The announcement came during a press conference on Monday, where Mr. Trudeau addressed growing internal party pressure amid declining poll numbers and increasing dissatisfaction among Liberal legislators. Recent surveys indicate that the Liberals face a significant defeat in the next federal election, scheduled no later than October.

Parliament, which was initially set to reconvene on January 27th, will now remain suspended until March 24th. This move delays any immediate confidence motions from the opposition and ensures Mr. Trudeau will still be in office when U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office on January 20th. President Trump has previously threatened tariffs that could severely impact Canada’s economy.

Reflecting on his decision, Trudeau stated, “This country deserves a real choice in the next election, and it has become clear to me that if I’m having to fight internal battles, I cannot be the best option in that election.”

Mr. Trudeau, who first assumed office in November 2015, has won reelection twice and is among Canada’s longest-serving prime ministers. However, his popularity began to wane two years ago as Canadians grappled with rising living costs and a severe housing crisis.

Efforts to stabilize his leadership were further strained last month after a clash with Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Trudeau reportedly attempted to demote Ms. Freeland, prompting her resignation and a scathing public letter accusing him of prioritizing “political gimmicks” over meaningful governance.

The opposition Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, are preparing for a potential early election. Poilievre, known for his vocal support of the 2022 trucker protests against COVID-19 mandates, has been gaining momentum among voters dissatisfied with the Liberal government’s handling of economic challenges.

As the political landscape in Canada undergoes a significant shift, all eyes remain on the upcoming Liberal leadership race and its implications for the nation’s future.

Operation Fern and Increased Deportations

Under Operation Fern, a total of 132 individuals illegally residing in Ireland were deported this year. The Gardaí, Ireland’s national police service, will now use chartered flights to increase the number of deportations. This method is expected to be more efficient, particularly for deporting groups of people to the same destination. The use of charter flights is seen as a practical solution to manage the logistics of deporting larger groups, which can be challenging with commercial flights.

Government’s Plan and Support

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has confirmed that the government has put out a tender to assess the market’s capacity for chartered flights. The aim is to have an arrangement in place to run these flights later in the year. Smaller planes may also be used for individuals deemed dangerous and requiring Garda accompaniment. The government has not disclosed the cost of these flights, citing commercial sensitivity. The number of people deported via charter flights will depend on operational necessities, safety factors, cost-benefit analyses, destination, and aircraft type.

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on justice, Jim O’Callaghan, supports this plan, emphasising that the international protection system must have practical consequences for those who fail their applications. He argues that it is unfair to allow individuals who have failed the legal process to remain in the country, undermining the system’s integrity. O’Callaghan believes that enforcing deportation orders is essential to maintaining public confidence in the immigration system.

No Such Thing as ‘Unvetted Migrant’

In response to concerns about the vetting of migrants, Detective Chief Superintendent Aidan Minnock of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) has stated that there is no such thing as an “unvetted migrant” in Ireland. Every individual seeking international protection is fingerprinted and identified. Claims that asylum seekers are criminals posing a threat to public safety have been rejected, with the majority being economic migrants seeking better opportunities. Minnock emphasised that the GNIB conducts thorough checks on all individuals entering the country, ensuring that those with criminal records are detained and monitored before deportation.

Organised Crime and Migrant Exploitation

However, Minnock acknowledged the presence of organised crime groups from Albania, Romania, and China involved in drug dealing, car theft, exploitation, and people smuggling in Ireland. These groups exploit legitimate businesses and vulnerable individuals, imposing significant debts on migrants and forcing them into criminal activities. The GNIB has identified networks of smaller groups specialising in different areas of criminal enterprise, such as advertising, cybercrime, finances, and the production of forged documents. Legitimate businesses, including haulage companies and airline staff, are also being exploited to facilitate these criminal activities.

Significant Increase in Asylum Seekers

Ireland has seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking international protection, rising from 13,000 in 2023 to over 21,000 in the past year. The GNIB has emphasised that any person identified as a threat to the state is detained and monitored before deportation. The increase in asylum seekers has put additional pressure on the immigration system, prompting the government to explore more efficient methods of managing deportations.

Details of the Charter Flights

The charter flights will begin later this year, with each flight carrying between 20 and 30 people. The government has not disclosed the cost of these flights, citing commercial sensitivity. The number of people deported via charter flights will depend on operational necessities, safety factors, cost-benefit analyses, destination, and aircraft type. The Department of Justice has stated that this method of deportation has been used in the past and is also employed by other EU member states. In addition to charter flights, commercial flights will continue to be used for deportations.

The Department of Justice has also added two extra countries, Botswana and Algeria, to the “safe” list, bringing the total to ten countries. This list includes Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Georgia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Serbia, and South Africa. The inclusion of these countries on the safe list means that individuals from these nations are less likely to be granted asylum, as they are considered to be generally safe.

In a heartfelt statement, his son Chip Carter expressed gratitude for his father’s enduring legacy. “My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honoring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs,” he said.

Mr. Carter, who had been in hospice care since February 2023, spent his final days in the small Georgia town where he was born and later managed a peanut farm before rising to political prominence.

Serving as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981, Jimmy Carter’s presidency was marked by significant milestones, including the historic Camp David Accords in 1978, which brought a landmark peace agreement between Israel and Egypt.

Despite a presidency often viewed as turbulent, especially due to economic challenges and the Iran hostage crisis, Carter’s post-presidential years cemented his legacy. Through the Carter Center, he became a global advocate for human rights, disease eradication, and free elections worldwide.

His resilience in the face of personal health battles, including a brain cancer diagnosis in 2015, inspired many. As the longest-living former US president, Carter’s dedication to humanitarian causes earned him widespread admiration and respect globally.

Jimmy Carter’s life was defined by service, humility, and an unwavering commitment to bettering the world. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah village, West Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dr. Singh’s journey epitomized dedication, scholarship, and unwavering commitment to public service. He earned a Master’s degree in Economics from Panjab University, Chandigarh, and went on to complete his doctorate at the University of Oxford.

Dr. Manmohan Singh served as Prime Minister from May 22, 2004, to May 26, 2014, heading the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government for a remarkable 3,656 days. This tenure established him as India’s third longest-serving Prime Minister, following Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.

Before stepping into the political spotlight, Dr. Singh had a distinguished career in public service. His journey began in 1971 as the Economic Advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Trade, followed by his appointment as Chief Economic Advisor in 1976. He went on to hold key positions such as Director of the Reserve Bank of India, Alternate Governor for India at the Asian Development Bank, and Member (Finance) at the Atomic Energy and Space Commissions.

However, Dr. Singh’s most enduring legacy remains the landmark economic reforms of 1991, initiated during his tenure as Finance Minister. These reforms deregulated India’s economy, opened up foreign investments, and set the nation on a path to rapid economic growth and globalization.

During his time as Prime Minister, Dr. Singh championed inclusive growth, social welfare, and foreign diplomacy. He skillfully navigated India through global economic crises and strengthened the country’s strategic global partnerships.

India today mourns not just a leader but a statesman whose vision and dedication laid the groundwork for the nation’s economic resurgence. His loss marks the end of an era, but his contributions will continue to inspire generations.

Increased Financial Requirements

One of the most notable changes is the increase in financial thresholds for visa applicants. Students and skilled workers will need to demonstrate higher financial reserves to qualify for visas.

For Students:

• Students applying for a UK study visa will need to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses. The new requirements are:
  • £1,483 per month for courses in London.
  • £1,136 per month for courses outside London.
• For a one-year master’s programme, this translates to £13,347 for London and £10,224 for other regions, covering nine months of expenses.
• These funds must be held in the applicant’s account for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting the visa application.

For Skilled Workers:

• First-time skilled worker visa applicants must demonstrate an income of at least £38,700 to cover living costs and accommodation.
• Applicants must also have sponsorship from a UK employer approved by the Home Office. If sponsorship is not available, the required funds must be held for at least 28 days before applying.

Increased Visa Fees

Visa application fees will see minor increases across various categories, including tourist, family, spouse, child, and student visas. However, exemptions will remain for applicants with disabilities, carers, and those working in specific sectors such as healthcare, the armed forces, and certain talent-based roles.

New Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

Starting January 8, 2025, visitors from countries that currently do not require a visa for short stays in the UK will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This includes travellers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and other non-European nations. The ETA will cost £10 and will be valid for multiple entries over a two-year period or until the traveller’s passport expires.

From April 2, 2025, EU nationals will also be required to obtain an ETA before entering the UK. This move aims to streamline the entry process and enhance security by confirming traveller eligibility before they leave their country of origin.

Impact on Travellers and Workers

These changes are expected to have a significant impact on international students, skilled workers, and travellers. The increased financial requirements may pose challenges for some applicants, particularly those from countries with lower income levels. However, the UK government believes these measures are necessary to manage the effects of immigration on the housing market and the economy.

For travellers, the introduction of the ETA system will add an extra step to the travel process, but it is designed to make border crossings more efficient and secure. The ETA will allow for smoother entry into the UK by reducing time and confusion at border crossings.

The elderly tourist had been feeling unwell and sought medical help at the Fort Kochi Government Hospital last Friday. His health worsened despite testing positive for dengue the following day. Although his platelet count was reported to be within normal ranges, he was advised to consume nutritious foods and medications to combat the virus.

Tragically, the homestay operator noticed that Holowenko’s room remained closed throughout Sunday. Alarmed, he contacted Antony Kureethara, the local Opposition Leader and councillor, prompting an immediate police response. Upon entering the room, authorities discovered Holowenko’s lifeless body.

The news of his death was swiftly relayed to his son and the Irish embassy. Preparations are underway to conduct a thorough death audit at Ernakulam General Hospital to determine the precise cause of Holowenko’s death. This incident has sparked increased vigilance in the area concerning the spread of dengue fever.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Gatwick Airport confirmed, “A large part of the South Terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while we continue to investigate a security incident.” The airport reassured travelers that the safety and security of passengers and staff remain their top priority. Efforts are ongoing to resolve the issue as swiftly as possible.

Meanwhile, a controlled explosion was carried out by the Metropolitan Police on a suspicious package discovered near the US Embassy in London. The package was located in Nine Elms, south of the River Thames.

The Metropolitan Police stated, “We can confirm that the ‘loud bang’ reported in the area a short time ago was a controlled explosion carried out by officers. Enquiries are still ongoing, and cordons will remain in place for the time being.”

The US Embassy also addressed the situation on X, explaining that local authorities were handling “a suspicious package” near the premises. Roads in the vicinity were closed as a precautionary measure.

Travelers are advised to check with the airport and their airlines for updates on the situation at Gatwick South Terminal.

“The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv has received specific information of a potential significant air attack on November 20,” the Embassy stated on its website. Out of precaution, Embassy operations have been suspended, and employees instructed to shelter in place.

Ukraine’s deployment of the U.S.-made ATACMS missiles, capable of striking targets up to 300 kilometers away, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Six missiles were reportedly fired at a military facility in Russia’s Bryansk region, with Russia claiming its air defenses intercepted five of them and partially damaged the sixth.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov condemned Washington’s decision to provide Kyiv with these weapons, calling it a “new phase of the Western war against Russia.” Lavrov suggested the strikes could not have occurred without U.S. technical assistance and accused the West of pursuing further escalation.

In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree broadening the conditions under which Moscow could deploy nuclear weapons. The doctrine now allows for their use against non-nuclear states if they receive support from nuclear powers. Despite this move, White House officials stated there had been no observed change in Russia’s nuclear posture, dismissing the rhetoric as “irresponsible.”

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga urged Western allies to maintain resolve, dismissing Russian nuclear threats as mere “saber-rattling.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of using advanced weaponry to counteract attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.

The U.S. policy shift has sparked significant global debate. While it strengthens Ukraine’s military capacity, it risks further complicating the delicate geopolitical balance as NATO countries remain wary of direct involvement in the conflict.

As tensions rise, the world watches closely, bracing for potential fallout from this latest development in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.

The 2024 US Presidential Election has been one of the most contentious and closely watched in recent history. Early polls indicated a tight race between former President Donald Trump and incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris. A notable poll from Iowa showed Harris overcoming Trump, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this election.

Donald Trump, born June 14, 1946, in New York, has carved out a uniquely controversial path in American politics. Bursting onto the political scene with his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump secured the White House by winning the Electoral College, even as he lost the popular vote to Hillary Clinton. His presidency was defined by sweeping policy changes, two historic impeachments, and a deeply polarizing leadership style.

Despite his 2020 election defeat to Joe Biden, Trump remained a dominant force within the Republican Party, ultimately launching his 2024 presidential bid. His campaign centers on key issues like immigration, economic reform, and national security.

The 2024 campaign saw several high-stakes interactions between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, as both candidates fiercely competed in crucial battleground states. Trump energized his base with rallies in North Carolina and Pennsylvania, while Harris focused her efforts on Michigan and Pennsylvania. The race was filled with intense and heated exchanges, with Trump frequently attacking Harris’s policies and leadership, adding to the electrified atmosphere of the campaign.

As Election Day unfolded, voters across the nation turned out in record numbers. Polling stations began to open at 13:00 GMT, with the first polls closing at 01:00 GMT on Wednesday morning. Early results showed a neck-and-neck race, with both candidates claiming victories in various battleground states. The first exit polls released indicated that key issues for voters included the economy, healthcare, and the state of democracy.

In a surprising move, Donald Trump declared victory before the final votes were counted. Addressing his supporters in Florida, Trump stated, “This is a magnificent victory for the American people,” and claimed to have won the popular vote. His declaration came amid ongoing vote counts in several key states, adding to the election’s tension.

As the vote count continued, both campaigns prepared for potential legal battles. The focus remained on seven crucial swing states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and North Carolina. These states were expected to determine the final outcome of the election, with both candidates making their final pushes in these regions.

Key Dates and Events

• November 5, 2024: Election Day, with polling stations opening at 13:00 GMT and the first polls closing at 01:00 GMT on November 6.
• November 6, 2024: Ongoing vote count and early results continue to come in, with both campaigns closely monitoring the situation.
• Mid-December 2024: The Electoral College is expected to meet to formally cast their votes for the President and Vice President.
• January 6, 2025: Congress will convene to count the Electoral College votes and officially declare the winner of the election.
• January 20, 2025: Inauguration Day, where the newly elected President and Vice President will be sworn into office.

Valencia, the eastern region hardest hit by the floods, has reported at least 202 fatalities, with additional lives lost in Castilla La Mancha and Andalusia. The relentless floodwaters have left communities isolated, prompting the setup of a temporary morgue in a local convention center and a significant rescue operation spearheaded by 500 soldiers.

As rescue efforts persist, the region remains on high alert, with a new weather warning issued for Huelva in southwestern Spain due to ongoing severe conditions. The impact of the storm has been devastating, with approximately 75,000 homes without electricity. Emergency services, including firefighters, have resorted to extracting petrol from abandoned vehicles to power generators, crucial for restoring electricity in affected areas.

The catastrophic rainfall recorded a staggering 491mm in just eight hours, a figure nearly matching the annual precipitation average, causing unprecedented destruction to infrastructure. This deluge has swept away roads, rail tracks, and bridges, underscoring the intensity of the storm.

In a display of international solidarity, Ireland’s Taoiseach Simon Harris has reached out to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, expressing deep sorrow and shock over the tragic loss of life. Meanwhile, the Spanish meteorological agency has issued a red alert for the province of Huelva, highlighting the ongoing risk as the storm system continues to affect the region.