A DEFIANT Mary Lou McDonald has claimed that Sinn Fein have broken the mould of Irish politics as she declared: “Two party politics is now gone. It’s consigned to the dustbin of history.” Mary Lou McDonald today laid out her plan for after the election as she revealed that Sinn Fein will be “actively pursing entrance to government.” Both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael ruled out entering coalition with Sinn Fein in the run up to the election. Mary Lou McDonald – who topped the poll in Dublin Central – today revealed that she plans to reach out to the leaders of left wing parties such as the Social Democrats and the Labour Party to discuss trying to form a government. However, pressed on whether Sinn Fein and the left will have the numbers to form a government, Ms McDonald said: “I think it’s fair to say that we have now confirmed that we have broken the political mould her in this state. “Two party politics is now gone. It’s consigned to the dustbin of history and that in itself is very significant. “The question now arises for us – what do we do with that? And we are clear that we want to change people’s lives and make things better. “The housing crisis – we can not tolerate or sustain another five years. "The cost of living crisis is baring down on people and for our young people in particular we have to get it right here and give them their opportunity at home. That is currently not happening. “We as a political leadership will do everything that we can. We will move heaven, we will move earth to make people’s lives better.” Asked if she believes the numbers are there to form a coalition of the left to lead government, the Sinn Fein leader said: “I am looking to bring about a government of change and I am going to go and look at all formulations. “The bottom line if you want my bottom line – the idea of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael for another five years in our strong opinion is not a good outcome for Irish society. MARY Lou McDonald has reacted to Gerry ‘The Monk’ Hutch’s vote haul in the general election and claimed: “Nothing in politics surprises me, I’m around far too long.” Gang boss Hutch ran as an independent in the Sinn Fein leader’s Dublin Central constituency and is in the fight for the final seat. Ms McDonald topped the poll in the constituency with Fine Gael’s Paschal Donohoe and Social Democrat Gary Gannon also set to be re-elected. However, the final seat – which is currently held by Neasa Hourigan of the Greens – is still to play for with The Monk and Labour’s Marie Sherlock in the race. Transfers of several candidates will be key to where the final seat goes with The Monk likely to benefit from independent Malachy Steenson’s second preferences. However, Labour’s Marie Sherlock should receive a boost from other left leaning candidates that are still in the race. Asked about her Dublin Central constituency today, Mary Lou McDonald said: “If this doesn’t sound like bragging...actually now I’m going to brag – it’s a hatrick for me in topping the poll in the constituency and I’m really, really proud of that achievement. “The last seat is in the balance. I think it’s going to be a battle royal. I imagine it will go late into the night and into tomorrow before we see where it lands.” Pressed on whether she was surprised by Gerry The Monk Hutch’s 3,000 first preference votes, the Sinn Fein leader said: “Nothing in politics surprises me, I’m around far too long.” “Obviously I want to talk to other parties of the left and those we share significant policy objective with and I’m going to do that first and hear their mind and thinking. “Be very clear – we will be very actively pursing entrance into Government. “It was clear to me when we were going around on the campaign that people want us to take a place in government and they want to see us deliver. “I’m going to do everything I can to establish whether and how that might be possible. That will involve the counting to finish, for us to assess the result in its totality and then obviously conversation and dialogue with others.”Does anyone have any information about this? According to the NUI website , it looks like there is to be a fairly short window for registration. They say that it will be open in December 2024 and close on 23 January 2025. I presume the 2nd deadline is in the legislation somewhere, so can't be moved. They have an auto-reply to inquiries saying to view SeanadVoter.ie starting in January. (Warning: the link's cryptography cert is not setup correctly) That is am even shorter window, even if it opens on January 1st. That gives just 3 weeks. There is also no information about which institutions will be "designated institutions" that actually get the vote. Presumably, at least all universities in the country will be covered, but that information doesn't seem to be available. Are they are hoping only a tiny fraction of the electorate will actually register? I guess the most "politically aware" or something. ivnryn said: Does anyone have any information about this? According to the NUI website , it looks like there is to be a fairly short window for registration. They say that it will be open in December 2024 and close on 23 January 2025. I presume the 2nd deadline is in the legislation somewhere, so can't be moved. They have an auto-reply to inquiries saying to view SeanadVoter.ie starting in January. That is am even shorter window, even if it opens on January 1st. That gives just 3 weeks. There is also no information about which institutions will be "designated institutions" that actually get the vote. Presumably, at least all universities in the country will be covered, but that information doesn't seem to be available. Are they are hoping only a tiny fraction of the electorate will actually register? I guess the most "politically aware" or something. Click to expand... that link is dodgy ,, check it out before posting,, or is it the Irish Deep State up to their usual tricks,,, storybud1 said: that link is dodgy ,, check it out before posting,, or is it the Irish Deep State up to their usual tricks,,, Click to expand... Sorry about that. The page looks ok, but they haven't set up the SSL certificate correctly. That is the link given in the auto-reply to inquiries. I was linking it to show how they aren't setup properly yet. I edited my post so that it can no longer be auto-clicked.Kolkata, Nov 30 (IANS) : The ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal at its "Minority Gathering" programme here on Saturday underlined two key points for their opposition to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill which has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee for examination. The first objection is against the proposal in the Bill to assign the District Magistrates the survey work of the existing Waqf properties in the districts concerned. Trinamool Congress feels that such “bureaucratisation” for review of Waqf Property is "simply unacceptable". The second objection is the proposal of takeover of those assets which have been verbally declared as Waqf properties. The party claimed that "this is a deliberate attempt of divisive politics of the ruling party at the Centre". Addressing the "Minority Gathering" of the party on Saturday, Trinamool Congress Lok Sabha member Kalyan Banerjee said that in any country, it is the responsibility of the "majority" to protect the "minority". “That is why we also do not support what is happening in Bangladesh. Just as I worship Goddess Kali and Lord Shiva, I also worship the Indian Constitution,” said Banerjee, who is also a senior advocate in the Calcutta High Court. Speaking at the gathering, state Municipal Affairs and Urban Development Minister and Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim said that the word “secular” is not there in the constitutions of Bangladesh and Pakistan. "But that word exists in the Indian Constitution. We have to respect the Constitution of our country. Our Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is the leading face in protecting the rights of the minorities in the state," he said. To recall, while addressing the state Assembly on the fourth day of its Winter Session on Thursday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee claimed that the said Bill would not only destabilise the Waqf system in the country but also target a particular religion. "This Bill is against one particular religion. This Bill is against the basic spirit of equality and the right to practice any religion. That is exactly why we are opposing the Bill,” the Chief Minister said.
Top war-crimes court issues arrest warrants for Netanyahu and others in Israel-Hamas fighting THE HAGUE (AP) — The world’s top war-crimes court issued arrest warrants Thursday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and Hamas’ military chief, accusing them of crimes against humanity in connection with the 13 Molly Quell, The Associated Press Nov 21, 2024 2:36 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message FILE - Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses lawmakers in the Knesset, Israel's parliament, in Jerusalem. Monday Nov. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg, File) THE HAGUE (AP) — The world’s top war-crimes court issued arrest warrants Thursday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and Hamas’ military chief, accusing them of crimes against humanity in connection with the 13-month war in Gaza. The warrants said there was reason to believe Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant have used “starvation as a method of warfare” by restricting humanitarian aid and have intentionally targeted civilians in Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza — charges Israeli officials deny. The action by the International Criminal Court came as the death toll from Israel’s campaign in Gaza passed 44,000 people, according to local health authorities, who say more than half of those killed were women and children. Their count does not differentiate between civilians and combatants. Experts say hunger has become widespread across Gaza and may have reached famine levels in the north of the territory, which is under siege by Israeli troops. Israel says it has been working hard to improve entry of aid, though the trickle of supplies into Gaza remains near the lowest levels of the war. Netanyahu condemned the warrant against him, saying Israel “rejects with disgust the absurd and false actions” by the court. In a statement released by his office, he said: “There is nothing more just than the war that Israel has been waging in Gaza.” Gallant, in a statement, said the decision "sets a dangerous precedent against the right to self-defense and moral warfare and encourages murderous terrorism.” The warrant marked the first time that a sitting leader of a major Western ally has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity by a global court of justice. The decision turns Netanyahu and the others into internationally wanted suspects, putting them at risk of arrest when they travel abroad and potentially further isolating them . Israel and its top ally, the United States, are not members of the court. But others of Israel's allies, including some of its close European friends, are put in an awkward position. Several, including France, welcomed the court's decision and signaled they might arrest Netanyahu if he visited. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said President Joe Biden's administration was “deeply concerned by the prosecutor’s rush to seek arrest warrants and the troubling process errors that led to this decision.” The warrants represent "the most dramatic step yet in the court’s involvement in the conflict between Israel and Hamas," said Anthony Dworkin, senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. Israeli leaders, politicians and officials across the spectrum denounced the warrants and the ICC. The new defense minister, Israel Katz, who replaced Gallant earlier this month, said Thursday’s decision is “a moral disgrace, entirely tainted by antisemitism, and drags the international judicial system to an unprecedented low.” Human rights groups applauded the move. The warrants against both sides “break through the perception that certain individuals are beyond the reach of the law,” the associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch, Balkees Jarrah, said in a statement. The decision came six months after ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan requested the warrants. The court issued a warrant for Mohammed Deif, head of Hamas’ armed wing, over the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks that triggered Israel’s offensive in Gaza. It said it found reasonable grounds to believe Deif was involved in murder, rape, torture and the taking of hostages amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. In the Hamas-led attack, militants stormed into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people — mostly civilians — and taking some 250 others hostage. Around 100 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, around a third of them believed to be dead. Khan withdrew requests for warrants for two other senior Hamas figures, Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh , who have both since been killed. Israel says it also killed Deif in an airstrike, but Hamas has never confirmed his death. The warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant were issued by a three-judge panel in a unanimous decision. The panel said there were reasonable grounds to believe that both men bear responsibility for the war crime of starvation and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts. The judges said the lack of food, water, electricity, fuel and specific medical supplies created conditions “calculated to bring about the destruction of part of the civilian population in Gaza,” including the deaths of children due to malnutrition and dehydration. They also found that by preventing hospital supplies and medicine from getting into Gaza, doctors were forced to operate, including performing amputations, without anesthesia or with unsafe means of sedation that led to “great suffering.” Israeli diplomatic officials said the government is lobbying the international community to speak out against the warrants and is considering an appeal to the court. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity pending a formal decision on how the government will proceed. Despite the warrants, none of the suspects is likely to face judges in The Hague anytime soon. Member countries are required to detain suspects facing a warrant if they set foot on their soil, but the court has no way to enforce that. For example, Russian President Vladimir Putin, wanted on an ICC warrant for alleged war crimes in Ukraine, recently visited Mongolia, a member state in the court but also a Russian ally. He was not arrested. Still, the threat of arrest now complicates any travel abroad by Netanyahu and Gallant. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the warrants are binding on all 27 members countries of the European Union. France signaled it could arrest Netanyahu if he came to its territory. Foreign Ministry spokesman Christophe Lemoine called it a “complex legal issue” but said France supports the court’s actions. “Combating impunity is our priority,” he said. “Our response will align with these principles.” Hamas in a statement welcomed the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant but made no mention of the one against Deif. Israel’s opposition leaders fiercely criticized the ICC’s move. Benny Gantz, a retired general and political rival to Netanyahu, said it showed “moral blindness” and was a “shameful stain of historic proportion that will never be forgotten.” Israel’s campaign has caused heavy destruction across Gaza and driven almost the entire population of 2.3 million people from their homes, leaving most dependent on aid to survive. Two days after Hamas’ attack on southern Israel, Gallant announced a total seal on Gaza, vowing not to let in food, fuel or other supplies. Under U.S. pressure, Israel began allowing a trickle of humanitarian aid to enter a few weeks later. Israel now says it puts no limit on the supplies permitted into Gaza, and it blames the U.N. distribution system. But Israel's official figures show the amount of aid it has let in has plunged since the beginning of October. The U.N has blamed Israeli military restrictions, along with widespread lawlessness that has led to theft of aid shipments. The case at the ICC is separate from another legal battle Israel is waging at the top U.N. court, the International Court of Justice, in which South Africa accuses Israel of genocide , an allegation Israeli leaders staunchly deny. Lawyers for Israel argued in court that the war in Gaza was a legitimate defense of its people and that it was Hamas militants who were guilty of genocide. ___ Associated Press journalists Raf Casert in Brussels, Mike Corder in The Hague and Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed to this report. Molly Quell, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message More World News Brazilian police indict former President Bolsonaro and aides over alleged 2022 coup attempt Nov 21, 2024 2:14 PM Death toll in Gaza from Israel-Hamas war passes 44,000, Palestinian officials say Nov 21, 2024 2:12 PM UN nuclear agency’s board condemns Iran for the 2nd time this year for failing to fully cooperate Nov 21, 2024 1:09 PM Featured FlyerNone
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THE HAGUE (AP) — The world’s top war-crimes court issued arrest warrants Thursday for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and Hamas’ military chief, accusing them of crimes against humanity in connection with the 13-month war in Gaza. The warrants said there was reason to believe Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant have used “starvation as a method of warfare” by restricting humanitarian aid and have intentionally targeted civilians in Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza — charges Israeli officials deny. The action by the International Criminal Court came as the death toll from Israel’s campaign in Gaza passed 44,000 people, according to local health authorities, who say more than half of those killed were women and children. Their count does not differentiate between civilians and combatants. Experts say hunger has become widespread across Gaza and may have reached famine levels in the north of the territory, which is under siege by Israeli troops. Israel says it has been working hard to improve entry of aid, though the trickle of supplies into Gaza remains near the lowest levels of the war. Netanyahu condemned the warrant against him, saying Israel “rejects with disgust the absurd and false actions” by the court. In a statement released by his office, he said: “There is nothing more just than the war that Israel has been waging in Gaza.” Gallant, in a statement, said the decision "sets a dangerous precedent against the right to self-defense and moral warfare and encourages murderous terrorism.” The warrant marked the first time that a sitting leader of a major Western ally has been accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity by a global court of justice. The decision turns Netanyahu and the others into internationally wanted suspects, putting them at risk of arrest when they travel abroad and potentially further isolating them . Israel and its top ally, the United States, are not members of the court. But others of Israel's allies, including some of its close European friends, are put in an awkward position. Several, including France, welcomed the court's decision and signaled they might arrest Netanyahu if he visited. The move “represents the most dramatic step yet in the court’s involvement in the conflict between Israel and Hamas," said Anthony Dworkin, senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations. Israeli leaders, politicians and officials across the spectrum denounced the warrants and the ICC. The new defense minister, Israel Katz, who replaced Gallant earlier this month, said Thursday’s decision is “a moral disgrace, entirely tainted by antisemitism, and drags the international judicial system to an unprecedented low.” Human rights groups applauded the move. The warrants against both sides “break through the perception that certain individuals are beyond the reach of the law,” the associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch, Balkees Jarrah, said in a statement. The decision came six months after ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan requested the warrants. The court issued a warrant for Mohammed Deif, head of Hamas’ armed wing, over the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks that triggered Israel’s offensive in Gaza. It said it found reasonable grounds to believe Deif was involved in murder, rape, torture and the taking of hostages amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity. In the Hamas-led attack, militants stormed into southern Israel, killing 1,200 people — mostly civilians — and taking some 250 others hostage. Around 100 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, around a third of them believed to be dead. Khan withdrew requests for warrants for two other senior Hamas figures, Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh , who have both since been killed. Israel says it also killed Deif in an airstrike, but Hamas has never confirmed his death. The warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant were issued by a three-judge panel in a unanimous decision. The panel said there were reasonable grounds to believe that both men bear responsibility for the war crime of starvation and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution and other inhumane acts. The judges said the lack of food, water, electricity, fuel and specific medical supplies created conditions “calculated to bring about the destruction of part of the civilian population in Gaza,” including the deaths of children due to malnutrition and dehydration. They also found that by preventing hospital supplies and medicine from getting into Gaza, doctors were forced to operate, including performing amputations, without anesthesia or with unsafe means of sedation that led to “great suffering.” Israeli diplomatic officials said the government is lobbying the international community to speak out against the warrants and is considering an appeal to the court. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity pending a formal decision on how the government will proceed. Despite the warrants, none of the suspects is likely to face judges in The Hague anytime soon. Member countries are required to detain suspects facing a warrant if they set foot on their soil, but the court has no way to enforce that. For example, Russian President Vladimir Putin, wanted on an ICC warrant for alleged war crimes in Ukraine, recently visited Mongolia, a member state in the court but also a Russian ally. He was not arrested. Still, the threat of arrest now complicates any travel abroad by Netanyahu and Gallant. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the warrants are binding on all 27 members countries of the European Union. France signaled it could arrest Netanyahu if he came to its territory. Foreign Ministry spokesman Christophe Lemoine called it a “complex legal issue” but said France supports the court’s actions. “Combating impunity is our priority,” he said. “Our response will align with these principles.” Hamas in a statement welcomed the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant but made no mention of the one against Deif. Israel’s opposition leaders fiercely criticized the ICC’s move. Benny Gantz, a retired general and political rival to Netanyahu, said it showed “moral blindness” and was a “shameful stain of historic proportion that will never be forgotten.” Israel’s campaign has caused heavy destruction across Gaza and driven almost the entire population of 2.3 million people from their homes, leaving most dependent on aid to survive. Two days after Hamas’ attack on southern Israel, Gallant announced a total seal on Gaza, vowing not to let in food, fuel or other supplies. Under U.S. pressure, Israel began allowing a trickle of humanitarian aid to enter a few weeks later. Israel now says it puts no limit on the supplies permitted into Gaza, and it blames the U.N. distribution system. But Israel's official figures show the amount of aid it has let in has plunged since the beginning of October. The U.N has blamed Israeli military restrictions, along with widespread lawlessness that has led to theft of aid shipments. The case at the ICC is separate from another legal battle Israel is waging at the top U.N. court, the International Court of Justice, in which South Africa accuses Israel of genocide , an allegation Israeli leaders staunchly deny. Lawyers for Israel argued in court that the war in Gaza was a legitimate defense of its people and that it was Hamas militants who were guilty of genocide. Associated Press journalists Raf Casert in Brussels, Mike Corder in The Hague and Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed to this report.A melee broke out at midfield of Ohio Stadium after Michigan upset No. 2 Ohio State 13-10 on Saturday. After the Wolverines' fourth straight win in the series, players converged at the block "O" to plant its flag. The Ohio State players were in the south end zone singing their alma mater in front of the student section. When the Buckeyes saw the Wolverines' flag, they rushed toward the 50-yard line. Social media posts showed Michigan offensive lineman Raheem Anderson carrying the flag on a long pole to midfield, where the Wolverines were met by dozens of Ohio State players and fights broke out. Buckeyes defensive end Jack Sawyer was seen ripping the flag off the pole and taking the flag as he scuffled with several people trying to recover the flag. A statement from the Ohio State Police Department read: "Following the game, officers from multiple law enforcement agencies assisted in breaking up an on-field altercation. During the scuffle, multiple officers representing Ohio and Michigan deployed pepper spray. OSUPD is the lead agency for games and will continue to investigate." Michigan running back Kalel Mullings on FOX said: "For such a great game, you hate to see stuff like that after the game. It's bad for the sport, bad for college football. At the end of the day, some people got to learn how to lose, man. "You can't be fighting and stuff just because you lost the game. We had 60 minutes and four quarters to do all that fighting. Now people want to talk and fight. That's wrong. It's bad for the game. Classless, in my opinion. People got to be better." Once order was restored, officers cordoned the 50-yard line, using bicycles as barriers. Ohio State coach Ryan Day in his postgame press conference said he wasn't sure what happened. "I don't know all the details of it. But I know that these guys are looking to put a flag on our field and our guys weren't going to let that happen," he said. "I'll find out exactly what happened, but this is our field and certainly we're embarrassed at the fact we lost the game, but there's some prideful guys on our team that weren't just going to let that happen." The Big Ten has not yet released a statement on the incident. --Field Level Media
Labour councillor Conor Sheehan makes bold prediction on who will win fourth seat in Limerick City
Seattle Seahawks CB Coby Bryant is the latest victim of NFL's label being the 'No Fun League'Global surface temperatures reached record levels in 2024 as the impacts of climate change are being felt around the world. All countries, no matter their development status, are affected by climate change. For example, this month has seen floods in Valencia, Spain, claiming more than 200 lives, and flooding in Colombia causing a state of emergency affecting over 200,000 people. In China, the rated precipitation in the first three quarters of this year was 10.5 percent higher than in the same period of a normal year, with extreme rainfall, and sudden and frequent floods and climate-related disasters resulting in a large number of casualties, relocation of people and economic losses. Multilateral talks at the Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, have delivered some progress, especially on climate finance. The just-concluded Baku conference was “finance COP” where a new goal for climate finance was negotiated. According to the deal, developed countries have promised to contribute $300 billion as climate finance per year by 2035. Though it was far short of the trillion dollars sought by the least- and less-developed countries, it was a hard-won achievement for developing countries. For the first time the total climate finance includes a possible voluntary contribution from China, which acknowledges its position both as a major economy and a major investor in green technology in developing countries. The participating countries also agreed to the rules of the carbon market, which should boost market-oriented cooperation on climate and enable businesses to support the recovery of nature and promotion of carbon removal technologies in other countries. However, there was less progress on climate mitigation aspects. At the COP28 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates, last year, the participating countries agreed to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 and transition away from fossil fuels. Yet it was difficult to reach a consensus on the mitigation work program which would continue this progress in Baku, with the participating countries eventually deciding to revisit the issue next year and continue talking meanwhile. The slow progress on multilateral issues means there is increasing focus on bilateral, sub-national and country-group dialogues that can offer ways to further progress. Amid rising political tensions worldwide, strong bilateral cooperation between the United Kingdom and China can provide the international leadership needed to boost the fight against climate change this decade. During the COP29 talks in Baku, British and Chinese leaders met at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and agreed to cooperate on areas such as clean energy and climate change as part of their efforts to address shared global challenges. Following this meeting, and to support both multilateral and bilateral cooperation, we propose that our expert climate change committees advance our interactions. Our committees have different mandates and institutional structures. Nevertheless, we can collaborate effectively to better advise our countries on how to decarbonize and achieve green transition in a way that creates jobs and boosts the economy. The UK climate committee recently advised the UK government on its 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution, while the Chinese climate committee is advising the Chinese government on how to achieve its dual carbon goals and minimize climate risks, as well as support the international climate negotiations. Both countries could reach a broader and more practical consensus with support from their respective climate committees. Supported by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment and Chatham House, the UK climate science community and policy experts have been collaborating since 2013 in order to better understand the risks posed by climate change, and the policies needed to improve resilience against climate change. In the last two years, this collaboration has deepened. The two countries’ climate committees have jointly explored how to provide constructive advice to our governments across a range of agreed issues of common interest and relevance to our respective national context. We, hereby, propose that our expert committees advance the interaction within their current institutional structures to help us better advise our respective governments. There is a need to support our countries’ efforts to decarbonize their energy supply while ensuring energy security. Both countries have ambitious plans to increase renewable energy generation and our committees can support this effort through their work. The committees can further deepen their collaboration on evaluating climate risks, especially in urban and regional areas, and river basins. We also need to better understand and link climate governance with nature governance. Piers Forster, interim chair of the UK Climate Change Committee, presented the results from the London Climate Resilience Review at two China-led events on the sidelines of COP29, and the UK climate committee is preparing a report on how well can the UK adapt to climate change. As an expert in the Chinese delegation, Wang Yi, vice-chair of China Expert Panel on Climate Change, was invited to the “China Pavilion” on the sidelines the official events of the UNFCCC, and various events organised by the business communities and social organisations at COP29, to speak on the progress of the climate conference, share China’s experience in energy transition, and policies to address climate change and overcome common challenges. Experts and scholars from the UK and China, who have been engaged in cooperation and have attended several UN climate change conferences, shared their research findings and assessment of climate risk assessment, asserting the need to link climate governance with nature management. And by deepening their cooperation, they can improve our climate risk assessments and response. In order to build a greener, more climate-resilient and inclusive sustainable society, the UK and China should take full advantage of their successful climate cooperation over the past decade to further deepen our cooperation. The two countries could also consider issuing a joint statement to promote the multilateral climate agenda. And workstreams could be set up with focus on clean energy transition, co-governance of climate and nature, reducing climate risks, strengthening climate-resilience, green finance to work together with other countries to promote the green transition in an equitable, just and orderly manner, and facilitate sustainable economic development. We look forward to the UK and China formally submitting comprehensive and strong NDCs for 2035. By progressing toward these targets, the two sides can set an example for the rest of the world to follow.
Ohio State, Michigan players involved in postgame scuffle
NoneNextNav CEO Mariam Sorond sells $4.15 million in stockThe rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping education, challenging traditional teaching methods, and redefining how students prepare for the future. Po-Shen Loh, a mathematician and educator, is at the forefront of efforts to adapt education to this evolving landscape. He argues that conventional approaches, such as rote learning and test-focused preparation, are no longer sufficient to equip students with the skills they need to thrive in an AI-driven world. Instead, Loh advocates for an educational model that prioritizes creative thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world . Learn more about Loh’s fantastic approach, which combines math, communication, and even drama to foster a new generation of independent thinkers. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or lifelong learner, his ideas offer a refreshing perspective on how education can prepare us not just for exams, but for life in an . If you’ve ever felt that traditional methods fall short in equipping us for the challenges ahead, you’re not alone—and Loh’s innovative strategies might just hold the key to bridging that gap. Traditional rote learning is becoming obsolete in an AI-driven world, as it fails to foster critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability—skills essential for future success. Po-Shen Loh advocates for an educational model that emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, creative problem-solving, and real-world applications to prepare students for modern challenges. Innovative teaching methods, such as integrating math with drama and improvisation, enhance both analytical and communication skills, making learning more dynamic and engaging. Loh’s approach incorporates social entrepreneurship, encouraging students to address real-world problems, develop empathy, and cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset for societal impact. Adapting education to an AI-driven future requires a holistic focus on critical thinking, collaboration, and adaptability, equipping students to thrive in rapidly changing environments. By focusing on these elements, Loh’s vision seeks to prepare students for a future where adaptability and innovation are paramount. His approach challenges the status quo, urging educators to rethink how they teach and how students learn in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Rote memorization has been a cornerstone of education for decades, but its limitations are becoming increasingly evident in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven environment. While memorization may help students perform well on standardized tests, it does little to nurture critical thinking, creativity, or adaptability—skills that are essential for success in the modern world. Loh critiques the overemphasis on repetitive test preparation, arguing that it stifles creativity and mental flexibility. In an era where AI tools like can instantly generate answers, the ability to think independently and critically evaluate solutions is far more valuable than simply recalling information. Students must move beyond memorization to develop the capacity to tackle complex, unfamiliar problems with confidence and ingenuity. The reliance on rote learning also fails to prepare students for the dynamic challenges they will face in their careers. As industries evolve and new technologies emerge, the ability to adapt, innovate, and think critically will be far more important than the ability to regurgitate facts. Loh’s perspective underscores the need for an educational shift that prioritizes these higher-order skills. To address the shortcomings of traditional education, Loh has developed an innovative system that integrates math education with communication skills and creative problem-solving. This approach emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore concepts through a blend of technical and creative disciplines. By doing so, it fosters a deeper understanding of subjects while also enhancing essential soft skills. Key elements of this system include: Students engage with a combination of technical subjects, such as mathematics, and creative fields, like drama and improvisation. This blend helps them develop both analytical and expressive abilities, creating a more well-rounded skill set. Activities such as improvisation encourage students to articulate their thought processes clearly and confidently. These exercises not only improve communication skills but also promote collaboration and teamwork. Lessons are designed to extend beyond theoretical knowledge, challenging students to apply their learning to practical, real-world scenarios. This approach bridges the gap between academic concepts and their practical utility. By combining technical expertise with creative exploration, this model ensures that students are not only mastering content but also developing the ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. These skills are invaluable in any field, making this approach a powerful tool for preparing students for the future. Enhance your knowledge on by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Loh’s vision for education extends beyond academic achievement to encompass social impact. As a social entrepreneur, he emphasizes the importance of creating educational systems that benefit all stakeholders, including students, educators, and communities. His initiatives often involve public outreach and community engagement, providing students with opportunities to address real-world challenges while gaining a deeper understanding of societal needs. Examples of this approach include: Students participate in initiatives that tackle local challenges, fostering a sense of purpose and responsibility. These projects allow students to see the tangible impact of their skills and efforts. Through hands-on experiences, students learn to identify opportunities, develop innovative solutions, and create meaningful change. This mindset prepares them to navigate complex problems with confidence and creativity. By interacting with diverse groups and addressing societal issues, students develop empathy and a broader understanding of how their skills can contribute to the greater good. This hands-on, purpose-driven approach not only reinforces academic concepts but also instills a sense of social responsibility. It prepares students to think critically about how they can use their knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world. As AI continues to transform industries and redefine the skills required for success, education must evolve to keep pace. Loh highlights the importance of teaching students how to think critically, adapt to new challenges, and approach problems creatively. Traditional methods, such as solving routine math problems, are being replaced by exercises that encourage innovative thinking and interdisciplinary exploration. Loh also emphasizes the value of cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset. Whether students aspire to launch their own ventures or innovate within existing organizations, this mindset equips them to: Recognize and seize possibilities in a rapidly changing environment. Take calculated risks and learn from failures, turning setbacks into valuable learning experiences. Develop solutions that address real-world needs and contribute to lasting progress. By fostering these skills, Loh’s approach prepares students to navigate the complexities of an AI-driven world with confidence and creativity. It equips them to not only adapt to change but also to drive innovation and lead in their chosen fields. Loh’s educational philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach that combines technical expertise with essential soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and adaptability. By blending disciplines like math, drama, and social entrepreneurship, his model creates a well-rounded learning experience that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world. This vision goes beyond academic success. It aims to empower students to become independent learners, creative thinkers, and effective problem-solvers. By fostering these qualities, Loh’s approach equips students with the tools they need to excel in an era defined by rapid technological change and global interconnectedness. Whether you are a student, educator, or professional, Loh’s insights offer valuable guidance on how to thrive in a world where creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability are the keys to success. His innovative educational model serves as a blueprint for preparing individuals not just for academic achievement, but for lifelong growth and contribution. Media Credit:‘Netanyahu Needs War’, Can’t Be Trusted to Stick to Lebanon Ceasefire - Mohammad Marandi
( MENAFN - The Conversation) With the help of new scientific and technological developments , the HIV/Aids research community is increasingly turning to an ambitious goal: finding a cure for HIV/Aids. If the world is to get close to meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goal of reducing HIV infections and Aids-related deaths by 90% between 2010 and 2030, a cure for HIV/Aids would be a game changer. Much progress has been made during the 30 years in the fight against HIV/Aids. An HIV diagnosis is no longer the death sentence it was in the 1990s. Antiretroviral treatment – which targets and suppresses the replication of the virus within the body – means people living with HIV are able to live long, fulfilling lives , without the risk of spreading the HIV virus to others. However, even with antiretroviral treatments, living with HIV increases the risk of other serious health issues. All of this is ends up putting an economic burden on states, through increased healthcare spending and losses in workplace productivity. South Africa is a good example of a country that would benefit from the discovery of a cure. South Africa's been providing free antiretrovirals through the public healthcare system since 200 . It is the largest factor behind the 50% drop in the number of new HIV infections in South Africa from 2010 to 2021. But the programme is expensive. In 2023, South Africa's total budget for HIV response was R30-billion (around US$1.5 billion). This amount includes funding from international sources, such as the US President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief , better known as Pepfar. Consider that the country's total national healthcare budget for 2022/23 was approximately R64.5 billion (around US$3.5billion). Also, we never know when the external funding, or part of it, might dry up. Funding for HIV/Aids response is heavily dependent on political will and leadership . Recent political developments in high income countries, such as the US presidential election, would suggest a reluctance and even opposition towards pumping funds into healthcare beyond their own borders, and especially in Africa. I work in HIV prevention and cure research. My work focuses specifically on understanding interactions between HIV and the immune system and how these may be harnessed and translated for HIV prevention or cure. There is hope and optimism that HIV can be cured, with various strategies beginning to show some promise, with partial successes reported. Cure research is in its infancy, but there are exciting hints that gene therapy and immunotherapies might lead us to a cure. So far, there have been an seven people , worldwide, cured of HIV. They were persons living with HIV who developed cancer, and were treated for the cancer through bone marrow transplantation, a form of gene therapy, and this also led to elimination of HIV because the bone marrow transplants were from donors lacking HIV coreceptors – proteins on cell surfaces that viruses use to bind and enter cells. But a bone marrow transplant is a radical ,expensive and often dangerous procedure . There is no way we can view it as an avenue for developing a cure when there is reliable ART on hand. In contrast, some strategies involving a combination of early treatment and immunotherapy are also showing some promise and these could be developed further for long-term control of HIV without antiretroviral therapy. While curing a viral infection is difficult, medical science is already able to eradicate some viral infections, such as hepatitis C . Others, such as the common cold and Covid-19 , are effectively eliminated by a well-functioning immune system. The challenge with HIV is that it locks into an individual's DNA , making it particularly difficult to get rid of. It also mutates a lot , which is why it is so difficult to develop a vaccine against it. That has led us to explore why some people appear able to neutralise HIV when not taking antiretroviral therapy but on once-off or temporary therapy that boosts their immune system. This seems to happen in some people who are diagnosed with HIV early on in their infection and immediately go on ART, and then interrupt the treatment but simultaneously take the special immune-boosting treatments with antiviral properties. So far, the HIV research community is unable to predict who will react in this way, but the Africa Health Research Institute and the HIV Pathogenesis Programme, within the University of KwaZulu-Natal, are conducting research among a group of young women from a community in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, with a high HIV infection rate. These young women are invited to participate in a socio-economic empowerment programme that has them attend a clinic twice weekly for training in basic computer skills, HIV prevention and other life skills. At each attendance, each woman is tested for HIV. If one is found to have acquired the HIV virus, she is immediately given a standard course of ART. After a while, immune-boosting therapies that include broadly neutralising antibodies are added, and then the woman is asked to stop ART treatment under strict monitoring to establish whether she is able to control the virus on her own. If not, she is immediately returned to ART. Of more than 2,500 attendees since the study began a decade ago, 108 have become HIV-positive. Of these 108 living with HIV, 20 are participating in the cure clinical trial. The study is ongoing , and our hope is that this strategy will lead to long-term control of the virus in the absence of ART in some of the women. This can then help us to better understand the immune mechanisms that may control the virus without antiretroviral therapy, and this could lead to a cure. Much work still needs to be done but finding a cure is important, especially for the 40-million people across the world living with HIV. The world is not on track to meet the UN goal of ending the HIV/Aids pandemic by 2030. While the rate of HIV infection has dropped remarkably, it is still much higher than the targets the global healthcare community has set itself. For example, in 2023 there were new HIV infections worldwide against a target of 500 000 to achieve the aim of nearly eradicating HIV by 2030. It is vital that HIV/Aids research continues in Africa because, while the incidence of HIV infection is reducing markedly , this status quo could change at any time and we could be back fighting a pandemic. It would be good to do so with better tools. Also, we must find a cure or vaccine that is tailored to Africa, where HIV is a young woman's disease , while also seeking the same for the regions where HIV infection is rising – Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe. We're playing a long game, but there is definitely hope, and that is definitely something to celebrate. MENAFN30112024000199003603ID1108941970 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.New Peacock drama revisits one of the deadliest terror attacks in UK history
A melee broke out at midfield of Ohio Stadium after Michigan upset No. 2 Ohio State 13-10 on Saturday. After the Wolverines' fourth straight win in the series, players converged at the block "O" to plant its flag. The Ohio State players were in the south end zone singing their alma mater in front of the student section. When the Buckeyes saw the Wolverines' flag, they rushed toward the 50-yard line. Social media posts showed Michigan offensive lineman Raheem Anderson carrying the flag on a long pole to midfield, where the Wolverines were met by dozens of Ohio State players and fights broke out. Buckeyes defensive end Jack Sawyer was seen ripping the flag off the pole and taking the flag as he scuffled with several people trying to recover the flag. A statement from the Ohio State Police Department read: "Following the game, officers from multiple law enforcement agencies assisted in breaking up an on-field altercation. During the scuffle, multiple officers representing Ohio and Michigan deployed pepper spray. OSUPD is the lead agency for games and will continue to investigate." Michigan running back Kalel Mullings on FOX said: "For such a great game, you hate to see stuff like that after the game. It's bad for the sport, bad for college football. At the end of the day, some people got to learn how to lose, man. "You can't be fighting and stuff just because you lost the game. We had 60 minutes and four quarters to do all that fighting. Now people want to talk and fight. That's wrong. It's bad for the game. Classless, in my opinion. People got to be better." Once order was restored, officers cordoned the 50-yard line, using bicycles as barriers. Ohio State coach Ryan Day in his postgame press conference said he wasn't sure what happened. "I don't know all the details of it. But I know that these guys are looking to put a flag on our field and our guys weren't going to let that happen," he said. "I'll find out exactly what happened, but this is our field and certainly we're embarrassed at the fact we lost the game, but there's some prideful guys on our team that weren't just going to let that happen." The Big Ten has not yet released a statement on the incident. --Field Level Media
NEW YORK , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Directors of Omnicom OMC declared a quarterly dividend of 70 cents per outstanding share of the corporation's common stock. The dividend is payable on January 10, 2025 to Omnicom common shareholders of record at the close of business on December 20, 2024. About Omnicom Omnicom OMC is a leading provider of data-inspired, creative marketing and sales solutions. Omnicom's iconic agency brands are home to the industry's most innovative communications specialists who are focused on driving intelligent business outcomes for their clients. The company offers a wide range of services in advertising, strategic media planning and buying, precision marketing, retail and digital commerce, branding, experiential, public relations, healthcare marketing and other specialty marketing services to over 5,000 clients in more than 70 countries. For more information, visit www.omnicomgroup.com . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/omnicom-declares-dividend-302324450.html SOURCE Omnicom Group Inc. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.A multibillion-dollar plan to create “clean” hydrogen from Australian brown coal and ship it to Japan is on the brink of collapse. Japanese media has reported Kawasaki Heavy Industries has withdrawn from the trial, blaming procurement delays. The controversial plan was billed as a lifeline for the Latrobe Valley’s ageing brown coal industry. Under the plan, hydrogen would be extracted from coal, creating the world’s first liquefied hydrogen supply chain. Kawasaki Heavy Industries has reportedly withdrawn from plan to create “clean” hydrogen from brown coal sourced from the Latrobe Valley. Credit: Eamon Gallagher Proponents said the joint venture, led by Japan’s largest industrial conglomerates, would use commercially unproven CO2 capture and storage technology to sequester carbon in the Bass Strait. It was also to send the super-cooled hydrogen extracted from coal in purpose-built bulk carriers out of Hastings to Kawasaki in the Asian nation’s industrial heartland. The Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain project (HESC) was a partnership between international fossil energy companies, including Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd (KHI), Royal Dutch Shell and AGL. It was supported by a $2.35 billion investment from the Japanese government, and a $50 million in start-up investment from the Victorian government in 2018. Japanese outlet Nikkei reported that Kawasaki Heavy Industries had abandoned its bid to establish an international supply chain to procure hydrogen from Australia because it had become “difficult to procure hydrogen in Australia within the deadline”. “With the completion of the demonstration test by fiscal year 2030, as originally scheduled, being an absolute requirement for ensuring competitiveness, the company has changed hydrogen procurement to domestic,” Nikkei reported. “It has also downsized its hydrogen carriers and is now steering toward a more ‘realistic’ solution.”WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- President-elect Donald Trump said Saturday that he wants real estate developer Charles Kushner , father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, to serve as ambassador to France. Trump made the announcement in a Truth Social post, calling Charles Kushner “a tremendous business leader, philanthropist, & dealmaker." Kushner is the founder of Kushner Companies, a real estate firm. Jared Kushner is a former senior Trump adviser who is married to Trump’s eldest daughter, Ivanka. The elder Kushner was pardoned by Trump in December 2020 after pleading guilty years earlier to tax evasion and making illegal campaign donations. Prosecutors alleged that after Charles Kushner discovered his brother-in-law was cooperating with federal authorities in an investigation, he hatched a scheme for revenge and intimidation. Kushner hired a prostitute to lure his brother-in-law, then arranged to have the encounter in a New Jersey motel room recorded with a hidden camera and the recording sent to his own sister, the man’s wife, prosecutors said. Kushner eventually pleaded guilty to 18 counts including tax evasion and witness tampering. He was sentenced in 2005 to two years in prison — the most he could receive under a plea deal, but less than what Chris Christie, the U.S. attorney for New Jersey at the time and later governor and Republican presidential candidate, had sought. Christie has blamed Jared Kushner for his firing from Trump’s transition team in 2016, and has called Charles Kushner’s offenses “one of the most loathsome, disgusting crimes that I prosecuted when I was U.S. attorney.” Trump and the elder Kushner knew each other from real estate circles and their children were married in 2009. ___ Tucker reported from Newtown, Pennsylvania.Financing a just transition will be the main topic at the meeting in Edinburgh. Sir Keir Starmer and John Swinney will discuss financing action to tackle climate change at a summit bringing together leaders from the devolved nations and Ireland. Financing a just transition will be the main topic at the British-Irish Council (BIC) meeting in Edinburgh on Friday. Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris will be present at the summit, as will Tanaiste Micheal Martin. As well as Scotland’s First Minister, Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan and Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill will also take part along with other ministers from the devolved administrations. The chief ministers of the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey also attend the BIC. Alongside the Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden will represent the UK Government. Formed in the wake of the Good Friday Agreement, this will be the 42nd meeting of the intergovernmental forum. Discussions are expected to cover the opportunity clean power presents for the economy and how to share best practice across the British Isles. Mr Swinney said: “Scotland will welcome political leaders to our capital city as we gather for the 42nd summit of the British-Irish Council – a meeting which also marks 25 years since the first council was held following the Good Friday Agreement. “As we reflect on 25 years, it is testament to the value of the British-Irish Council that the partnership conceived a quarter of a century ago has prevailed in the midst of unprecedented change and challenge. “The meeting in Edinburgh provides a forum for us to discuss the greatest challenge facing the next 25 years – that of climate change and delivering a just transition. “The need to share our knowledge, our efforts and our actions is no less urgent today than it was when the first British-Irish Council meeting was held in 1999.”
