Septentrion Regional Headlines

[Jedoria]

Jedoria to rebrand depression and stagnation as new “national aesthetic”

The Silver Rock - Jedoria's Finest News Source

STRANA MECHTY – According to a press statement by the Bureau of Culture, the Jedorian government would officially embark on a campaign to rebrand the country’s economic stagnation and societal depression and cynicism as a new “national aesthetic”. Deputy Administrator Aurelijus Namajuska said to reporters that the decision was a “necessary one” following recent news from the Economic Bureau. “We basically had to sit down and accept the fact that despite billions of Credits in spending and subsidies we weren’t really making a lot of progress.” Namajuska said in reference to the fact that unemployment remains above 9% and GDP growth has yet to meet the government’s goal of 2.5%.

But according to Namajuska the government’s mindset was changed after it held a “sensing session” with Kalikstas Gudelis, a social media mogul who is the founder, CEO, and sole proprietor of the analysis and project management enterprise “ThinkFuture”. “We were really impressed by Mr. Gudelis’s presentation, highlighting his company’s 15,000 likes on Facebook and 3,000 followers on Twitter. According to sources close to the situation, Gudeli highlighted a number of key factors that he felt were holding Jedoria back.

“As soon as I sat down with [the leaders of the Jedorian government], I realized that we had a fundamental image problem.” Gudelis explained in a Facetime interview that he insisted take place while he was driving to his second job. “Too many people when thinking of Jedoria only see the negative part, the dilapidated infrastructure and lack of strong economic growth, and once it became clear that they were really weighed down by the fact that they were struggling to provide for the needs of all 100 million Jedorians, I realized that we needed to really turn this on its head.”

Gudelis explained he took a page out of his own self-help book “Think it, Want it, Do it”, where he explained the best way to tackle a tough problem like this was to sometimes turn it into a good thing. “I mean when you look at the numbers they’re pretty bad, but think about it; who doesn’t like a kind of run down, depressed town on some days?”

In a policy meeting he was invited to, Gudelis outlined his plan to begin marketing Jedoria to tourists as precisely the kind of place they could really kick back and just wallow in self-pity for a while. “I mean it just makes sense, given how people here are having mental health problems.” He explained, referencing a recent study which suggests that almost 15% of the Jedorian populace, mainly young people, suffer from various health issues such as depression and PTSD brought upon by spending much of their childhood engulfed in the Jedorian Civil War.

“The way we tackle that though is key,” Gudelis said, “Because now we’re going to focus on making it part of the whole aesthetic. Instead of seeking help from Jedoria’s woefully overwhelmed mental health system, we were going to encourage people to go out more, take a walk, or explore a forest or something. You know, natural health remedies.”

As for economic matters, Gudelis was confident the whole issue could be properly handled with some rebranding. “Yeah, when you look out over miles of cookie cutter housing of cinder blocks with sub-optimal pipes and electricity you might get the impression that this is a backwater third world country no one really want’s to deal with, but that’s the key; turning it into a brand of it’s own. Come to Jedoria, where you’re money’s worth a lot more here!”

Jedorian government officials reacted positively to the news and suggestions, admitting they were running out of ideas. “I got to admit, we were bang out of ideas before [Gudelis] showed up.” Archon Jaan Kask admitted “Our back up plans were basically to sell all our oil reserves or burn down the country for the insurance money. But we never thought of turning our depressed miserable state into something we could actually market.”

To coincide with this new rebranding, the Jedorian government announced it would be setting up roughly 20 Tumblr blogs and 5 Pinterest accounts all featuring run down housing, dilapidated unfractured, depressed people, and cryptic and solemn poems with the tag line “Jedorian Aesthetic”.

In other news…
-You’ll never guess what Sarah from accounting did this weekend.
-Proliferation of streaming services marks significant rise in torrenting
-Everyone in family just sort of agreed to not mention they heard Mom crying last night

[Minilov]

Spartak Sjevernate beaten at home by FC Kademija

SJEVERNATE, Minilov — The reigning league champions Spartak Sjevernate have made something of a false start to 2019 with a 0-1 home defeat at the hands of FC Kademija. The result sees Kademija move back up into the top 3. Meanwhile, Spartak Sjevernate now trail the league-leaders SC Trziste by 10 points.

The first half saw Spartak Sjevernate displayed sloppiness and this was capitalised upon by Kademija. Although Spartak Sjevernate were better team they were unable to create chances. Meanwhile, a corner sufficed to provide FC Kademija with what they needed to go one-up. Striker Georg Szabó headed home with what was to be the only goal of the game on 27 minutes.

It wasn’t until nearly the end of the half that Spartak Sjevernate were able to threaten the Kademija Penneteau’s goal.

The Spartak Sjevernate Coach István Nagy brought in a 3rd striker Milan Adriánovyc. The home side was on the lookout for an equaliser. However, things went from bad to worse for the defence. Midfielders Wendils and Pokoç handed FC Kademija plenty of chances on a plate, but Banicz failed to widen the visitors’ lead.

The remaining 30 minutes of the game were marked by debatable decisions by the referee. Kademija's Szabó made contact with the ball with his hand during a fall. However, no foul was given. Spartak Sjevernate's Pétr and Papanisty were only given a yellow card for fouls for which many other referees would have sent them off.

In the 8th minute of stoppage time, Adriánovyc believed that he should have been given a penalty. However, it was not to be an instead he was given a yellow card. The match ended 0-1 to FC Kademija.

[West Atlantia]

EXERCISE CARMAN CONCLUDES
DUNAREE "LIBERATED"

Crainnic soldiers enjoy breakfast in Dunaree

Dunaree, Tír an Crainn.

With the "liberation" of Dunaree in the early hours of this morning the third and final phase of Exercise Carman comes to a close, thus ending the largest multi-national exercises in Vinya for over thirty years. Participants are expected to remain in Tír an Crainn for the coming days to attend various smaller interoperability exercises to make use of the concentration of so many allied personnel.

Lt. Gen. Monaghan DSM and Maj. Gen. Kennedy DSM this morning

"Exercise Carman has been a resounding success" said Lieutenant General Monaghan noting that, "for an exercise on a scale such as this there have been surprisingly few interoperability issues from language or differing procedures" as well as praising the ability shown by Rajaan and Dayanese participants in what by all accounts has been one of complex exercises in decades to operate seamlessly with their Vinyan counterparts.

[West Atlantia]

VINYA PREPARING FOR WAR?

Oldcastle, Tír an Fáil.

In what is surely the first visible sign of a transition to a war footing motorways around Vinya were found to be closed to the public today causing tailbacks and congestion throughout Tír an Crainn and Tír an Fáil. Emergency service vehicles have also been spotted in large concentrations on the outskirts of population centres with emergency service personnel from both nations claiming that leave had been cancelled indefinitely for the foreseeable future. Schools too are expected to be closed from Monday with parents being given various state-funded options for childcare.

Emergency vehicles have been spotted in staging areas around Dunaree, Oldcastle and Balally as well as other large population centres

In addition, the emergency broadcast systems in all of the mainland Ivernic nations were tested overnight as well as intensive railfreight to and from Tír an Fáil.

There has of yet been no official announcement on what has prompted these drastic measures at such short notice however, it could be assumed that they have something to do with the multinational Exercise Carman that has just concluded, perhaps a continuation of the exercise? Only time will tell.

Motorways across Tír an Crainn and Tír an Fáil stand empty today

[Minilov]

National strike has a major impact

MALJUBAV, Minilov — While half of the trains are going, other public transport services are heavily disrupted, and the strike is also affecting many private businesses. Estimations are talking about a negative economic impact of 929 million rubles. Read here about the impact of the national strike, triggered by the trades unions' demands for better wages, after talks with employers collapsed. The nationwide strike is being staged by Minilov's 3 biggest unions (Orthodox, socialist and liberal unions).

The Minilovan airspace has been closed. All flights have been cancelled. Maljubav Airport was open, but the departure hall was completely empty as there were no flights. Jezerograd Airport had closed its doors for the day.

Half of the trains are going, as had been announced. Minilovan Rail spokesman Dmitri Temer says "we worked out an alternative roster and this is going well."

The public transport services are heavily affected. In Maljubav, only metro line 1 is going, but not at a normal pace. Only 4 of the 49 buses left the depot this morning, while 1 in 3 trams are running in Maljubav.

In schools, the impact is relatively moderate. Only the socialist trades union had called on employees to down tools. This being said, some teachers did not work (especially in local schools in Spajanje and Kademija), and day-care was disrupted, causing practical hiccups for parents.

However, the strike is about much than the public sector. Angry workers are blocking the entrance of many businesses. Trades unions in Spajanje, where big companies such as Universal Exports, Loki-Cola and Kodash almost came to complete standstill, claim that employees are displaying a lot of willingness to participate in the strike.

In many places, those taking industrial action are blocking the entrance. This triggered frustration among those who were willing to work, but couldn't.
The Port of Spajanje is also heavily affected, as many ships are waiting to get in or out (see picture above) and as most chemical companies are not functioning. The Spajanje Alderwoman responsible for the port, Anushka Vitez, says "the port's activities have been reduced with 75%". She underlines the negative impact, both for the Minilovan economy and for the perception abroad. Many ships are waiting

Over a hundred supermarkets remain closed today, including 44 Konzum and 68 Kaufland stores. In Kademija, the Konzum supermarket store did not open. Employees argue that they have to be more flexible each time, but that their monthly pay is not following.

People had clearly taken their precautions. Despite the reduced number of trains, there were hardly any traffic jams this morning.

The Economy Minister Serž Pobuna estimates that the national strike will cause a total loss worth 929 million rubles. "I read about estimations by two experts who were talking of 1,8 billion rubles, but I think that's a bit much. I think it's realistic to talk about 929 million."

What is this strike about? Trades unions are unhappy about the small margin employers are offering in the wage talks: a maximum of 0,8%, on top of the automatic indexation (which automatically leads to a higher salary when life becomes more expensive). Unions say 0,8% is not enough, considering the fact the economy is doing well, and also mention the balance between work and private life, the retirement age etc. In a nutshell, unions say the right-wing government is doing a lot to please employers, but not enough for employees and workers.

The unions enjoy broad support, as today shows. MNTV journalist Stepan Pramac says "the impact is enormous, but you can't say the country has come to a standstill". Petr Zimmerman of the employer's organisation SMP, claims the biggest impact is seen in the public sector "which is an easy sector to hit. In the private sector, things are different, sometimes the impact is big, sometimes not."

[West Atlantia]

B R E A K I N G - N E W S

VYZHVA INVADED
INTER-ALLIANCE COALITION
LAUNCHES MASSIVE OFFENSIVE

This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published as they appear.

Avallone, Tír Glas

Official details and footage on what has been acknowledged as Operation Geas have so far been sparse with scant information being released to media outlets whilst mobile and internet communications in Tír an Crainn have been and indeed are being either jammed or otherwise disabled, as such It has been difficult to obtain verifiable amateur footage.

Anti-aircraft fire over Melna - Seen from Tír an Crainn

[Meinkraft]

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Oilmen Strike in Gancho Del Cabo, Governor Supports
by Sandra Amador

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Refinery workers march in the streets of Puerto Satandar

Refinery production has come to a halt this morning, as every employee in province has gone on strike. The local PSM/SPM chapters have publicly stated their support for this striking action, and chapter members are acting in solidarity with the oil workers. The petrol industry, monopolized by Universal Petroleum in 1981, is the only industry without a public trade union. Instead, workers have been represented by Universal Petroleum’s own United Oil League. Marches in the streets of some towns go on unimpeded, and two refineries have been occupied as Governor Fulgencio Viloria issued an order to the police to stand down. Among the demands of the striking oil workers is to publicize this union and release it from “corporate control”.

Universal Petroleum spokesperson Solana Urrútia has denounced the demonstration, calling the strikers’ actions “illegal and unwarranted”. Dr. Lorraine Rubin has not issued a statement on the event herself, and her office has refused to respond to GSRN calls for comment. Governor Viloria has warned UP that any action done in conjunction with their private security to harass the marchers will be met with government force.

Both sides have appealed to the national government for intervention, but as of 10pm, President Barnes has been unavailable for comment. This strike comes after Universal Petroleum laid off 200 employees with what a striker says was “unfair compensation” in January.

This article will be updated as events progress, courtesy of GSRN’s Up To The Minute reporting.

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ALSO BREAKING:
Vyzvha Invasion! When the Bear is Poked.

[Roskian Federation]

Valentinov: Saintonge Rhetoric "Hypocritical" in light of Vyzvha invasion


Tir Glasic F-15 Strike Eagle in combat training, 2015

PANCEVO, Yu - Yugoslovenski president Naum Valentinov criticized the rhetoric of Saintonge being an illegal invasion, after Tir Glas conducted military airstrikes against Vyzhva last Wednesday. The military airstrikes, which were conducted by Tir Glas and its "Vinyan Defence Union", as well as GA-backed Dayashina and AVA-backed Jedoria, were aimed at a prelude to invasion. Tir Glas alleges that Vyzvha has been backing terrorists which performed deadly attacks in Waterford and Avallone in the previous few months. These statements are backed by intelligence agencies worldwide, including Yugoslovenski's Defence Research Center.

President Valentinov stated that "the invasion of Saintonge was determined to be illegal, but yet is based on the very same reasoning that Tir Glas uses to strike Vyzvha. It's clear that the people of Vinya do not clear about the slavic community." However, when asked if Valentinov opposed the invasion, he stated that "Vyzvha has become an international threat, who has determined that nuclear proliferation is its only way forward. We cannot let nuclear weapons just come into fruition in any state who wants them."

Yugoslovenski has publically pledged to back CNCS-aligned Kolodiya, who is likely to face a refugee crisis of "epic proportions", with military security, healthcare, and supplies. Yugoslovenski has also considered sending "basic medical supplies" to the invading countries, who are likely to face an oppressed and starving population in Vyzvha.

Other politicians have declined to comment on the invasion

[Minilov]

President targets trades unions, calling them "liars and populists"

MALJUBAV, Minilov — The Minilovan President Yaroslav Miher (LDP) has expressed his discontentment about the national strike, lashing out against trade unions. He accuses them of being liars.

Unions are talking about a social decline, something which went down the wrong way for Miher. "The main reason for staging this strike is based on false arguments. Some trades unionists are talking about a social decline, others about horror, and this is not correct. I take into account the facts."

Mr Miher says "purchasing power has increased significantly if you look at what the Minilovan government have achieved. The tax-shift allowed an increase worth 5 per cent. This will be the case this year and next year, according to the National Bank." He adds that the 5 per cent hike takes into account higher bills, which make it a net purchasing power increase. He underlines that the poorest have not been left in the cold either, with higher benefits among other things.

The socialist party MSP has retorted that Miher's quotes are "unworthy of a President." Socialist MP Anya Drvoraha added that Miher is seeking confrontation with people who find it hard to make ends meet every month.

[Minilov]

Reports of anti-Orthodox incidents up by 80%


MALJUBAV, Minilov — The Centre for Civil Rights (CCR) received 101 reports of anti-Orthodoxism in 2018. This is around 80% more than the 56 reports of anti-Orthodox incidents that CCR received in 2017. The figures appear in an article in Saturday’s edition of ‘The Korrespondent’.

CCR’s Kupina More told MNTV News that there is a general trend of more hate being vented both on the internet and on the street. “A number of group are being stigmatised, amongst them Orthodox”. But what specific forms is the anti-Orthodoxism taking? "Anti-Orthodoxism takes many forms. For example, there were face-to-face confrontations in Orthodox areas. Derogatory symbols were painted on garage doors and the windows of an Orthodox school were smashed. But there was also more negationism”.

There was a fourfold increase number of cases of online anti-Orthodoxism reported. If we look at the figures over the past ten years were see that they fluctuate considerably. Although the number of anti-Orthodox incidents reported last year was well up in 2017, it was still lower than in 2009 (109), 2014 (130) and 2016 (109).

“The figures are linked to current affairs. For example, if something happens in the Middle East or if there are attacks here at home”, Mrs More added. The issue of anti-Orthodoxism is not unique to Minilov, neighbouring countries are also confronted with hatred toward Orthodox.

[Minilov]

Surge in Minilovans asking for a social services top-up

MALJUBAV, Minilov — Figures from the Ministry of Social Services show a 30% jump in the number of Minilovans applying for a top up to their wages or benefit from social services. The rise was recorded over the past five years.

In 2018, at total of 150.000 Minilovans applied for extra support from social services compared to only 135.000 people in 2017. This extra support largely has to be funded by local social services themselves and comes in addition to any wages or benefits.

Housing Minister Elizabeta Stopovjek: "Very often we're talking about people unable to meet basic costs like rent or fuel costs. Sometimes one-off payments are made for the purchase of glasses or swimming gear for the kids."

Some applications are refused and the approach may differ from one municipality to another.The criterion for awarding additional support is that people have to be able to enjoy a humane life, but some social services are more prosperous than others. Medical treatment forms a frequent bone of contention.

Many applicants are on minimum subsistence benefit or some other benefit. Some people are in work. The association is calling for minimum wages and benefits to be increased. It wants combatting poverty to be made a priority at all government levels and for housing to be made affordable.

[Minilov]

Average Minilovan commuter spent 12 working days in the jams last year

MALJUBAV, Minilov — Commuting motorists in Minilov spent 98,6 hours in traffic jams for the whole of last year. This equals half an hour per working day, or 12 complete working days. But despite the growing tailbacks, most motorists taking part in The Korrespondent's big 'traffic jam survey' were still faster than they would have been taking public transport.

The Korrespondent asked readers to take part in a traffic jam survey, handing them online tools to measure the time they spent on the road or on the bus or train when going to work. Over 22.000 members of the public took part in the test.

For the whole of last year, commuters accumulated almost 100 lost hours due to road congestion. The figures apply to the most popular commuting routes in Minilov.

Another conclusion was that the congestion during rush hour is no longer a problem for Spajanje or Maljubav. Other cities such as Trziste, Sjevernata and Jezerograd are also being confronted with more and longer jams. In Trziste, taking your car during rush hour will increase travel times with 75% compared to the normal situation.

However, despite the big amount of time that many motorists keep losing each day, the survey shows that taking the car is still faster to get to work in many cases. On average, commuters would spend 67% more time to reach their work destination by public transport.

The Korrespondent used the most popular working places in each city to make the calculations; for Maljubav this was the Government District, but for Spajanje this was the port area, which has poor public transport links, which can explain the poor score for Kademija. In Kademija, respondents were practically always better off taking their own car.

Maljubav is doing well in this comparison of travel times (car versus public transport). In 34% of the cases, commuters to Maljubav were faster by train, tram or bus. Average travel times are only 7% up on average for public transport.

Note that the travel times of respondents include the whole journey; if they don't live close to a station or other public transport hub, they lose a substantial amount of time right from the start to reach this hub. Experts blame poor urban planning in Minilov for the poor score of public transport and the scattered living areas.

[Minilov]

Plans unveiled for renewed National Stadium

MALJUBAV, Minilov — If everything goes to plan then Minilov’s national football team the Rapid Runners will be playing their home games in the Izvanredan Arena from 2022. The Izvanredan Arena will be the new name for the existing Pär Dimitrov Stadium once it has been given a thorough revamp. The Izvanredan Arena will also be the home of the national athletic meetings, other events such as the Minilovan Cup Final and concerts by big international artists.

The plans were unveiled at a press conference held on Friday afternoon. The plans for the Izvanredan Arena have drawn inspiration from sports stadiums in other major cities such as Mutburg, Puetro del Oro, Turov, Sunju, Chandler and Hadaway. If everything runs to plan the Izvanredan Arena should open its doors to the public for the first time in 2022.

An architectural competition will be launched for the renovation. Those taking parting must design a project that will cost between 150 and 200 million rubles. The Minilovan Football Association backs the Izvanredan Arena project. The stadium will also have a smaller capacity than that of the current Pär Dimitrov Stadium.

"We will reduce the impact on the surrounding area. The stadium will have a smaller capacity. We aim for 40.000" the Minilovan F.A.’s CEO Petr Oglodati told journalists. Mr Oglodati also stressed that the stadium won’t just be used for football, but also for athletics and other sport. However, "To do this we will need the support of politicians."

[Idacua]

Medellin promises renewed crackdown against cartels

President Medellin has vowed to take more immediate action against the cartels in the Táriba provice; Armed Forces will possibly be employed

President Carlos Medellin

Pablo Jaramillo (@pablojaramillo)
^{March 24th, 2019 | Guacara, Idacua}

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President Medellin gave a speech to the National Council of Revolutionary Power earlier today, outlining the new government policy to deal with the cartels of the Táriba provice, located in the State of Chayanta. The recently-elected President was adamant in his position that the era of stagnation regarding the Federal Socialist Republic's anti-cartel policy has come to an end. Medellin's statement was met with approval by most members of the National Council, while some of the most conservative members warned against rash actions; citing the deep roots of the cartels in the local society of the Táriba province. Most of that talk was dismissed as reactionary by the President and the pro-Medellin members of the National Council.

Specifically, Medellin stated that while the influence of the cartels has been successfully contained just to the Táriba province by the efforts of past administrations, it was never entirely stamped out. The President repeated the government's official stance, that the cartels are leftovers of the corruption of the pre-revolution liberal capitalist governments as well as the junta, and that they have no place in the Socialist fatherland. The President also shocked several government members when he admitted in his speech that several officers of the Chayanta State Police stationed in Táriba have been confirmed as under the influence of the cartels. An example of that would be the Apachita Police Station bombing, where the bomb detonated from inside the station's high security armoury. Medellin also mentioned that there is some evidence that the cartels may have even infiltrated the local National Guard units, and even the Federal Police forces stationed in the province.

These "bandits", "rapists" and "marauders" ,as the President called the cartel members, and their "bootlicker" associates have plagued the populace of Táriba for years and they need to be eliminated. Medellin stated that this new anti-cartel operation will involve members from most of the nation's security forces, including State Police from other provinces of Chayanta, Federal Police task forces and investigators, as well as new National Guard units. When asked about the possibility of military involvement in Táriba, the President did not confirm anything, but said that the option is still on the table. The Táriba province falls under the jurisdiction of REDI Los Vantes, and as such any possible military deployment would come from that the forces of that specific regional command.

One other rather surprising statement from the President, was the following: "We criminally underestimated the power and influence of these organisations after the first anti-cartel campaign ended in 2000. While i have total confidence in the capabilities of our security forces, i think that we may need some assistance in the future in dealing with this problem as quickly as possible. As such, i voice my request to the international community, in behalf of the people of Idacua, to help us in this struggle as much as they can. The illegal drug trade is as much an Idacuan problem as it is global, and we would greatly appreciate foreign aid in eliminating it."

For more news about government's new anti-cartel campaign, tune in here, on RNI.com.

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VamosIdacua · 1 hour ago
I hope El Presidente will kick their narco asses! Viva Medellin! Viva Idacua!

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PireanPatriot · 2 hours ago
No fuck off Medellin i want my steady supply of powder

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TotallyNotSGEagent · 3 hours ago
Oyus peppr their ani

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Coalition Troops Uncover Human Rights Abuses in Northern Vyzhva
Defence Reforms GUARANTEED in Near Future with Recent Vote
Princess Rei Embarking on Diplomatic World Tour
Junichiro Shinohara (@junshi_rst)
^{29/03/2019 | Seto, Dayashina}

^{SHARE THIS:}

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Dayashinese infantry reportedly outside of a
forced labour camp south of Kupka, Vyzhva, 2019

Throughout the second month of the international campaign to dismantle the despotic Vyzhvan government from power, coalition troops have uncovered an elaborate and extensive system of camps maintained by the Vyzhvan government. These camps have been found to violate nearly every rule in the Septentrion League Human Rights Accord, and have subsequently been classified as an "egregious and unforgivable human rights abuse" by the League.

Through speaking with the liberated malnourished and infection-ridden civilian workers, coalition forces have learnt a lot about the camps. The civilians were being exploited as forced hard labour to fuel the Vyzhvan military-industrial complex and provide materials necessary for the illegal black market trade that the State of Vyzhva propagated internationally. The workers were terribly underfed and completely medically untreated, and when they could not work any longer for these reasons, they were being disposed through bullets and promptly replaced. Gruesome images evoked a range of resentful emotions from governments across the world, the scenes pictured being a grim throwback to crimes of the past. General Shinji Koizumi, the commander of Republic of Dayashina Army elements in Vyzhva, has stated that coalition troops have begun a specialised and concerted effort to find and liberate these camps, and to transfer those liberate to coalition medical facilities.

Sources within the Republic of Dayashina Army in Vyzhva have reported that resistance around the labour camps has been rather light in comparison to everywhere else. Many of the camps that have so far been liberated have fallen within hours of fighting. Reportedly, the guards of the camps have found themselves terribly under equipped for the fight, with coalition airstrikes and cruise missile strikes disrupting critical supply lines, on top of the fact that the guards were issued subpar weaponry even by the standard of the Vyzhvan military, leading to generally higher surrender rates. Coalition command estimates that joint forces will have every single camp liberated before large-scale fighting nears it's end stages.

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The National Diet seemed to have resounding support
for issues highlighted during MP Takeshi Oda's address

Takeshi Oda, the leader of the Dayashinese Liberal-Democratic Party, has been vying for defence reform since Noru's uptick in government spending on defence nearing the end of his first term in office. Spending levels have come near 4% of Dayashina's GDP (currently at 3.82%), the highest it's been since the Hanhae War in 1951. Over the course of multiple years, Mr Oda has lost a number of critical votes in regards to this debate, with the Prime Minister Daichi Noru, with the backing of much of the Conservative Party and all of the Rising Sun Party, resoundingly justifying his position by citing treaty obligations, former President Kerman's agitations, and global flashpoints.

Through this time, however, internationally respected defence analysts and think tanks have come to more-or-less come to an agreement that Dayashina has been spending far more than it needs to on defence over the past few years. The growing presence of the Dayashinese military in the media and in political debate has become the source of very serious cultural and sociological questions on the relation of the military to society, and it's dangers. The Maracaiban general election of 2018, which saw the Nationalist Party lose out and the stepping-down of President Kerman, has completely tacked off one of Noru's justifications for such high defence spending. More recently, Dayashinese civilians have been experiencing the problems with such spending, with small but progressive cuts to some social programmes. All of this culminated into a national inquiry/survey taken over the course of two months, accounting for 92% of Dayashinese voters. 41% of those surveyed agreed that reforms need to start being seriously considered by the government, 29% hold the conviction that reforms are unnecessary, 21% believed that reforms are immediately necessary and need to be prioritised, with the remainder of the percentages being split across a number of fringe opinions.

With this numerical backing, a vote was held within the National Diet on whether or not to commit to defence spending reforms, wherein a "yes" vote won with overwhelming support, even from within elements of the Prime Minister's Conservative Party. The Prime Minister himself conceded his former positions on multiple occasions, but argued that the government would do very well to keep treaty obligations and wider strategic interests in mind. Kensuke Fujita, the leader of the Rising Sun Party and a long-term friend of the Prime Minister, expressed his disappointment with the vote and explained that the members of parliament would be hard pressed to pull a yes vote from any RSP member on the subject of reforms. Although nothing has been confirmed, some sources indicate that the most popular propositions at the moment will bring Dayashina's defence spending down closer to 3% of it's GDP, with some even suggesting that sub-3% propositions are gaining traction.

Ironically, this vote was passed on the commissioning day of Dayashina's sixth and last planned Yamazaki-class guided missile cruiser.

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Princess Rei pictured in traditional dress nearby
Kyotoka Sakura Garden, from where she announced
her global tour

Princess Rei, one of the youngest in the Dayashinese royal line, and a fairly outspoken advocate for demilitarisation for global peace, has very recently announced that she will soon be embarking on a world tour, starting next week. Her stated diplomatic objective with this tour is to "do what the government has failed to so successfully." Elaborating, she explained that she intends to reaffirm Dayashina's commitment to the preservation of peace and sovereignty, and to gracefully disparage with any unfortunate misconceptions about Dayashina that may have been construed over the recent years marked by it's heavy militarisation and economic rise.

Her convictions on the matter, amplified by her recent comments accompanied by her annoucement of the world tour, have long been the source of resentment and unprecedented hatred from the fringes of Dayashinese nationalists, but she argues that such comments only prove her point by highlighting the "hatred in the souls" of those who commonly "blindly support" the premise of baseless and extensive militarisation.

Her tour will cover many nations, with confirmed destinations being Menghe, Tir Glas, Tir Taingire, Maracaibo, Ostland, Themiclesia, Letnia, Sebrenskiya, Anglia, and Rajamaa. Yet unconfirmed but rumoured destinations include Fyrland, Reberiya, and Vihoslavia. These visits combine to form the most extensive tour embarked upon by any member of the Dayashinese royal family by a long shot. Security concerns have been raised over her proposed visit to Maracaibo, but Maracaiban President Barnes has firmly argued that there is no risk associated with this visit, and that Dayashinese and Maracaibo could surely come together to ensure the absolute safety of the princess for the duration of her visit. That said, a massive controversy has erupted in Maracaibo over the subject of her ceremonial honour guard accompaniment, which will signify the first time that armed and uniformed Dayashinese military personnel have set foot in the nation since the Pan-Septentrion War.

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Comments 92K | E-mail

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Comments:

fyrfolc-forever · 47 minutes ago
COME TO FYRLAND COME TO FYRLAND

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34,542 likes · 4,156 dislikes

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namae-nashi ✓ · 45 minutes ago
defence reforms... what a terrible idea... yes yes continue pushing the enemy's agenda, and see where it lands us

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19,452 likes · 25,021 dislikes

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imagawa · 31 minutes ago
our sincerest condolences for what the vyzhvan people have been subjected to.

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[Themiclesia]

Reactions to Dayashina's Defence Expenditure Reduction

Professor Siang of the University of the Bluff

"We are consoled in the knowledge that reductions in defence expenditure is gaining acceptance worldwide," the Secretary of State for Defence told this paper today, "especially in a leading state and close ally such as Dayashina."

In a press conference held at the South Side Gate, the minister called for recognition of the Dayashinese Prime Minister, who has curbed defence spending, despite significant political risks.

"We should interpret this announcement from Dayashina as a genuine change in policy that is also a bona fide reaction to shifts in the alignment of other states," our diplomatic analyst provided. "Having campaigned on the basis of the needs of defence, as appearing in Prime Minister Noru's speeches in 2011 and 2012, the replacement of President Kerman with President Barnes in Maracaibo has effected changes in Dayashina's disposition."

He further outlined the conceptual links to the Premier's own political stature.

"Though Noru commands a comfortable majority in the Dayashinese legislature, his most extreme supporters, the Rising Sun Party, is bound to feel outrage and, in some minds, betrayal by the head of government's changing posture."

The Rising Sun Party is widely thought to be linked to the pre-PSW military-industrial establishment that ultimately played a leading part in bringing Dayashina to war. The Party has sought to sever these links in view of the negative publicity it evokes domestically and internationally, and it is also a fringe in Dayashinese politics.

"There is courage and perception in his actions," Secretary of State for Defence Sdjem said.

But other voices differ with some of the opinions above.

"We must give credit where it is due, but there is regrettably not much of that in this case," Professor Siang of the University of the Bluff told us. "There are critical minorities, and there are also uncritical minorities. The Rising Sun Party is such an uncritical minority. They can never find an ally other than the Conservatives, and their platform, the rhetoric of President Kerman of Maracaibo, is now in the past."

"They may bolster Noru's majority by a slight margin, but now that usefulness is obsolete. Noru has done what any astute politician would, namely appeal to the swing votes. He has switched one ally with embarrassing demands for one apt for a longer-term relationship. The RSP is simply not a force to be considered in the forum of the nation, in the foreseeable future, at least."

Another professor at the institution mellows Professor Siang's assertions.

"Though what my esteemed colleague says completely agrees with my opinion, I think Siang was unduly dismissive when assessing Noru's actions. Politicians face a lot of risks, and for voluntarily facing even a small one he ought to receive an ounce of credit more than what Siang was willing to grant."

It should be noted that Secretary of State Sdjem has been pushing for reductions in defence spending in Themiclesia since taking office in 2013, in which he has not achieved much. This year's defence budget, adjusted for inflation, is only 0.04% smaller than the one in 2012. Critics, including the Opposition but not limited to them, have called his efforts "insincere" and "more for the publicity than the economy".

"The situation is complex in defence planning," Mr Grar of the Coastal Defence Institute wrote to this paper a few days ago. "All government must prioritize defence, and reductions in expenditure must come not from reductions in defensive capability, but in economies obtained from improvement in technology and removal of waste. One can cut defence too far, and very easily; a cut of the same amount in different places can yield radically different results."

"On the one hand, campaigning simply for increases in defence expenditure like the Rising Sun Party does is absurd, because exactly as it is possible to cut defence in the wrong places, it is also possible to fund it in the wrong places. This is what happened to Themiclesia in the 1850s, when we poured money into the Navy in deterrence of an invasion over land. On the other hand, Themiclesia is also a direct beneficiary of Dayashina's defence expenditure, since our mutual-defence treaty grants them the Dam County air base, which is meant to curb incursions from the south and west. The Defence Secretary's statements should be read in context with this fact and his own relative policy position."

Finally, he summarized his statements about the Defence Secretary's reactions.

"As it is said in ancient philosophies in Casaterra and in here, nothing to excess. I think the Defence Secretary is implicitly praising their maintenance of a reasonable level of defence spending, rather than the simple fact they are reducing the total bill."

[Minilov]

Smelly ship stopped in Spajanje

SPAJANJE, Minilov — Inspectors have discovered filthy conditions aboard a Sylvan registered ship currently docked at the Port of Spajanje. The ship had been reported to the port authorities and checks were carried out on the conditions aboard as soon as it arrived in Spajanje from San Sebastian.

Economy Minister Serž Pobuna, who is also a local councillor in Spajanje told Radio 1 that: "We must first help the crew." Mr Pobuna added that: "The ship should never have left San Sebastian. All our inspection services have been on board. The hygiene leaves a lot to be desired, the crew hasn’t been paid and the ship doesn’t conform to environmental rules."

A crew of around 20 is on board. The sailors are mainly from Khalistan, Azbekistan and Hokotani. Meanwhile, the Spajanje daily Službeni Spajanski reports that the captain of the ship has disappeared. Mr Pobuna told the MNTV that the crew members have fresh fruit or vegetables and the food that they do have is rotten. The sailors will be given food from another ship that is currently docked at Spajanje. The Sylvan owner of ship risks a hefty fine.

[Themiclesia]

Dzrjung-mrjang Palace Dusted Off for Princess Rei of Dayashina; Opposition Critical of Costs

Mar. 31st, 2019

An artist's impression of the Palace Hall of Dzrjung-
mrjang Palace, with cityscape removed

An edict has been issued from the Council of Correspondence today to place the Guards of Dzrjung-mrjang Palace on stand-by, in preparation for Princess Rei's visit to Themiclesia, which is scheduled a few months in advance.

"This is a very important occasion, and the government has expressly instructed us that no stone is to be left unturned to ensure her safety in Themiclesia," the Marshal of the Guards said today, in a press conference held at his office.

The Marshal of the Guards holds jurisdiction over the perimeter security around each of the country's 22 official palaces. Most of them have a detachment not more than a few hundred in size, but the Emperor's current residence, Hian-lang Palace, is protected by more than 5,000 soldiers. To this day, the selection criteria for guard duty is still a state secret, but experts believe the selection is intentionally randomized to exclude zealots and ensure neutrality.

The Air Force has been ordered to enforce an exclusion zone above Dzrjung-mrjang Palace and several kilometers away from it, in much the same manner that applies to the Hian-lang Palace.

The Dzrjung-mrjang Palace is located in the outskirts of the capital city and extends several square kilometers. It is the most spacious palace in the Inner Administrative Region, and its grounds contain lush forests and natural lakes. Parts of the palace had been opened as a public park in the 1950s, but the Princess Royal Kjong, sister of the late Emperor Shljaps-tsung, took up residence in it in 1981, restoring it to royal use.

However, the Marshal of the Guards will only be responsible for providing security up to the gates of the Palace Hall in the massive complex. Anything within the walls of the Palace Hall will be the responsibility of the Princess' personal security team.

"This is out of concern for the Princess' privacy," the Marshal explained. "We know that the Dayashinese military will be providing security close to her person, and we ought to give them enough space with which to do that. The Dayashinese Ministry of Defence will be invited to survey the locale and assess the security needs prior to her arrival."

However, the arrangement is not without its critics, very vocal of which is Denny Rjang, who sits on the Defence Committee of the Protonotaries.

"In real terms, her stay at the Dzrjung-mrjang Palace is likely to place a bill in the many millions on the national treasury. The Opposition welcomes the Princess to Themiclesia as much as the government does, but there are more economical options than to ready an entire palace for what will be a stay less than a week long."

"We are talking about activating more than a battalion of mechanized infantry from the reserves for duties that would last all five or six days. Their salaries would have to be paid out of the Defence Ministry's emergency fund, and that alone will not cost anything shy of five or six million. Additional costs like preparing communications and surveillance equipment will likely throw it over ten million. And then the unit would be put in reserve, possibly blighting the reservists' employment elsewhere."

"I apologize to say this," he said, rolling his eyes in his office, "but it seems to make better sense to put her in a palace that is already inhabited and protected, even if we have to remove whomever currently lives there temporarily. Even thinking in the interest of her security detail, the Palace Hall is such a large structure that she would have to bring additional security to keep all its nooks and crannies under watch. If we must lavish money on her to show our affection, we should just present the cash on a silver platter."

However, a government MP expresses different views.

"I doubt there would be an entire battalion marshalled for this occasion, let alone more than one, as suggested by my learned friend," Larry Gwjang MP said. "The grounds are self-contained, and there is nothing more than five gates that need to be armed. The tall walls lend themselves to easy patrols, and I am sure the experts in the Ministry of Defence will work this out. It is also possible that the guardsmen would be lent from the Hian-lang Palace or Gwreng-ngrjars Palace, since the former has some redundancies, and the latter is not inhabited for the season."

[Themiclesia]

Themiclesia joins assault on drug problems in Idacua

The Foreign Office, in a press conference with the Ambassador from Idacua, has today announced that Themiclesia will join the "assault on drugs" in Idacua, with a delegation of 82 psychiatrists specializing in addiction research, and a consultancy by the Kien-k'ang Metropolitan Police, in conjunction with the National Contraband Agency.

Further consultancies by experts and current researchers in the economic displacement of drug-based income are to be announced in the near future, the spokesperson said. This is, reportedly, the largest anti-drug effort in which Themiclesia has participated.

Idacua is a nation plagued by drug problems. Parts of the country are economically dependent on the export of narcotics for basic income, and Themiclesian analysts have asserted this as the root of the problem.

"The people there are growing narcotics for the very same reason why others grow wheat," Dr. Kow of the University of Blim-tsi said in an exclusive interview. "They will starve if they do not."

"There are subsistence agriculturalists, where one sustains oneself directly by what one grows. And then there are commercial agriculturalists, whose income is determined by the market value of the crops they grow. Without their crops, they are left without income. This is a structural challenge that implicitly defends the export of narcotics from Idacua," he also said.

In most places, there are sufficient barriers to growing narcotics, such as criminal punishment. But according to the characteristics of the land, different crops are suited to diverse environments. There is correlation that, where land is more valuable, it tends to be devoted to more value-intensive purposes. For example, in the vast fields of Hemithea, most are content with growing staples, a crop of low value-density. But around cities, fields are dedicated to growing organic fruits, which command far more value than regular old staples for the same amount of land used, the resident analyst of this paper wrote in his column. Where land is so scarce, and other economic opportunities so wanting, narcotics, which have very high value density, will be grown, despite stern punishments. The addictive properties of narcotics only assure a persistent demand, and the punishments applied in other regions of the world only constrains supply. These factors contribute to the economic sense and thus thriving of drug exports.

"We believe we can help tackle Idacua's problems by a multi-faceted approach," the spokesperson asserted. "We shall introduce the locals to other crops that will grow well and command high value on market, and we shall also encourage Idacua's population to quit drugs. This way, we are confident that the people that are dependent on drugs for survival have other, healthier options to do put a roof over their heads and food on their tables. The growing of drugs will also be discouraged by shrinking local demand, since our information suggests a large part of the operation's revenues come from local purchase."

Update: Foreign Office announces further assistances to Idacua with the Army and Navy

In an unscheduled press conference this afternoon, the Foreign Office has announced that further plans for Themiclesia's involvement have been agreed upon with the government of Idacua–the Army and Navy are to participate in the military operation there to suppress drug cartels.

In an absolutely astounding turn of events, an act of parliament has been passed with the utmost speed, almost in the middle of the night, titled An act for the granting of passports by the Foreign Office to various persons of the Army and Navy below-contained. Historically, whenever the military has been deployed abroad, the government has always sought parliamentary sanction, in the form of a statute ordering the Foreign Office to grant the forces passports.

According to Opposition parliamentarians, the bill was given first, second, and third readings within the space of 26 minutes; however, it did not face much resistance, with no whipping from the Opposition for members to vote against.

The spokesperson of the Foreign Office announced that the deployed units are one company (or unit of equivalent strength) of the Royal Signals Corps (of the Army) and the Marine Corps each. Both units have been selected amongst several that are participating in an internal program of expanding the experience of Themiclesia's defences, according to the Foreign Office.

The Royal Signals Corps has submitted representations to the Foreign Office that they possess several pieces of equipment, so far unique to them, that are thought to bring a key advantage to the ongoing effort in eliminating armed rebellion in Idacua, particularly in intercepting messages and detecting the movement of cartel forces in difficult-to-spy areas.

Early this year, the Themiclesian Marine Corps has participated in a jungle warfare exercise hosted by Dayashina. The Foreign Office has confirmed that the company now to be deployed was part of that exercise, and it seemed appropriate that their newfound experience should be used to further an ally's most eminently justifiable cause.

[Minilov]

Code yellow weather warning in force

MALJUBAV, Minilov — The National Metrological Institute has issued a ‘code yellow’ weather warning for Monday afternoon and Monday evening. The Institute warns that: “A lot of local precipitation, rain and hail can fall in a very short time. Monday will start off bright. However, clouds will increase in the afternoon. There will be local showers that turn into storms, especially in southwestern areas of the country.”

Maximum temperatures on Monday will vary between 13°C and 20°C. There will be slight to moderate east-northeasterly winds or winds varying in a direction according to each location. Coastal areas will see moderate northerly winds.   

Monday night there will be local showers in many areas of the country and the chances of storms with large amounts of precipitation falling in a short space of time. Later the weather will become variable with the chance remaining of some further showers. Night minimum temperatures will fall to between 5°C and 9°C.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, once the morning mist has cleared, the weather will be changeable with some clouds and outbreaks of heavy rains. Maximum temperatures will range between 12°C and 17°C. Later in the week, it will become dryer and cooler.

[Minilov]

Minilovan fire-fighters are overweight

MALJUBAV, Minilov — The popular perception is that fire-fighters have a high level of fitness and keep themselves in trim. But a new study has revealed that in Minilov at least two-thirds of fire-fighters are overweight.

Meanwhile, one in five is even classed as being obese. The figures come from a report compiled for the country’s fire services in cooperation with the University of Kademija. The study forms the basis of an article in our weekend magazine The Korrespondent Weekly.

Medical data on Minilov's 3.702 firemen and 181 firewomen shows that 64% have a body mass index (BMI) of between 25 and 30. This is enough for them to be classed as being overweight. Meanwhile, 19% had a BMI in excess of 30, making them obese.

The Kademija University Professor of Occupational medicine Ludwig Göderis believes that the figures are very high. Professor Göderis told the paper: "A good physical condition and a healthy weight are important for someone that has to carry someone out from a flat via the steps during a fire." He calls for the issue of firefighters weight to be addressed. For example by organising physical as well as technical exercises for firemen and women. However, this could prove difficult to implement as many fire-fighters work as volunteers.

[Jedoria]

Jedorian Military Seeks to Slim Down and Modernize

The Strana Mechty Sentinel

STRANA MECHTY - Following the conclusion of hostilities with Vyzhva, the Jedorian Bureau of Defense announced it would officially put into action a comprehensive reform of the Jedorian Federal Forces. Director of the Defense Bureau, Jaanus Laht, explained in an official press release that the reform would shrink the size of the Federal Forces, while also dismantling much of Jedoria’s aging hardware and replacing it with modern equipment and weapon systems. Laht justified the reform as necessary, arguing that while Jedorian forces had performed well in Vyzhva, the Federal Forces as a whole remained significantly outclassed compared to foreign counterparts.

“While the performance of the Federal Forces, in particular the Federal Guard, against the Zayetist regime was commendable, it remains undeniable that the military remains critically reliant on increasingly outdated machinery and hardware that will continue to decay and place our armed forces in a position where they can not adequately defend the Homeland.”

On paper, the Jedorian Federal Forces boast one of the largest arsenals in Septentrion, including some 9,000 tanks, 18,000 IFVs and APCs, 15,000 artillery pieces, and nearly 75,000 trucks and utility vehicles. But The vast majority of hardware was produced during the Socialist Republic Era, who’s design philosophy was notorious for emphasizing quantity over quality. Of the some 400,000 Jedorian troops who took part in the invasion of Vyzhva, virtually 85% were equipped entirely with weapon systems and vehicle designs over 40 years old. More vehicles were lost to breakdowns than enemy action. The Defense Bureau admitted to reporters that most of Jedoria’s aging and dated hardware was growing increasingly ineffective against modern equivalents, rendering the the Federal Forces increasingly reliant on mass to secure victory and achieve objectives.

The Federal Air Force appears to be in no better shape, with readiness levels very low due to aging air frames and increasingly dated avionics. Only half of Jedoria’s alleged 2,000 aircraft fleet is actually flight worthy. According to some reports, some 300 aircraft had to be scrapped for spare parts in order to meet the needed requirements for the invasion of Vyzhva. The Federal Navy is in hardly better shape. Jedoria’s sole “aircraft carrier” remains tied up in port, unable to sail on its own power, and the Federated Combine’s guided missile cruisers and destroyers cannot sale much farther out than the Jedorian Economic Exclusion Zone.

Efforts to solve Jedoria’s military deficiencies through domestic means have largely faltered and been successful in the grand scheme of things. The conglomerate Jedorian State Defense Industries have for the past decade attempted to produce new and top of the line hardware to replace Jedoria’s aging arsenal, but spokesperson for the conglomerate admitted that a chronic lack of engineers and technicians have severely curtailed efforts to modernize the Federal Forces. Thus far the best Jedoria’s defense industry has been able to do is refurbish existing platforms with some upgraded elements, but these often require third party contractors and foreign imports of high end technology. Therefore despite extensive defense infrastructure, Jedoria’s only been able to produce ammunition, small arms, and minor modifications to existing models.

To solve this, Defense Minister Laht announced that Jedoria and Letnia had agreed to an arms deal between the two states, in which Letnia would assist in modernizing both the Federal Forces and Jedoria’s defense manufacturing capabilities. Given the close similarity in hardware design between both states, Laht stressed that Jedoria would be able to efficiently upgrade it’s existing arsenal while decommissioning hundreds of thousands of tons worth of unneeded equipment. Jedoria is also expected to purchase large quantities of modern armaments and hardware including precision guided munitions, aircraft, surface-to-air missile systems, and other assorted types.

Equipment is not the only aspect expected to change. According to Laht, the Jedorian Federal Forces are also expected to shrink in size, from roughly 500,000 current personnel to 325,000 within two years. The Federal Guard is expected to remain the largest branch at 250,000 personnel in uniform, while most divisions are expected to be disbanded and replaced with modular brigades. According to Laht, a major goal of the reforms is to transfer the active duty Federal Forces to a purely professional contract volunteer basis, while retaining conscription for reserves only. It is expected Jedoria will maintain sizeable reserves for strategic depth despite the downsizing, and there has been no indication conscription will be abolished.

[Minilov]

Glorious sunshine: Minilovan Rail bumps up services

SPAJANJE, Minilov — Another sunny and hot day is in prospect and the glorious weather is set to continue all weekend. Many people have Monday off since Easter Monday is an orthodox public holiday in Minilov. To ease overcrowding on services to the coast the Minilovan rail company is operating extra services.

Highs of 26°C are forecast for the coast with temperatures of 19°C in central and northern parts. Easter Day also augers well with highs of 22°C in the interior. Easter Monday will remain dry and sunny with only some high altitude cloud. Highs of 24°C thanks to air moving in from the south-west.

Minilovan rail expects many day-trippers to take advantage of the exceptional weather this Easter and is running extra services to the Riviera with Spajanje as the final destinations.

Minilovan Rail's Dmitri Stolar: "We know an awful lot of people will head for the coast. We're ensuring they can do this in comfort."

Minilovan rail is on stand-by to bump up its services even more if there is the demand, but for now it's taking a wait and see approach. One tip: take advantage of the weekend ticket that gives you a 50% reduction on travel to the coast.

[Minilov]

E-Scooters conquering Maljubav, prompting need for rules

MALJUBAV, Minilov — An increasing number of electric scooters can be spotted in Maljubav these days. The growing popularity may be a good thing for sustainable transport and reduce congestion, it also calls for some clear rules.

Vapno, one of the providers of electric scooters in the capital, organised an event together with the Cesta Institute, Minilov's institute for road safety, to raise awareness among the users and stimulate responsible behaviour.

In an interview Estvan Wilhelmsov of Cesta said: "First of all since users are standing upright, they risk a bigger impact if an accident happens. We advise users to wear a helmet. The impact can be considerable even at low speed, but we see that the maximum speed for e-scooters has been lifted from 18 to 25 kilometres per hour." Vapno distributed free packages on Saturday, including 750 free helmets.

Second, e-scooters users should follow the same rules as cyclists, except when they are going at very slow speed, like pedestrians. Only in the latter case, it is allowed to use the sidewalk. In other cases, they need to stick to the cycle lanes. It is also asked not to leave the e-scooters behind in the middle of the pavement since it will hinder pedestrians, especially the handicapped and the blind.

Vapno is a big player with over 125.000 users. A poll among these has revealed that 35% are using the car less often, and that - in this case - they leave the car at home in 1 in 4 cases.

[Minilov]

Dubious dating sites lead to complicated complaints

MALJUBAV, Minilov — More and more people are using online dating sites and the number of complaints that are made to the Department of the Economy about such sites is also on the increase. Last year the number of complaints rose by 68%. The figures come from a replay to a written question tabled by the Flemish Christian democrat federal MP Lena Bodež to the Economy Minister Serž Pobuna.

Last year the number of reports of alleged malpractice by dating sites rose to 280. This is a steep growth from 69 complaints about online dating sites in 2017. "More and more Minilovans are using these dating sites. And there is less shame about using them and lodging complaints about them”, Ms Bodež told MNTV News.

The main causes for complaint on the part of those using online dating sites are the extension of users’ subscriptions without their explicit agreement. Issues with terminating a subscription, the refunding of subscription fees if a subscription is terminated early, not being provided with enough information about the service when subscribing for the first time and finally not receiving replies to questions asked.

Ms Dierick says that she feels that it is important that dating sites respect the law and don’t abuse the position of their customers. Dating sites are covered by general rules designed to protect consumers. They are not allowed to mislead their customers and must offer them the chance to revoke their contract within the first 28 days after it has been signed.

"It is good that victims know that they can even make a complaint online to the Economic Inspectorate. In the case of false accounts, a complaint can be made to the police as making a fake account on social media is a criminal offence”, Ms Bodež added.