NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Collyhurst welcomes opening of Community Construction Skills Centre

    Source: City of Manchester

    A new centre dedicated to developing and uplifting the skills of its local community has opened in Collyhurst.

    The Community Construction Skills Centre will offer a series of training courses and hands-on classes that will give learners vital work experience and confidence in order to create employment opportunities. 

    The learning hub, which will advance “community upskilling,” will make Collyhurst residents’  accessibility and travelling needs easier with training delivered on site. 

    The employability training will take place in a 4-week period and equip learners with accredited qualifications in health and safety and construction skills, including Trade Techniques and Health Safety and Welfare in the Workplace. Over 50 new students are expected to enrol on training courses running up until December. 

    The centre boasts a unique training model that is adaptable to people who are unemployed, ex-offenders and ex-military members as part of learning basic, but crucial DIY skills  to increase employability.

    The Community Construction Skills Centre project was initiated in partnership with FEC and Manchester City Council who identified the need for construction skills to support local people to access training into the sector. 

    Working in collaboration with YES and the ​​Construction Skills People and their Greater Manchester Skills Academy, the project first opened to students in September as part of wider investment through the Victoria North Development. The project will significantly transform and advance the North of Manchester by developing 15,000 homes over the next 20 years with new and improved transport links, parks, healthcare facilities and retail spaces.

    The region has been hit the hardest by unemployment and mental-health related illness. Long-term and embedded worklessness has affected over 16,500 working-age adults receiving out-of-work benefits. 

    In Manchester, workers are on low wages with a median annual earning of £24,055 while the worst family poverty rates are in North Manchester and East Manchester with over 43% of children and young people growing up in poverty.

    To ensure training at the Community Skills Centre continues to work for the needs of Collyhurst residents, the model has been localised which means that partner groups are required to undertake employability assessments and adequately advise and support those who want to take part in training. 

    Following this, successful candidates will be invited to attend civil engineering and groundworks Bootcamps which will enhance employability and training with the Ride on Roller, Forward Tipping Dumper and Plant Vehicle Marshall certifications.

    There are also opportunities to undertake trade specific training such as Bricklaying, Plastering and Joinery, while being guaranteed an interview with local contractors. 

    Community days will also be held at the centre to encourage residents to learn new skills such as painting preparation and general DIY.

    More information about training opportunities at the Community Construction Skills Centre is available at Construction Skills People. 

     John Hacking, Executive Member for Employment, Skills and Leisure, said: “I’m thrilled to see the opening of the Community Skills Centre in Collyhurst which has been created to upskill residents and build confidence as they enter into the workforce.

    “This has been a significant collaborative effort with important partners who are all working towards the same goal of advancing Collyhurst residents and fully recognise the struggle the North Manchester region has had to deal with poverty and unemployment.

    “By increasing the accessibility for hands-on training, this centre gives eager learners the encouragement and support they need to work through the training to employment pipeline with robust skills and confidence.”

    Rebecca Kirkland, Community Liaison Manager for FEC, said: “The Community Construction Skills Centre will provide local residents with a first hand insight into the construction industry and give them access to unique employment opportunities.

    The Centre has been in the works for a long time and we couldn’t have opened its doors without the support of our partners who will continue to help us find the next generation of talent from right across the community.”

    James Broome, 38, from Moston, said: “The Collyhurst Community Skills Centre has been a brilliant learning experience. I’m in the final week of training for a CSCS Greencard which is giving me important skills in labouring. Once I’ve completed that I will then go on to train for the Bootcamp Dump Truck License.

    “The course has been really helpful, it’s opened my eyes and broadened my horizons massively. My tutor on the course is fantastic; she’s really clear and easy to understand when she’s teaching and is also helping me write my CV for jobs. 

    I’ve been working in production and in warehouses too so my confidence has really grown with my hands-on skills and with all the different types of people you meet, it has really boosted my self-esteem socially.

    “For anyone considering joining a course, I’d say give it a go and throw yourself into it to get the most out of it.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Humanitarian aid for Middle East

    Source: Scottish Government

    Emergency donation of £250,000 to support relief efforts.

    Humanitarian aid efforts in the Middle East will receive funding of £250,000 in response to a Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Appeal.

    DEC, Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) and Mercy Corps will use the funding to support humanitarian activities as the situation in the region continues to deteriorate.

    £200,000 will contribute to a fund shared between DEC’s 15 member organisations helping to provide food, water, medical assistance and shelter to displaced people in the region. SCIAF and Mercy Corps will each receive £25,000 to support aid activities.

    First Minister John Swinney said:

    “Thousands of innocent people have been killed in the crisis in the Middle East, with millions more displaced and left without certainty about how to access to shelter, food, clean water and medical care.

    “The humanitarian crisis in the Middle East continues to deepen and spread, and an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation of conflict is needed to prevent more innocent lives being lost and bring an end to the unimaginable suffering this conflict has caused.

    “Urgent humanitarian aid must be provided to all those who need it, and this contribution from the Scottish Government will assist the Disasters Emergency Committee, SCIAF and Mercy Corps in ensuring it reaches as many people as possible. Members of the public can also pledge support and make donations to the DEC Appeal in a variety of ways and I would urge everyone to consider donating if they are in a position to do so.”

    Background

    The DEC appeal for the Middle East will launch on 17 October 2024. Details are available on the DEC website for how to donate to the Appeal.

    Humanitarian response – International development – gov.scot (www.gov.scot)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Viability risks intensifying for some landlords, warns Regulator of Social Housing

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has today set out the main risks facing the social housing sector.

    Its annual sector risk profile report shows that viability risks have intensified over the last year, and social landlords are facing significant and competing pressures to deliver both more and better social homes against a backdrop of higher borrowing costs.

    Though the sector remains resilient overall, many landlords have less capacity to deal with new challenges. This requires more active management from boards, with less margin for error in decision making.

    It is a fundamental responsibility of all landlords to ensure that tenants are safe in their homes. They must prioritise essential safety work, including issues with cladding on high-rise buildings, and tackle other issues like damp and mould. It is absolutely critical that landlords continue to be well run and financially viable, so they can carry out this important safety work, identify issues before they happen, and build new homes for people on waiting lists.

    London and other urban areas are experiencing the most acute financial pressures particularly where large numbers of flats need building safety works.

    These challenges are expected to persist for the foreseeable future, as social housing undergoes a long-term shift, with higher borrowing costs and an ongoing need to maintain and invest in tenants’ existing homes and build much needed new homes for the future.

    Fiona MacGregor, Chief Executive at RSH, said:

    Most housing associations are investing record amounts in new and existing homes without threatening their financial viability.

    However, some individual landlords face particular pressures, and we expect those to sustain for some time before the position eases.

    There is very little margin for error, and it is absolutely critical that landlords are well run, with robust  systems for identifying and mitigating risks.  

    Boards must maintain a real clarity of purpose to successfully navigate these competing demands while remaining financially viable.

    For the first time since 2009, the cost of servicing debt for private registered providers (PRPs) exceeded net earnings last year. In aggregate terms, forecast sector interest cover over the next five years is just 111%.

    RSH has a range of tools – including inspections, yearly stability checks and quarterly surveys – to identify emerging risks and work with landlords to mitigate these as far as possible.

    RSH has already identified a number of individual landlords who were not financially viable and who have since merged with others to protect tenants’ homes and lenders’ capital. RSH expects that more individual landlords will fail to meet the outcomes in its economic standards over the coming months, as this challenging environment continues.

    Notes to editors

    1. The Sector Risk Profile sets out the regulator’s view of the most significant risks to providers’ ongoing compliance with its regulatory standards. The report is aimed primarily at boards of housing associations and other private registered providers and, where relevant, the councillors forming the governing bodies of local authority registered providers.
    2. The Sector Risk Profile has a particular focus on risks to delivering the outcomes required by RSH’s economic standards. RSH’s annual consumer regulation review provides examples from recent casework that providers can learn from to help strengthen their approach.
    3. The Regulator of Social Housing promotes a viable, efficient and well-governed social housing sector able to deliver and maintain homes of appropriate quality that meet a range of needs. It does this by undertaking robust economic regulation focusing on governance, financial viability and value for money that maintains lender confidence and protects the  taxpayer. It also sets consumer standards and may take action if the outcomes in these standards are not delivered.
    4. Local authorities must meet RSH’s new consumer standards but RSH does not regulate their governance or financial viability.

    For general enquiries email enquiries@rsh.gov.uk. For media enquiries please see our Media Enquiries page.

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five playgrounds have been renovated in the Strogino district

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Five playgrounds were repaired in the Strogino district as part of the improvement and rehabilitation of part of the Moskvoretsky natural and historical park. The work was carried out in the Strogino floodplain and in the courtyards of residential buildings near it. Modern play equipment, made mainly of wood, was installed on the playgrounds. Young archaeologists will be able to discover a “dinosaur skeleton” on one of them.

    “The surfaces on the playgrounds had become unusable over time, and in some places they were completely absent. The equipment did not meet modern standards and needed to be replaced: it was outdated, there was no stylistic uniformity, and there was significant wear and tear on the moving elements of the structures. The functionality of the playgrounds no longer met the needs of children aged three to seven, and elements that would be interesting to older children were missing,” said the deputy head of the capital’s Department of Capital Repairs.

    Vladimir Alyabyev.

    In Stroginskaya Poima, a children’s playground near property 33 on Marshal Katukov Street has been renovated. It was equipped with landscape geoplastics — artificial bumps were made, and play elements were mounted on and in them. A hill with tunnels for climbing, slides, and an obstacle course appeared here. Various climbing elements were placed on the slopes, clinging to which you can climb to the tops of these bumps, and slides will help you go down. A sandbox with tables, chairs, a children’s excavator, and a hidden panel in the form of a dinosaur skeleton was equipped for the little ones. While digging it, children can imagine themselves as archaeologists.

    At the playground near building 32, building 3 on Tallinskaya Street, swings, spring swings, a sandbox and a play complex with a climbing board, a slide and a suspended rope crossing were installed.

    On Tvardovskogo Street, in addition to the usual swings, carousels and trampolines, a children’s town called “Monkeys” was installed with various climbing frames and a slide. A sandbox with play equipment was also provided for the little ones, and comfortable benches were installed for the parents. At the request of residents, the playground surface was made of natural material – rounded gravel.

    Two playgrounds have been renovated near the houses between Tvardovskogo Street and Turkmensky Proezd. On one of them, a slide and climbing elements have been placed on a natural slope, by clinging to which you can climb to the upper level of the playground. Benches for parents and a hammock have been installed on the lower one. Across the path, there is a larger playground where you can find talking tubes, balance beams, a sports complex, interactive play panels, trampolines, a sandbox and swings, including ones with seats for the little ones.

    The playgrounds were designed in a single style. Given the peculiarity of the territory, the play equipment was made mainly of wood. This material is environmentally friendly, harmonizes well with the environment and allows children to get acquainted with different textures.

    From sand factories to trampolines: what the capital’s playgrounds look like

    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.

    http://vvv.mos.ru/nevs/item/145396073/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Humanitarian mine clearance: Confederation establishes comprehensive partnership with Ukraine’s civil protection service and Swiss mine clearance company

    Source: Switzerland – Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport

    Bern, 17.10.2024 – In order to reduce the danger posed by mines and other explosive ordnance in Ukraine, the Swiss government is supporting Ukraine’s civil protection service through a partnership with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS). The partnership involves supplying three mine clearance systems to Ukraine alongside a comprehensive training, mentoring and logistics package. The package, which amounts to CHF 4.6 million, is being funded by the federal government and underlines the importance of humanitarian mine clearance for the country’s recovery.

    Mines and other explosive ordnance in the ground pose a danger to the civilian population, restrict agricultural work and hinder the reconstruction of a country. In Ukraine, around 139,000 square kilometres of land are estimated to be contaminated by mines and other explosive ordnance. That is equivalent to about three and a half times the surface area of Switzerland. Humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine is therefore a priority for Switzerland. For that reason, the federal government has signed a contract with the Swiss company Global Clearance Solutions (GCS) for the delivery of three mine clearance systems to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU). The package, which includes a training and mentoring programme, is worth CHF 4.6 million.

    The project aims to strengthen the capacities of the Ukrainian civil authorities so that humanitarian demining operations can be carried out more safely, efficiently and effectively. In addition to the delivery of the three demining systems, the contract includes an extensive training, mentoring and logistics package. GCS has its own maintenance centre and operations team in Ukraine, enabling the company to provide extensive training and deploy the demining systems sustainably and efficiently.

    The partnership and the demining systems are being financed out of the CHF 100 million that the Federal Council made available on 29 September 2023 to support humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine. The total amount will be funded equally by the DDPS and the FDFA. Through this support package, Switzerland is providing its expertise to help overcome an immense humanitarian challenge. In addition, Switzerland, under the lead of President Viola Amherd and Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, is jointly hosting the Ukraine Mine Action Conference with Ukraine in Lausanne on 17 and 18 October. The importance of mine clearance for Ukraine’s recovery will be discussed at the conference.

    The federal government is working closely with the Geneva International Centre for Humanitarian Demining (GICHD) on humanitarian mine clearance in Ukraine. The GICHD is supporting the Ukrainian authorities in developing a national demining programme. In addition, the federal government is supporting the demining work of the Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (FSD) on the ground in Ukraine. A year ago, the DDPS presented Ukraine with a remote-controlled demining machine from the Swiss DIGGER Foundation.

    Address for enquiries

    DDPS Communications
    +41 58 464 50 58
    kommunikation@gs-vbs.admin.ch

    FDFA Communications
    +41 58 460 55 55

    Global Clearance Solutions
    +41 55 511 15 00
    media@gcs.ch

    Publisher

    Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports
    http://www.vbs.admin.ch

    Defence
    http://www.vtg.admin.ch

    State Secretariat for Security Policy
    https://www.sepos.admin.ch/de

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ohio Man Who Concealed Croatian War Crime Charge Sentenced to Prison for Immigration Fraud

    Source: US State of California

    An Ohio man was sentenced yesterday to three years in prison for possessing a green card he illegally obtained by concealing that he had been charged with a war crime in Croatia prior to immigrating to the United States.

    According to court documents, Jugoslav Vidic, 56, of Parma Heights, in applying to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, falsely stated that he had never been charged with breaking any law even though he knew he had been charged in Croatia with a war crime against the civilian population. Vidic also falsely stated that his only past military service was in the Yugoslav Army from 1988 to 1989, when, in fact, he fought with the Serb Army of Krajina and its predecessors during the civil war in the former Yugoslavia from 1991 to 1995. As a result of these materially false statements, Vidic was approved for lawful permanent resident status and received a green card.

    “Jugoslav Vidic lied about war crimes charged against him in an attempt to escape his past and live in the United States unlawfully,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Thanks to the dedication of prosecutors, law enforcement, and our international partners, Vidic will serve prison time in the United States followed by his removal. His sentence demonstrates that human rights violators will not be allowed to hide from their crimes in the United States.”

    “Vidic committed serious human rights violations and was convicted of war crimes in Croatia as a result. Yet, he lied to U.S. immigration officials about his conviction and participation in a violent military force to claim refugee status and obtain a green card — becoming a permanent legal resident of our country — when he was not eligible to do so,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “Those who run away from violent crimes they commit elsewhere in the world and then enter our country by brazenly lying about their past will be held to account, as yesterday’s sentence demonstrates. Vidic’s deceitful actions are detestable, and unfairly hurt people in need who legitimately seek refuge to flee real harms in their home countries.”

    “Our communities here in Ohio and across the United States are not safe havens for war criminals to escape accountability in their home countries,” said Executive Associate Director Katrina W. Berger of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “It is my hope that this sentencing provides some measure of solace to the victims’ families with the knowledge that despite the passage of time, the United States will seek justice.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic intentionally circumvented the laws of the United States by lying on his green card application about his war crimes conviction in Croatia,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “This case should serve as a warning to others that the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable those like Vidic who seek to violate U.S. law by fraud of any kind.”

    “Jugoslav Vidic knowingly avoided the truth of his past to enjoy the freedoms and liberties of the United States for over two and a half decades,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office. “Yesterday’s sentence underscores the work of the FBI and its local, state, federal, and international partners and sends a clear message that people in the United States who take part in war crimes, regardless of when or where they occurred, or by masking their involvement, will be identified, investigated, and prosecuted.”

    Vidic admitted in his plea agreement that he was charged with a war crime in Croatia in 1994 and convicted in absentia in 1998. The Croatian court found that during an attack by ethnic Serb forces in Petrinja, Croatia, on Sept. 16, 1991, Vidic cut off the arm of civilian Stjepan Komes, who died afterward. Vidic further admitted that he knew about the Croatian charges when he immigrated to the United States as a refugee in 1999, applied to become a lawful permanent resident in 2000, and was interviewed by U.S. immigration officials and received his green card in 2005.

    Vidic pleaded guilty to one count of possessing an alien registration receipt card knowing it had been procured through materially false statements. As part of the plea agreement, Vidic agreed to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States.

    HSI and the FBI investigated the case with coordination provided by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center, including the FBI’s International Human Rights Unit. The Justice Department thanks the Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Justice and Public Administration of the Republic of Croatia, which were both instrumental in furthering the investigation.

    Trial Attorney Patrick Jasperse of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Shepherd and Jerome J. Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided assistance.

    Members of the public who have information about human rights violators or immigration fraud in the United States are urged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or through the FBI online tip form, or HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or through the ICE online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The UK’s new industrial strategy is welcome, but here’s what is missing

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Phil Tomlinson, Professor of Industrial Strategy, Co-Director Centre for Governance, Regulation and Industrial Strategy (CGR&IS), University of Bath

    Panya7/Shutterstock

    The UK government’s plan to create a new industrial strategy is a welcome attempt to steer Britain’s economy through the challenges of the 21st century. Amid a backdrop of global economic uncertainty, a clear focus on achieving growth is essential.

    The plan is at an early stage. The new green paper marks the beginning of a consultation process designed to shape future government policy.

    But creating an industrial strategy in the first place – to coordinate a wide range of economic policies – is commendable. For too long, the UK has been lagging behind other countries which have embraced greater government intervention in their economies.

    And the idea of having that strategy overseen by an “industrial strategy council”, to offer a degree of independent oversight, is a good one. If set up properly, this council should encapsulate the idea of industrial strategy as a partnership between the state and business – a collaborative effort to discover new opportunities and develop new policies.

    It is also pleasing to see the green paper hasn’t shied away from some of the big issues. There is appropriate emphasis on geography, and creating opportunities in “left behind places”. For too long, economic growth in Britain has been disproportionately concentrated in London and the south-east.

    Empowering local leaders in other regions to shape industrial policies, tailored to their specific needs, is a step in the right direction.

    The emphasis on addressing the UK’s clapped-out infrastructure is also wise. Pledges to invest in broadband, electricity supply, rail and roads should lay the groundwork for a more interconnected economy. There is evidence that improved connectivity could attract new investment and boost regional productivity in areas that have been economically stagnant for decades.

    There are also promises to increase public investment in research and development
    in emerging industries such as AI and clean energy. The vision for a modern, hi-tech economy driven by innovation is much needed in a county which currently ranks 25th in the global robotics league table, the only G7 nation outside the top 20.

    But there are also risks to such a technology-centred approach, which could easily be at odds with the goal of tackling regional inequality. Indeed, given new investment tends to flow to existing hi-tech regions, the divide between successful and left-behind places could widen.

    The plan’s green focus is also timely. By prioritising clean energy and investment in sectors such as electric vehicles, the strategy aligns with goals for achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

    Mission impossible?

    However, other issues also need to be included in the government’s plans. There is no consideration of geopolitics in the green paper. Yet any effective UK industrial strategy has to account for the impact of China and the US, and their ongoing tensions.

    Similarly – and strangely – Brexit is hardly mentioned. Despite post-Brexit disruption to trade with the EU continuing to act as a drag on investment and growth, the green paper merely skirts around the issue. Nor is there anything about how industries deeply reliant on EU supply chains and markets (such as car manufacturing) can thrive outside the European single market.

    Southampton docks.
    Ssisabal/Shutterstock

    Workers in traditional manufacturing, and in sectors such as retail, hospitality and care, will also need to hear more about support and retraining. The government needs to be mindful of not increasing a sense of polarisation between those who benefit from a green hi-tech revolution, and those who don’t.

    And there will need to be much more detail about funding. The Labour government is keen to attract investors – the green paper was published on the same day as a high-profile investment summit in London, which featured impressive international attendees enjoying fine food and high-calibre entertainment.

    But heavy reliance on private sector investment raises questions about accountability. For, while public-private partnerships can be effective, there is always a risk that private sector interests may not align with the needs of everyone else.

    Overall, the green paper is the starting point for a critical national conversation about the UK’s economic future. The road to tangible success will depend on translating ideas into concrete actions, dealing with inevitable trade-offs, and being brave enough to address some deep structural issues. If it does, the green paper could turn into a blueprint for a genuinely resilient and competitive country.

    Phil Tomlinson receives funding from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) for Made Smarter Innovation: Centre for People-Led Digitalisation.

    David Bailey receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council’s UK in a Changing Europe Programme.

    Michael A. Lewis currently receives funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

    – ref. The UK’s new industrial strategy is welcome, but here’s what is missing – https://theconversation.com/the-uks-new-industrial-strategy-is-welcome-but-heres-what-is-missing-241410

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Passengers to enjoy cleaner travel between UK and Europe  

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    New green corridors could boost use of sustainable fuels, secure green jobs of the future and advance environmentally friendly travel within Europe.

    • world’s first ‘green shipping corridors’ to be created between the UK and Europe, accessing prime destinations like Amsterdam, Oslo, Copenhagen and Dublin  
    • up to £9 million investment to decarbonise shipping and turbocharge green jobs of the future  
    • 30 projects across the country will also receive a share of funding to make smarter, cleaner shipping a reality 

    Passengers could reap the rewards of greener travel by sea thanks to the development of new shipping routes only accessible to zero emission vessels. 

    Maritime Minister Mike Kane today (17 October 2024) announced the new projects which will receive funds to develop these future routes, including the Port of Tyne to the Port of Ijmuiden (Netherlands) and the Port of Holyhead to the Port of Dublin.   

    The Department for Transport (DfT) is also funding the development of green shipping routes from the UK to Norway and Demark – the organisations that will lead these are soon to be announced.   

    Green corridors are zero emission maritime routes between 2 or more ports. The UK led the development of green corridors through the launch of the Clydebank Declaration at COP26.

    Once developed, should the world’s biggest shipping companies operate along these greener routes, it could transform the ‘fast shopping’ industry, making the global shipment of goods more environmentally friendly.

    Maritime Minister, Mike Kane, said:   

    Shipping is a big contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, so these new green corridors could be a real game changer for industry.   

    This is exactly the direction we need to be going in to achieve our mission of becoming a clean energy superpower.   

    These new corridors could turbocharge the use of sustainable fuels, secure the green jobs of the future and advance environmentally friendly travel to major European capitals like Amsterdam and Dublin.

    The funding comes from the  fifth round of the government’s Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC5), which focuses on driving innovative solutions and new technologies to decarbonise the industry and grow the economy.    

    Matt Beeton, CEO of the Port of Tyne, said:

    Today’s funding announcement will support the development of port infrastructure for electrification and the refuelling of state-of-the-art clean powered vessels. This important green infrastructure will ensure that the Port of Tyne and the Port of Ijmuiden are supporting decarbonised routes between the North East of England and Europe with the aim of saving up to 850,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.

    Bolstered by the Maritime Innovation Hub, the Port of Tyne continues to drive sustainable innovation and act as a focal point for a growing European decarbonised distribution network for green trade and passenger journeys.

    The River Tyne fuelled the industrial revolution and now it’s at the forefront of greening international logistics.

    Visiting the Port of Tyne, the Maritime Minister also announced separate funding to help make sea travel cleaner and smarter.   

    Up to £8 million of match funding will be given to 30 projects across the UK to accelerate plans to develop smart technologies, such as autonomous systems, AI, robotics and sensors.   

    These technologies will help position the UK as a world leader in maritime decarbonisation and will support economic growth and coastal communities by delivering local jobs and boosting local businesses.  

    Mike Biddle, Executive Director for Net Zero at Innovate UK, said:

    Like so many industries, the maritime sector is under immense pressure to decarbonise its transport and process methods. Innovate UK is proud to be a key delivery partner for DfT’s UK SHORE programme, which provides a unique platform for innovators and collaborators to demonstrate real-world solutions to some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.

    With this year’s round of competitions delivering a host of exciting prospective technologies, from smart shipping drones to methanol-fuelled vessels, UK SHORE looks to accelerate the adoption of these sustainable solutions and help the UK drive towards its net zero targets.

    This latest round of funding comes from the £206 million UK SHORE programme which is focused on decarbonising the UK maritime sector through tech innovation.

    Maritime media enquiries

    Media enquiries 0300 7777 878

    Switchboard 0300 330 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: IKEA Foundation supports MSF in scale-up for underreported Sudan crisis

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières

    Geneva, 17 October, 2024: The war in Sudan, now 550 days in, has triggered one of the most devastating humanitarian crises in decades. 

    According to the UN, one in five people has been displaced, and half of the country’s people face acute food insecurity. Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), with over 1,000 staff running 15 hospitals, 9 health centres, and mobile clinics in Sudan, is scaling up the response thanks to €35 million from the IKEA Foundation. 

    Despite these efforts, the needs of people remain overwhelming and a collective increase in aid is urgently required.

    “This life-changing gift will allow us to respond to the medical needs, providing access to free health care services, and giving displaced people the opportunity to be treated and live a healthy life,” says Alaa Ahmed, an MSF nurse working in Sudan.

    “The Sudan war is  a massive, underreported emergency”, says Stephen Cornish, Director General of MSF’s Operational Centre in Geneva. “We are grateful to the IKEA Foundation and other donors who have stepped up for the people of Sudan. We are determined to deliver more lifesaving treatment for those in need.”

    In response to this escalating crisis, the IKEA Foundation—a long-standing partner of MSF, as part of the Foundation’s focus on underreported emergencies—has committed €35 million to help MSF scale up efforts.

    “This is now one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world,” says Jessica Anderen, CEO of the IKEA Foundation. “We are humbled by the work MSF is doing to support the Sudanese people and encourage other funders to join us in supporting their efforts.”

    “This devastating situation is not getting the attention or funding it deserves. More needs to be done to provide critical support for those impacted,” says Hayley Kornblum, Programme Manager at the IKEA Foundation. “We are so encouraged to see other private sector organisations, like Mastercard Foundation, taking strong action through donations to UNHCR, but much more is required from both government and the private sector.”

    The war in Sudan has displaced over 10 million people within the country and driven nearly three million more to seek refuge in neighbouring countries, such as Chad and South Sudan. Over half of Sudan’s population—around 25.6 million people—are now facing critical levels of food insecurity, according to the UN.

    MSF is scaling up relief and lifesaving activities, focusing on treating severely malnourished children, and addressing the needs of displaced people and refugees. In addition, MSF is providing water and sanitation services, and ensuring the delivery of essential aid in refugee camps, like Adré transit camp in Chad, where MSF teams provide over one million litres of water per day.

    MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. In 2022, more than 120 project staff from Australia and New Zealand worked with MSF on assignment overseas. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au  

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Economy – GlobalData upgrades India’s growth forecast, citing strong domestic consumption and investor confidence

    Source: GlobalData

    India’s economy is thriving, bolstered by strong domestic demand, rural consumption, and a growing working-age population. Infrastructure investments are enhancing productivity in the manufacturing and services sectors, fostering high investor confidence. 

    Against this backdrop, GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, has revised India’s economic growth forecast for 2024 and 2025 by 0.3 percentage points (pp) and 0.2pp in its Q4 2024 update compared to the previous projections made in Q3 2024.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Macroeconomic Outlook Report: India,” reveals that India’s GDP increased by 7.6% in 2023 and is projected to grow by 7.0% in 2024 and 6.6% in 2025. Inflation is expected to decrease to 4.4% in 2024, down from 5.6% in the previous year.

    To combat inflation, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has kept the repo rate steady at 6.5% for the 10th consecutive meeting in October 2024, emphasizing its commitment to stabilizing prices and supporting economic growth amidst the changing economic conditions.

    Moreover, the rebound in India’s private consumption, indicated by a 7.4% rise in Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE) for Q2 2024, suggests increased economic resilience and a potential boost in rural spending. This recovery, fueled by lower inflation and improved agricultural performance, may enhance the overall GDP growth, supporting investor confidence.

    Gayatri Ganpule, Economic Research Analyst at GlobalData, comments, “Despite the geopolitical uncertainties, India’s economy shows resilience. Although inflation increased in September 2024, the projected annual rate of 4.4% is lower than the last year’s 5.6%. This expected lower price level, along with the festive season, is expected to boost consumption in Q4 2024. However, rising oil prices are a major concern, as India relies on imports for about 88% of its oil needs, risking imported inflation.”

    In terms of sectors, financial intermediation, real estate, and business activities contributed 22.7% to the gross value added (GVA) in 2023, followed by mining, manufacturing, and utilities (18.7%) and agriculture (17.7%). In nominal terms, the three sectors are forecast to grow by 11.9%, 9.5%, and 9.7%, respectively, in 2024 as compared to the 9.9%, 8.1%, and 5.4% growth recorded in 2023.

    India’s 2024-25 budget prioritizes job creation and enhancing the business environment through strategic tax reforms to attract foreign investment. The proposed measures include a review of the Income-tax Act, an amnesty scheme for tax disputes, and incentives for job creation. Simplifying foreign direct investment frameworks and adjusting capital gains taxes are expected to stimulate economic growth. These initiatives aim to resolve tax disputes and foster a more favorable investment climate.

    India’s net foreign direct investment (FDI) increased to $6.9 billion in Q2 2024, up from $4.7 billion during the same period last year, as per the RBI data. This growth was driven by a 26.4% rise in gross inward FDI, totaling $22.5 billion. Sectors such as manufacturing, financial services, and energy contributed to 80% of these inflows, primarily from countries like Singapore and the US. During a recent roundtable meeting on 14 October 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with business leaders from Singapore, leading to a commitment of approximately $60 billion in investments across various sectors in India.

    On the external front, India aims to achieve $2 trillion in exports by 2030 under its new Foreign Trade Policy. The country recorded a current account surplus of $5.7 billion in Q1 2024, driven by service exports and remittances. As of 10 March 2024, India signed 14 free trade agreements (FTAs), including one with the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), to improve exports and market access, seeking preferential ties with 94 countries. The ongoing negotiations could extend these agreements to over 120 countries, strengthening India’s global trade relationships.

    India is categorized as a medium-risk nation and ranked 75th out of 153 nations in the GlobalData Country Risk Index (GCRI Q2 2024). The country’s risk score was lower in terms of political, legal, and technology and infrastructure risk parameters when compared with the average score of the world.

    Ganpule concludes, “India’s economy demonstrates resilience, supported by robust domestic demand and government reforms aimed at enhancing investment. However, challenges such as increasing oil prices and high youth unemployment remain pressing issues. Continued efforts to expand trade and attract foreign investment are key to sustaining growth.”

    Notes

    The information is based on GlobalData’s latest report, “Macroeconomic Outlook Report: India” (ref. https://www.globaldata.com/store/report/india-pestle-macroeconomic-analysis/?utm_source=cision&utm_medium=press%20release&utm_campaign=gd_press%20release_cision_economic%20research_india_pestle%20report )

    About GlobalData

    4,000 of the world’s largest companies, including over 70% of FTSE 100 and 60% of Fortune 100 companies, make more timely and better business decisions thanks to GlobalData’s unique data, expert analysis, and innovative solutions, all in one platform. GlobalData’s mission is to help our clients decode the future to be more successful and innovative across a range of industries, including the healthcare, consumer, retail, financial, technology, and professional services sectors.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cluster of Candida auris cases in Kowloon Central Cluster

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority.

         The spokesperson for the Kowloon Central Cluster made the following announcement today (October 17):
          
         A 70-year-old male patient in a respiratory medicine ward of Kowloon Hospital (KH) was confirmed to be carrying Candida auris on September 23 without signs of infection. In accordance with the prevailing infection control guidelines, KH commenced a contact tracing investigation. Three more male patients (aged 53 to 88) from the same ward were subsequently confirmed to be carrying Candida auris without signs of infection. One patient is currently hospitalised at Queen Elizabeth Hospital for other medical needs. The remaining three patients are now being treated in isolation at KH and are in stable condition.
          
         Moreover, regarding an earlier announcement on Candida auris carrier cases in the medical ward of Hong Kong Buddhist Hospital (HKBH), one more patient of the ward concerned, an 89-year-old female, was confirmed to carry Candida auris without signs of infection. The patient is now in isolation care and is in stable condition.
          
         The hospitals will continue the contact tracing investigations of close contacts of the patients in accordance with the prevailing guidelines. A series of enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted at wards concerned to prevent the spread of Candida auris, namely:
         

    thorough cleaning and disinfection of the ward concerned;
    enhanced admission screening for patients and environmental screening procedures; and
    application of stringent contact precautions and enhanced hand hygiene of staff and patients.

     
         The hospitals will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Taxation Reform – TJA welcomes support for CGT in latest poll

    Source: Tax Justice Aotearoa

    17 October 2024 – Tax Justice Aotearoa welcomes the latest 1News-Verian poll finding which shows almost half of voters would support a capital gains tax that excludes the family home.

    The poll asked “Do you support or oppose the introduction of a capital gains tax (CGT) on properties other than the family home?”

    More voters than not said they would support the introduction of a CGT, with 46 per cent in favour and 41 per cent opposed. 13 per cent did not know or preferred not to say.

    “This poll shows that New Zealanders are tired of the current unfair system, in which you are taxed less if you make a living from buying and selling houses than you do if you work an ordinary job,” says Tax Justice Aotearoa chair Glenn Barclay.

    “New Zealand is an outlier internationally in that we do not tax capital gains in a comprehensive way. The additional revenue raised could fund vital services such as education, healthcare and infrastructure and help address climate change – leading to a better quality of life for all New Zealanders.”

    “Our tax system is way out of balance and a capital gains tax (CGT) is a good first step to help level the playing field between wage earners and those who mainly earn their money through investments,” Barclay says.

    “There has been growing support for a capital gains tax from a range of individuals and organisations in the media in recent weeks and this poll shows the public of New Zealand are supportive too.”

    Polling commissioned by TJA also indicates a strong public appetite for a tax on capital – and showed that when the concept is properly explained, support was even stronger.

    “Once people understand that gains from the sale of assets such as houses and shares is income, just like income from employment, they realise how unfair our current system is,” Barclay says.

    “Given the public level of support for treating all sources of income consistently for tax purposes, we call on all political parties to act now.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China mulls increasing tariffs on imported fuel cars with large-displacement engines

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said Thursday that China is studying measures to increase tariffs on imported fuel-powered vehicles with large-displacement engines.

    A decision will be made prudently after comprehensive consideration of various factors, MOC spokesperson He Yadong told a press conference.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway transports 5.79M passengers

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Passengers pose for photos with a high-speed electrical multiple unit (EMU) train of the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway on the platform of Halim Station in Jakarta, Indonesia, April 17, 2024. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway (HSR), celebrating its first anniversary on Thursday, has transported 5.79 million passengers, according to PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia-China (KCIC), a joint venture between Indonesian and Chinese enterprises that built and operates the railway.

    Since its commercial launch in October 2023, the HSR has completed over 15,826 train trips, covering more than 2.57 million kilometers. The number of daily train services has increased from 14 at the start of operations to 52, with passenger seats rising from 8,400 to over 31,000. The highest daily ridership reached 24,132, according to KCIC statistics.

    The HSR is fully powered by electricity, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The KCIC said that the green energy initiative saves Indonesia around 3.2 trillion rupiahs (208 million U.S. dollars) annually in fuel costs.

    In addition, Indonesian government data indicated that between 2019 and 2023, the project contributed 86.5 trillion rupiahs (about 5.62 billion dollars) to the GDP of Jakarta and West Java.

    With a design speed of 350 km per hour, the 142.3-km high-speed railway has cut travel time between Jakarta and Bandung from over three hours to just 46 minutes.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: FACT SHEET: President  Biden Announces Over 1 Million Public Service Workers Have Received Student Debt Cancellation Under the Biden-⁠ Harris Administration

    Source: The White House

    Today, President Biden announced an additional $4.5 billion in student debt cancellation for over 60,000 borrowers through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, bringing the number of public service workers who have had their student loans cancelled to over 1 million people during the Biden-Harris Administration. Before President Biden and Vice President Harris took office, only 7,000 borrowers had ever received forgiveness through PSLF. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s significant improvements to the PSLF program, over 1 million teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officials, nurses, servicemembers, and other public service workers who have dedicated their lives to serving their communities are getting the student debt relief they are entitled to under the law. Last week, President Biden met with a kindergarten teacher who has been paying her loans for 12 years and let her know that she is one of the 1 million people approved for PSLF under his Administration, and over $46,000 of her loans are being cancelled. In total, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved $175 billion in student debt relief for nearly 5 million borrowers through various actions.

    From Day One of their Administration, President Biden and Vice President Harris vowed to fix the student loan system and make sure higher education is a ticket to the middle class – not a barrier to opportunity. Already, the Biden-Harris Administration has delivered life-changing relief to students and families. While Republican elected officials try every which way to block millions of their own constituents from receiving student debt relief – even proposing to get rid of the PSLF program altogether – President Biden and Vice President Harris are fighting to provide borrowers student debt relief and making higher education affordable.

    Delivering Life-Changing Relief to Over 1 Million Public Servants

    In 2007, Congress enacted bipartisan legislation creating PSLF to recognize the critical role public servants play in our communities and support them in their service. Under PSLF, people who dedicate at least 10 years of their careers to giving back to their communities – like teachers, firefighters, law enforcement officials, nurses, and servicemembers – can get relief on their student loans. However, the program was poorly implemented. Many public servants found out that they had spent years in the wrong student loan repayment plan or did not take out the right type of loan and were therefore ineligible for PSLF and denied forgiveness. Before the start of the Biden-Harris Administration, only 7,000 people had ever received forgiveness through PSLF and the rejection rate, in part due to administrative errors and difficult processes, was as high as 98% in some years. Public servants were also being told that, because they didn’t file the right forms years ago, there was nothing for them to do but keep paying their loans longer than the program requires.

    Thanks to President Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, the Biden-Harris Administration has significantly improved the PSLF program to help more borrowers than ever before. This includes establishing and implementing new regulations to help borrowers earn more credit toward PSLF, simplifying criteria to help borrowers certify employment, creating fairer eligibility criteria, and providing borrowers the opportunity to apply for reconsideration of previous denials. The Biden-Harris Administration launched the Limited PSLF Waiver, providing public service workers affected by the pandemic with the opportunity to get PSLF credit for prior payments on their federal student loans regardless of repayment plan or loan type. To simplify the application process for borrowers, the Biden-Harris Administration made it so borrowers and employers can complete the entire PSLF application and submit required forms online, made it easier for borrowers to find qualifying employers and get necessary signatures verifying employment, and recently, announced new steps to allow borrowers to manage all aspects of their PSLF journey on StudentAid.gov.

    Thanks to these improvements, as of today, over 1 million public service workers have been approved for debt cancellation through PSLF. The Department of Education today also released new state-by-state data showing how many borrowers have had their loans approved for cancellation under PSLF in each state under the Biden-Harris Administration.

    Economic Benefits of Student Debt Relief for Public Service Workers

    Today, the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) published a new analysis underscoring that the Biden-Harris Administration’s student debt policies not only benefit borrowers, but also the entire economy.

    The CEA highlights that PSLF has the potential to deliver considerable benefits to those who receive it – including the ability to buy a home, start a business, and improve overall financial health. In addition, the CEA analysis shows how the PSLF program strengthens the public sector by making it more feasible for students with postsecondary debt to pursue and remain in public service careers that are essential to our economy and communities.

    Despite these benefits to the U.S. economy and hard-working Americans, Republican elected officials have tried to stop the Biden-Harris Administration every step of the way, and have even attempted to end PSLF altogether, which would block millions of dedicated public servants from receiving the student debt relief they have earned. President Biden and Vice President Harris will not stop fighting for our nation’s dedicated public servants.

    Encouraging Public Servants to Take Advantage of the PSLF Program

    Today, the Biden-Harris Administration is also announcing a series of new steps to encourage public servants across the nation to take advantage of the PSLF program.

    A number of public sector unions, including the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), National Education Association (NEA), and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), are amplifying today’s announcement through member-to-member outreach, social media campaigns, and more, and are encouraging people to sign up for PSLF:

    • AFT will be encouraging its members to sign up for student debt clinics to help members get on track with PSLF, with a goal of reaching another 500 teachers and nurses by the end of the year. This is on top of the 34,000 members AFT has reached since starting their student debt clinic series.
    • NEA will continue to help its members with the NEA Student Debt Navigator, a tool that provides 1-on-1 support for NEA’s members who need additional support with their PSLF application, or any other federal program related to student loans. Since the launch of the Student Debt Navigator, over 48,000 NEA members have signed up to receive support.
    • To celebrate this milestone, AFSCME will launch a new interactive map on its website, detailing PSLF forgiveness across the country based on Department of Education data. Additionally, AFSCME will update its online resources to facilitate applications for PSLF and create a social media toolkit its members can use to promote PSLF and forgiveness on their own social media platforms.
    • To encourage people to take advantage of the PSLF program, the Department of Education will send emails from President Biden to public servants who have received PSLF, encouraging them to share their stories to raise awareness about the benefits of the program. The Biden-Harris Administration will also share information about PSLF with federal employees to encourage more people to enroll in PSLF.
    • The Department of Education is reaching out to governors and mayors across the country to encourage state and local public service workers to take advantage of the PSLF program.

    These new steps are in addition to previous actions by the Administration including working with over 15 major federal agencies to develop PSLF agency action plans. In implementing these plans, federal agencies have encouraged thousands of additional federal employees to take advantage of the PSLF program through extensive social media campaigns, principal-level engagement, engagement with stakeholder groups, press, and mass email communications.

    Building On an Unparalleled Record of Student Debt Relief

    Today’s announcement is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader set of actions to reduce the burden of student debt and ensure that student loans are not a barrier to educational and economic opportunity for students and families. President Biden and Vice President Harris secured a $900 increase to the maximum Pell Grant award – the largest increase in more than a decade.  Since taking office, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved through various actions $175 billion in student debt relief for nearly 5 million Americans, each of whom have been approved for an average of roughly $35,000 in student debt cancellation. These actions have benefitted borrowers in every state, territory, and congressional district in the United States.

    This approved relief includes:

    • $74 billion for over 1 million borrowers through the PSLF program.
    • $56.5 billion for more than 1.4 million borrowers through Income-Driven Repayment, including the Saving on a Valuable Education SAVE plan. This includes administrative adjustments to income-driven repayment that brought borrowers closer to forgiveness and addressed longstanding problems due to past inaccuracies and the misuse of forbearance by loan servicers.
    • $28.7 billion for more than 1.6 million borrowers who were cheated by their schools, saw their institutions precipitously close, or are covered by related court settlements.
    • $16.2 billion for nearly 572,000 borrowers with a total and permanent disability.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: Statement from President Joe  Biden on Student Debt Cancellation for Over 1 Million Public Service Workers Under the Biden-⁠ Harris Administration

    Source: The White House

    Today, my Administration is approving another $4.7 billion in student debt cancellation for over 60,000 public service workers – bringing the total number of Americans who have had their debt cancelled under Public Service Loan Forgiveness during my Administration to over 1 million people.

    Public service workers – teachers, nurses, firefighters, and more – are the bedrocks of our communities and our country. They dedicate their careers to giving back to others, and were given the promise of student debt forgiveness after 10 years of public service and 10 years of payments under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. But for too long, the government failed to live up to its commitments, and only 7,000 people had ever received forgiveness under Public Service Loan Forgiveness before Vice President Harris and I took office.

    We vowed to fix that, and because of actions from our Administration, now over 1 million public service workers have gotten the relief they are entitled to under the law.

    Today’s announcement comes on top of the significant progress we’ve made for students and borrowers over the past three years. That includes approving debt cancellation for nearly 5 million Americans across all our various debt relief actions; providing the largest increases to the maximum Pell Grant award in over a decade; fixing Income-Driven Repayment so borrowers get the relief they earned; and holding colleges accountable for taking advantage of students and families.

    From day one of my Administration, I promised to fight to ensure higher education is a ticket to the middle class, not a barrier to opportunity. I will never stop working to make higher education affordable – no matter how many times Republican elected officials try to stop us.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Infinera Signs Non-Binding Preliminary Memorandum of Terms to Receive Up to $93 Million in CHIPS Act Funding

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Infinera (Nasdaq: INFN) and the U.S. Department of Commerce have signed a non-binding preliminary memorandum of terms for Infinera to receive up to $93 million in direct funding as part of the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act. This proposed direct funding, when combined with investment tax credits available under the CHIPS and Science Act, could result in more than $200 million in total federal incentives as well as potential state and local incentives.

    This proposed funding would support the expansion and modernization of both Infinera’s semiconductor capabilities in Silicon Valley, California and its advanced test and packaging capabilities in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, increasing the company’s existing domestic manufacturing capacity by an estimated factor of ten. Combined proposed funding for these two projects could create up to 1,700 manufacturing and construction jobs while strengthening America’s supply chain, economic and national security.

    “We are grateful for the bipartisan efforts under the CHIPS and Science Act to increase semiconductor fabrication and packaging in the U.S. and protect our national and economic security,” said David Heard, Infinera CEO. “The proposed CHIPS funding will enable us to better secure our supply chain and compete more effectively with foreign adversary nations. Our unique photonic semiconductors address the increased demand for bandwidth from consumers while opening new markets inside the data center driven by the explosive growth in AI workloads.”

    Infinera’s award of the proposed CHIPS funding would not have been possible without bipartisan support and partnerships with local, state and federal officials. This support is instrumental to the long-term success of these projects and the growth of advanced manufacturing in the U.S.

    Additional Resource:
    Biden-Harris Administration Announces Preliminary Terms with Infinera to Support Development of Semiconductor Technology Important for Communications and National Security

    Contacts:

    Infinera Media:
    Anna Vue
    Tel. +1 (916) 595-8157
    avue@infinera.com

    Infinera Investors:
    Amitabh Passi, Head of Investor Relations
    Tel. +1 (669) 295-1489
    apassi@infinera.com

    About Infinera
    Infinera is a global supplier of innovative open optical networking solutions and advanced optical semiconductors that enable carriers, cloud operators, governments, and enterprises to scale network bandwidth, accelerate service innovation, and automate network operations. Infinera solutions deliver industry-leading economics and performance in long-haul, submarine, data center interconnect, and metro transport applications. To learn more about Infinera, visit http://www.infinera.com, follow us on X and LinkedIn, and subscribe for updates.

    Infinera and the Infinera logo are registered trademarks of Infinera Corporation.

    This press release contains forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding Infinera’s ability to secure CHIPS funding and investment tax credits, and the anticipated benefits of any such funding and tax credits. These statements are not guarantees of results and should not be considered as an indication of future activity or future performance. Actual results may vary materially from these expectations as a result of various risks and uncertainties. Information about risks and uncertainties that affect Infinera’s business is contained in the risk factors section and other sections of Infinera’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the Fiscal Quarter ended June 29, 2024 as filed with the SEC on August 2, 2024, as well as any subsequent reports filed with or furnished to the SEC. These reports are available on Infinera’s website at http://www.infinera.com and the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding our expectations, beliefs, intentions, or strategies and can be identified by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “should,” “will,” and “would” or similar words. Infinera assumes no obligation to, and does not currently intend to, update any such forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: OEUK news Skills passport enabling people to find new jobs in offshore wind goes live in 2025 17 October 2024

    Source: Offshore Energy UK

    Headline: OEUK news

    Skills passport enabling people to find new jobs in offshore wind goes live in 2025

    17 October 2024

    Joint RenewableUK and OEUK media release – Thursday 17th October 2024

    A new scheme to help workers across the UK’s energy mix, including oil and gas, to find new roles in offshore wind will be launched in January by RenewableUK and Offshore Energies UK (OEUK), supported by the UK and Scottish Governments.

    The Energy Skills Passport enables workers and employers to easily identify which qualifications and training standards, such as health and safety, are needed for specific roles in offshore wind. As part of the Energy Skills Passport, an interactive tool will provide clarity on which qualifications are mutually recognised across the sector to avoid any duplication of training courses, as well as mapping out potential career pathways. It will be managed jointly by OEUK and RenewableUK and will be available to a limited number of testers later this year before it is rolled out in full in the new year. The initial version focuses on the transition to offshore wind and future versions will include other parts of the energy sector.

    The UK’s oil and gas sector supports over 200,000 jobs and the UK’s offshore wind industry already employs 32,000 people – that number is expected to rise to over 100,000 by 2030. Research commissioned by OEUK shows that 90% per cent of oil and gas industry workers have skills which can be transferred to future offshore jobs in renewable energy. Roles which may be suitable for workers to transfer into in offshore wind include maintenance technician, commissioning technician, high-voltage senior authorised person and troubleshooting technician.

    RenewableUK’s Executive Director of Offshore Wind Jane Cooper said:

    “The upsurge in offshore wind jobs over the course of this decade and beyond creates excellent opportunities for highly-skilled oil and gas workers to bring their valuable experience to the clean energy sector. We’re working closely with our colleagues at Offshore Energies UK, and the UK and Scottish Governments, to make that transition as smooth as possible across all parts of the energy industry. The Energy Skills Passport is a great example of what we can achieve together and we’ll continue to look for other potential areas of work that can further support the transition of workers between sectors.”

    Offshore Energies UK’s Director of Supply Chain & People, Katy Heidenreich said:

    “Collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of the UK’s offshore energy sector so we are proud to be driving this initiative with RenewableUK. This industry and its people have proven excellence and a broad range of transferable skills from engineering and construction to legal and commercial expertise. This passport can help them succeed right across our diverse energy mix. This is one way the UK can back its workforce to build a homegrown energy transition that leaves no-one behind. It’s part of the toolkit this industry is assembling to partner with government to solve the challenges and seize the opportunities of our energy future.”

    The Co-Chair of the Offshore Wind Industry Council Richard Sandford said:

    “The Energy Skills Passport is a crucial step forward for workers to embrace opportunities in the offshore wind industry. It simplifies movement between essential offshore energy sectors, enabling workers to apply their knowledge to the energy transition. The milestone highlights effective collaboration between OEUK and RenewableUK, supported by the UK and Scottish Governments.”

    (ends)

    Notes

    For further information, contact

    1. RenewableUK’s members are building our future energy system, powered by clean electricity. We bring them together to deliver that future faster; a future which is better for industry, billpayers, and the environment. We support over 490 member companies to ensure increasing amounts of renewable electricity are deployed across the UK and to access export markets all over the world. Our members are business leaders, technology innovators, and expert thinkers from right across industry. RenewableUK’s events programme is available here.
    2. Offshore Energies UK is the leading trade body for the UK’s offshore energies industry. Its membership includes over 400 organisations with an interest in offshore oil, gas, carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, and offshore wind. Working together with its members, it is a driving force supporting the UK in ensuring security of energy supply while helping to meet its net zero ambitions.

    Share this article

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile Showcases GPTBots and EngageLab at eCommerce Expo Asia, Highlighting AI-Powered Solutions for Global Enterprises

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, Oct. 17, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (Nasdaq: JG), recently showcased its no-code AI Bot development platform, GPTBots, and its global customer engagement platform, EngageLab, at eCommerce Expo Asia, part of Tech Week Singapore on October 9-10, 2024, held at the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. The event brought together industry giants such as Shopify, Amazon, Stripe, and TikTok, focusing on the latest trends in e-commerce, AI, and MarTech, with Aurora Mobile’s innovative solutions drawing significant attention from attendees.

    As a comprehensive trade show, eCommerce Expo Asia provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the application of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and marketing technology (MarTech) across various industries. GPTBots, Aurora’s no-code AI Bot platform, stood out at the event, engaging a diverse audience keen to explore practical AI applications in their businesses.

    During the exhibition, attendees from different industries expressed unprecedented enthusiasm for AI technology, sharing their specific needs and pain points faced during their digital transformation journeys. GPTBots demonstrated its powerful capabilities in natural language processing, contextual understanding, and extensive customization, positioning itself as a valuable tool to solve these challenges.

    Interest from Various Industries

    • Financial Services in Indonesia: Representatives from the Indonesian financial sector expressed keen interest in GPTBots’ ability to enhance customer support through intelligent automation. They believe that GPTBots can address the rigidity of existing bot systems by providing more efficient and secure financial services through accurate responses and on-premise deployment options.
    • Hospitality in Hong Kong: Clients operating a platform in Hong Kong that connects users with wedding venues and service providers were particularly impressed with GPTBots. They highlighted its potential to significantly enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness of resource matching. GPTBots can seamlessly connect users, suppliers, and hotels in real time, ensuring precise and efficient resource coordination. This not only improves the overall user experience but also optimizes supplier response times, driving greater operational efficiency.
    • System Integrators (SI): SI clients showed strong interest in using AI Bots to automatically organize customer inquiries into leads and seamlessly push them into CRM systems. GPTBots can process and categorize customer inputs in real time, offering seamless integration with CRM platforms, enabling comprehensive lead automation management.

    Additionally, representatives from industries such as manufacturing, medical e-commerce, and event organizers praised GPTBots’ potential in areas such as automated product quality inspection, intelligent lead screening, platform integration, and inquiry management. Many attendees commented that GPTBots could bring transformative changes to their respective businesses.

    Global Adoption and Empowering Enterprises
    Since its launch in September 2023, GPTBots has gained widespread recognition. As of July 31, 2024, the platform had over 60,000 registered users, including enterprises and developers, with more than 85% of its user base coming from overseas markets. GPTBots’ users span a wide range of sectors including e-commerce, real estate, finance, IT, healthcare, government, renewable energy, education, and eldercare. This achievement demonstrates the platform’s strong ability to help businesses achieve intelligent transformation.

    About Aurora Mobile Limited
    Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.
    For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives name the victim of the Newham fatal collision as they thank people who helped at the scene

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives from the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) investigating a fatal road traffic collision in Newham have named the victim as they continue to appeal for witnesses and anyone with footage to come forward.

    At around 15:40hrs on Tuesday, 15 October, a Nissan Juke mounted the pavement at Barking Road, E16 colliding with 18-year-old Maryam Nabil Shuwey who was from Stratford. Despite the actions of off-duty police officers, members of the public and medics, Maryam sadly died from her injuries at the scene.

    Chief Superintendent Dan Card, leading policing in Newham, said: “I know that local people will be feeling shocked and distressed by the tragic loss of a young woman’s life in such horrific circumstances. Please know that we share those feelings, and we are doing everything we can to support our SCIU colleagues as they investigate the full circumstances of the incident.

    “The actions of two off-duty officers close to the scene when the collision happened were commendable – despite the chaotic situation, they managed the incident in its early stages and attempted to help the victim until medics arrived. Members of the public also rushed to see if they could help as Newham pulled together to try to save a young life. While the outcome was not what anyone would have wished for, I would like to extend my thanks to those people.

    “Local residents and businesses will notice a more visible police presence in the area in the coming days and I urge anyone with concerns to speak with officers as they patrol or contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.”

    The driver of the Nissan Juke – a 45-year-old man – was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He was taken to hospital for treatment before being taken into police custody. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

    The victim’s family were notified and they continue to be supported by specialist officers.

    Road closures and cordons were established. These have since been lifted.

    Chief Superintendent Thomas Naughton, of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “This is a tragic and deeply upsetting incident for everyone concerned. We are doing everything we can to support the victim’s family and we ask that their privacy be respected as they struggle to come to terms with unimaginable loss.

    “I am aware of footage of the incident circulating online and ask that consideration be given the victim’s loved ones and that footage not be shared further on social media. Not least because it could prejudice any future criminal proceedings.

    “We are working hard to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and ask that anyone who has information or footage contact us without delay.”

    Anyone who witnessed this incident or has footage should call the Serious Collision Investigation witness line direct on 020 8597 4874, call 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting 4765/15OCT.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council launches new city enterprise centre to boost local economy

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth City Council has officially launched its new city centre enterprise centre to support local businesses to start up and grow.

    City Buildings Enterprise Centre is located in Commercial Road on the former Job Centre and Playland sites and is now the fourth council owned enterprise centre in the city.

    Designed to support local start-ups and small businesses, City Buildings Enterprise Centre offers affordable office space, a co-working area and flexible lease terms with easy access to transport links. .

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council with responsibilities for economic development said:

    “City Buildings Enterprise Centre is an exciting opportunity for Portsmouth’s city centre. There is a real need from start-up and small businesses for low cost business premises to be located centrally, close to good transport links.

    This new enterprise centre is also part of our wider city centre regeneration programme. By creating a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, we can revitalise the area and support our local economy.”

    In addition to affordable workspace, the centre offers businesses access to the council’s Portsmouth Business Support Service, providing expert advice on training, funding, mentoring, and networking opportunities.

    Portsmouth Enterprise Centres are committed to helping small businesses thrive by providing low-cost rents and a supportive environment.

    For more information visit portsmouthenterprisecentres.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: VATICAN – CATHOLIC CHURCH STATISTICS 2024

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Thursday, 17 October 2024

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – As every year, in view of World Mission Sunday, which this year celebrates its 98th anniversary on Sunday, October 20, 2024, Fides News Agency offers some statistics chosen to give a panorama of the Church in the world.All the data in this dossier, and the subsequent processing of graphs and tables are taken from the latest edition of the «Church’s Book of Statistics» published this year (updated to December 31, 2022) regarding members of the Catholic Church, church structures, healthcare, welfare and education. Finally, the picture of ecclesiastical circumscriptions dependent on the Dicastery for Evangelization, Section for the First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches is reported.Catholic Church in the world: summary of dataTo December 31, 2022 the world population was 7.838.944.000, with an increase of 53.175.000 units compared to the previous year. The positive trend is confirmed for all continents, except Europe.On the same date, December 31, 2022, Catholics in the world numbered 1.389.573.000 units with an overall increase of 13.721.000 Catholics compared to the previous year. Even in this case, the increase affects four of the five continents. Only in Europe there is a decrease in the number of Catholics: – 474.000. As in previous years, increases were registered above all in Africa (+7.271.000) and in America (+5.912.000). Followed by Asia (+889.000) and Oceania (+123.000). The world percentage of Catholics increased slightly (+0,03) compared to the previous year, reaching 17,7%. The Continents register slight variations.The total number of Bishops in the world increased by 13 units compared to the previous year, reaching 5.353. The number of diocesan Bishops increased (+19) and Religious Bishops decreased (-6). Diocesan Bishops number 2.682, while that of Religious Bishops is 2.671.The total number of priests in the world continues to decline, reaching 407.730 (-142 in the last year). Once again, it is Europe that shows a consistent decrease (-2745), followed by America (-164). Like last year, significant increase were registered in Africa (+1.676) and in Asia (+1.160). Oceania, after last year’s increase, registers a decrease (-69). Diocesan priests in the world decreased by 439 units, reaching 279.171. Religious priests have increased in the last year, reaching 128.559 (+297).Permanent deacons in the world continue to increase (+974), reaching 50.159. The increase was registered in Africa (+1), Asia (+15) and Europe (+267). A decrease was registered in America (-308) and in Oceania (-1).The number of non-religious priests decreased by 360 units compared to the previous year, reaching 49.414. A decrease was registered in Africa (-229), in Europe (-382) and in Oceania (-27) while an increase was registered in America (+27) and in Asia (+251). Even this year there is an overall decrease in the number of women religious, reaching 599.228 (-9.730). An increase was registered, once again, in Africa (+1.358) and in Asia (+74), while a decrease was registered in Europe (-7.012), America (-1.358) and Oceania (-225).The number of major seminarians, diocesan and religious decreased this year, they are globally 108.481 (they were 109.895 in the previous year). An increase was registered only in Africa (+726) and Oceania (+12), while a decrease was registered in America (-921), in Asia (-375) and in Europe (-859). The total number of minor seminarians, diocesan and religious decreased by 95.161 (-553). An increase was registered only in Africa (+1.065), while a decrease was registered in all other continents: Asia (-978), America (-475), Europe (-153) Oceania (-12).In the field of education, the Catholic Church runs 74.322 kindergartens with 7.622.480 pupils; 102.189 primary schools with 35.729.911 pupils; 50.851 secondary schools with 20.566.902 pupils. Furthermore, 2.460.993 pupils study in secondary schools and 3,925,393 in university institutes.Charity and healthcare centres run in the world by the Church are 102.409 and include: 5.420 hospitals and 14.205 dispensaries; 525 Care Homes for people with Leprosy; 15.476 Homes for the elderly or the chronically ill or people with a disability; 10.589 creches; 10.500 marriage counselling centers; 3.141 social rehabilitation centers and 33.677 other kinds of institutes.Ecclesiastical circumscriptions (Metropolitan Arcidioceses, Archdioceses, Dioceses, Territorial Abbeys, Apostolic Vicariates, Apostolic Prefectures, Missions sui iuris, Territorial Prelatures, Apostolic Administrations and Military Ordinariates) dependent on the Dicastery for Evangelization are 1.123 (+2). Most of the ecclesiastical circumscriptions entrusted to the Dicastery based in Piazza di Spagna are in Africa (525) and in Asia (481). Followed by America (71) and Oceania (46).Appendix: analysis – variations over 25 years (1998-2022)In view of the upcoming Jubilee 2025, and to help understand the trend of variations in the numerical data related to the presence and mission of the Catholic Church in the world, in addition to the usual dossier, this year Fides Agency also publishes an appendix which summarizes data collected over a period of twenty-five years, those from 1998 to 2022. This includes data on the Catholic population, the number of priests, the number of men and women religious, and the number of baptisms administered worldwide.This appendix also collects and processes data and tables from the «Church’s Book of Statistics» published this year (updated to December 31, 2022). Unlike the classic dossier, the data taken into consideration in the Appendix do not go into detail on each individual continent, but simply illustrate, with figures, the general evolution at the global level in a broader context.From the data collected for the period 1998-2022, it is immediately clear that the number of Catholics worldwide has increased overall over the twenty-five years covered. The data on the percentage of Catholics in the world population is significant: in 1998, 17.4% of the world’s population was Catholic. In the latest available survey, this figure is 17.7%. The latter percentage has remained unchanged since 2015, after reaching a brief peak in 2014 (17.8%).Another important development concerns the number of priests. Overall, the number of priests (secular and religious) worldwide has increased from 404,628 to 407,730 over the twenty-five years covered. While the number of men and women religious has decreased. According to the data, the number of religious brothers has never exceeded 60,000 over the twenty-five years covered. The same downward curve is also evident in the case of women religious, whose number has fallen from 814,779 to 559,228 in twenty-five years.While the Catholic population is growing worldwide, the number of baptisms has declined. It fell from 17,932,891 baptisms worldwide in 1998 to 13,327,037 baptisms in 2022.(Agenzia Fides, 17/10/2024)

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  • MIL-OSI Global: Meet the winners of this year’s Three Minute Thesis competition

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Smith, Senior Consultant, Universal Impact

    Tae PY15MU/Shutterstock

    The winners of a competition which challenges academics to explain their research in just three minutes have been announced.

    A total of 850 researchers from across the UK entered the tenth annual Vitae Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) competition, which was sponsored by The Conversation through its Universal Impact training and mentoring subsidiary.

    These were narrowed down first to 65 competitors and then six finalists, before a judging panel and a public vote determined the winning three.

    The overall judges’ award went to Jo Baker from Newcastle University for her presentation on children’s speech difficulties, which was perfectly illustrated through the use of an original cartoon.

    Speech and language therapist Jo Baker impressed the judges.

    Ulster University’s James McMullan captured the public’s imagination with his presentation on whether eating fish could be the secret to healthy ageing, winning the people’s choice award.

    Universal Impact also had the chance to pick an editor’s champion. We chose Muhammad Muddasar at University of Limerick for his research looking at whether the heat we waste on a daily basis could be transformed into a new energy source.

    The other finalists were Ferdinando Sereno at UCL, Natalie Weir at University of Derby and Charlie Gerlis from the University of the West of England.

    Originally developed by the University of Queensland, the competition challenges doctoral researchers to communicate their research to a non-expert audience – in three minutes or less.

    As a judge, I was blown away by the overall standard of the entries – this really was a masterclass in research communications.

    All of the academics involved spoke passionately about their research, explaining how it could contribute to making the world a better place.

    Each of these researchers deserved their place in the final and it took lengthy discussions before the panel was able to pick a winner.

    This year’s final was broadcast live online with the winners announced on Friday, October 4.

    The presentations were recorded and uploaded online ahead of a public vote.

    ‘It opens minds and opens doors’**

    At Universal Impact, we have been delighted to support this mission by joining the judging panel and mentoring the champions (who also receive a coveted trophy and small grant) to help them build on their success and take their research to an even wider audience.

    Vitae, which organised the competition, is a non-profit organisation that supports the professional development of researchers.

    Rachel Cox, head of membership and engagement at Vitae, said: “The Vitae Three Minute Thesis is a fantastic competition which provides a unique opportunity for doctoral researchers to think differently about how they communicate work that is meaningful to them to a wider audience.

    “It opens minds and opens doors for the individuals involved, as it can be a pathway to a wide variety of future careers, as previous participants have shown.

    “At Vitae, we are proud of the impact this competition has had over the past ten years, and we are excited to see what it can do over the next decade.

    “We are also delighted that Universal Impact and The Conversation are supporting this year’s event.”

    You can find out more about the competition and the work of Vitae here.

    – ref. Meet the winners of this year’s Three Minute Thesis competition – https://theconversation.com/meet-the-winners-of-this-years-three-minute-thesis-competition-240740

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The European Supervisory Authorities share highlights from the 2024 Joint Consumer Protection Day in Budapest

    Source: European Banking Authority

    On 3 October , the three European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) – the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) – organised the 11th edition of their annual Consumer Protection Day, in Budapest.

    The event followed the theme of “Empowering EU consumers: fair access to the future of financial services” and had three panels covering the topics of artificial intelligence (AI) in financial services, access to consumer centric products and services, and sustainable finance. Speakers and panellists included leaders from consumer organisations, regulatory authorities, EU institutions, academia, and market participants from across the European Union, with 300 participants on-site and more than 600 viewers online.

    Speeches were delivered by the three ESAs Chairs – Verena Ross (ESMA and currently Joint Committee Chair), Jose-Manuel Campa (EBA), and Petra Hielkema (EIOPA) – as well as Csaba Kandrács, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Hungary and Agustín Reyna, the Director General of the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC). A fire-side chat also took place with Chris Betz, Chief Information Security Officer of Amazon Web services to discuss generative AI.

    On Artificial Intelligence, panellists exchanged views about the potential benefits of AI, such as fraud detection and the automation of processes to detect and prevent money laundering, as well as the risks, such as the lack of transparency and explainability. Panellists emphasised the need to better understand the technology to assess how those risks can be mitigated. Some panellists highlighted the importance for the ESAs to facilitate knowledge sharing, ensure regulatory and supervisory convergence and create the conditions for innovation to grow. Some industry players also called on the ESAs to issue ‘guardrails’ or other guidance on how financial institutions should comply with the new EU AI Act.

    During the panel on access to consumer centric financial products and services, panellists discussed the need to strengthen  financial education, pay greater attention to vulnerable consumers, and enable them to understand and access standard financial services packages (payment account, saving account, home/health insurance). The importance of better understanding consumer needs and preserve consumer trust was also highlighted.

    On sustainable finance, panellists remarked that investors still struggle to understand the technicalities of  product disclosures and the complex terminology attached to such disclosures. Simplification of the current Sustainable Finance Disclosures Requirements towards a categorisation system that works for retail investors was considered by the panellists to be the main area that regulators should focus on,  in addition to enhancing the financial literacy of retail investors.

    The ESAs will reflect on the input and suggestions heard from the audience and the panellists, and discuss the actions to be strenghtened  or to be taken going forward.

    See the EBA webpage and the recording of the event here. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regulator intervenes to improve governance and safeguarding at Birmingham mosque

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Today (17 October 2024), the Charity Commission has published findings of its inquiry into Dar ul Uloom Islamia Rizwia (Bralawai).

    The regulator found the trustees were responsible for misconduct and/or mismanagement but following the Commission’s intervention, they have taken positive steps to address failures and weaknesses in how the charity operated.

    The charity provides a place of worship, religious teachings, community services and also operates an educational centre for the benefit of the local community of Small Heath, Birmingham.

    In 2019, a safeguarding incident occurred at the charity’s education centre, prompting the regulator to open a compliance case. During this period, the trustees temporarily closed the education centre. The Commission found that the charity had no safeguarding policies in place at the time of the incident, constituting a serious breach of duty. As a result, it provided the trustees with detailed regulatory advice and guidance, requiring them to implement safeguarding measures before reopening the centre.

    In November 2021, the regulator escalated its engagement to a statutory inquiry after carrying out a monitoring inspection which found the charity had reopened its education centre without implementing appropriate safeguarding measures. The Commission’s regulatory advice had not been sufficiently followed. The charity attempted to reopen again without complying in 2022, which amounted to misconduct and/or mismanagement. In light of the continued failures, the Commission used its powers to appoint an Interim Manager to undertake a governance review.

    The inquiry identified several regulatory issues, most of which were the result of a poor practice around implementing and following the charity’s own governance policies. This included policies on social media use, conflicts of interest and safeguarding. Additionally, the charity failed to file its accounts for financial years ending in March 2019 and 2020 – all of which amounted to misconduct and/or mismanagement.

    The charity’s failure to use or complete its draft social media policy contributed to the issuing of multiple inappropriate social media posts by trustees and staff which resulted in the charity receiving negative media attention. The Commission considered this as part of its inquiry and determined the trustees’ failure to have oversight or appropriately manage risks amounted to misconduct and/or mismanagement. The posts have since been deleted and an apology was issued at the time.

    During the inquiry, the Commission made an Order to direct the trustees to take specified action to address these issues and to improve best practice around governance.

    Following this intervention, the trustees closed the education centre again and took steps to address the concerns. They provided evidence that staff Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks had been carried out, that safeguarding practices had been reviewed and implemented, and that safeguarding leads had been appointed.

    The trustees have now evidenced their use and adherence to a robust social media policy, drafted in line with regulatory guidance, and the charity’s accounts have since been brought up to date. Further positive steps have been taken by trustees to adopt all recommendations made by the Interim Manager and they have evidenced their use of the regulator’s advice and guidance. In light of this progress, the Commission has now concluded its inquiry.

    Joshua Farbridge, Head of Compliance Visits and Inspections at the Commission, said:

    Our inquiry found a number of regulatory concerns and several instances of misconduct and/or mismanagement but the trustees have taken significant steps to improve how the charity operates.

    We are now closing our inquiry with the expectation that the current trustees will continue to make necessary changes to help ensure this charity is providing a safe and trusted environment for all.

    This case demonstrates how important it is for all trustees to agree and use their charity’s internal policies. Failing to do so can leave a charity and those it serves at risk.

    The inquiry report detailing the Commission’s full findings can be found on gov.uk.

    Notes to editors:

    1. The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Find out more: About us – The Charity Commission

    Press office

    Email pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk

    Out of hours press office contact number: 07785 748787

    Updates to this page

    Published 17 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Latest phase of improvements to Dudley Road completed

    Source: City of Birmingham

    A scheme aimed at reducing congestion and improving public transport and active travel has had its most recent phase completed.

    The A457 Dudley Road Improvement Scheme will deliver significant improvements in network capacity and public transport, in addition to upgraded facilities for pedestrians and cyclists along the A457 corridor.

    It will also support the city’s growth objectives within the Greater Icknield area.

    Phase two has now been completed with a plaque installed next to the new Spring Hill bridge.

    Cllr Majid Mahmood, cabinet member for transport and environment, said: “This summer, Birmingham City Council declared a road safety emergency. People have died as a direct result of dangerous driving across our city, and this must end.

    “We’re taking action, including working with the police and the mayor to increase the number of average speed cameras across the city, and reducing the speed limit from 40 to 30 miles per hour on our major roads.

     “We can’t just police our way out of this though. For too long, our roads have been designed with a driver-first attitude, and in order to make our roads safer, this must change.

    “So it is important to highlight the completion of the latest phase of work to make the Dudley Road safer, including the development of dedicated walking and cycling lanes, improved priority for buses, reduced congestion and ultimately safer roads.”

    The scheme is funded via central government levelling up money.

    West Midlands Chief Constable Craig Guildford said: “Since the summer, I have chaired a gold group around road safety bringing together the local authorities and the combined authority to work collectively for safer roads. We must all work in partnership to bring down the number of collisions that result in fatalities or serious injuries.

     “At WMP, we have made the biggest reinvestment in roads policing in a generation. We’ve increased the teams who target the causes of collisions as well as the teams that tackle criminal use of our roads.

     “We are more determined than ever to achieve Vision Zero. But we need the help of every road user to achieve it.”

    Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Cycle lanes and bus lanes, like those on Dudley Road, help reduce traffic and pollution, making our streets cleaner and safer for the community.

    “I’m also working closely with the police and councils on a new road safety plan, which will introduce even more ways to make sure people can travel safely across the region.

    “Alongside this, we’re expanding key routes like the cross-city bus service from Birmingham to Dudley and growing our network of cycle paths to help even more people get around safely and easily.”

    Note to editors about the first two phases –

    • Phase 1 – Western Road junction, was completed in May 2022, which improved capacity and pedestrian facilities at the junction and facilitated the delivery of and access to approximately 3,000 new homes at the Soho Loop development, along with new local facilities and employment opportunities.
    • Phase 2 – Spring Hill, Barford Estate and Heath Street / Winson Green Road sections, completed in August 2024 and delivered tidal flow bus lanes and a new bus lane enforcement camera, new segregated cycle lanes, footway and pedestrian crossing upgrades, including the introduction of a new shared use foot / cycle bridge adjacent to the existing Spring Hill canal bridge.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Together for Frankfurt: New corporate initiative supports social projects in the city’s station district

    Source: Deutsche Bundesbank in English

    A joint initiative by companies and institutions based in and around Frankfurt’s Bahnhofsviertel – the district surrounding its central railway station – intends to help improve the difficult situation in the area. Known as the BHV corporate initiative (BHV being an acronym for Bahnhofsviertel), it aims to make a positive contribution to the district and support selected social projects through constructive dialogue with the city. Representatives of the participating companies presented the initiative at a joint event today with Frankfurt’s mayor Mike Josef. Speaking at the K9 advice centre, one of the welfare facilities to receive financial support from the BHV corporate initiative, they reaffirmed their commitment to the district and called for further intensive efforts to find solutions to the area’s problems.
    Mayor Josef highlighted the following: When I took office one and a half years ago, a particularly important topic was the situation in the station district. And it remains so to this day. The many meetings I have had over the past few months have included conversations with companies, their representatives and employees based in or near the station district. It has become clear that the situation in the district needs to change. He went on to say: I am pleased that many conversations have been very constructive. With the BHV corporate initiative, several companies and institutions have decided to provide financial support to social facilities in the station district. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks for this.
    We have joined forces in a cross-sectoral initiative to improve the situation in the station district for people who spend time here for a multitude of different reasons. We want to achieve this by supporting tangible projects, said Stephan Bredt, chief operating officer at the Bundesbank, one of the institutions bringing ideas to the joint initiative. The Bundesbank, which has offices in and around the station district, is happy to contribute to its success by getting involved and providing good ideas. We see ourselves at the beginning of a long-term undertaking and invite other interested parties to join in.
    The BHV corporate initiative, which currently comprises eleven companies and institutions with around 26,000 employees in and around the station district, is supporting various aid projects for people in need. Indirectly, these may also help to improve the district’s appearance. In a first step, the initiative will support four facilities in the district with funding of €100,000 each:
    The K9 advice centre for projects that help people with drug addiction regain a foothold in labour market;
    La Strada drug help centre to extend and renovate its community café and drug consumption rooms and expand its provision of medical care;
    The night café on Moselstrasse to provide warm meals for people battling addiction;
    Malteser Werke to expand their emergency medical service in the district as part of their proactive social work.
    As a gateway to the city, the station district has great economic, cultural and social potential. In order to harness this, the current problems need to be tackled on a lasting basis, said Christian Sewing, CEO of Deutsche Bank, speaking on behalf of the companies involved. We welcome the initiative of the mayor and the municipal administration of Frankfurt to develop and implement forward-looking solutions for the station district. It is important that initial improvements are now quickly followed by further tangible steps. As corporate citizens, we want to exercise our social responsibility and make an active contribution to improving the situation and unlocking the district’s full potential.
    The participants of the BHV initiative are making a long-term commitment. In addition to the specific financial support to social facilities provided by the companies involved, the initiative aims to liaise closely with the city on the progress made in the district. Moreover, participants are harnessing the initiative to improve the exchange of information with regard to the challenges and opportunities in the district. Other companies and institutions that would like to get involved are welcome to join at any time.
    Current participants
    Bank of America
    Deutsche Bundesbank
    Deutsche Bank
    Deutsche Vermögensberatung
    DWS
    DZ Bank
    Frankfurter Volksbank Rhein-Main
    Helaba
    Merz Pharma
    Momeni Group
    Nestlé Deutschland

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Medical school task group formed

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government announced today the establishment of the Task Group on New Medical School, which is responsible for devising the direction and parameters for a new medical school.

    The task group intends to extend invitation of proposals within this year to local universities interested in establishing the new medical school, so as to select a suitable university for setting up the third medical school.

    The Chief Executive stated in the 2024 Policy that the Government supports the establishment of the third medical school by a local university to nurture more talented medical practitioners in support of the local healthcare system with the aim of providing quality service and driving Hong Kong’s development into an international medical training, research and innovation hub.

    The Task Group on New Medical School’s terms of reference include liaising with interested local universities, inviting and assessing proposals from them, handling matters including but not limited to funding arrangements, programme accreditation, teaching hospital and research support, and formulating recommendations on the new medical school and related arrangements for decision by the Chief Executive in Council.

    The task group’s other terms of references call for liaising with the university selected for the establishment of the new medical school on the implementation plan, and providing facilitation on the interim and long-term arrangements for a designated school campus and teaching hospital in consultation with the relevant government bureaus and departments.

    Both the Secretary for Education and Secretary for Health are co-chairmen of the Task Group on New Medical School.

    Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau said the establishment of the third medical school is an important project in developing medical education in Hong Kong to drive the pursuit of excellence in medical teaching and research in the city.

    “I hope the new medical school could pursue an innovative strategic position complementarity with the two existing ones in areas such as the medical curriculum, sources of students and research projects with a view to promoting diversified development in local medical education and research as well as attracting more local, Mainland and overseas medical talent to take up teaching and research duties.”

    Noting that the Government attaches significant importance to the establishment of the new medical school, Prof Lo stressed that it has in particular invited seasoned local, Mainland and overseas academics for medical teaching and university management, professionals, the President of the Academy of Medicine and Chairman of the Medical Council of Hong Kong, together with heads of relevant bureaus and departments to form the task group.

    The health chief added that the task group will holistically examine various factors when considering proposals submitted by universities, including the strategic position of the medical school, curriculum design, student recruitment arrangement, demand and supply of teaching and training manpower, facilities and financial resources required.

    “I sincerely look forward to working closely with all members of the task group to start a new chapter for medical education in Hong Kong. Our first target is to extend invitation of proposals within this year to local universities interested in setting up the new medical school.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

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    U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) | http://www.hhs.gov | HHS Privacy Policy | http://www.hhs.gov/Privacy.html

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