UN Launches Emergency Appeal as Lebanon Faces Growing Humanitarian Crisis
The United Nations is launching a critical three-month appeal to boost humanitarian aid in Lebanon as the fallout from the Middle East conflict intensifies. More than 570 people have been killed and approximately 1,400 injured in Lebanon since early March, with over 750,000 displaced. Many of these displaced are crowded into collective shelters, straining available resources. The appeal aims to supplement the current Lebanon Humanitarian Response Plan with an additional $15 million from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund. The funding will expand programs to meet urgent needs for shelter, medical care, and food assistance. The crisis affects a broad... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 11 Mar 2026 21:12
BBC decision to axe LGBTQ+ dating show is two steps back, say contestants
Former contestants of I Kissed A Boy and I Kissed A Girl speak out as show axed due to "funding challenges". [Continue Reading]
Up to 150 research positions at risk due to closure of research centres in Ireland following non-renewal of core funding
The Higher Education trade union, the Irish Federation of University Teachers (IFUT), has announced that up to 150 research positions are at risk due to the closure of several research centres, including Trinity College's CRANN and AMBER centres. This upheaval follows the non-renewal of core funding, which has raised significant concerns about the stability of research employment in Ireland. Robert McNamara, Assistant General Secretary of IFUT, expressed the union's alarm, stating that while some staff categories have started a consultation process regarding their employment status, research staff still await a structured parallel engagement. The uncertainty surrounding their job futures has... [Continue Reading]
150 research jobs could be at risk - higher edtn union
Higher education trade union IFUT has warned that up to 150 research jobs could be at risk following the closure of a number of research centres after core funding was not renewed. [Continue Reading]
Aetna Agrees to Pay $117.7 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations
Aetna Inc., one of the largest health insurers in the United States, has agreed to pay $117.7 million to resolve allegations that it submitted false or inaccurate diagnosis codes for its Medicare Advantage plan members. The improper coding was intended to inflate Medicare payments by making enrollees appear sicker and thus more costly to cover. This settlement follows claims brought under the False Claims Act, which seeks to protect government funds from fraudulent billing. Medicare Advantage plans, like those offered by Aetna, receive monthly payments adjusted by risk scores that reflect beneficiaries’ health conditions. By submitting inaccurate codes, Aetna allegedly... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 11 Mar 2026 16:03
Australian governments subsidising fossil fuel use by more than $30,000 a minute, analysis finds
Australia Institute data finds state and federal subsidies for coal, gas and oil products increased 10% in past year, growing at a faster pace than funding to NDISSign up for climate and environment editor Adam Morton’s free Clear Air newsletter hereAustralian federal and state government subsidies that encourage fossil fuel use and help drive the climate crisis will reach $16.3bn this year after leaping by nearly 10%, according to a new analysis.It found federal and state governments will pay or forgo the equivalent of $31,020 each minute in 2025-26 to subsidise companies producing and using coal, gas and especially oil,... [Continue Reading]
Family sentenced after fraudulent Bounce Back Loan applications totalling £150,000
A family from Ilford has been sentenced for defrauding £150,000 from the UK government’s Bounce Back Loan (BBL) scheme, designed to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kashid Rashid, his wife Noreen Malik, nephew Rehaan Mohammed, and brother Rizwan Haider created or exploited false business entities to secure three separate loans of £50,000 each. They also submitted an additional application that was rejected. The loan funds were diverted for personal use, including home renovations, private school fees, vehicles, and settling credit card debts. National Crime Agency investigators found voice recordings of Rashid discussing falsifying invoices, and evidence emerged that the... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 11 Mar 2026 10:45
Two men sentenced to 15 years in prison for violent attack and robbery of gay men in Kenya, raising hopes for LGBTQ+ rights
The recent sentencing of two individuals for the violent attack and robbery of two gay men in Kenya has sparked optimism among LGBTQ+ rights advocates in the country. On March 3, two perpetrators, identified as Abel Meli & Another, received 15-year prison sentences for their crimes at the Milimani Law Courts situated in Nairobi. This ruling is viewed as an encouraging sign for Kenya's queer community by various human rights organizations as it signifies a rare instance where justice has been served amid rising hostility toward sexual and gender minorities. Njeri Gateru, the executive director of the National Gay and... [Continue Reading]
82 female-founded startups raised funding in 2025
New research has found that a record 82 Irish female-founded startups raised a total of €131m in funding last year, which was down €14m on 2024. [Continue Reading]
Villagers on Principe, the ‘African Galapagos’, to be paid for protecting the ecosystem
A billionaire is funding a sustainable development project on the west African island that makes the local population stewards of its futureAt the crumbling colonial farm buildings in Porto Real, agricultural worker Kimilson Lima, 43, has signed the agreement and he’s happy. “With this money we can have a proper floor in the house,” he said. “And an inside toilet.”Lima is part of a ground-breaking experiment on the West African island of Príncipe, where villagers who agree to follow an environmental protection code will reap a quarterly dividend. To date nearly 3,000 have joined the Faya Foundation’s project, more than... [Continue Reading]
Protective security for faith communities
The UK government has revised its protective security guidance for faith communities, updating webpages and resources related to security schemes for places of worship. Notably, the rapid protective security process for new applications is now closed, though the specialized scheme for mosques is still accepting applications. This signals a shift in how government support is prioritized and delivered. Faith organizations affected by security threats can now refer to individual scheme pages with more detailed information and apply through updated procedures. The inclusion of new links to a Faith Security Training programme aims to enhance preparedness among faith groups themselves. The... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 10 Mar 2026 16:09
Follow the money: cocaine trafficking network exposed through its financial trail
A coordinated European investigation has successfully dismantled a vast criminal network responsible for laundering cocaine money tied to Italy’s infamous mafia groups, Camorra and 'Ndrangheta. Authorities traced suspicious financial transactions across multiple countries, revealing an elaborate system involving shell companies, falsified invoices, and high-end luxury investments. This network cleaned and reinvested millions of euros in drug profits, enabling ongoing criminal enterprises. The crackdown affects organized crime infrastructures, aiming to cut off their funding sources and disrupt drug trafficking networks extending beyond Italy’s borders. By following the money trail rather than just targeting drugs or traffickers, law enforcement agencies have shown... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 10 Mar 2026 15:18
Media regulator offers funding to counter disinformation
The media regulator Coimisiún na Meán has launched a call for submissions for funding for media literacy initiatives aimed at tackling disinformation. [Continue Reading]
Attempted bombing at Gracie Mansion raises security concerns as two men linked to ISIS are arrested
An attempted bombing at Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City, has raised serious concerns about security and terrorism in the region. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has addressed the incident cautiously, offering limited comments after the arrests of two men allegedly motivated by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). This incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing concerns regarding domestic terrorism and radicalization within the United States. According to reports, the two men arrested are believed to have planned an attack at the mansion, although detailed motivations and operational specifics remain unclear. This... [Continue Reading]
Hong Kong Legco to explore mainland-style oversight system for bills enforcement
Hong Kong’s legislature will consider establishing a dedicated mechanism to scrutinise the implementation of approved bills and funding, drawing inspiration from mainland China’s law enforcement inspection system, according to its president. Legislative Council president Starry Lee Wai-king also dismissed concerns that the city’s first five-year plan would undermine the “one country, two systems” governing principle, emphasising the blueprint would be consistent with the capitalist system and... [Continue Reading]
British AI datacentre firm Nscale raises $2bn as Sheryl Sandberg and Nick Clegg join board
London-based startup, which is vital to the government’s artificial intelligence ambitions, is now valued at $14.6bn UK’s multibillion AI drive is built on ‘phantom investments’The Essex supercomputer that’s still a scaffolding yardBusiness live – latest updatesNscale, a UK company vital to the government’s AI ambitions, has raised $2bn (£1.5bn) in a funding round and appointed the former Meta executives Sheryl Sandberg and Nick Clegg to its board of directors.It brings the valuation of the London-based startup, which is backed by the US tech company Nvidia, to $14.6bn, it said in a statement, and follows a $1.1bn funding round the company... [Continue Reading]
DHS leadership change is not enough to reopen government and start funding department, says Hakeem Jeffries – US politics live
This live blog is now closed.Trump news at a glance: president issues an ultimatum to Congress to get voter ID bill passedSign up for Breaking US News email alertsDonald Trump has urged the Australian government to grant asylum to five members of the Iranian women’s football team, amid reports that they refused to return home following the team’s elimination from the Women’s Asian Cup and were taken into the protection of Australian police.As my colleague Martin Farrer reports, speculation had mounted for days that some of the players would try to seek asylum in Australia they had been called “traitors”... [Continue Reading]
Orbán–Zelensky clash deepens after cash seizure, pipeline dispute, and Kremlin interference fears
Relations between Ukraine and Hungary have plunged into meltdown after Volodymyr Zelensky threatened Viktor Orbán last week over blocked EU funding. This was followed by a dramatic cash and gold seizure in Hungary, while intelligence claims of Kremlin election interference in Hungary add another layer to the rift. [Continue Reading]
Yorkshire Water receives fresh funding despite sewage fines and pay row
Private equity group EQT to take 42% stake as supplier faces scrutiny over environmental record and CEO’s payBusiness live – latest updatesA leading European investor will pump fresh funding into Yorkshire Water including helping to cover a £600m loan, despite recent heavy sewage fines and a scandal over executive pay at the utility company.EQT, a Swedish private equity group, said on Monday it would take a 42% stake in Kelda Holdings, the Jersey-registered parent company of Yorkshire Water, which has 5.7 million customers across Yorkshire and parts of the East Midlands and Lincolnshire. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Fire near Glasgow Central railway station causes indefinite closure and significant travel disruptions
A fire that broke out near Glasgow Central railway station has led to significant travel disruptions today, forcing the station to close indefinitely. The incident occurred at a vape shop located on Union Street, and the damage has resulted in a partial station collapse, amplifying concerns for passenger safety and operational capacity. National Rail has issued a statement confirming that National Rail operations will be disrupted throughout the day. Specifically, no trains will be able to run to or from the high-level platforms of Scotland's busiest station, while services through low-level tracks will not stop at Glasgow Central. They noted... [Continue Reading]
THIS WEEK: MEPs vote on deportation bill, as Iran war keeps Europe on edge
MEPs prepare to vote on a controversial deportation bill while debates intensify over Europe’s security amid the Iran war. Armenia’s prime minister addresses parliament, ministers tackle labour shortages and EU finances, and tensions rise over Ukraine funding as Hungary threatens a veto ahead of next week’s EU summit. [Continue Reading]
US and Israel Conduct Joint Strikes on Iranian Oil Facilities Amid Intensifying Middle East Conflict
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has intensified, marked by joint military operations conducted by the United States and Israel aimed at Iranian oil facilities. Early this morning, Israeli strikes targeted five oil sites in and near Tehran, adding to the already volatile situation as military actions extend into Iran. This escalation comes as the conflict enters its ninth day, signaling a severe increase in military engagements in the region. According to reports, these recent strikes led to significant smoke clouds over Tehran's skyline and triggered a humanitarian crisis, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. Children have been among the casualties,... [Continue Reading]
China integrates commercial health insurance into national policy to address challenges from ageing population and rising healthcare costs
China has recently incorporated commercial health insurance into its national policy agenda as pressures mount due to an ageing population and escalating healthcare expenses. This move seeks to alleviate the financial strain on basic public insurance systems, which have shown signs of potential sustainability issues. Current projections indicate that rising utilization of medical services, alongside increasing drug and treatment costs, could exacerbate the financial burden faced by basic coverage structures. In recent assessments, the annual surplus of China’s mandatory basic medical insurance fund has reportedly decreased for two consecutive years, falling to 470 billion yuan, suggesting a worrying trend for... [Continue Reading]
China Reduces Economic Growth Forecast Amid Ongoing Trade Tensions with the U.S.
As the annual political sessions commence in Beijing, China has announced a reduction in its economic growth forecast, attributing the decision to external pressures including tariffs imposed by the United States. The Chinese Communist Party's National People's Congress is a critical meeting for determining policy directions, and this year’s gathering underscores the country's intent to bolster its military capacities amidst what is described as a “grave” international environment. The new economic growth target has been set at a modest range, reflecting the ongoing challenges posed by the trade tensions with the U.S., particularly under the Trump administration's tariffs. Officials are... [Continue Reading]
At least 200 people dead in coltan mine collapse in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
At least 200 people have died following the catastrophic collapse of a coltan mine in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The tragedy represents one of the deadliest mining accidents in the region, highlighting dangerous conditions associated with artisanal mining, where safety regulations are often neglected. Confirmed reports indicate that the incident occurred at a site commonly used by local miners, raising serious concerns about ongoing safety standards in small-scale mining operations. Witness accounts and preliminary investigations suggest that the mine's collapse occurred amid heavy rainfall, though specific meteorological data has not been reported. Eyewitnesses reported hearing loud noises as... [Continue Reading]
Democratic Attorneys General and Governors Sue Trump to Block Proposed 15% Tariff on Imports
A coalition of 24 Democratic attorneys general and governors has initiated legal action against former President Donald Trump, aiming to block a newly proposed 15% tariff on all imports. This move follows a Supreme Court ruling that declared Trump's previous tariffs illegal, leading the White House to announce plans for the new tariff to take effect shortly. The lawsuit, spearheaded by New York Attorney General Letitia James, asserts that Trump lacks the authority to impose these tariffs and demands the federal government refund the states for the costs incurred from prior tariffs. The legal challenge reflects growing frustration among state... [Continue Reading]
St Patrick's National School in Celbridge temporarily closed due to structural defects raising health and safety concerns
In a recent turn of events, Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless commented on the temporary closure of St Patrick's National School located in Celbridge, County Kildare. The decision to close the school stemmed from structural defects that raised health and safety concerns for students and staff. The announcement came after the school informed parents about the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of all involved. The closure, which was discussed in a meeting between the Department of Education, the school board, and the school's patron, has been described as a regrettable yet necessary measure. According... [Continue Reading]
China announces 7 percent increase in military budget as part of five-year plan for self-sufficiency in military and industrial sectors
China has announced a significant escalation in its military budget, revealing a 7 percent increase in military spending. This announcement marks a critical strategy in response to ongoing pressures from the United States and highlights China's intention to bolster its military capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign technology. The increase comes in conjunction with a five-year plan aimed at enhancing the country's self-sufficiency in both military and industrial sectors. The reasons behind this latest military spending increase stem from a broader geopolitical context where tensions between China and the United States continue to grow. The ongoing technological rivalry, particularly in... [Continue Reading]
