Tánaiste Micheál Martin praises discussions between experts, calling them a step forward in policy formation.

The recent security forum, which brought together academics and experts from various fields, has been hailed as a “beneficial” and “unique” exercise in shaping policy. Tánaiste Micheál Martin praised the four days of discussions, emphasising their importance in addressing complex security issues.

Martin described the forum as an important step forward, noting that while the discussions had “scratched the surface,” they provided valuable insights into national and international security challenges. Experts from a range of disciplines participated in the event, contributing diverse perspectives to the debate on security and policy-making.

The Tánaiste highlighted the need for continued dialogue and collaboration to ensure that security policies evolve in line with global challenges. He commended the participants for their engagement and stressed that the forum was just the beginning of a larger, ongoing conversation.

Korski responds to accusations by TV producer Daisy Goodwin, as Tory MP withdraws support.

Daniel Korski, the Conservative candidate for London Mayor, has claimed that he informed party officials about a groping allegation prior to announcing his bid for the position. Korski, who has been accused by TV producer Daisy Goodwin of groping her more than a decade ago, addressed the accusations amidst growing political pressure.

Goodwin alleges that Korski inappropriately touched her during a meeting in 2010, a claim that Korski has denied. He has stated that he reported the incident to senior Tory figures at the time but is now facing increasing scrutiny as the election draws closer.

The controversy has led to a Tory MP withdrawing their support for Korski, highlighting the challenges he now faces in his mayoral campaign. Korski has denied any wrongdoing and insists that the incident, if it happened, was entirely unintentional.

Congressional leaders commemorate the late John Lewis with a special stamp.

A new stamp honouring the late John Lewis, a towering figure in the civil rights movement and former US Congressman, was unveiled in a moving ceremony at the US Capitol on June 21, 2023. The stamp celebrates Lewis’s legacy as a champion of equality and justice, who dedicated his life to fighting for the rights of African Americans and other marginalized communities.

Lewis, who passed away in 2020 after more than three decades of service in Congress, played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, including his participation in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery march. The stamp, which features his portrait, serves as a lasting tribute to his contributions to American history.

Congressional leaders, along with Lewis’s family, gathered for the ceremony, reflecting on his enduring impact on the nation. The unveiling of the stamp is part of ongoing efforts to preserve the memory of Lewis’s work and ensure that his fight for justice is never forgotten.

Professor Dame Sally Davies expresses deep regret over the handling of the pandemic.

Professor Dame Sally Davies, the former Chief Medical Officer, became visibly emotional as she apologised during her testimony at the official Covid-19 inquiry on June 20, 2023. Close to tears, Davies expressed her sorrow over the high number of deaths and the devastating impact the pandemic had on individuals and families.

“It wasn’t just the deaths, it was the way they died. It was horrible,” she said, her voice breaking as she reflected on the lives lost during the pandemic. Davies, who played a key role in advising the government on health matters during the crisis, acknowledged the profound emotional and societal toll of the virus.

Her testimony is part of a broader inquiry into the UK’s response to the pandemic, which is examining the effectiveness of decisions made by health officials and the government. Davies’ apology highlights the deep personal and professional impact the crisis had on those involved in the public health response.