Net Serviços de Comunicação of Brazil and Desarrolladora Homex of Mexico are the winners of the first edition of the “Garrigues-Affinitas Prizes for Good Corporate Governance in Latin America.” The prizes were delivered this afternoon at the Intercontinental Hotel in Madrid during the 8th Latibex Forum, which has brought together more than 70 Latin American companies.
Net Serviços de Comunicação was the winner in the category “Latibex Company with the best corporate governance practices” and Desarrolladora Homex won in the category “Registered Latin American company (non-Latibex) with the best corporate governance practices”
Antonio Zoido, Chairman of the Madrid Stock Exchange, and Trinidad Jiménez, Secretary of State for Ibero-America, delivered the prizes. Trinidad Jiménez congratulated both prize-winners, “which succeeded in applying good rules of corporate governance, sometimes going beyond their own standards and those of their countries, which has even more merit.”
The purpose of the Garrigues-Affinitas Prizes for Good Corporate Governance in Latin America is to recognize the efforts made by Latin American companies in implementing good corporate governance and transparency policies.
The prizes will be awarded annually, and the winners will be announced during the Latibex Forum, an event organized by Latibex for Latin-American companies which trade in Euros on the Madrid Stock Exchange.
The jury for the first edition of the prizes was chaired by Antonio Garrigues, president of Garrigues law firm and Affinitas. In selecting the prize-winners, the jury considered shareholders’ rights, fair treatment, the role of interest groups, communication and the transparency and responsibility of the candidates’ boards of directors, among other factors.
Net Serviços de Comunicação is the largest cable television operator in Latin America. Founded in 1991, the company currently operates in 44 cities in Brazil, providing services to more than six million subscribers.
Net Serviços de Comunicação stands out for its high degree of social responsibility, which has led the company to promote many educational, cultural and environmental projects. “With this prize everyone in our company is a winner. We are proud to receive it because transparency and good corporate governance was the first decision we took in our company. We firmly believe that it is one of the necessities of our business,” affirmed Edgar Prado Lopes, Director of Treasury Services for Net Serviços de Comunicação.
Desarrolladora Homex, S.A. was founded in Mexico in 1989 and has focused on the design, construction and sale of affordable entry-level and middle-income housing. One of Mexico’s largest construction companies, in 2004 Desarrolladora received the “Socially-Responsible Business” award given by the Mexican Center for Philanthropy and Alliance for Corporate Social Responsibility in Mexico. “The prize was awarded to Homex, but I know that the investors are happiest of all, because it means that we are doing the right thing ethically,” said Eustaquio de Nicolás, chairman of Homex’s board of directors.
Along with the prize winners, the finalists for the Garrigues-Affinitas Prize were YPF Repsol and Molinos Río de la Plata (Argentina); Suzano Petroquímica (Brazil); Endesa Chile and CMPC (Chile); Bancolombia and Interconexión Eléctrica S.A. (Colombia); Bimbo (Mexico); Pro-Futuro AFP and Ferreyros S.A. (Peru). At the award ceremony, Antonio Garrigues encouraged all Latin American companies to follow the finalists’ example and make advances in the introduction of ethical practices: “No one can question that ethics are profitable. There is no future without good corporate governance.”
Affinitas was created on February 4, 2001 by four law firms: Garrigues, which promoted the alliance; Barbosa, Müssnich & Aragão Advogados (Brazil), Bruchou, Fernández Madero, Lombardi & Mitrani Abogados (Argentina) and Mijares, Angoitia, Cortés y Fuentes S.C. (Mexico). The law firms Garrigues Portugal, Barros & Errázuriz (Chile), Gómez-Pinzón Abogados (Colombia) and Miranda e Amado Abogados (Peru) have since joined the alliance. Currently, Affinitas unites 2500 professionals working in 40 offices throughout 12 countries.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Monaco elected to the UN Commission on Sustainable Development
During the meeting of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) that took place on 27 July 2006, the Principality of Monaco was elected, for the first time, to the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development.The Commission is composed of 53 Member States seating for a three year term. Every year, a third of the membership is renewed by the ECOSOC.
The function of the Commission is to monitor the application of Agenda 21 which was adopted in 1992 at the Rio Summit. During its next session, which will take place in New York from 30 April to 11 May 2007, the Commission will discuss the issues of air pollution, climate change and energy consumption with sustainable development.
The Mandate of the Principality of Monaco will begin at the end of that session.
- View the internet website on the Commission on Sustainable Development
London 2012 Olympics survey
"Almost two thirds of Londoners think the capital's tax payers will end up footing the bill for the 2012 Olympics going over budget"
(According to BBC London poll)
Mayor Ken Livingstone said the Olympics would cost Londoners 38-pence a week - the same as the price of a walnut whip.
To review questions and answers go to BBC London 2012 Olympic Survey by clicking here
Sunday, December 03, 2006
BENEDICT XVI: "MY TRIP IS NOT POLITICAL BUT PASTORAL"
BENEDICT XVI, explained last week that he was not visiting Turkey for political reasons but for pastoral mission to catholic community at Islamic Country for the troubles that this community finds to go on with their lives whith less rights than "muslims".
He also explained that he doesn't disagree for Turkey to go in EU but also doesn't agree as much Spanish newspapers as "El Páis" said last week trying to make more people support "Alliance of Civilisations" project promoted by Mr Rodriguez the Spanish president.
For more details please press the following LINKS:
Nov, 26 Calls for trip
Nov, 28 1st trip release
Nov, 29 2nd trip release (4 releases)
He also explained that he doesn't disagree for Turkey to go in EU but also doesn't agree as much Spanish newspapers as "El Páis" said last week trying to make more people support "Alliance of Civilisations" project promoted by Mr Rodriguez the Spanish president.
For more details please press the following LINKS:
Nov, 26 Calls for trip
Nov, 28 1st trip release
Nov, 29 2nd trip release (4 releases)
Committee of the Regions Group adopts recommendations on legal and illegal immigration policies for Europe
Isidoro Gottardo, President of the EPP Group in the Committee of the Regions (CoR) believes that "the EU needs a more organised and coordinated European policy on migration and immigration, involving Member States and cooperating with local and regional authorities". In the framework of the EPP Group in CoR´s annual extraordinary meeting in Madrid on 27th October 2006, he also called for the sharing of responsibilities and financial burdens to be an integral part of any European approach. The EPP asks Commissioner Frattini to evaluate how to actively involve local and regional representatives in framing immigration policies, starting with the Tripoli Conference between the EU and the African Union scheduled for 22nd and 23rd November 2006. The declaration which was adopted in Madrid also recommends that based on a principle of solidarity, emergency financial instruments be created for areas poles identified as centres of strongest migration influxes. The EU and the Member States should also secure adequate financial means and reinforce specific programmes needed to integrate immigrants in the political and social life of the host country in the form of language training, cultural and civic training, and teaching programmes on European values.
PRESS to read full article
PRESS to read full article
Friday, June 30, 2006
EU-US summit: transatlantic cooperation to be intensified
Meeting on 21 June at the Vienna EU-US summit, EU and US leaders committed themselves to strengthen their global partnership by adopting a common line towards global challenges.
"When America and the EU work together, we can accomplish big things," said President Bush. "Working together, the EU and the US may not be enough to solve the many challenges before us. But without the joint efforts of the EU and the US, these global challenges will be impossible to meet."
The leaders discussed key foreign policy issues, global security, strengthening trade and the transatlantic economy, and cooperating further on energy and climate change.
Commission President José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Council and Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel and US President George W. Bush will meet at the EU-US Summit on 21 June in Vienna to discuss foreign policy co-operation, energy security, economy and trade, and other global challenges. On energy, leaders are expected to step up EU-US cooperation to a strategic level and to promote a set of principles for responsible energy policies worldwide. Iran, the Middle East and the promotion of democracy are expected to dominate the foreign policy agenda.
Other participants at the summit will be Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner, Commissioner for Trade Mandelson, and Austrian Foreign Minister Plassnik as well as High Representative Javier Solana from the EU side and Secretary of State Rice from the US side.
President Barroso said: ”EU-US relations have strengthened considerably over the last year and we are working together systematically to address common economic, political and environmental challenges. With shared values and interests, the EU and the US are natural partners to take the lead. Our Summit meeting will confirm this productive year and look to strengthen further our global partnership.”
IssuesThe four main topics on the agenda are:
Foreign Policy – focusing on Iran, the Middle East and promotion of democracy.
Energy - strengthening EU-US strategic cooperation on energy and advancing principles of good practice in energy markets.
Economy and trade - moving towards conclusion of the Doha WTO round negotiations, maintaining open investment regimes, and adopting a strategy for the enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights in third countries. The EU will also raise the need to extend the US Visa Waiver Programme to all citizens of EU Member States.
Global challenges - improving ways to meet the challenge of climate change.
In the margins of the Summit, Commissioner for External Relations and Neighborhood Policy Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Austrian Foreign Minister and Council President in office Ursula Plassnik and US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will sign a Higher Education and Vocational Training Agreement aiming at stimulating further exchangesbetween the peoples of the EU and the US and improving the quality of human resource development
In the margins of the Summit Vice President Verheugen and Commissioner Peter Mandelson and US Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez will also launch a joint EU - US Action Strategy on the global enforcement of intellectual property right. This ground-breaking agreement envisages closer customs co-operation, including more data sharing.
Timing
Leaders will meet for a working session in the morning of 21 June, followed by a working lunch. A Press conference by Commission President José Manuel Barroso, Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel and US President George W. Bush is planned for 21 June at 14:30 hours.
-European Community Press Releases-
"When America and the EU work together, we can accomplish big things," said President Bush. "Working together, the EU and the US may not be enough to solve the many challenges before us. But without the joint efforts of the EU and the US, these global challenges will be impossible to meet."
The leaders discussed key foreign policy issues, global security, strengthening trade and the transatlantic economy, and cooperating further on energy and climate change.
Commission President José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Council and Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel and US President George W. Bush will meet at the EU-US Summit on 21 June in Vienna to discuss foreign policy co-operation, energy security, economy and trade, and other global challenges. On energy, leaders are expected to step up EU-US cooperation to a strategic level and to promote a set of principles for responsible energy policies worldwide. Iran, the Middle East and the promotion of democracy are expected to dominate the foreign policy agenda.
Other participants at the summit will be Commissioner Ferrero-Waldner, Commissioner for Trade Mandelson, and Austrian Foreign Minister Plassnik as well as High Representative Javier Solana from the EU side and Secretary of State Rice from the US side.
President Barroso said: ”EU-US relations have strengthened considerably over the last year and we are working together systematically to address common economic, political and environmental challenges. With shared values and interests, the EU and the US are natural partners to take the lead. Our Summit meeting will confirm this productive year and look to strengthen further our global partnership.”
IssuesThe four main topics on the agenda are:
Foreign Policy – focusing on Iran, the Middle East and promotion of democracy.
Energy - strengthening EU-US strategic cooperation on energy and advancing principles of good practice in energy markets.
Economy and trade - moving towards conclusion of the Doha WTO round negotiations, maintaining open investment regimes, and adopting a strategy for the enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights in third countries. The EU will also raise the need to extend the US Visa Waiver Programme to all citizens of EU Member States.
Global challenges - improving ways to meet the challenge of climate change.
In the margins of the Summit, Commissioner for External Relations and Neighborhood Policy Benita Ferrero-Waldner, Austrian Foreign Minister and Council President in office Ursula Plassnik and US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will sign a Higher Education and Vocational Training Agreement aiming at stimulating further exchangesbetween the peoples of the EU and the US and improving the quality of human resource development
In the margins of the Summit Vice President Verheugen and Commissioner Peter Mandelson and US Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez will also launch a joint EU - US Action Strategy on the global enforcement of intellectual property right. This ground-breaking agreement envisages closer customs co-operation, including more data sharing.
Timing
Leaders will meet for a working session in the morning of 21 June, followed by a working lunch. A Press conference by Commission President José Manuel Barroso, Austrian Chancellor Wolfgang Schüssel and US President George W. Bush is planned for 21 June at 14:30 hours.
-European Community Press Releases-
Thursday, June 22, 2006
NEW EUROPA NEWS RELEASE: The renewed European Sustainable Development Strategy 2005-2010
Following the review of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy 2001 launched by the Commission in 2004 and on the basis of contributions from the Council, the European Parliament, the European Economic and Social Committee and others, the European Council adopted in June 2006 an ambitious and comprehensive renewed Sustainable Development Strategy for an enlarged European Union.
This document sets out a single, coherent strategy on how the EU will more effectively live up to its long-standing commitment to meet the challenges of sustainable development. It reaffirms the need for global solidarity and recognises the importance of working with partners outside the EU, including those rapidly developing countries which will have a significant impact on global sustainable development.
Supplement to the communication about the review of the Strategy :
ESTAT Publication : Sustainable Development Indicators
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Iraq conflict could be devastating for rural economy
Emergency appeal for $86 million launched
Conflict could be devastating for Iraq's rural economy with consequences on the country's capacity to produce food, FAO warned today in the wake of its recent launch of a $86 million appeal to help meet the emergency.
Close to two-thirds of Iraq's 24.5 million people rely entirely for their daily sustenance on food baskets provided under the UN's Oil-for-Food Programme, halted since the war began.
FAO, responsible for the Oil-for-Food Programme's agricultural component, said Iraq's farmers will require seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, machinery, fuel, spare parts and other tools they need to plant, harvest and secure current and future crops.
Animal feed, vaccines and medicines are needed for the farmers' livestock.
Saving the "bread basket"
FAO's prime concern is the approaching harvest of the winter wheat and barley crop, expected to begin in late April and estimated at between 1.5 and 1.7 million tonnes of grain.
"Loss of the winter harvest, especially in Iraq's northern 'bread basket' provinces, which account for more than half of the country's entire cereal production, would further aggravate what is already a difficult situation," said Laurent Thomas, Chief, Special Emergency Programmes Service.
"All efforts have to be made to save this harvest throughout the country where access will be feasible, by making sure farmers are in position with their combine harvesters working, and fuel, spare parts and storage in place," said Thomas.
As compelling is the need to ensure that planting for the irrigated spring crop of vegetable, maize and rice proceeds on schedule.
The vegetable crop, a source of much-needed cash as well as an essential supply of the vitamins, proteins and micronutrients missing from the food-aid baskets, should be underway now.
FAO is appealing for more than $20 million for three emergency projects to secure the grain harvest and the spring and fall plantings.
There are six other projects in the $86 million appeal, all designed to:
protect harvest;
increase food production;
prevent outbreaks of animal diseases;
ensure water supplies in rural areas;
coordinate relief efforts.
FAO also needs funds to improve, plan and coordinate food security activities in collaboration with other UN agencies and NGO's and to monitor their impact on the nutritional status of the population.
Water a priority
Any disruption to the water supply, which provides both drinking water and irrigation, will damage crops and livestock production.
Provision has also been made in the FAO appeal for pipes, pumps, drills and technical expertise required to set-up emergency water supplies and repair damaged irrigation networks, if needed.
A $9.8 million project is designed to support the country's 4 000 poultry farms, another essential source of the animal proteins missing from the food basket.
Prior to the outbreak of the current conflict, Iraq was producing up to 155 000 metric tonnes of poultry meat and 2 billion eggs annually.
The lack of veterinary services, vaccines, drugs and quarantine controls could also result in the spread of animal diseases with serious economic impact in Iraq and possibly with impact on the whole region.
Veterinary checks on the border of neighbouring countries and vaccination campaigns will be required to prevent outbreaks of animal diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease and pestes des petits ruminants among the country's 1.5 million head of cattle and 18 million sheep and goats.
"These animals are the wealth of a large part of Iraq's rural population," said Thomas. "So if people move, they are going to take their animals with them, increasing the risk of animal diseases spreading within the country and possibly across borders."
Conflict could be devastating for Iraq's rural economy with consequences on the country's capacity to produce food, FAO warned today in the wake of its recent launch of a $86 million appeal to help meet the emergency.
Close to two-thirds of Iraq's 24.5 million people rely entirely for their daily sustenance on food baskets provided under the UN's Oil-for-Food Programme, halted since the war began.
FAO, responsible for the Oil-for-Food Programme's agricultural component, said Iraq's farmers will require seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, machinery, fuel, spare parts and other tools they need to plant, harvest and secure current and future crops.
Animal feed, vaccines and medicines are needed for the farmers' livestock.
Saving the "bread basket"
FAO's prime concern is the approaching harvest of the winter wheat and barley crop, expected to begin in late April and estimated at between 1.5 and 1.7 million tonnes of grain.
"Loss of the winter harvest, especially in Iraq's northern 'bread basket' provinces, which account for more than half of the country's entire cereal production, would further aggravate what is already a difficult situation," said Laurent Thomas, Chief, Special Emergency Programmes Service.
"All efforts have to be made to save this harvest throughout the country where access will be feasible, by making sure farmers are in position with their combine harvesters working, and fuel, spare parts and storage in place," said Thomas.
As compelling is the need to ensure that planting for the irrigated spring crop of vegetable, maize and rice proceeds on schedule.
The vegetable crop, a source of much-needed cash as well as an essential supply of the vitamins, proteins and micronutrients missing from the food-aid baskets, should be underway now.
FAO is appealing for more than $20 million for three emergency projects to secure the grain harvest and the spring and fall plantings.
There are six other projects in the $86 million appeal, all designed to:
protect harvest;
increase food production;
prevent outbreaks of animal diseases;
ensure water supplies in rural areas;
coordinate relief efforts.
FAO also needs funds to improve, plan and coordinate food security activities in collaboration with other UN agencies and NGO's and to monitor their impact on the nutritional status of the population.
Water a priority
Any disruption to the water supply, which provides both drinking water and irrigation, will damage crops and livestock production.
Provision has also been made in the FAO appeal for pipes, pumps, drills and technical expertise required to set-up emergency water supplies and repair damaged irrigation networks, if needed.
A $9.8 million project is designed to support the country's 4 000 poultry farms, another essential source of the animal proteins missing from the food basket.
Prior to the outbreak of the current conflict, Iraq was producing up to 155 000 metric tonnes of poultry meat and 2 billion eggs annually.
The lack of veterinary services, vaccines, drugs and quarantine controls could also result in the spread of animal diseases with serious economic impact in Iraq and possibly with impact on the whole region.
Veterinary checks on the border of neighbouring countries and vaccination campaigns will be required to prevent outbreaks of animal diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease and pestes des petits ruminants among the country's 1.5 million head of cattle and 18 million sheep and goats.
"These animals are the wealth of a large part of Iraq's rural population," said Thomas. "So if people move, they are going to take their animals with them, increasing the risk of animal diseases spreading within the country and possibly across borders."
IRS Plans Surveys to Improve Taxpayer Services
The Internal Revenue Service will survey nearly 50,000 people this month to help the agency improve the way it provides taxpayer services.
An Opinion Survey of Taxpayer Resources and Services will be sent to 40,000 taxpayers as part of the Taxpayer Assistance Blueprint (TAB), a multi-year effort by the IRS to review its customer service operations and craft plans for continued improvements. Another survey of 10,000 taxpayers will help the IRS determine the effectiveness of its forms and publications.
“At the IRS, we are committed to providing a balanced program of quality service and equitable enforcement of the law. We strive to provide efficient and effective taxpayer services within available resources. This Blueprint will provide a solid foundation on which to base decisions about our taxpayer services portfolio,” said IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson.
The IRS, the National Taxpayer Advocate and the IRS Oversight Board are collaborating on the TAB Project, which is intended to address questions about the taxpayers’ service preferences and needs. The IRS currently delivers services to taxpayers either electronically, through third parties such as tax practitioners or volunteer preparers, by mail, by telephone or through face-to-face assistance.
Taxpayers chosen at random will be asked 25 questions about how they use IRS services and how they would like to use IRS services. The questionnaire will be mailed to the taxpayers by an IRS-approved contractor. The survey to taxpayers does not ask for any financial or personal information nor should any be divulged. Individual responses will remain confidential.
Recognizing the importance of the clarity and effectiveness of forms, publications, and instructions to the delivery of quality taxpayer service, Media & Publications is at the same time surveying approximately 10,000 individual and business taxpayers, tax preparers and community-based partners to obtain their perspective on this aspect of IRS service.
The Media & Publications External Customer Satisfaction Survey will measure how satisfied respondents are with the information they get from the IRS and how well it equips them to understand and meet their obligations under federal tax laws. Questions will address the content, usefulness, format, graphics and delivery of IRS forms and publications. Customers will have the option of taking the survey by telephone or via the internet.
Both the TAB Opinion Survey of Taxpayer Resources and Services and the Media & Publications External Customer Satisfaction Survey are designed to provide IRS with greater and more accurate understanding of taxpayer service needs, preferences, and behavior. Both surveys will be repeated in future years, which will allow the IRS to continually refine and improve taxpayer services based on taxpayer preferences and needs.
Official News Release: Internal Revenue Services (US-IRS Department of Trasury)
An Opinion Survey of Taxpayer Resources and Services will be sent to 40,000 taxpayers as part of the Taxpayer Assistance Blueprint (TAB), a multi-year effort by the IRS to review its customer service operations and craft plans for continued improvements. Another survey of 10,000 taxpayers will help the IRS determine the effectiveness of its forms and publications.
“At the IRS, we are committed to providing a balanced program of quality service and equitable enforcement of the law. We strive to provide efficient and effective taxpayer services within available resources. This Blueprint will provide a solid foundation on which to base decisions about our taxpayer services portfolio,” said IRS Commissioner Mark W. Everson.
The IRS, the National Taxpayer Advocate and the IRS Oversight Board are collaborating on the TAB Project, which is intended to address questions about the taxpayers’ service preferences and needs. The IRS currently delivers services to taxpayers either electronically, through third parties such as tax practitioners or volunteer preparers, by mail, by telephone or through face-to-face assistance.
Taxpayers chosen at random will be asked 25 questions about how they use IRS services and how they would like to use IRS services. The questionnaire will be mailed to the taxpayers by an IRS-approved contractor. The survey to taxpayers does not ask for any financial or personal information nor should any be divulged. Individual responses will remain confidential.
Recognizing the importance of the clarity and effectiveness of forms, publications, and instructions to the delivery of quality taxpayer service, Media & Publications is at the same time surveying approximately 10,000 individual and business taxpayers, tax preparers and community-based partners to obtain their perspective on this aspect of IRS service.
The Media & Publications External Customer Satisfaction Survey will measure how satisfied respondents are with the information they get from the IRS and how well it equips them to understand and meet their obligations under federal tax laws. Questions will address the content, usefulness, format, graphics and delivery of IRS forms and publications. Customers will have the option of taking the survey by telephone or via the internet.
Both the TAB Opinion Survey of Taxpayer Resources and Services and the Media & Publications External Customer Satisfaction Survey are designed to provide IRS with greater and more accurate understanding of taxpayer service needs, preferences, and behavior. Both surveys will be repeated in future years, which will allow the IRS to continually refine and improve taxpayer services based on taxpayer preferences and needs.
Official News Release: Internal Revenue Services (US-IRS Department of Trasury)
DELAYS IN ISSUING SSNs TO MARSHALLESE LIVING IN THE U.S.
Sometimes Marshallese living in the United States experience difficulties and delays in obtaining a Social Security number (SSN). Reasons for those delays and ways to address the problem were discussed in a recent meeting between Ambassador Banny deBrum and Social Security Administration (SSA) officials.
SSA procedures effective 9/30/2002 require that the SSA employees confirm the identity and immigration status of any applicant with the Department of Homeland Security’s USCIS office (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services – formerly INS). Marshall Islanders are experiencing delays because the electronic verification system at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) currently lacks a code corresponding to the CFA/MIS status indicator on the I-94 form that Marshallese receive on entering the United States. Without the code, requests for verification of the I-94s issued to Marshallese applicants for SSNs must be sent from the SSA to the Department of Homeland Security via a paper-based process that can take anywhere from two weeks to three months.
The Department of Homeland Security is aware of the need to add the necessary code to their systems. The Embassy is following up on the issue with various U.S. agencies in order to make this a priority item at DHS. In addition, the SSA is working with the Embassy to craft a clear process by which any Marshallese facing delays in obtaining an SSN can easily follow up on their application. The SSA will also provide an updated version of the letter from one of their high-level officials explaining Marshallese eligibility for an SSN.
For Marshallese who are having problems getting jobs due to delays in processing of their SSNs, it should be noted that employers may, if they wish, hire someone who has already applied for and is waiting for an SSN. Below are links to information issued by the SSA and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for employers regarding the regulations for such cases.
Ambassador deBrum thanked the SSA officials at the meeting for their willingness to work together to resolve SSN-related problems for Marshallese citizens. He said, “We are here to ensure that the way is clear for Marshallese who come to the United States under the Compact of Free Association to live, work and go to school. We will continue to work with U.S. Government agencies to resolve these problems as soon as possible. At the same time, I encourage any Marshallese who are experiencing difficulties to continue to contact the Embassy so that we can be as responsive as possible to the needs of our communities here in the U.S.”
Official Release of the Republic of Marshall Islands
SSA procedures effective 9/30/2002 require that the SSA employees confirm the identity and immigration status of any applicant with the Department of Homeland Security’s USCIS office (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services – formerly INS). Marshall Islanders are experiencing delays because the electronic verification system at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) currently lacks a code corresponding to the CFA/MIS status indicator on the I-94 form that Marshallese receive on entering the United States. Without the code, requests for verification of the I-94s issued to Marshallese applicants for SSNs must be sent from the SSA to the Department of Homeland Security via a paper-based process that can take anywhere from two weeks to three months.
The Department of Homeland Security is aware of the need to add the necessary code to their systems. The Embassy is following up on the issue with various U.S. agencies in order to make this a priority item at DHS. In addition, the SSA is working with the Embassy to craft a clear process by which any Marshallese facing delays in obtaining an SSN can easily follow up on their application. The SSA will also provide an updated version of the letter from one of their high-level officials explaining Marshallese eligibility for an SSN.
For Marshallese who are having problems getting jobs due to delays in processing of their SSNs, it should be noted that employers may, if they wish, hire someone who has already applied for and is waiting for an SSN. Below are links to information issued by the SSA and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for employers regarding the regulations for such cases.
Ambassador deBrum thanked the SSA officials at the meeting for their willingness to work together to resolve SSN-related problems for Marshallese citizens. He said, “We are here to ensure that the way is clear for Marshallese who come to the United States under the Compact of Free Association to live, work and go to school. We will continue to work with U.S. Government agencies to resolve these problems as soon as possible. At the same time, I encourage any Marshallese who are experiencing difficulties to continue to contact the Embassy so that we can be as responsive as possible to the needs of our communities here in the U.S.”
Official Release of the Republic of Marshall Islands
Monday, June 05, 2006
Asian Development Bank Coordinating with Partners on Indonesia Earthquake Relief Assistance
ADB is working closely with the Government of Indonesia and other development partners, including the World Bank, United Nations, and Japan Bank for International Cooperation, on assessing the most effective ways to assist people affected by the 27 May earthquake.
ADB has initially offered US$10 million in immediate grant assistance and $50 million in concessional loans, for a total of $60 million, to help meet the rehabilitation and reconstruction needs.
“ADB has a wealth of experience in implementing projects in disaster affected areas,” said Rajat Nag, Director General of ADB’s Southeast Asia Department, who visited central Java and Yogyakarta two days after the earthquake. “We will continue to assess the needs in the area and are already exploring how we can support the Government of Indonesia in the medium term.”
ADB has put together an immediate response team, comprising experts from various sectors, and will take part in a joint Government-donor mission to the affected areas on 6-7 June 2006.
The Government of Indonesia, through the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), will lead the damage and loss assessment process. The Indonesia government has convened a series of meetings since the earthquake, and the joint Government-donor teams are setting priorities and dividing responsibilities for assistance beyond the initial rescue and relief efforts, such as ensuring adequate provision of housing and utilities.
ADB has long experience in several sectors in the affected areas, including roads, flood management systems, and hospitals. ADB has an ongoing road rehabilitation project in the area, for example, as well as a project to provide housing and community infrastructure support.
-Asian Development Bank-
ADB has initially offered US$10 million in immediate grant assistance and $50 million in concessional loans, for a total of $60 million, to help meet the rehabilitation and reconstruction needs.
“ADB has a wealth of experience in implementing projects in disaster affected areas,” said Rajat Nag, Director General of ADB’s Southeast Asia Department, who visited central Java and Yogyakarta two days after the earthquake. “We will continue to assess the needs in the area and are already exploring how we can support the Government of Indonesia in the medium term.”
ADB has put together an immediate response team, comprising experts from various sectors, and will take part in a joint Government-donor mission to the affected areas on 6-7 June 2006.
The Government of Indonesia, through the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), will lead the damage and loss assessment process. The Indonesia government has convened a series of meetings since the earthquake, and the joint Government-donor teams are setting priorities and dividing responsibilities for assistance beyond the initial rescue and relief efforts, such as ensuring adequate provision of housing and utilities.
ADB has long experience in several sectors in the affected areas, including roads, flood management systems, and hospitals. ADB has an ongoing road rehabilitation project in the area, for example, as well as a project to provide housing and community infrastructure support.
-Asian Development Bank-
Sunday, June 04, 2006
ONE MEGA MILLIONS TICKET WINS ESTIMATED $47 MILLION JACKPOT IN NEW JERSEY
One ticket matched all six Mega Millions numbers in the Friday, June 2, 2006 drawing, and now players are checking their tickets to see who won the estimated $47 million jackpot. The jackpot-winning ticket, which was purchased in Middlesex County, New Jersey, matched the numbers 3-10-18-36-38 and the Mega Ball number 41.
But that certainly wasn’t the only winner in Friday’s drawing. A total of 444,412 tickets won Mega Millions prizes. Here is the complete breakdown of prizes:
1 ticket matched all 6 numbers for the JACKPOT!
3 tickets matched 5 numbers for $250,000
25 tickets matched 4 numbers + the Mega Ball for $10,000
1,343 tickets matched 4 numbers for $150
1,412 tickets matched 3 numbers + the Mega Ball for $150
21,798 tickets matched 2 numbers + the Mega Ball for $10
68,926 tickets matched 3 numbers for $7
124,382 tickets matched 1 number + the Mega Ball for $3
226,522 tickets matched the Mega Ball for $2
Three tickets came within just one number of winning it all. Each of them matched the first five numbers and only missed the Mega Ball number. Those tickets were purchased in California, New York and Texas.
The jackpot for the Tuesday, June 6, 2006 Mega Millions drawing is $12 million.
Mega Millions is played in 12 states: California, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Texas, Virginia and Washington.
Mega Millions drawings are held Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM Eastern Time, 10:00 PM Central Time and 8:00 PM Pacific Time.
*California law restricts California Lottery games to pari-mutuel prizes. Prize amounts in California will differ from the fixed prize amounts shown here. Go to http://www.calottery.com/games/megamillions for the California Lottery Web site and prize amounts. Pari-mutuel prizes means that prize amounts vary with the number of tickets sold and the number of winning tickets in each prize category.
But that certainly wasn’t the only winner in Friday’s drawing. A total of 444,412 tickets won Mega Millions prizes. Here is the complete breakdown of prizes:
1 ticket matched all 6 numbers for the JACKPOT!
3 tickets matched 5 numbers for $250,000
25 tickets matched 4 numbers + the Mega Ball for $10,000
1,343 tickets matched 4 numbers for $150
1,412 tickets matched 3 numbers + the Mega Ball for $150
21,798 tickets matched 2 numbers + the Mega Ball for $10
68,926 tickets matched 3 numbers for $7
124,382 tickets matched 1 number + the Mega Ball for $3
226,522 tickets matched the Mega Ball for $2
Three tickets came within just one number of winning it all. Each of them matched the first five numbers and only missed the Mega Ball number. Those tickets were purchased in California, New York and Texas.
The jackpot for the Tuesday, June 6, 2006 Mega Millions drawing is $12 million.
Mega Millions is played in 12 states: California, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Texas, Virginia and Washington.
Mega Millions drawings are held Tuesdays and Fridays at 11:00 PM Eastern Time, 10:00 PM Central Time and 8:00 PM Pacific Time.
*California law restricts California Lottery games to pari-mutuel prizes. Prize amounts in California will differ from the fixed prize amounts shown here. Go to http://www.calottery.com/games/megamillions for the California Lottery Web site and prize amounts. Pari-mutuel prizes means that prize amounts vary with the number of tickets sold and the number of winning tickets in each prize category.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
New e-Gobernment via phone in Germany
The city of Essen, in the German state of North-Rhine Westphalia, will soon be the first
in the region to launch a comprehensive, voice-operated information and
communication portal to communicate with businesses and citizens.
The city authorities are planning to simplify access to its administrative services through a
new ‘eGovernment via telephone’ system due to be launched this autumn. Thanks to the new
voice-operated portal, citizens will be able to access most of the regularly required information
from public services, 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
The Essen project team was selected from a group of four participating communes and
regions in North Rhine-Westfalia. Their six-month pilot phase will give them the opportunity to
test the latest voice-activated software and its applicability in the provision of eGovernment
services to citizens and businesses.
To access e-Government services of Germany click HERE (only in german)
in the region to launch a comprehensive, voice-operated information and
communication portal to communicate with businesses and citizens.
The city authorities are planning to simplify access to its administrative services through a
new ‘eGovernment via telephone’ system due to be launched this autumn. Thanks to the new
voice-operated portal, citizens will be able to access most of the regularly required information
from public services, 24 hours a day and seven days a week.
The Essen project team was selected from a group of four participating communes and
regions in North Rhine-Westfalia. Their six-month pilot phase will give them the opportunity to
test the latest voice-activated software and its applicability in the provision of eGovernment
services to citizens and businesses.
To access e-Government services of Germany click HERE (only in german)
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Climate Change ¿What is the threat of Kyoto and how is the European Union commited in?
The European Union and Kyoto
The European Union is committed to reducing its 1990 levels of greenhouse gas emissions by 8% between the years 2008-2012 under the Kyoto Protocol on climage change. Meeting this target without damaging European competitiveness poses a major challenge. The European Union is determined to take the lead in the fight against climate change and has ratified by 1 June 2002 the Kyoto Protocol - a first step in a longer-term global environmental effort to protect our planet.
The protocol stes limits on greenhouse gas emissions for industrialised countries and the transition economies of Russia and the EU applicants in central and eastern Europe for a five-year period beginning in 2008.
In 2001, the European Commission has tabled in its report on its European Climate Change Programme and in a Communication to Council and Parliament a series of actions for the next two years that will help to reduce green house gas emissions. These actions concern the energy sector, transport and industry as well as so called cross cutting issues, which will have effects on all sectors.
Emissions trading
The proposal for a Directive on emissions trading is currently the most prominent climate change action for the Community. Emission trading can minimise the costs of compliance with the Kyoto Protocol and the European Commission, after extensive consultation with industry and Member States is proposing that an emission trading scheme, mainly for large energy intensive installations, should be introduced in 2005.
The scheme would apply to between 4,000 and 5,000 individual energy-intensive plants ( above a certain size ). Between them, these account for nearly half of the Union's total carbon dioxide emissions.
The scheme would cover electricity generators and producers of iron and steel, glass, cement, pottery and bricks. For the time being, it would not include the chemical industry, which is responsible for barely 1% of all direct emissions, nor the waste and transport sectors. Small and medium-sized businesses would also be largely excluded.
Under the proposal, every large industrial and energy installations covered by the scheme would be issued with a permit certifying its annual CO2 emission levels. If it succeeds in emitting less, it may sell its surplus certificates to an operator that has gone above the permitted ceiling. Financial penalties would be imposed on plants whose emissions exceeded the allowances they had been allocated or purchased.
The system's value is that it uses market forces to transfer the ability to reduce emissions to those who can achieve this most cheaply, and, by requiring producers to pay for extra allowances that may be required, is consistent with the 'polluter pays' principle.
Kyoto and competitiveness
Reducing compliance costs in meeting the 8% Kyoto target is essential if the international competitiveness of European companies is not to be undermined. This is especially true since US withdrawal from the process suggests that American businesses may face few costs in implementing their climate change measures.
Competition may also come from Russia. The collapse of its economy in the past decade means that its current level of emissions is way below the 2008-2012 Kyoto target. This could give its industry a potential advantage and encourage the country either to sell its surplus allowances or use them to attract inward investment in some industrial sectors.
The fact that Kyoto commits only industrialised countries to quantitative emission reduction targets may give the developing world a competitive edge with regard to greenhouse gas emissions. This could encourage some companies based in Europe to consider moving their operations overseas. However, distance from the EU market, a different regulatory environment and smaller pool of qualified labour should offset any such tendencies.
Another factor influencing competitiveness is the possibility available under the Kyoto Protocol to offset tree planting efforts and forestry management against emission reduction targets. Countries such as Canada, Japan and Russia will benefit proportionately more than the EU from this opportunity.
Costs of Kyoto
Leadership in the fight against climate change does not come without a price, although this would have to be balanced against the effects of inaction if no measures are taken against greenhouses gases emisssions. Because of the many variables involved, such as energy inputs, growth of GDP and trade-offs with other policy areas, it is impossible to give firm figures for the costs of compliance.
However, estimates for the annual cost to the Union as a whole range from less than 0.1% to nearly 1% of GDP. The relative costs for individual sectors will depend on whether some are called on to make greater reductions than others or whether a flat rate target is set across the board.
Energy-intensive sectors such as steel, basic chemicals and pulp and paper, precisely because they have already made significant emission reduction efforts, and face trough international competition, could incur higher marginal reduction costs.
On the other hand, companies moving early to develop, patent and implement the necessary technology to reduce emissions or produce alternative forms of energy may gain a competitive advantage.
The overall economic effects of addressing climate change under the Kyoto Protocol are very difficult to quantify. It is clear that there are risks. However, there are also potential opportunities.
Everything is possible, from triggering relocation of some industry to outside the EU to winning a competitive advantage by creating a stimulus for the development of new leading-edge technology.
This is why it is so important to start off on the right foot and keep a proper balance between the environmental and economic dimensions of the problem. This is in the best spirit of the Union's commitment to the principle of sustainable development by taking into account the economic, social and environmental dimensions in its decision-making process.. This in turn requires the early development of performance structures to carry out reliable impact assessments.
The European Commission Enterprise and Industry, Reports and Estudies
The European Union is committed to reducing its 1990 levels of greenhouse gas emissions by 8% between the years 2008-2012 under the Kyoto Protocol on climage change. Meeting this target without damaging European competitiveness poses a major challenge. The European Union is determined to take the lead in the fight against climate change and has ratified by 1 June 2002 the Kyoto Protocol - a first step in a longer-term global environmental effort to protect our planet.
The protocol stes limits on greenhouse gas emissions for industrialised countries and the transition economies of Russia and the EU applicants in central and eastern Europe for a five-year period beginning in 2008.
In 2001, the European Commission has tabled in its report on its European Climate Change Programme and in a Communication to Council and Parliament a series of actions for the next two years that will help to reduce green house gas emissions. These actions concern the energy sector, transport and industry as well as so called cross cutting issues, which will have effects on all sectors.
Emissions trading
The proposal for a Directive on emissions trading is currently the most prominent climate change action for the Community. Emission trading can minimise the costs of compliance with the Kyoto Protocol and the European Commission, after extensive consultation with industry and Member States is proposing that an emission trading scheme, mainly for large energy intensive installations, should be introduced in 2005.
The scheme would apply to between 4,000 and 5,000 individual energy-intensive plants ( above a certain size ). Between them, these account for nearly half of the Union's total carbon dioxide emissions.
The scheme would cover electricity generators and producers of iron and steel, glass, cement, pottery and bricks. For the time being, it would not include the chemical industry, which is responsible for barely 1% of all direct emissions, nor the waste and transport sectors. Small and medium-sized businesses would also be largely excluded.
Under the proposal, every large industrial and energy installations covered by the scheme would be issued with a permit certifying its annual CO2 emission levels. If it succeeds in emitting less, it may sell its surplus certificates to an operator that has gone above the permitted ceiling. Financial penalties would be imposed on plants whose emissions exceeded the allowances they had been allocated or purchased.
The system's value is that it uses market forces to transfer the ability to reduce emissions to those who can achieve this most cheaply, and, by requiring producers to pay for extra allowances that may be required, is consistent with the 'polluter pays' principle.
Kyoto and competitiveness
Reducing compliance costs in meeting the 8% Kyoto target is essential if the international competitiveness of European companies is not to be undermined. This is especially true since US withdrawal from the process suggests that American businesses may face few costs in implementing their climate change measures.
Competition may also come from Russia. The collapse of its economy in the past decade means that its current level of emissions is way below the 2008-2012 Kyoto target. This could give its industry a potential advantage and encourage the country either to sell its surplus allowances or use them to attract inward investment in some industrial sectors.
The fact that Kyoto commits only industrialised countries to quantitative emission reduction targets may give the developing world a competitive edge with regard to greenhouse gas emissions. This could encourage some companies based in Europe to consider moving their operations overseas. However, distance from the EU market, a different regulatory environment and smaller pool of qualified labour should offset any such tendencies.
Another factor influencing competitiveness is the possibility available under the Kyoto Protocol to offset tree planting efforts and forestry management against emission reduction targets. Countries such as Canada, Japan and Russia will benefit proportionately more than the EU from this opportunity.
Costs of Kyoto
Leadership in the fight against climate change does not come without a price, although this would have to be balanced against the effects of inaction if no measures are taken against greenhouses gases emisssions. Because of the many variables involved, such as energy inputs, growth of GDP and trade-offs with other policy areas, it is impossible to give firm figures for the costs of compliance.
However, estimates for the annual cost to the Union as a whole range from less than 0.1% to nearly 1% of GDP. The relative costs for individual sectors will depend on whether some are called on to make greater reductions than others or whether a flat rate target is set across the board.
Energy-intensive sectors such as steel, basic chemicals and pulp and paper, precisely because they have already made significant emission reduction efforts, and face trough international competition, could incur higher marginal reduction costs.
On the other hand, companies moving early to develop, patent and implement the necessary technology to reduce emissions or produce alternative forms of energy may gain a competitive advantage.
The overall economic effects of addressing climate change under the Kyoto Protocol are very difficult to quantify. It is clear that there are risks. However, there are also potential opportunities.
Everything is possible, from triggering relocation of some industry to outside the EU to winning a competitive advantage by creating a stimulus for the development of new leading-edge technology.
This is why it is so important to start off on the right foot and keep a proper balance between the environmental and economic dimensions of the problem. This is in the best spirit of the Union's commitment to the principle of sustainable development by taking into account the economic, social and environmental dimensions in its decision-making process.. This in turn requires the early development of performance structures to carry out reliable impact assessments.
The European Commission Enterprise and Industry, Reports and Estudies
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
China and India join Galileo
China and India have decided to participate in Galileo, the EU’s satellite navigation system. This is a sign of Asian countries’ desire to move beyond mere trade relations with the European Union.The Galileo system, to be operational in 2008, will provide a more accurate alternative to the US network of global positioning satellites (GPS). Galileo will primarily be used for the geographic positioning of vehicles and other transport modes, as well as for scientific research, land management and disaster monitoring. It will also have government applications accessible only to EU member states.
What is Galileo?
Galileo will be Europe’s own global navigation satellite system, providing a highly accurate, guaranteed global positioning service under civilian control. It will be inter-operable with GPS and GLONASS, the two other global satellite navigation systems.
A user will be able to take a position with the same receiver from any of the satellites in any combination. By offering dual frequencies as standard, however, Galileo will deliver real-time positioning accuracy down to the metre range, which is unprecedented for a publicly available system.
It will guarantee availability of the service under all but the most extreme circumstances and will inform users within seconds of a failure of any satellite. This will make it suitable for applications where safety is crucial, such as running trains, guiding cars and landing aircraft.
The first experimental satellite, part of the so-called Galileo System Test Bed (GSTB) will be launched in the second semester of 2005. The objective of this experimental satellite is to characterize the critical technologies, which are already under development under ESA contracts. Thereafter up to four operational satellites will be launched in the timeframe 2005-2006 to validate the basic Galileo space and related ground segment. Once this In-Orbit Validation (IOV) phase has been completed, the remaining satellites will be installed to reach the Full Operational Capability (FOC) in 2008.
The fully deployed Galileo system consists of 30 satellites (27 operational + 3 active spares), positioned in three circular Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) planes in 23616 km altitude above the Earth, and at an inclination of the orbital planes of 56 degrees with reference to the equatorial plane. Once this is achieved, the Galileo navigation signals will provide a good coverage even at latitudes up to 75 degrees north, which corresponds to the North Cape, and beyond. The large number of satellites together with the optimisation of the constellation, and the availability of the three active spare satellites, will ensure that the loss of one satellite has no discernible effect on the user.
Two Galileo Control Centres (GCC) will be implemented on European ground to provide for the control of the satellites and to perform the navigation mission management. The data provided by a global network of twenty Galileo Sensor Stations (GSS) will be sent to the Galileo Control Centres through a redundant communications network. The GCC’s will use the data of the Sensor Stations to compute the integrity information and to synchronize the time signal of all satellites and of the ground station clocks. The exchange of the data between the Control Centres and the satellites will be performed through so-called up-link stations. Five S-band up-link stations and 10 C-band up-link stations will be installed around the globe for this purpose.
As a further feature, Galileo will provide a global Search and Rescue (SAR) function, based on the operational Cospas-Sarsat system. To do so, each satellite will be equipped with a transponder, which is able to transfer the distress signals from the user transmitters to the Rescue Co-ordination Centre, which will then initiate the rescue operation. At the same time, the system will provide a signal to the user, informing him that his situation has been detected and that help is under way. This latter feature is new and is considered a major upgrade compared to the existing system, which does not provide a feedback to the user.
Sources: European Space Agency (ESA) and Europa Information Sources
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Open European Community, Brussels on May 6 2006
The European Community, allways close to citizens, will be opened on Saturday May 6 to all citizens with the democracy festival, where everybody will be wellcomed on its headquarters to explain how it works.Germán Yáñez, European Express.
Europe is growing larger and will expand even further, opening up new horizons and deeper cooperation for its citizens. This is why the European Institutions have chosen worker and student mobility and Social Europe as the stars of its 2006 Festival of Europe.
European Comission press releases.
Monday, May 01, 2006
WTO Director-General PASCAL LAMY CALLS FOR “SHARED SENSE OF URGENCY” IN THE TRADE NEGOTIATIONS
Director-General Pascal Lamy, in his introductory statement to the TradeNegotiations Committee on 1 May 2006, said that finding consensus in thenegotiations “remains doable, but only if a sense of urgency—which I feelis not always shared by all—starts appearing in each and every delegation”“We must now focus our efforts on working intensively, continuously andin an effective manner on a text-based negotiating process, which issolidly anchored in Geneva”, he added.
> More on the TNC
> More on the TNC
TravelEurope: The Channel Islands: Jersey and Guerney
You will find the Channel Islands nestling in the Bay of Cherbourg, close to France, and indeed the French influence in all the islands is immediately obvious as soon as you step off the plane or boat.
The Channel Islands are constitutionally separate from the UK and France and to all intents and purposes are totally self-governing. The States of Jersey and The States of Guernsey (known as The States) are the effective legislators and government and 'run' the islands at a local level. There is also a link to the Privy Council and the Queen in the UK as the islands are ultimately a British Dependency.
Jersey is the largest, and perhaps the most well known, of the islands at 45 square miles and a population of some 90,000 inhabitants. Guernsey comes next with around 60,000 inhabitants in 25 square miles, and the likes of Alderney, Sark, Herm and other islands are much smaller, but all with their own indigenous population.
Transport links to the islands are extensive with air and sea links to both the UK and French mainlands and therefore hopping on to a plane or boat is as natural as boarding a train when attempting to get from A to B - and the travel time is very short being between 30 and 60 minutes depending on your destination.
An array of restaurants, hotels and pubs provide options for all tastes and budgets but generally all establishments are of a very high standard catering for both the high demands of the business sector as well as the discerning tourist. As such, you will find an incredible amount of options for leisure facilities to cope with the demands and interests of the very cosmopolitan populations in all the islands - not least of course the high quality golf courses and wide variety of water based activities.
The Channel Islands are constitutionally separate from the UK and France and to all intents and purposes are totally self-governing. The States of Jersey and The States of Guernsey (known as The States) are the effective legislators and government and 'run' the islands at a local level. There is also a link to the Privy Council and the Queen in the UK as the islands are ultimately a British Dependency.
Jersey is the largest, and perhaps the most well known, of the islands at 45 square miles and a population of some 90,000 inhabitants. Guernsey comes next with around 60,000 inhabitants in 25 square miles, and the likes of Alderney, Sark, Herm and other islands are much smaller, but all with their own indigenous population.
Transport links to the islands are extensive with air and sea links to both the UK and French mainlands and therefore hopping on to a plane or boat is as natural as boarding a train when attempting to get from A to B - and the travel time is very short being between 30 and 60 minutes depending on your destination.
An array of restaurants, hotels and pubs provide options for all tastes and budgets but generally all establishments are of a very high standard catering for both the high demands of the business sector as well as the discerning tourist. As such, you will find an incredible amount of options for leisure facilities to cope with the demands and interests of the very cosmopolitan populations in all the islands - not least of course the high quality golf courses and wide variety of water based activities.
IESE, The Business School of University of Navarra becames the Leading Distributor of Harvard Business Cases in Spanish
Harvard Business School Publishing (HBSP) has become a new academic partner, adding more than 500 official case translations from this prestigious U.S. school to IESEP?s catalogue. The agreement between both distributors underscores IESE Publishing?s position as the distributor offering the largest number of business cases in Spanish in the world.The addition of Harvard cases brings the total number of documents and products on offer to 4,800. Read now, in Spanish, cases from Harvard Business School, focusing on companies all over the world and covering a wide range of topics.
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