UK net migration 20% lower in 2024 than first thought, ONS says

Vigils were held at three Gaelic football grounds in Louth to honor five young people who tragically lost their lives in a two-vehicle crash in Gibstown on Saturday. The community gathered to mourn the victims and support their families during this difficult time. The incident has deeply affected the local area, prompting an outpouring of grief and solidarity among residents.

More than 80 countries have united in a call for a roadmap to phase out fossil fuels during the UN Cop30 climate summit. This coalition includes nations from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Pacific, as well as EU member states and the UK. The countries are advocating for a transition away from fossil fuels to be a central outcome of the negotiations, despite facing opposition from petrostates and other stakeholders. The summit is seen as a critical moment for global climate action.

The Caribbean's slavery reparations body, led by Prof Sir Hilary Beckles, has called for a 'mutually beneficial' restorative justice program from the UK during its first official visit. The commission aims to address the historical injustices of slavery and colonialism, clarifying that their goal is not to 'break the British Treasury' with demands for trillions of pounds, but to find a solution to rectify the colonial legacy. This visit marks a significant step in the Caribbean's pursuit of justice.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is under pressure to clarify her recent statement regarding asylum admissions, which indicated that only a 'few hundred' asylum seekers would be allowed to enter the UK under new refugee schemes. Mahmood has defended her hardline policies, including family deportations and asset confiscation from claimants, by asserting her commitment to work with the UNHCR to establish 'safe and legal' routes for 'genuine' asylum seekers.

The Northern Ireland Secretary, Benn, has dismissed claims that the new legacy bill poses a national security threat. He expressed confidence that the bill will successfully pass through the Commons, indicating a positive outlook on its acceptance. The debate surrounding the bill is set to commence, with Benn opening the discussions in Parliament. This development highlights the government's commitment to advancing the legislation despite concerns raised by critics regarding its implications for national security.

Morwenna Loughman expressed that delays in her rapist's trial have exacerbated her trauma. Recent research indicates that one-third of trials were postponed last year, highlighting systemic issues within the judicial process. Loughman's experience underscores the emotional toll that such delays can impose on survivors of sexual violence, raising concerns about the effectiveness and timeliness of legal proceedings in addressing these serious crimes.

The EU has confirmed that the UK must contribute financially to its budget to maintain access to the European single market, particularly in electricity. This decision, articulated by Ireland's Europe minister Thomas Byrne, reflects a consensus among EU member states. Byrne emphasized that Ireland supports the UK's closer engagement with the EU, indicating a potential shift in post-Brexit relations. This requirement may pose significant implications for the UK's future economic interactions with Europe.

The UK has introduced a voluntary health assessment for flat-faced dog breeds, a move welcomed by breeders but met with skepticism regarding its effectiveness. Flat-faced dogs, such as the English bulldog, French bulldog, and pug, have gained popularity due to their perceived cuteness, but their extreme physical traits often lead to serious health issues. Animal welfare advocates have criticized the breeding practices that prioritize appearance over health, highlighting the need for better standards in the industry.