 31, 2023. Core loan growth was $31.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2024, which is an annualized rate of 13.13%.
Asset quality has remained strong, with a ratio of nonperforming loans to total loans of 0.26% at December 31, 2024 compared to 0.21% at December 31, 2023. The allowance for credit losses remained comparable at approximately 0.82% of total loans as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively.
Investment securities decreased by $5.6 million during the fourth quarter to $118.3 million at December 31, 2024 from $123.9 million at September 30, 2024, and decreased by $9.1 million from $127.4 million at December 31, 2023. The decrease in the fourth quarter of 2024 was the result of $1.5 million in paydowns, and an increase in unrealized losses of $4.1 million because of the changes in interest rates during the quarter.
Total deposits increased in the fourth quarter of 2024 by $6.3 million, or 0.58%, to $1.09 billion at December 31, 2024 from $1.09 billion at September 30, 2024, and increased $163.5 million, or 17.60%, compared to $928.7 million at December 31, 2023. Noninterest bearing deposits decreased by $2.4 million and interest-bearing deposits increased by $8.7 million during the quarter. Lower cost interest bearing deposits increased by $8.0 million during the quarter, and time deposits increased by $689 thousand. Excluding the $125.3 million of total deposits acquired as part of the JCB merger, total deposits increased by $38.2 million, or 4.11%, during the year 2024.
Total stockholders’ equity increased by $45 thousand, or 0.05%, to $88.7 million at December 31, 2024, from $88.6 million three months earlier, and increased $5.8 million, or 6.98%, from $82.9 million at December 31, 2023. The change during the quarter was due to earnings of $2.5 million offset by $2.7 million in other comprehensive losses.
Forward-looking statements
This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934 as amended. These include statements as to expectations regarding future financial performance and any other statements regarding future results or expectations. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are including this statement for purposes of these safe harbor provisions. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe future plans, strategies, and expectations of the Company, are generally identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” or “project” or similar expressions. Our ability to predict results, or the actual effect of future plans or strategies, is inherently uncertain. Factors which could have a material adverse effect on the operations and future prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries include, but are not limited to: changes in interest rates; general economic and financial market conditions; the effect of changes in banking, tax and other laws and regulations and interpretations or guidance thereunder; monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. government, including policies of the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve Board; the quality and composition of the loan and securities portfolios; demand for loan products; deposit flows; competition; demand for financial services in the Company’s market area; the implementation of new technologies; the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; accounting principles, policies, and guidelines; disruptions to customer and employee relationships and business operations caused by the Johnson County Bank acquisition; the ability to implement integration plans associated with the acquisition, which integration may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; the ability to achieve the cost savings and synergies contemplated by the acquisition within the expected timeframe, or at all; and other factors identified in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” in the Company’s Annual Report on 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 and the Company’s most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. We undertake no obligation to update or clarify these forward‐looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
(See Attached Financial Statements for quarter ending December 31, 2024)
Skyline Bankshares, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
December 31, 2024; September 30, 2024; December 31, 2023
| December 31, |
September 30, |
December 31, |
|||||||||
| (dollars in thousands except share amounts) | 2024 |
2024 |
2023 |
||||||||
| (Unaudited) |
(Unaudited) |
(Audited) |
|||||||||
| Assets | |||||||||||
| Cash and due from banks | $ | 17,889 | $ | 27,862 | $ | 16,811 | |||||
| Interest-bearing deposits with banks | 1,562 | 6,766 | 4,808 | ||||||||
| Federal funds sold | – | 536 | 474 | ||||||||
| Investment securities available for sale | 118,287 | 123,906 | 127,389 | ||||||||
| Restricted equity securities | 4,034 | 4,235 | 3,338 | ||||||||
| Loans | 984,459 | 953,122 | 817,704 | ||||||||
| Allowance for credit losses | (8,027 | ) | (7,787 | ) | (6,739 | ) | |||||
| Net loans | 976,432 | 945,335 | 810,965 | ||||||||
| Cash value of life insurance | 26,743 | 26,558 | 22,909 | ||||||||
| Other real estate owned | 140 | 140 | – | ||||||||
| Properties and equipment, net | 34,663 | 33,741 | 31,183 | ||||||||
| Accrued interest receivable | 4,013 | 3,810 | 3,463 | ||||||||
| Core deposit intangible | 3,815 | 4,031 | 917 | ||||||||
| Goodwill | 7,900 | 7,900 | 3,257 | ||||||||
| Deferred tax assets, net | 5,593 | 5,125 | 5,046 | ||||||||
| Other assets | 16,528 | 16,555 | 15,283 | ||||||||
| Total assets | $ | 1,217,599 | $ | 1,206,500 | $ | 1,045,843 | |||||
| Liabilities | |||||||||||
| Deposits | |||||||||||
| Noninterest-bearing | $ | 337,918 | $ | 340,340 | $ | 305,115 | |||||
| Interest-bearing | 754,285 | 745,567 | 623,627 | ||||||||
| Total deposits | 1,092,203 | 1,085,907 | 928,742 | ||||||||
| Borrowings | 29,254 | 25,000 | 27,500 | ||||||||
| Accrued interest payable | 950 | 979 | 531 | ||||||||
| Other liabilities | 6,524 | 5,991 | 6,188 | ||||||||
| Total liabilities | 1,128,931 | 1,117,877 | 962,961 | ||||||||
| Stockholders’ Equity | |||||||||||
| Common stock and surplus | 33,507 | 33,283 | 33,356 | ||||||||
| Retained earnings | 73,714 | 71,212 | 68,866 | ||||||||
| Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (18,553 | ) | (15,872 | ) | (19,340 | ) | |||||
| Total stockholders’ equity | 88,668 | 88,623 | 82,882 | ||||||||
| Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity | $ | 1,217,599 | $ | 1,206,500 | $ | 1,045,843 | |||||
| Book value per share | $ | 15.69 | $ | 15.72 | $ | 14.84 | |||||
| Tangible book value per share(1) | $ | 13.62 | $ | 13.60 | $ | 14.09 | |||||
| Asset Quality Indicators | |||||||||||
| Nonperforming assets to total assets | 0.22 | % | 0.15 | % | 0.17 | % | |||||
| Nonperforming loans to total loans | 0.26 | % | 0.18 | % | 0.21 | % | |||||
| Allowance for credit losses to total loans | 0.82 | % | 0.82 | % | 0.82 | % | |||||
| Allowance for credit losses to nonperforming loans | 313.19 | % | 453.00 | % | 389.31 | % | |||||
| (1) | Tangible book value is a Non-GAAP financial measure defined as stockholders’ equity less goodwill and other intangible assets, divided by shares outstanding, that the Company believes is a meaningful measure of capital adequacy because it provides a meaningful base for period-to-period and company-to-company comparisons, which the Company believes will assist investors in assessing the capital of the Company and its ability to absorb potential losses. See “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures” at the end of this release. |
Skyline Bankshares, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations
| Three Months Ended |
Year Ended |
||||||||||||||||||
| December 31, | September 30, | December 31, | December 31, | ||||||||||||||||
| (dollars in thousands except share amounts) | 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | (Audited) | |||||||||||||||
| Interest income | |||||||||||||||||||
| Loans and fees on loans | $ | 14,541 | $ | 12,759 | $ | 10,843 | $ | 49,974 | $ | 39,877 | |||||||||
| Interest-bearing deposits in banks | 92 | 150 | 68 | 390 | 279 | ||||||||||||||
| Federal funds sold | 4 | 25 | 3 | 37 | 29 | ||||||||||||||
| Interest on securities | 692 | 737 | 743 | 2,871 | 3,024 | ||||||||||||||
| Dividends | 109 | 41 | 68 | 264 | 156 | ||||||||||||||
| 15,438 | 13,712 | 11,725 | 53,536 | 43,365 | |||||||||||||||
| Interest expense | |||||||||||||||||||
| Deposits | 3,601 | 3,407 | 2,360 | 12,650 | 6,617 | ||||||||||||||
| Interest on borrowings | 268 | 374 | 389 | 1,416 | 1,150 | ||||||||||||||
| 3,869 | 3,781 | 2,749 | 14,066 | 7,767 | |||||||||||||||
| Net interest income | 11,569 | 9,931 | 8,976 | 39,470 | 35,598 | ||||||||||||||
| Provision for (Recovery of) credit losses | 214 | 738 | 69 | 1,116 | (50 | ) | |||||||||||||
| Net interest income after provision for (recovery of) credit losses | 11,355 | 9,193 | 8,907 | 38,354 | 35,648 | ||||||||||||||
| Noninterest income | |||||||||||||||||||
| Service charges on deposit accounts | 624 | 598 | 580 | 2,317 | 2,186 | ||||||||||||||
| Other service charges and fees | 1,146 | 940 | 927 | 3,844 | 3,473 | ||||||||||||||
| Net realized losses on securities | – | – | – | (141 | ) | (16 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Mortgage origination fees | 68 | 108 | 66 | 277 | 255 | ||||||||||||||
| Increase in cash value of life insurance | 185 | 161 | 138 | 643 | 576 | ||||||||||||||
| Life insurance income | – | – | – | 221 | 69 | ||||||||||||||
| Other income | 42 | 44 | 48 | 124 | 427 | ||||||||||||||
| 2,065 | 1,851 | 1,759 | 7,285 | 6,970 | |||||||||||||||
| Noninterest expenses | |||||||||||||||||||
| Salaries and employee benefits | 4,576 | 4,525 | 4,087 | 17,770 | 16,704 | ||||||||||||||
| Occupancy and equipment | 1,445 | 1,387 | 1,311 | 5,636 | 5,032 | ||||||||||||||
| Data processing expense | 940 | 744 | 610 | 3,019 | 2,231 | ||||||||||||||
| FDIC Assessments | 279 | 153 | 143 | 720 | 588 | ||||||||||||||
| Advertising | 252 | 256 | 219 | 965 | 768 | ||||||||||||||
| Bank franchise tax | 136 | 132 | 61 | 466 | 376 | ||||||||||||||
| Director fees | 148 | 52 | 150 | 326 | 349 | ||||||||||||||
| Professional fees | 276 | 188 | 194 | 856 | 722 | ||||||||||||||
| Telephone expense | 120 | 117 | 155 | 473 | 556 | ||||||||||||||
| Core deposit intangible amortization | 216 | 107 | 80 | 482 | 369 | ||||||||||||||
| Merger-related expenses | 923 | 1,143 | – | 2,423 | – | ||||||||||||||
| Other expense | 987 | 821 | 898 | 3,145 | 2,847 | ||||||||||||||
| 10,298 | 9,625 | 7,908 | 36,281 | 30,542 | |||||||||||||||
| Net income before income taxes | 3,122 | 1,419 | 2,758 | 9,358 | 12,076 | ||||||||||||||
| Income tax expense | 619 | 362 | 603 | 1,933 | 2,376 | ||||||||||||||
| Net income | $ | 2,503 | $ | 1,057 | $ | 2,155 | $ | 7,425 | $ | 9,700 | |||||||||
| Net income per share | $ | 0.45 | $ | 0.19 | $ | 0.39 | $ | 1.34 | $ | 1.74 | |||||||||
| Weighted average shares outstanding | 5,557,156 | 5,553,579 | 5,561,075 | 5,557,210 | 5,579,654 | ||||||||||||||
| Dividends declared per share | $ | 0.00 | $ | 0.23 | $ | 0.00 | $ | 0.46 | $ | 0.42 | |||||||||
Skyline Bankshares, Inc.
Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In addition to financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), the Company uses certain non-GAAP financial measures that provide useful information for financial and operational decision making, evaluating trends, and understanding the Company’s financial condition, capital position and financial results. Non-GAAP financial measures are supplemental and not a substitute for, or more important than, financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP and may not be comparable to those reported by other financial institutions. The non-GAAP financial measure presented in this document includes tangible book value per share, and the following items adjusted for merger-related expenses: return on average assets, return on average equity, and net income per share. For periods that are shorter than twelve months, the Company annualizes net income for the return on average assets and the return on average equity. The following tables present calculations underlying non-GAAP financial measures.
| December 31, | September 30, | December 31, | |||||||||
| (dollars in thousands except share amounts) | 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||
| (Unaudited) |
(Unaudited) |
(Unaudited) |
|||||||||
| Tangible Common Equity | |||||||||||
| Total stockholders’ equity (GAAP) | $ | 88,668 | $ | 88,623 | $ | 82,882 | |||||
| Less: Goodwill | (7,900 | ) | (7,900 | ) | (3,257 | ) | |||||
| Less: Core deposit intangible | (3,815 | ) | (4,031 | ) | (917 | ) | |||||
| Tangible common equity (non-GAAP) | $ | 76,953 | $ | 76,692 | $ | 78,708 | |||||
| Common stock shares outstanding | 5,651,704 | 5,639,204 | 5,584,204 | ||||||||
| Tangible book value per share | $ | 13.62 | $ | 13.60 | $ | 14.09 | |||||
| Three Months Ended |
Year Ended |
||||||||||||||||||
| December 31, | September 30, | December 31, | December 31, |
||||||||||||||||
| (dollars in thousands except share amounts) | 2024 | 2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||||||||
| (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | (Unaudited) | |||||||||||||||
| Annualized Net Income | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (GAAP) | $ | 2,503 | $ | 1,057 | $ | 2,155 | $ | 7,425 | $ | 9,700 | |||||||||
| Add: Items not annualized | |||||||||||||||||||
| Merger-related expenses | 923 | 1,143 | – | 2,423 | – | ||||||||||||||
| Tax effect of merger-related expenses | (184 | ) | (212 | ) | – | (407 | ) | – | |||||||||||
| Total non-annualized items | 739 | 931 | – | 2,016 | – | ||||||||||||||
| Adjusted net income | $ | 3,242 | $ | 1,988 | $ | 2,155 | $ | 9,441 | $ | 9,700 | |||||||||
| Adjusted net income, annualized for ratio calculation (non-GAAP) | $ | 12,898 | $ | 7,909 | $ | 8,550 | $ | 9,441 | $ | 9,700 | |||||||||
| Net income, annualized for ratio calculation | $ | 9,958 | $ | 4,205 | $ | 8,550 | $ | 7,425 | $ | 9,700 | |||||||||
| Average total assets | $ | 1,213,167 | $ | 1,123,844 | $ | 1,032,307 | $ | 1,109,465 | $ | 1,012,827 | |||||||||
| Average total equity | $ | 88,684 | $ | 87,292 | $ | 77,352 | $ | 85,460 | $ | 76,598 | |||||||||
| Weighted average shares outstanding | 5,557,156 | 5,553,579 | 5,561,075 | 5,557,210 | 5,579,654 | ||||||||||||||
| Return on average assets (GAAP) | 0.82 | % | 0.37 | % | 0.83 | % | 0.67 | % | 0.96 | % | |||||||||
| Adjusted return on average assets (non-GAAP) | 1.06 | % | 0.70 | % | 0.83 | % | 0.85 | % | 0.96 | % | |||||||||
| Return on average equity (GAAP) | 11.23 | % | 4.82 | % | 11.05 | % | 8.69 | % | 12.66 | % | |||||||||
| Adjusted return on average equity (non-GAAP) | 14.54 | % | 9.06 | % | 11.05 | % | 11.05 | % | 12.66 | % | |||||||||
| Net income per share | $ | 0.45 | $ | 0.19 | $ | 0.39 | $ | 1.34 | $ | 1.74 | |||||||||
| Adjusted net income per share | $ | 0.58 | $ | 0.36 | $ | 0.39 | $ | 1.70 | $ | 1.74 | |||||||||
For more information contact:
Blake Edwards, President & CEO – 276-773-2811
Lori Vaught, EVP & CFO – 276-773-2811
Source: Samsung
Samsung and GRUBBRR®, the leader in self-ordering technologies, are enhancing the guest experience at the Big Game this Sunday. Fans attending are encouraged to visit Section 115 to utilize the Samsung All-In-One Kiosk powered by GRUBBRR’s self-ordering technology.
“Samsung has a long history of delivering winning technology to the biggest stages in sports, including the Big Game,” said David Phelps, Head of Display Division, Samsung Electronics America. “With Samsung Kiosks and GRUBBRR self-service software, fans can order their food with ease and speed. No matter who they are rooting for on Sunday, they can enjoy less time in concession lines and more time watching the starting lineup.”
Samsung Kiosks powered by GRUBBRR redefine stadium dining by allowing fans to browse food and beverage options at their own pace, customize their orders and complete their purchase all on one screen. GRUBBRR’s partnership with Samsung equips venues with cutting-edge technology designed to enhance customer satisfaction and streamline operations.
Benefits include:
Reduced wait times: Fans can avoid long lines and spend more time enjoying the game.
Efficiency and accuracy: Self-checkout kiosks minimize labor costs and human error, ensuring accurate orders every time.
Health and safety: By reducing direct contact, these kiosks provide a safer option for food transactions during large events.
Smart upselling: GRUBBRR’s technology boosts average ticket size by 40-50%, optimizing revenue for vendors.
“Samsung and GRUBBRR are changing the game in self-service ordering,” said Sara Grofcsik, Head of Sales, Display Division, Samsung Electronics America. “Today’s consumers expect convenient, intuitive and customizable ordering–and we’re delivering on all fronts on the biggest night in football. Our technology will enhance the stadium experience, making it all the more seamless and enjoyable.”
“We are honored to be part of the game-day experience and ensure that fans spend less time in line away from the game, and more time enjoying at their seats,” said Sam Zietz, Chief Executive Officer for GRUBBRR. “The positive feedback from fans has been remarkable as we have been lauded for speed, efficiency and a user-friendly interface.”
In addition to stadiums, Samsung and GRUBBRR provide technology to support restaurants, movie theaters, retailers and other businesses. To learn more about GRUBBRR, please visit GRUBBRR.com. Discover how Samsung Kiosks set new standards for customer service by visiting www.samsung.com/us/business/displays/interactive/kiosk/.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last night, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) joined his Democratic colleagues in holding the Senate floor to protest Russell Vought’s nomination to lead the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), citing stories he has collected from federal workers about the chaos the Trump Administration has unleashed on the federal workforce. Vought is one of the key authors of Project 2025 and has long been an architect of President Trump’s plans to villainize the federal workforce.
Broadcast-quality video of Kaine’s speech is available here.
“My colleagues have spoken on the floor about a particular statement of Mr. Vought’s that I examined him about fairly aggressively during the Budget Committee Hearing. In the course of a speech, he said, ‘I want federal employees to be traumatized. I want to put them in trauma. I want them to come to work—to not want to come to work—because they know that they are increasingly viewed as the villain. Now, who talks like that? I mean, who talks like that? Is there a single manager or leader or organizational chief that we admire who believes that their mission, their happiness, their glee, their purpose is to make their workforce feel traumatized? No we would never celebrate a leader of that kind,” said Kaine.
“What I want to do in my time on the floor tonight is talk a little bit about these federal employees and what having a traumatized workforce means… What I’ve heard from Virginians is just in the week since the funding pause order went into place—something that was masterminded by Russell Vought—federal employees. Yesterday, I decided after hearing stories from federal employees, to launch a website, a resource where federal employees could share with anonymity guaranteed… I thought what I would do tonight is, I’ve just taken 18 of these stories, from the federal employees that have just once in in the last 24 hours, of the hundreds that have been submitted, and I just want to read some to you, to tell you about who these people are who Mr. Vought wants to be traumatized. Who these people are that Mr. Vought wants to personally make feel as if they are the villains,” Kaine continued.
Then, Kaine shared various stories he has collected from federal workers about how the Trump Administration’s actions have harmed them and threatened their ability to deliver essential services for the American people, including:
A federal employee working for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) who wrote, “After two extremely painful miscarriages, I am now 34 weeks pregnant with my first child. Since my husband works as a lawyer for the EPA, what should have been a joyful time in our lives now feels like a dystopian hellscape and we are very afraid for our future and financial security. We are just hoping to have health insurance at this point for when I give birth but even that feels uncertain. I swore an oath and believe in the work that USAID does. I believe that it makes American stronger, safer, and more prosperous, as Secretary Rubio is calling for, and I will supporting the Agency until they boot me from the system. God help us all.”
A federal employee working for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services who explained, “I am married and pregnant. I am the breadwinner. A woman. I am a homeowner. I pay taxes. I took an oath and I love my job. The daily fear tactics and targeting of federal employees has uprooted my life. I no longer feel safe going on any kind of family vacation, making any big purchases or doing anything because everyday I wonder will I have a job.”
A federal employee working for the National Science Foundation (NSF) who said, “The opportunity to give back and support the next generation of U.S. based scientists was a dream fulfilled, and I am terrified that I will be fired as soon as Friday with no protections or severance. The fair compensation and flexible schedule let’s my spouse work as a teacher, and she is so great at her job. But that will not pay the mortgage.”
A federal employee working for USAID who warned, “The attack on USAID lacks intelligence and foresight. China and Russia are filling the vacuum, outspending the US and deepening partnerships with our allies, who feel abandoned. This is creating permanent damage, and undoing decades of progress in a few days. This does the opposite of making America stronger, safer, and more prosperous.”
A federal employee working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture who explained, “These last few weeks have been hell for us federal workers. I come to work with a pit in my stomach. I am a probationary employee, so will probably be the first to go during a RIF. They have left us in the dark while constantly terrorizing us with threatening, passive aggressive messages, and half legal deals to resign. I fear for my job, but I fear more for my country.”
A federal employee working for the U.S. Department of Transportation who wrote, “I am frightened about my position. I’m a single income household and am convinced no one has my back. Congress has been pretty much silent, and the news has gained very little traction nationwide.”
A federal employee working for the U.S. Department of Defense who said, “As soon as this administration took office it felt like federal workers were under siege. They began with their flurry of executive orders and memos, they put Elon Musk (whom no one elected, whom is not a federal employee but yet has huge contracts for other areas with the government) in charge of “handling” the potential mass layoffs of federal workers.”
A federal employee working at the General Services Administration who explained, “…the disregard for union contracts is deeply concerning and undermines the commitments made to the workforce. Many of my talented and hardworking colleagues have been living in fear for weeks, facing uncertainty they do not deserve. This unlawful mistreatment not only undermines their dedication but also creates an environment of instability and anxiety that no employee should have to endure.”
A federal employee working at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) who wrote, “My husband and I are both federal employees and we are both on probation. We also have student loan debts and under the public service loan forgiveness program. If we lose our jobs because we are on probation, we will lose the ability to have our payments to [Public Service Loan Forgiveness] counted, we will not be able to pay for childcare and we will lose our apartment.”
A federal employee working at DHS who warned, “truly believe a strong, healthy workforce of civilian servants is vital for a strong, healthy America. Our government has a duty to protect its citizens. This – to me – includes making sure peoples basic needs are met, be it healthcare, food, housing, education, etc. The private sector is not taking on this obligation.”
A federal employee who said, “I’ve served under different administrations, Republican and Democrat, and been proud to do so… The last 2 weeks have been a nightmare.”
A federal employee who wrote, “Since inauguration, times have been hell for us because every day is loaded with uncertainty regarding the future state of our contract, work, and our federal counterparts we work daily with. To this day, every work day is filled with dread and anxiety.”
A federal contractor working for USAID who explained, “In the past week, I have experienced near everyone in my company get placed on furlough. Beyond the fact that we were all working to make international development more impactful, and the fact that the US Company we have invested so much time in may never come back from this, we are all without salary and uncertain for the future.”
A federal employee working for a small independent agency who wrote, “I am a probationary employee, meaning my name is on a short list to fire. I was hired under Schedule A — persons with disabilities, so my name is on a list. I feel like I am being threatened by the very institutions that were created to safeguard the principles of truth, compassion, respect…”
A federal employee who wrote, “Today, I woke up to an email saying we had a restraining order, tied to Trump’s EOs, that would limit how we’d disburse our grants. Since the EOs were vaguely defined to begin with, this could be a witch hunt for all kinds of programs and grants we give out.”
A federal employee who said, “I’m a senior human resource professional in the Department of the Interior. I’m on daily calls with Departmental HR leaders who receive direction from OPM. Today leadership mentioned that their coordination was with DOGE “employees” rather than with actual OPM employees. These DOGE employees have full access to our USA Staffing hiring system, which includes personally identifiable information for ALL applicants to any position in DOI. It is unclear what kind of clearance these individuals have, if any, and what authority they have to even access this system.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Ted Budd (R-NC) have introduced the bipartisan, bicameral Incentivizing REPI Sales Act of 2025, legislation which promotes military readiness by encouraging the land around military installations to be preserved for the military to train, test, and operate.
The House companion is led by Reps. Greg Murphy (R-NC) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA).
“Our Armed Forces need resilient, modern bases so they can undergo the most realistic and high-quality training. I am a longtime supporter of the DOD’s Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Program, which helps meet that goal while simultaneously conserving public lands,” said Kaine. “This legislation will incentivize participation in this program by creating a tax incentive for property owners who sell land or property for the military to use for training, resilience, and other important purposes. I am proud to work with Senator Budd on this legislation, and I will continue to do everything I can as a Senator representing one of the most military-connected states in the country to support our military installations.”
“As the United States confronts new and dangerous global threats, our military must maintain its readiness and lethality through realistic training at home installations,” said Budd. “I’m proud to partner with Senator Kaine to encourage additional REPI participation in order to strengthen military readiness.”
“The Department of Defense’s (DOD) Readiness and Environment Protection Integration (REPI) is essential to our national security and invaluable ecosystems. Avoiding land use conflicts in areas used by our military is imperative to their ability to conduct critical training and maintain readiness,” said Murphy. “The Incentivizing Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration Sales Act supports this successful initiative by incentivizing landowners to participate in this important program when considering the sale of property near military installations.”
“Rising land costs are making it more difficult for the military and conservation partners to protect the land around bases. Our bipartisan bill would make it easier to preserve those critical buffers by waiving the capital gains tax for landowners who sell to conservation organizations for Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) projects,” said Panetta. “By strengthening the REPI Program, we can ensure military installations remain mission-ready while safeguarding the surrounding environment.”
Background:
The Department of Defense’s (DOD) Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program supports cost-sharing agreements between the Military Services, other federal agencies, state and local governments, and private conservation organizations to avoid land use conflicts near military installations, address environmental restrictions that limit military activities, and increase resilience to weather events and other environmental concerns.
REPI is a key tool used by DOD and its partners to protect the military’s ability to train, test, and operate. Development of lands and loss of habitat near military installations, ranges, and airspace can lead to restrictions or costly and inadequate training and testing alternatives.
Preserving natural areas is vital for keeping skies dark, which is necessary for night training, protecting habitats off-base for endangered species, and facilitating nature-based approaches to mitigate flooding and severe weather.
REPI successfully protected 27,000 acres around Fort Liberty, NC in order to provide a flight corridor for Grey Eagle drone training and conduct Robin Sage, the final training exercise of Special Forces qualification. This action also helped recover the local population of red-cockaded woodpeckers.
The Incentivizing REPI Sales Act excludes the appreciated land value from federal capital gains tax for landowners who sell land or easements near military installations specifically for REPI purposes.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) announced his subcommittee assignments as a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee. Kaine will serve on the HELP Subcommittee on Education and the American Family and the Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety:
“I’m looking forward to serving on the HELP Subcommittees on Education, and Employment and Workplace Safety. One of my top priorities is addressing workforce shortages, including by passing my bipartisan JOBS Act, and supporting Virginia businesses and workers. I will also use my role on these subcommittees to do everything I can to stop any attempt to eliminate the Department of Education, and I’m committed to taking steps to support our nation’s educators, schools, higher education institutions, and students. I’m excited to work with my colleagues on these issues.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) spoke with representatives from local Chambers of Commerce across New Hampshire about the harmful impact of the potential Trump tariffs on Mexico and Canada, New Hampshire’s largest trading partner. As of earlier this week, these tariffs have been delayed 30 days, but if they go into effect, prices on everything from gas to cars to groceries could skyrocket, hurting Granite Staters and Granite State businesses. Representatives from the New Hampshire Business and Industry Association, Exeter Area Chamber of Commerce, Hampton Area Chamber of Commerce, Upper Valley Business Alliance, Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, Greater Monadnock Collaborative, Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, Mt. Washington Valley Chamber and the Greater Portsmouth Chamber Collaborative joined the virtual conversation.
“I’ve spoken with business leaders from around the Granite State, and they’ve told me that what they need to grow and create good-paying jobs that boost our economy is stability and certainty about the economic policies they are facing,” said Shaheen. “To be clear, I’m glad that President Trump has delayed these tariffs, but a delay is not enough. We need to focus on lowering costs for working Americans, not starting a needless and dangerous trade war that would increase prices on critical items and create more uncertainty.”
Shaheen immediately condemned the proposed Trump tariffs after they were announced. On Tuesday night, Shaheen took to the Senate floor to detail the harmful impacts that the delayed Trump tariffs would have on Granite Staters. Last week, Shaheen led the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to the White House urging him not to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China which are expected to cost the average American $1,200 per year.
Earlier this year, Shaheen introduced new legislation with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Tim Kaine (D-VA) to shield American businesses and consumers from rising prices imposed by tariffs on imported goods into the United States. The Senators’ legislation would keep costs down for imported goods by limiting the authority of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—which allows a President to immediately place unlimited tariffs after declaring a national emergency—while preserving IEEPA’s use for sanctions and other tools.
After the November election, a multitude of business leaders verified that, if the President placed sweeping tariffs as promised, they’d be forced to raise prices on consumers. The CEO of Best Buy said, “the vast majority of that tariff will probably be passed on to the consumer as a price increase.” The CFO of Walmart said, “there will probably be cases where prices will go up for consumers.” The CEO of Columbia Sportswear said, “we’re set to raise prices” and “it’s going to be very, very difficult to keep products affordable.” The CEO of AutoZone said, “if we get tariffs, we will pass those tariff costs back to the consumer.” The President of a Texas-based Lipow Oil Associates said, “The prices at the pump are going to go up.”
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) led 27 colleagues in calling for the immediate implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act to provide full Social Security benefits for millions of public servants impacted by Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). The Social Security Fairness Act, which fully repeals the two unfair Social Security provisions WEP and GPO, was signed into law on January 5, 2024 after Cassidy successfully secured a vote on the Senate floor.
“The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO),” wrote the senators.
“The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, ‘SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits’ owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO,” continued the senators.
Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Susan Collins (R-ME), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Angus King (I-ME), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Mark Warner (D-VA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM).
Read the full letter here or below:
Dear Acting Commissioner King,
We write to you concerning the implementation of the Social Security Fairness Act (Public Law No: 118-273). This legislation passed Congress on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis on December 21st, 2024 and was signed into law on January 5th, 2025. The Social Security Fairness Act restores full Social Security benefits for the millions of teachers, police officers, firefighters, and other public servants who are unfairly penalized by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO).
The Social Security Administration’s website currently states, “SSA expects that it could take more than one year to adjust benefits and pay all retroactive benefits” owed under the Social Security Fairness Act. We call for the immediate implementation of this legislation to provide prompt relief to the millions of Americans impacted by WEP and GPO. In the interim, we request monthly updates and briefings regarding the status of the Social Security Administration’s progress towards implementing the Social Security Fairness Act.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this important matter. We look forward to your response.
Background
Cassidy played a pivotal role in getting the Social Security Fairness Act signed into law on January 5, 2025. Cassidy successfully demanded a vote on the Social Security Fairness Act. In July and again in December, Cassidy spoke on the U.S. Senate floor urging Congress to repeal WEP and GPO as part of his “Big Idea” to save, strengthen, and secure America’s retirement system. In June, Cassidy entered a statement into the record urging the repeal of WEP and GPO ahead of the U.S. Senate Finance Subcommittee field hearing on Social Security.
Cassidy is a long-time cosponsor of the Social Security Fairness Act in the Senate, being an original cosponsor since he became a Member of Congress in 2009. He led the introduction of the legislation in the 117th and 116th Congress.
Cassidy led a bipartisan working group to preserve and protect Social Security. He released the inaugural Bill on the Hill video where he asked Capitol Hill visitors from across the country their thoughts on the looming benefit cuts to Social Security and presented his “Big Idea.”
Last March, Cassidy grilled U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on President Biden’s plan to address Social Security, to which Secretary Yellen admitted “the president doesn’t have a plan,” to save Social Security.
Cassidy has discussed the “Big Idea” at a public forum with AARP on the future of Social Security, outlined his Social Security plan in a fireside chat with the Bipartisan Policy Committee, and authored op-eds in the Washington Examiner in July, the Wall Street Journal in March, and State Affairs and Washington Post in May.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO) protects Americans during the Super Bowl by conducting aerial security.
Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov
#cbp
#security
#superbowl
#superbowllix
#lawenforcement
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team explains about the use of trained K9 search dogs for primary house searches and other essential search tasks in LA wildfires.
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
This webinar provides VA CFBNP partners with information and resources to aid in eliminating Veterans’ suicide. This presentation is open to Veterans, their families, their beneficiaries, and the general public.
The panelists for this training are:
1. Lillie Mells, Program Manager Education & Training, Office of Mental Health Suicide Prevention, Veterans Health Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers outlines the steps they are taking for phase two of the Private Property Debris Removal (PPDR) mission. This phase is essential for clearing ash and large properties, enabling homeowners to start the rebuilding process.
Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street
The Prime Minister met Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in Downing Street today.
The Prime Minister met Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in Downing Street today.
The leaders reflected on the UK and Netherlands’ strong friendship and shared approach to global challenges. They talked about the successes of existing cooperation on tackling organised crime, including the people smuggling gangs driving illegal migration. The Prime Minister set out the UK’s approach to disrupting these criminals, and agreed further cooperation with the Netherlands on this issue.
The Prime Minister then reflected on his attendance at the Informal European Council meeting in Brussels on Monday, and his ambition to strengthen cooperation with the EU for mutual benefit through the UK-EU reset.
Discussing Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine, the Prime Minister reiterated the UK’s iron-clad support and the leaders underscored their commitment to working together so that Ukraine is in the strongest possible position. They agreed to work towards a new bilateral security partnership led by their Foreign Ministers.
Turning to technology and innovation, the leaders agreed on the importance of moving at pace to seize on the opportunities offered by new and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, quantum and semiconductors, and agreed to pursue a new innovation partnership to accelerate growth in key technologies.
On the subject of energy, the Prime Minister shared details on his plans to make it easier to build nuclear infrastructure in the UK. The leaders agreed to work towards a new agreement on sustainable energy, including nuclear, and both agreed on the importance of energy security.
The leaders looked forward to the fact direct Eurostar services between London and the Netherlands are set to restart on Monday, and hoped to speak again soon.
Published 6 February 2025
Source: Government of Canada regional news
The Province, in partnership with the BC First Nations Justice Council (BCFNJC), is opening six Indigenous justice centres, fulfilling a commitment to establish 15 Indigenous justice centres (IJCs) throughout B.C.
Niki Sharma, Attorney General, was joined by the BCFNJC in Kamloops to celebrate opening the six new centres in Kamloops, Williams Lake, Cranbrook, Port Hardy, Fort St. John and a shared location serving the communities of Burns Lake and Hazelton.
“It is incredible to reflect on what First Nations, the BC First Nations Justice Council and the Province have collaboratively achieved – a network of 15 Indigenous justice centres across B.C.,” said Kory Wilson, chair, BCFNJC. “IJCs provide Indigenous clients with optimum legal representation and access to wraparound services that extend beyond their legal needs. As those accessing our services often feel overwhelmed and disconnected from community, IJCs embrace them with care, honour their cultural identity and protect them from falling through the cracks.”
With the opening of these IJCs, the BCFNJC, the Province and Canada have completed Strategy 4 of the BC First Nations Justice Strategy. Strategy 4 is a key commitment that calls for establishing a network of 15 IJCs throughout B.C. These six new centres join the existing nine physical centres in Chilliwack, Kelowna, Merritt, Nanaimo, Prince George, Prince Rupert, Surrey, Vancouver and Victoria, along with the virtual centre serving the province remotely.
IJCs address systemic barriers faced by Indigenous Peoples in the justice system by offering culturally appropriate legal advice, representation and referrals to local support services directly to Indigenous people at the community level. The range of services and the focus in each location may vary based on the needs, strengths and services available in each community, but are initially focused on criminal defence and child protection matters.
“All Indigenous Peoples, regardless of whether they qualify for legal aid, can access free, culturally informed legal and outreach services at IJCs,” Sharma said. “I am grateful to all our partners in delivering services that help build resilient communities and improve our justice system.”
The IJCs aim to help Indigenous people in the justice system address the root causes of their involvement and offer supports to help prevent future interactions with police and the justice system. Legal and outreach teams at the IJCs use their diverse community, cultural and professional expertise to support the healing and restorative-justice journeys of Indigenous clients. Through resource and support workers, clients may be referred to services such as housing, employment services, and mental-health and addictions treatment.
“Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc is pleased to be the home of a brand-new Indigenous justice centre, where our communities can seek legal representation alongside wraparound services in an environment that feels culturally safe,” said Kúkpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc. “We extend our appreciation to the BC First Nations Justice Council and the Province for addressing and working toward better systems of justice for Indigenous Peoples. The relief, safety and support this centre brings will ripple through our community with positive effects.”
Indigenous justice centres are a key part of the Province’s commitment to implement the BC First Nations Justice Strategy and advance reconciliation under the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. They are also a key action in the Province’s Safer Communities Action Plan.
Quick Facts:
Learn More:
For information about Indigenous justice centres, visit:
https://bcfnjc.com/indigenous-justice-centres-in-british-columbia/
For information about how Indigenous justice centres fit into the Safter Communities Action Plan, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022PREM0090-001743
For information about the BC First Nations Justice Council, visit:
https://www.bcfnjc.com
To read the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/First_Nations_Justice_Strategy_Feb_2020.pdf
To track and keep updated on the progress the BCFNJC and the Province are making on the BC First Nations Justice Strategy, visit:
https://trackingjustice.bcfnjc.com/
For more information about the unique service model of IJCs and what a client’s journey at an IJC can look like, visit:
https://trackingjustice.bcfnjc.com/intertwining-kinship-justice/
A backgrounder follows.
Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
LOS ANGELES — In the midst of an unprecedented natural disaster, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles has teamed up with federal and local law enforcement agencies to create the Joint Regional Fire Crimes Task Force (JRFCTF) to investigate and prosecute fire-related crimes as Los Angeles County recovers from devastating wildfires. The JRFCTF will focus on investigating and prosecuting criminal actors seeking to exploit the wildfire crisis.
The JRCTF includes representatives of HSI Los Angeles’ El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, the United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office; the Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office, the Los Angeles Police Department, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
“Far too often, during tragic events like the Los Angeles-area wildfires, we have seen greedy individuals seek to line their pockets and divert critical funds from those most in need,” said HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “HSI Los Angeles and partner agencies will do our part to help the region recover and rebuild by ensuring that disaster-related funds will go to individuals and families that lost loved ones.”
The JRCTF investigative focus will be on an assortment of crimes to include looting, burglary and impersonation offenses; crimes related to arson; illegal drone activity; and financial fraud targeting both disaster victims and those wishing to make charitable donations.
Fire victims are vulnerable to being re-victimized by fraud and theft. Its efforts focus on ensuring that relief funds reach those in need and working to swiftly prosecutor those engaged in defrauding donors.
While generous people around the world are making donations to assist victims, this creates opportunities for scams as criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent solicitations or creating deceiving websites. Potential donors are urged to make donations only to known entities and to avoid giving donations in cash or via wire transfer.
The JRCTF will also investigate the misuse of aid programs administered by government agencies, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Small Business Administration. As financial resources are being deployed to support homeowners, renters, nonprofits and businesses affected by the fires, any attempt to misuse these funds through fraud or identity theft will be vigorously investigated and prosecuted.
Anyone with information on financial fraud crimes related to the Los Angeles Area Wildfires are encouraged to call the HSI Tip Line at 877-4-HSI-TIP.
Learn more about HSI’s mission to increase public safety in your community on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @HSILosAngeles.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000345/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Gerald Hauser (PfE)
Germany funded Gates Foundation projects to the tune of EUR 600 million in taxpayers’ money in 2023 – an example of public-private partnerships supporting the Western elites. Cooperation between politicians and US foundations, such as the Gates or Rockefeller Foundations, raises questions about sovereignty and transparency. The EU plays a key role in promoting such projects through partnerships like the one between the World Economic Forum and the United Nations. This raises the question of how the EU ensures these funds safeguard European interests and are not undermined by the influence of private actors like Gates.
Submitted: 27.1.2025
Source: European Parliament
The next DMAG meeting will take place on 12 February 2025, from 17.00 to 18.30, in Strasbourg, room CHURCHILL 200.
The Delegation will hold an exchange of views on the situation in Algeria and the EU-Algeria relations, with H.E. Mr Diego Mellado, Head of the EU Delegation in Algeria.
Source: European Parliament
The EU does not comment on the positions of national officials in relation to the decisions of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and their execution.
The position of the EU is clear. The EU consistently recalls that Member States, as states parties to the Rome Statute of the ICC, have an obligation to cooperate fully with the ICC in the investigation and prosecution of crimes within its jurisdiction, including in the prompt[1] execution of outstanding arrest warrants.
In this regard, the EU recalls that any instance of non-compliance hinders the ICC in the exercise of its functions and emphasises the need to fully implement the International Court of Justice orders[2].
The EU is committed to the effective functioning of the ICC[3] and will continue to cooperate in the framework of their Agreement on cooperation and assistance[4], including, pursuant to Article 6 of the Agreement, by adopting initiatives to promote the dissemination of the principles, values and provisions of the Statute.
The EU will continue to fully support the ICC through the means at its disposal, and to double efforts to identify new avenues for strengthened cooperation with the ICC, which is essential for it to fulfil its mandate.
Source: European Investment Bank
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced a €30 million loan to Azienda Comprensoriale Acquedottistica S.p.A (ACA), the utility company providing integrated water services to around 450 000 people in the Italian provinces of Pescara, Chieti and Teramo. The first €20 million tranche was signed by the Head of the EIB Local Office in Italy, Milena Messori, and by the CEO of ACA, Giovanna Brandelli. This InvestEU-backed financing will support ACA’s water and wastewater investment programme for 2024-2026.
This is the first EIB green loan to be granted to a business in Abruzzo. EIB green loans go to projects focusing on sustainability, climate action and environmental protection. Key initiatives set to receive financing include expanding the water network to provide wider and more reliable access to water, and introducing advanced technologies for better water quality and wastewater management. In parallel, solutions will be implemented to optimise operational processes, cutting costs and increasing the overall efficiency of the water system.
The focus on improving the sector’s resilience to future extreme climate events will strengthen the region’s ability to face droughts and water crises like the one that hit Abruzzo in 2024. This project will have a positive impact not only on the management of water resources, but also on people’s quality of life.
The agreement is part of the existing partnership between the EIB and the city of Pescara, which in March 2022 saw the signature of €35 million in financing for the renewal of waste sorting facilities, the purchase of low environmental impact vehicles and the improvement of energy efficiency in schools and public buildings.
“This agreement reaffirms our commitment to Italian utility companies and to the improvement of water infrastructure in Italy. With InvestEU backing, we are helping ACA Pescara to cut water losses, improve efficiency and provide high-quality water services, even when confronted with climate change-related challenges, said the Head of the EIB Local Office in Italy, Milena Messori.”
“This is the first EIB green loan to be granted to a business in Abruzzo, said the CEO of ACA, Giovanna Brandelli. This €30 million loan to ACA will hugely improve the region’s water network and provide a better service in the coming years. This is the first time that ACA has received such financing like this from a prestigious bank like the EIB. This shows that the path taken by the company is starting to bear fruit and is having a positive impact on the service provided. The focus on improving the sector’s resilience to future extreme climate events will strengthen the region’s ability to face droughts and water crises like the one that hit Abruzzo in 2024”.
Italy receives more EIB resources for the water sector than any other country
With over 1 640 projects and around €84 billion in financing provided since 1958, the EIB is one of the world’s leading lenders to the water sector. In the last ten years, Italy has received more EIB resources for the water sector than anywhere else, seeing operations financed totalling more than €4 billion. This is ACA Pescara’s first EIB loan, and comes in addition to recently announced financing for Iren (€200 million), Valle Umbra Servizi (€35 million), ETRA (€100 million), Acquedotto Pugliese (€270 million), Como Acqua (€50 million), Hera Group (€460 million), ACEA (€435 million), Acque (€130 million) and CIIP (€50 million).
Background information
The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Founded on eight key priorities, it finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives, bolstering climate action, environmental protection, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and supports a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Around 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.
The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed a total of around €89 billion in new financing for over 900 projects in 2024, which boosted Europe’s competitiveness and security. Promoting the integration of markets and mobilising investments, the funds unleashed by the EIB Group in 2024 attracted investment worth over €100 billion, fostering Europe’s energy security and unlocking €110 billion to support startups, scale-ups and pioneering firms in Europe. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union goes to cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average. The EIB Group signed 99 operations totalling €10.98 billion in Italy in 2024, helping to unlock almost €37 billion of investment in the real economy.
The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps to crowd in private investment for the European Union’s strategic priorities such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings all EU financial instruments previously available for supporting investments within the European Union together under one roof, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub, and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is deployed through implementing partners that will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000413/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Engin Eroglu (Renew)
The Regulation on Interchange Fees (Regulation (EU) 2015/751) has reduced consumer card fees and made them more transparent. Commercial cards are, however, excluded from its scope. Take up of commercial cards was initially low and chiefly limited to large companies.
Their share in the EU market has since been increasing, including for transactions involving SMEs. According to the available information, commercial cards are used for 70-80% of payments in countries such as Italy, Croatia and Romania, and for 50% in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Portugal and Spain. In Austria, their share rose from 3.5% (2021) to 20% (2023).
While fees for consumer cards lie at between 0.10% and 0.30%, they can reach as much as 2.30% for commercial cards.
Both the holders of the credit cards (often the self-employed or micro-enterprises) and the payees are often unaware that these are commercial cards, although this fact has a huge impact on the latter’s costs.
Submitted: 29.1.2025
Source: European Parliament
The next meeting of the Delegation for relations with Palestine will take place on Wednesday, 12 February from 15.00 to 16.30, in Strasbourg, room CHURCHILL 200.
Further details on the agenda will be shared in due time.
Source: European Parliament
The Commission is aware of the economic and social challenges that coal regions face in view of the transition towards climate neutrality and has set up the Just Transition Mechanism, including the Just Transition Fund (JTF)[1] or the Coal regions in transition Initiative[2], among other initiatives, to ensure that the transition leaves no one behind.
Five Polish coal regions were allocated EUR 3.85 billion under the JTF based on the territorial just transition plans to support a just climate transition in the period between 2021 and 2027.
As regards public support for the Polish mining industry, the Commission is in close and constructive contact with the Polish authorities.
The Commission is neither in a position to comment further on the content of such discussions, nor can it predict the timing or the outcome.
Source: European Parliament
The protection of distressed homeowners in the framework of forced execution proceedings falls within the legislative purview of the Greek State.
The Greek Code of Civil Procedure contains provisions affording protection to debtors in the context of such proceedings, including the possibility to file various kinds of objections with the competent court and to ask for the redress of procedural errors and the suspension of enforcement proceedings pending the issuance of a judgment.
Furthermore, in order to protect mortgage borrowers and avoid foreclosures, the Mortgage Credit Directive 2014/17/EU[1] ( MCD) provides a number of safeguards in cases in which the mortgage loan cannot be paid back.
Article 28 MCD, as amended by Directive (EU) 2021/2167 (NPLD)[2], obliges creditors to have adequate policies and procedures in place so that they make efforts to exercise, where appropriate, reasonable forbearance before foreclosure proceedings are initiated[3].
Beyond the protections granted by the Mortgage Credit Directive itself, Article 2 of MCD enables Member States to introduce more stringent provisions in order to protect mortgage borrowers.
For example, the Greek insolvency code[4] already establishes a safety net for vulnerable debtors, with a temporary subsidy of their loan instalment in out-of-court restructuring and a sale-and-leaseback regime in case of insolvency or if their primary residence is about to be auctioned.
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000404/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Lefteris Nikolaou-Alavanos (NI)
Teleperformance employees in Greece have been on strike for almost a year now, following the creation of a trade union in the workplace. Assessment on the basis of particularly high productivity indicators constitutes a ‘sword of Damocles’ for dismissal over employees. They have been subjected to constant monitoring and pressure to increase production. Absence due to illness or for any reason is considered ‘counterproductive’ and a reason not to renew an employee’s contract. The situation is even more difficult for migrant workers.
In view of the above:
Submitted: 29.1.2025
Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-000453/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Pierre-Romain Thionnet (PfE), Pascale Piera (PfE), Julie Rechagneux (PfE), Aleksandar Nikolic (PfE)
On 1 December 2024, the Commission published a second version of the mission letter for the European Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Mr Jørgensen. In deviation from the first version of the letter, published prior to the hearing and appointment of the Commissioner, a ‘2040 renewable energy target’ was added[1].
However, a target of 42.5 % has already been set 2030 and a higher percentage for 2040 would run counter to the principle of technological neutrality. Indeed, an overly renewables-based decarbonisation will inevitably lead to a reduction in the share of nuclear energy in the energy mix. This reduction will increase the volatility and intermittency of European energy, thus penalising consumers and the competitiveness of our industries.
While the advantages of deploying small modular reactors are recognised in this letter, can the Commission say whether it intends to:
Submitted: 3.2.2025
Source: European Parliament
Priority question for written answer P-000506/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Evin Incir (S&D)
Almost 70 % of the criminal networks operating in the EU are active in more than three countries and they are increasingly recruiting children and young people on digital platforms.
These criminals use influencer language, emotional manipulation and grooming techniques and present crimes as ‘challenges’ or ‘missions’. This ‘gamification’ is used to encourage children and young people to commit crimes including murder, transporting narcotics or planting bombs for money.
In Sweden alone, over 32 bomb attacks have been carried out since the beginning of this year, many of them by children and young people.
Preventing the recruitment of children and young people into organised crime is not only vital for dismantling criminal networks but also fundamental to safeguarding the future and well-being of children.
Submitted: 5.2.2025