02/25/2021 - The Venturer leaves Brazil and is sailing for the Falklands
03/01/2021 - Argo Pereira off to the Falklands for the squid season, after 16 days in Montevideo
03/02/2021 - After thirty years of prolific research, RRS James Clark Ross makes final call to the Falklands
03/06/2021 - Falklands extends Rockhopper's offshore licenses until November 2022
03/06/2021 - Falklands: lively debate on the possibility of a salmon farming industry
03/12/2021 - Falklands tighten up vessel entry policy
03/12/2021 - April 30, a critical date for when Falklands first squid catches are landed in Spain
03/13/2021 - Resumption of Sao Paulo and Santiago/Falklands air links taking off next July?
03/18/2021 - Second dose Covid of vaccinations set to begin in the Falklands
03/18/2021 - Second dose of Covid vaccinations set to begin in the Falklands
03/18/2021 - Falklands: begins second phase to identify Argentine soldiers remains
03/18/2021 - UK, Argentina and the Falklands signed an agreement for the second phase to identify soldiers fallen in 1982
03/19/2021 - Falklands ready to receive third batch of Covid-19 vaccines
03/23/2021 - Andy Keeling: New Chief Executive to arrive in the Falklands next week
03/28/2021 - Falklands vaccination programme moves onto 18-44 year-olds
03/29/2021 - Lufthansa to repeat historic trip to Falklands
04/02/2021 - Falklands warn of difficulties in medical evacuation to Chile and Uruguay
04/10/2021 - Argentina strongly opposes UK's firing of missiles in the Falklands
04/10/2021 - Falklands: Half-mast flags during period of national mourning for the Duke of Edinburgh
04/10/2021 - Falklands, A 21-gun salute and parade to commemorate HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh
04/23/2021 - Royal Navy takes bomb disposal experts to South Georgia to remove Falklands War munitions
04/28/2021 - Jigging fleet finds large squid off Falklands – season not over yet
04/29/2021 - Argos granted extension to Falklands production licence
05/05/2021 - Falklands to record ‘modest’ population growth over the next 15 years
05/06/2021 - Falklands economy boasts healthy trade surplus but income inequality increases
05/10/2021 - Falklands closes first Loligo season earlier; successful catch anticipated
05/10/2021 - Vigo anticipates a 50,000 tons Falklands' Loligo catch but it will have to pay tariff to access the EU
05/10/2021 - Falklands plans to borrow US$ 85 million for the port, and manages a credit rating of A+ from S&P Global
05/17/2021 - Falklands waters: A haven for Sei whales
05/21/2021 - Falklands, 40th anniversary of liberation to be a year of commemoration and celebration
05/27/2021 - Royal Navy's Type 31 frigates have names; HMS Active recalls her predecessor and Falklands liberation
06/01/2021 - Falklands publishes ‘prudent budget’ for 2021/22
06/05/2021 - Small expedition ships to be allowed into the Falklands in southern summer
06/07/2021 - Falklands' program for the anniversary of Liberation Day 14 June 2021
06/07/2021 - Small expedition ships to be allowed into the Falklands in southern summer
06/09/2021 - Falklands Governor: a "superb season" for Fisheries based on catch volumes
06/13/2021 - Lack of regional cooperation on fisheries could have ‘disastrous outcomes’ on Falklands finfish fishery
06/14/2021 - Falklands pay tribute to 1982 fallen on Liberation Day
06/15/2021 - Falklands dispute: Solá heads the Argentine mission to the C24 conference
06/16/2021 - Falklands' fisheries legislation reform, a view from Galicia
06/19/2021 - Mines-free Falklands will remove fences of fields that remained out of bounds for almost forty years
06/19/2021 - Brussels drops tariffs for 75,000 tonnes of Falklands squid
06/21/2021 - Scholarships for Falklands' alumni to continue their graduate and postgraduate studies in Argentina
06/23/2021 - Falklands/Malvinas: Solá meets with UN chief Guterres ahead of the C24 conference
06/24/2021 - Argentina intends to “colonise” the Falklands and use C24 to do it, MLA Mark Pollard at the UN
06/25/2021 - Game over: C14 resolution ignores Falklands' pleas and again calls for a bilateral dialogue Argentina/UK
06/25/2021 - Lord Mayor of Plymouth presented with Falklands' flag during commemorations
06/28/2021 - Drones to census Falklands Albatrosses and Rockhopper penguins
06/28/2021 - Falklands English with a Uruguayan flavor, “Chay”
07/07/2021 - Search at Falklands' Teal Inlet for more possible Argentine soldiers interments
07/08/2021 - Falklands' government awards contract for improvement of Stanley airport terminal
07/08/2021 - Three companies (two UK and one Israel) involved in Falklands' oil industry, added to Argentina's sanctions list
07/16/2021 - Falklands puts in practice quarantine options and warns about symptoms of Delta variant
07/16/2021 - Search for possible interment of Argentine combatant at Falklands' Teal Inlet agreed by UK and Argentina
07/19/2021 - Argentina committed to a WTO agreement on fishing subsidies – but don't forget the Falklands
07/21/2021 - Falklands/Malvinas architecture and urban planning exhibition in Ushuaia
07/22/2021 - Trawler operating in Falklands' waters is in Montevideo with positive COVID-19 cases
07/22/2021 - As in the Falklands, Colombian children in rural areas taught to identify mines and unexploded ordnance
07/22/2021 - Falklands' fishery exports to EU: small window opens but much negotiations still ahead
07/23/2021 - Falklands' fishery exports to EU: small window opens but much negotiations still ahead
07/28/2021 - Falklands agrees further economic support measures for community and businesses
07/29/2021 - Falklands signs HPP2 Memorandum of Understanding ahead of August visit by ICRC
08/05/2021 - Argentine literary critic says Falklands are British, sparks rejection and controversy
08/07/2021 - Falklands reviews Infectious Diseases Regulations and Directions, effective Sunday 8 August
08/09/2021 - Beatriz Sarlo: Falklands belong to the Islanders, despite useless nationalism myths
08/09/2021 - Team of forensic experts arrives in Falklands for second phase of Humanitarian Project
08/11/2021 - Falklands Chamber of Commerce meets with future UK ambassador to Argentina
08/12/2021 - Falklands: excellent set of GCSE results for FICS students
08/16/2021 - Falklands Islands (Malvinas): Forensic identification of fallen Argentine soldiers begins
08/18/2021 - Falklands: Unexploded landmine disposed of at Yorke Bay, close to Stanley
08/18/2021 - Falklands TRIP scheme survey: help make this tourist season even better
08/19/2021 - Falklands receive batch of Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccines; fishing vessels crews immunized
08/19/2021 - Spanish trawlers believe Falklands is heading for a record catch of Loligo
08/19/2021 - Argentine congress fearful Falklands' new port could overshadow Ushuaia
08/23/2021 - Patagonia Top Gear cars with Falklands' war plate number reference, crushed by Argentina
08/23/2021 - Falklands Police finds no evidence of human remains at Teal Inlet; Red Cross satisfied with excavation results
08/26/2021 - Project with Falklands' SAERI to safeguard South Georgia’s Blue Belt
08/27/2021 - Argentina and Uruguay ladies love and celebrate the Falklands
09/04/2021 - Falklands stand at Montevideo Show: as a matter of courtesy UK ambassador informed her Argentine peer
09/08/2021 - British Pavilion in Expo Prado focuses on climate change; Falklands stand promotes trade and tourism
09/15/2021 - New Falklands port gets green light to proceed as part of ambitious infrastructure investment program
09/17/2021 - British Ambassador at Montevideo's Expo Prado: Falklands stand in the show is aligned with UK theme, climate change
09/23/2021 - Falklands government defines Illex fishing and transhipment licences in 2022
09/24/2021 - Oil company lifts all South Atlantic operations, future of project in Falklands now reshaped
09/24/2021 - Falklands' makes charitable donation to Falklands Veterans Foundation
09/27/2021 - Falklands at Labour conference, climate change and “Looking forward at 40”, the main issues
09/27/2021 - Falklands governor dissolves the Legislative Assembly and tries a cueca on a crouch
09/28/2021 - Falklands extends tourism recovery incentive for a second season
09/28/2021 - Falklands makes second donation to Uruguayan charity, which assist vulnerable people
09/30/2021 - Rockhopper hosting a retail investor meeting on Falklands' oil industry
10/04/2021 - Birmingham 2022 Queen's Baton Relay in the Falklands on June 7
10/05/2021 - Busy start for Falklands' stand at Manchester Conservative conference
10/05/2021 - Falklands: Rockhopper targets lower costs for Sea Lion project and potential entry of Navitas Petroleum
10/05/2021 - Amateur radio call signs: VP8 for Falklands and VP0 for South Georgia, South Sandwich and BAT
10/06/2021 - Falklands Chamber of Commerce wants to discuss "Business Priorities" with November election candidates
10/07/2021 - Falklands ends a great performance, as the Manchester curtain comes down
10/08/2021 - Falklands' decisive in supplying Covid-19 vaccines to BAS Antarctic base Rothera
10/11/2021 - Fragments of Argentine aircraft downed in Falklands donated to museum
10/19/2021 - Falklands election: manifestos of the four Camp candidates
10/20/2021 - Falklands election: manifestos of candidates for Stanley's five benches
10/21/2021 - Falklands Election: Mark Pollard and Stacy Bragger after reelection
10/22/2021 - Falklands Election: Peter Biggs, “Our allegiance with the UK is vital; I hope Argentina will mature into a democracy”
10/27/2021 - Crystal Endeavour scheduled to visit Falklands 21 December and 16 January
10/28/2021 - Closer to solving the mystery of the extinct Falklands' canid warrah
11/04/2021 - “Tommy” soldier silhouettes to commemorate Remembrance and Falklands' war 40th anniversary
11/04/2021 - Falklands' annual service of Remembrance will take place Sunday 14 November
11/04/2021 - Ice Patrol HMS Protector sailing to Falklands and Antarctica; she called at St Helena and Rio
11/05/2021 - Environment top priority as Falklands elect new Legislative Assembly
11/08/2021 - Royal Navy Type 21 Association will honor HMS Ardent and HMS Antelope at Falklands' Remembrance Sunday
11/09/2021 - Falklands/Malvinas: Red Cross presents final report after six Argentine soldiers are identified
11/09/2021 - Falklands' Representative marks century of Remembrance with Speaker of Commons
11/16/2021 - Chinese top scholar suggests resolving the Falklands dispute “by force”
11/17/2021 - RRS Sir Attenborough off to Antarctica; Falklands' call in three weeks and a half
11/18/2021 - Falklands' delegation participates in first JMC presential meeting since 2018
11/19/2021 - Construction boom: FIH wins contract to build 70 houses in the Falklands
11/19/2021 - "Significant plans" to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Falklands' campaign
11/23/2021 - UK MPs suggest asylum seekers crossing the English Channel be sent to Falklands
11/25/2021 - Research done in Falklands shows albatrosses are “divorcing” because of climate change
11/27/2021 - Falklands member of the Table Tennis Federation, despite Argentina's objection
11/30/2021 - Falklands/Malvinas: City of Ushuaia has its logo for the 40th anniversary of the war
11/30/2021 - US, only country with more civilian weapons than citizens; in Falklands, 62 weapons per 100 people
12/02/2021 - Antarctica, Falklands and South Georgia will see a total and partial solar eclipse
12/03/2021 - Falklands prepares to welcome state of the art RRS Sir David Attenborough on 9 December
12/09/2021 - Argentina's Xmas present: Falklands offered two humanitarian flights for residents to visit relatives
12/09/2021 - Fresh air for Falklands' oil industry: Navitas to become operator with Rockhopper, and Harbour exits
12/10/2021 - Falklands' flagged RRS Sir David Attenborough reaches “home”; anchored at Port William
12/11/2021 - “All Human, All Equal”, Falklands Government advocates Human Rights Day
12/11/2021 - Falklands' Government requests Argentina for compassionate charter flight to Chile
12/13/2021 - Falklands: Update on resumption of passenger flights
12/16/2021 - Falklands: successful start to minefield fence removal program
12/18/2021 - Falklands flagged Sir David Attenborough reaches Rothera Station in Antarctica
12/21/2021 - BAS 2021/22 Antarctic summer field season underway; Rothera/Falklands air link twice a week
12/23/2021 - Boris Johnson message: Falklands are part of the Great British family
12/23/2021 - Falklands waiting for Argentine response on the request for a compassionate charter flight to Chile
12/24/2021 - Falklands' capital Stanley aims for Platinum Jubilee city status in 2022
12/30/2021 - Ushuaia Logistics Pole to compete with Falklands and Punta Arenas as Gate to Antarctica
01/06/2022 - UK/Falklands 2021 trade in goods and services was down 9,7% compared to the previous year
01/12/2022 - Catholic mass in Spanish in the Falklands beginning 6 February
01/14/2022 - Former Spanish PMs support dialogue between Argentina, UK over Falklands
01/15/2022 - Falklands' War 40th anniversary: HMS Sheffield veterans raising money for a memorial
01/15/2022 - Falklands' Maritime Heritage Trust resumes search for Shackleton's Endurance
01/19/2022 - Falklands Senior Veterinary Officer is an woman Islander, born and educated in the Islands
01/21/2022 - Let us celebrate Penguin Awareness Day with Falklands one of the world's great penguin capitals
01/25/2022 - Falklands Government appoints new Director of Health and Social Services
01/31/2022 - A day of discussions on the Falklands' Wetlands future
02/01/2022 - Argentina decries increasing UK flights to Falklands with Brazil stopovers
02/02/2022 - Falklands 2021 census preliminary figures: 2,887 people counted on Sunday night 10 October
02/02/2022 - Falklands' Sea Lion project, Rockhopper, Harbour and Navitas extend heads of terms to 31 March 2022
02/02/2022 - Falklands publishes audited annual financial statements; underlines S&P Global A+ credit rating
02/03/2022 - Falklands updates international connectivity, but community's health remains the priority
02/05/2022 - Falklands: Update on Humanitarian Project Plan 2 to identify remains of Argentine combatants
02/07/2022 - “China must respect Falklands' sovereignty”, foreign secretary Truss message to Beijing
02/12/2022 - Latin American and Caribbean parliament call for Falklands' sovereignty talks with UK
02/12/2022 - Scientific survey of penguins response to climate change in Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica
02/15/2022 - Falklands Government reiterates the need to respect human rights and democratic liberties of the Falklands' nation
02/17/2022 - Last living Yagan language speaker dies aged 93; members of her ethnicity lived in the Falklands
02/17/2022 - Patagonia January inflation 3,6%, double the Falklands' annual retail prices index
02/18/2022 - Falklands' Chamber of Commerce organizes First Environmental Business Symposium
02/23/2022 - Spanish sailors in Falklands honor their fellow crew members from Villa de Pitanxo lost off Newfoundland
02/23/2022 - Private donation of Ł100,000 for expansion of Falklands Museum
02/23/2022 - Memorial events to mark Falklands 40th anniversary take shape
02/24/2022 - April deadline to get involved in key Falklands 40th events
02/26/2022 - The Ukraine flag proudly flies alongside the Falklands flag
02/28/2022 - Cristina Fernández de Kirchner still complaining about Falklands' 2013 referendum
02/28/2022 - CFK decries double standards within UN Security Council regarding Ukraine and Falklands/Malvinas
03/01/2022 - Falklands Government confirms compassionate charter flight to Chile 19 March
03/01/2022 - Argentina asks for the resumption of flights to the Falklands with stopover in Rio Gallegos
03/01/2022 - Argentina asks the resumption of flights to the Falklands with stopover in Rio Gallegos
03/02/2022 - Falklands: Argentina interested in a third phase of the Plan to identify fallen combatants in Malvinas
03/03/2022 - HMS Invincible battle Ensign will be displayed at Falklands' Museum
03/03/2022 - Copy of 1983 Franks Report on events leading to Falklands War, becomes part of Islands' heritage
03/04/2022 - Gibraltar will place a plaque to commemorate Falklands' war anniversary
03/05/2022 - Falklands exploration company raising funds to appraise and develop a gas condensate discovery
03/08/2022 - New sports facility for Falklands: an artificial all-weather pitch, and a multi-purpose sports hall
03/09/2022 - Compassionate charter flight for the Falklands' Chilean community on March 19
03/09/2022 - Falklands: HMS Forth and MPA personnel honor HMS Glamorgan, the last vessel damaged in 1982
03/09/2022 - Falklands government and community fundraising in support of Ukraine
03/10/2022 - Falklands: Planning Committee unanimously recommends rejection of plans for the new port
03/12/2022 - In 2013, “we reaffirmed our wish to be a part of Global Britain”, Falklands Legislative Assembly chair
03/12/2022 - Falklands Forty Schools Competition: Once in a lifetime opportunity for eight UK students to visit the Islands
03/14/2022 - Falklands' 40th Anniversary: Type 21 Club Frigate Association joins Royal British Legion event
03/16/2022 - Falklands celebrated its fantastic diversity on the Multicultural Day Festival
03/21/2022 - Falklands Liberation 40th anniversary: April calendar of events
03/23/2022 - Falklands' Liberation: 5,6 miles yomp Charity challenge, remembering Royal Marines epic 56 mile yomp in 1982
03/23/2022 - Rio Grande prepares for the Malvinas Vigil and a remake of the Falklands landing 2 April
03/24/2022 - Falklands launches consultation on Marine Managed Areas to conserve the Islands marine environment
03/24/2022 - Falklands' War Mapping Project expected to begin this month at Mount Tumbledown
03/25/2022 - Falklands Chamber of Commerce satisfied port project advances, but warns FIG on "gaps and issues"
03/28/2022 - Falklands war anniversary: UK cities have scheduled a raft of events to mark the 40th anniversary of the conflict's end
03/29/2022 - Tierra del Fuego Debit cards with the Falklands map for Malvinas Veterans
03/29/2022 - “Radio Atlántico Sur”, Britain's propaganda station during the Falklands' war to demoralize Argentine combatants
03/29/2022 - Falklands war runs the risk of becoming a “forgotten war”, charity survey confirms
03/30/2022 - Falklands lawmaker meets Shadow ministers and attends CPA conference
03/30/2022 - When Prince Philip visited the Falklands, in 1957 and 1991
03/31/2022 - UK commandos hope to raise Ł56,000 in memory of comrades who fought in Falklands' war
04/01/2022 - Falklands' war vivid frontline sketches by Linda Kitson who marched alongside the troops
04/02/2022 - A photographic exhibition commemorates the Falklands conflict 40 years later
04/04/2022 - Falklands' people have rights, but Argentina's 'cruel' attitude creates the feeling “war has not gone”
04/04/2022 - Falklands newsman would like an apology for 1982
04/05/2022 - Nigel Phillips CBE from the Falklands to governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
04/05/2022 - Falklands expects air links fully operational for the next tourist season
04/05/2022 - Foreign Office travel advice for Argentina: watch out for petty crime, strikes and Falklands' related protests
04/05/2022 - Pepe Mujica: Britain's stance regarding Malvinas/Falklands a thing of the past
04/06/2022 - Princess Anne attends Falklands' war anniversary service at St. Paul's Cathedral
04/06/2022 - Argentina complains over Falklands tourism stand at WTM in Sao Paulo
04/06/2022 - “MPC is entirely defensive, to defend Falklands from any potential threat,” BFSAI commander
04/07/2022 - Latin American focus, support for Argentina's Falklands' claim and diplomacy to solve continental shelf disputes, Boric's agenda
04/08/2022 - Gibraltar joins commemoration of 40th anniversary of Falklands conflict
04/10/2022 - Falklands War: 'The UK is still usurping our land'
04/11/2022 - Britain won the Falklands war but paid a steep price and the dispute isn’t settled
04/12/2022 - 763 Uruguayans volunteered to fight for Argentina during Falklands conflict, reveals Senate bill
04/12/2022 - Falklands oil company shares skyrocket following extension of license
04/12/2022 - Price of diesel in the Falklands increases to 80p a liter
04/13/2022 - Commemorative Ł2 coin to mark 40th anniversary of Falklands' Liberation
04/15/2022 - Forty years after the war, Falklands remain an Argentine obsession
04/16/2022 - Moskva, the first major surface combatant vessel sunk since the Falklands' war
04/18/2022 - Forty Years on, the legacy of the Falklands War continues to show
04/18/2022 - Refit Sikorsky S61N helicopter arrives at MPC in Falklands
04/19/2022 - Record, two Falklands' full year inflation in a month in Argentina
04/19/2022 - Falklands, first war mapping project at Mount Tumbledown is completed
04/19/2022 - Problems and challenges Brexit brought for the Falklands' economy still pending
04/20/2022 - Falklands 40: why Malvinas are still such an emotive issue in Argentina
04/21/2022 - Falklands: Covid-19 community transmission confirmed at MPC, protective measures recommended
04/22/2022 - The Argentine officer who terrorized and favored a final solution for Islanders during the Falklands' occupation
04/23/2022 - ”Recognition '82’,” special edition gin to commemorate Falklands War and Chatham Dockyard workers
04/23/2022 - New BAS aircraft to ensure transport between Falklands and Antarctica
04/23/2022 - Falklands “Evening of Reflection,” a gathering of those in the Islands during the conflict
04/23/2022 - Navitas banned from Argentina for twenty years for operating in Falklands' waters
04/25/2022 - Falklands War: HMS Sheffield memorial to be unveiled at the National Arboretum
04/25/2022 - Tepid New Delhi support for Argentina's sponsored Falklands/Malvinas dialogue commission
04/26/2022 - BFSAI command at Falklands commemorates Liberation of South Georgia
04/26/2022 - Falklands' inshore waters globally recognized as Key Biodiversity Areas
04/27/2022 - Argentina targeting the Foradori/Duncan statement on the Falklands
04/27/2022 - Gibraltar's Falklands war exhibition: "we share the right to freedom and self-determination"
04/29/2022 - Duncan downplays comments on Foradori, but damage to Falklands' 2016 Joint Statement has been done
04/29/2022 - Queen's birthday with 800 guests in Buenos Aires; special tribute to Falklands Veterans from both sides
04/30/2022 - Partial solar eclipse on Saturday can be seen in southern South America, Falklands and Antarctica
05/01/2022 - Falklands War remains 'an open wound' in Argentina, says ambassador
05/02/2022 - Calendar of May events and commemorations of the Falklands War
05/03/2022 - Falklands war was instrumental in accelerating the return of democracy in Argentina, Ambassador Figueroa
05/03/2022 - Brazil in the crossfire of the Falklands/Malvinas war
05/03/2022 - Argentine Ministry posted an image of a British vessel on ARA General Belgrano's sinking memorial in Falklands War
05/05/2022 - Falklands War: MPs demand inquiry on Exocet "kill switch"; how transparent was France?
05/09/2022 - Air-link Falklands/Sao Paulo "discontinued" or exchanged for a direct flight from Buenos Aires
05/09/2022 - Chilean president will address the Falklands issue with Boris Johnson in Egypt
05/12/2022 - FIMA Funded Falklands 40th Photo Exhibition Moves to Chatham's Historic Dockyard Museum
05/14/2022 - Merchant Navy cadets join RRS Sir David Attenborough in the Falklands for training deployment
05/14/2022 - Limited editions of whisky, rum and gin to commemorate Falklands War and raise funds for SAMA82
05/15/2022 - Falklands prepares for the Big Plastic Count, starting next week
05/20/2022 - Cunard Falklands' loss, and a tribute to the Merchant navy will be commemorated by Liverpool
05/20/2022 - Falklands' capital Stanley granted city status as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations
05/20/2022 - Falklands: Stop double standards UN says MLA Short
05/21/2022 - Falklands War, May 21, UK begins landing troops in San Carlos for the definitive recapture of the Islands
05/21/2022 - MoD offers free flights to Veterans wishing to travel to the Falklands after RAF concessionary fare increased six fold
05/23/2022 - Argentine officials question city status awarded to Stanley, Falklands capital
05/24/2022 - New Darwin Plus Initiative funding for Falklands' New Island Nature Reserve
05/25/2022 - Carmona makes UN C24 round before the coming Falklands/Malvinas debate in June
05/25/2022 - Judge Simmons loves the Falklands; has the largest judicial jurisdiction in the world
05/26/2022 - Falklands war: Plymouth and Liverpool remember UK merchant navy sailors killed
05/26/2022 - The Falklands Conflict – Then and Now
05/28/2022 - Falklands' Government publishes Budget for 2022/23: "stability and continuity"
05/31/2022 - Children from the Falklands say “Thank you” in a video to veterans who liberated the islands in 1982
06/01/2022 - Crown coin commemorating the Liberation of the Falklands for every child in the Islands
06/01/2022 - At Falklands Thursday sunset, Queen's Platinum Jubilee Beacon will be lit
06/01/2022 - Across the Atlantic from UK to the Falklands, for a first autonomous marine research vessel
06/01/2022 - Falklands war: Argentina insists HMS Invincible was hit by an Exocet; Taiana recalls the joint navy/air force mission
06/02/2022 - Falklands' War: Royal Marines cadre clear Top Malo House of Argentine special forces
06/06/2022 - Falklands receives the Queen's Baton for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games
06/06/2022 - When Peron offered to buy the Falklands/Malvinas in a long term deal
06/07/2022 - Falklands: Royal Marines repeat the famous 90km yomp from San Carlos to Stanley in an impressive time
06/08/2022 - With a 'quieter' Westminster, Johnson admits he might visit the Falklands
06/08/2022 - Commercial air link Falklands/Chile scheduled to resume 2nd July. Ticket booking begins
06/09/2022 - Resumption of Chile/Falklands air link, a “historic event”, says Argentine official Carmona
06/09/2022 - Falklands War: Armed Forces charity, SSAFA, concerned with UK public little knowledge about the conflict
06/10/2022 - The unsung heroes of, "Glimpses of the Falklands War"
06/10/2022 - Fitzroy air attack, Britain's major loss in a single incident in the Falklands War
06/11/2022 - Falklands War: Royal Marines in UK honor commando units that yomped 56 miles across the Islands
06/11/2022 - Locking in Stanley by land, sea and air, was stalemate for Argentine occupation and Falklands Liberation
06/13/2022 - Memorial service for 14 sailors from HMS Glamorgan killed in Falklands
06/13/2022 - Mounts surrounding Stanley taken by British forces, end of Falklands war
06/14/2022 - Falklands War: end of hostilities, General Menendez surrenders to Major General Jeremy Moore
06/15/2022 - "We reject any questions over the Falklands' right to self determination," Foreign secretary Liz Truss
06/15/2022 - Falklands ceremony and parade at Liberation Memorial on the 40th anniversary
06/15/2022 - “People everywhere have a right to decide their own future,” PM Johnson at Falklands' Liberation ceremony
06/16/2022 - HMS Forth, permanent presence in the Falklands, and South Atlantic naval guardian
06/16/2022 - Veterans will always find "a home from home" in the Falklands, MLA Roberts tells SAMA82 members
06/16/2022 - Defense Secretary Wallace pays tribute to Falklands' Veterans
06/16/2022 - Falklands' Veterans limited from claiming "cold injuries", because of a 1987 Crown Armed Forces Act
06/17/2022 - Beauchene Fishing generous support for the Falklands' team to the Island Games in Guernsey
06/17/2022 - Falklands' landmarks to be named after 238 fallen in 1982
06/18/2022 - Falklands Veterans memorial service and parade in Portsmouth on Sunday
06/18/2022 - 1982: Falklands' Task Force removes Argentine base from South Sandwich islands
06/20/2022 - UK domestic problems could favor resumption of talks on Falklands with Argentina, says Malvinas secretary
06/21/2022 - Argentine Army Panhard AML90 refurbished in time for Falklands 40th anniversary
06/22/2022 - Freedom of the Falklands granted to South Atlantic Medal holders
06/22/2022 - The "communist" map that irked nationalists because Malvinas are Falklands and don't figure as Argentine
06/24/2022 - Falklands challenges C24 to visit the Islands: the inconvenient truth a bully Argentina wants to hide, MLA Roberts
06/24/2022 - Argentina and C24 members want a return of real colonialism to Falklands and Southwest Atlantic, MLA Short
06/24/2022 - MLA Spink visits Whitby, twinned to Falklands Stanley City
06/24/2022 - MLA Rogers visits Whitby, twinned to Falklands Stanley City
06/24/2022 - C24 resolution calls on Argentina and UK to resume Falklands' negotiations
06/27/2022 - Uruguay congress Falklands declaration expected first week of July; differences on the term 'usurpation'
06/27/2022 - Falklands in agenda of Fernandez bilateral meeting with Johnson at G7
06/30/2022 - Falklands new fisheries patrol vessel name: “Lilibet” in honor of Queen Elizabeth
06/30/2022 - Boris Johnson and Putin clash over "toxic masculinity" and Falklands' war
06/30/2022 - Johnson disappointed Falklands issue was brought up by Fernandez, but described the meeting as frank and friendly
07/01/2022 - Falklands will host the Red Ensign Group Conference next February
07/01/2022 - Falklands War: nuke sub HMS Spartan honors heroes and crew members
07/04/2022 - LATAM air link to Falklands from Chile normalized after 30 months
07/05/2022 - Carmona: air link with Sao Paulo is 'dead'; Aerolineas will finally fly directly to Falklands
07/07/2022 - "Falklands offers a different lifestyle, but if you love it, you tend to really love it," MLA Leona Roberts
07/12/2022 - End of Falklands War: Euphoric home welcome for SS Canberra and returning troops in Southampton
07/13/2022 - Falklands' SAERI project on Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems of the Southwest Atlantic
07/15/2022 - Bookings good for coming season says Falklands Tourism Board Executive Director
07/19/2022 - Falklands black browed albatross: from prey feeding to fishery discards
07/20/2022 - A decommissioned C 130 Hercules to honor Argentine combatants fallen in the Falklands' war
07/20/2022 - Falklands expects a great summer season: return of cruise ships and air links
07/21/2022 - Veteran Simon Weston will visit the Falklands next February on the “Balmoral”
07/21/2022 - Prince Charles thanks Falklands' Veterans at a reception on flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth
07/21/2022 - Falklands Covid-19 booster vaccination postponed because of airbridge delays
07/21/2022 - Falklands' Governor designate Alison Blake swearing in ceremony on Saturday
07/23/2022 - As of Saturday, Falklands have the first woman Governor, Ms Alison Blake CMG
07/27/2022 - Falklands extends oil licenses two years for farm-in Rockhopper/Navitas accord
07/28/2022 - Falklands approves importation, possession, use and sale of Cannabidiol (CBD)
08/01/2022 - Falklands celebrates Daphne's win in Lawn Bowls and England's Euro Women's Cup
08/01/2022 - Falklands peaty soil spread in the main ring of the Palermo cattle show in Buenos Aires
08/02/2022 - Falklands Conservation tracking Southern Right Whales
08/03/2022 - Detractor of Falklands people's rights, Argentina's candidate to the International Law Court of The Hague
08/04/2022 - Bristow Group completes acquisition of BIH, including Falklands' operations
08/05/2022 - Falklands Conservation 2-year project to eliminate invasive species from New Island
08/09/2022 - South African business analyst joins Falklands Development Corporation
08/11/2022 - Falklands Veterans and families invited to register for a balloted flight to the Islands
08/11/2022 - Successful refueling of RAF Atlas flying from Brize Norton to Falklands
08/13/2022 - Falklands first look at over 30 years of seabird monitoring results
08/13/2022 - Falklands Day celebrated in Parliament with Islands' flag flying at New Palace Yard
08/15/2022 - Queen's congratulations and good wishes on Falklands' Day, 14th August
08/18/2022 - Falklands Volunteer Defense Force is currently recruiting
08/18/2022 - Falklands Government announces “no questions asked” firearms and ammunition amnesty
08/26/2022 - Falklands strongly supports Ukraine Independence Day, Slava Ukraini
08/26/2022 - 1982: UK forces downed Argentine Pucara with a Stinger missile during Falklands San Carlos' landing
08/29/2022 - Falklands Conservation undertakes summer seabirds monitoring program
08/30/2022 - UK tells India, “Britain has no doubts about Falklands sovereignty,” and Islanders right to self determination
08/30/2022 - Falklands' Beauchene Fishing orders a new trawler to replace "Baffin Bay" sunk in Vigo
09/01/2022 - Falklands training the next generation of government leaders
09/01/2022 - Falklands' students achieve excellent results in secondary school live examinations
09/01/2022 - New theory on mass strandings among pilot whales, includes Falklands' experience
09/05/2022 - Falklands' Veteran hero paratrooper who acted on a BBC show on the war dies in air crash
09/05/2022 - Falklands' Stanley Penguins U12, the Golden team of ice hockey Cup in Chile
09/06/2022 - Next British Prime Minister strong supporter of the Falklands
09/14/2022 - Falklands Public Holiday and national two minute’s silence for Queen Elizabeth II
09/15/2022 - Falklands' Fortuna Group establishes Taiwan subsidiary
09/15/2022 - Falklands to join UK Moment of Reflection on Queen Elizabeth, next Sunday
09/16/2022 - Falklands: Motion of Condolence for Her Majesty The Queen on Friday
09/19/2022 - Argentina rejects naval exercise in Brazil because of Falklands' HMS Forth
09/19/2022 - Prince Charles visit to the River Plate and the Falklands, with a little help from Uruguay
09/21/2022 - Argentine president again calls on the UN for Falklands' sovereignty negotiations
09/21/2022 - Falklands and change of monarch: banknotes and coins, and stamps remain legal tender
09/21/2022 - Falklands: end of Covid-19 support schemes; small businesses and Bounce Back tourism options remain
09/21/2022 - Falklands new Director of Education: ex Principal and Chief Executive of City College Southampton
09/21/2022 - Falklands governor and Legislative Assembly representative MLA Roger Spink meet House of Commons Speaker
09/21/2022 - Cafiero claims the Falklands during a ministerial Atlantic Basin meeting chaired by US Secretary of State
09/30/2022 - Falklands suspends new port facility works due to an 'increase in costs': from Ł50-70m to some Ł157m
10/01/2022 - Rockhopper/Navitas plans to develop Falklands' Sea Lion offshore project in late 2023 or 2024
10/03/2022 - Argentine student winner of Falklands' competition travels to the Islands "with an open mind"
10/03/2022 - Fernandez upgrades Falklands strategic position; promises to reinforce military presence in southern Argentina
10/04/2022 - Latin American countries support Argentina's Falklands' claim at UN Fourth Committee
10/04/2022 - Foreign Secretary at Falklands 40tth anniversary reception at Birmingham
10/05/2022 - Falklands Chamber of Commerce renews the Board; prepares for 30tth anniversary celebration
10/05/2022 - Falklands Tourist Board survey to expand industry strategy from 2025 to 2030
10/08/2022 - Falklands tribute at the International Bomber Command Center
10/08/2022 - UK representative challenges OAS Assembly to recognize Falklands right to self determination
10/10/2022 - Falklands strict protocol in case of Avian influenza reaching the Islands
10/10/2022 - China increasingly aggressive on the Falklands: "UK stubbornly clings to its colonial sin"
10/11/2022 - Falklands Mensun Bound received a lifetime achievement award in Montecarlo
10/11/2022 - Argentina has ten companies in the “bad boys” list for involvement in Falklands oil activities
10/12/2022 - Falklands' SAERI scientist invited to COP27 at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt
10/13/2022 - Falklands new port suspension: resuscitating packages required for FIPASS functioning
10/14/2022 - Falklands constitutional debate: can dual nationals vote and stand for office?
10/15/2022 - Falklands MLA will report on trade agreements with EU, UK following on Brexit
10/18/2022 - Falklands: 40th Anniversary Veteran’s Pilgrimage, appeal for drivers
10/19/2022 - UK and Argentina clash at UN Fourth Committee on Decolonization over Falklands, South Atlantic Islands and self determination
10/19/2022 - Update on Falklands commercial air-link with Brazil
10/19/2022 - Update on Falklands commercial air-link with Brazi
10/20/2022 - UK ambassador in Peru: "Falklands/Malvinas is a closed case for us"
10/20/2022 - Queen's University, Belfast, conference on Falklands' Forty Years of Progress
10/20/2022 - Falklands/Malvinas: Ecuador Legislative overwhelmingly votes in support of Argentina's claims
10/21/2022 - Falklands community will host 150 pilgrims for five days in November
10/21/2022 - Brazil/Falklands commercial air link needs "more time for restart"
10/25/2022 - Falklands Legislative Assembly holds session at Goose Green Social Club
10/25/2022 - "Should’ve gone to salmon-savers!" Falklands Unity Marine Limited
10/25/2022 - Falklands Census 2021: population reaches 3,662, in Stanley 2,964 and Camp, 354
10/26/2022 - Falklands' Health and Social Services logo competition
10/26/2022 - Life satisfaction in Falklands: on a scale 0 to 10, residents provided an average 7,9 rating
10/27/2022 - Several Falklands' fauna pictures at the Comedy Wildlife Photography awards
10/28/2022 - Dual nationality and right to vote in Falklands: Assembly's Speaker draft statement
10/28/2022 - Falklands extends Travel Credit Scheme to include domestic tourism accommodation
10/28/2022 - Falklands approves package to support the community with the cost of living
10/28/2022 - Falklands' ExCo pledges more openness and transparency
10/29/2022 - Lecture on Falklands Liberation Anniversary at Queen's University in Belfast
10/29/2022 - Falklands thanks Commons' Speaker for the 40th Anniversary support
10/29/2022 - A mind blowing donation to the Falklands Museum and a remarkable letter from 1914
10/31/2022 - Falklands included in Russia's list of "unfriendly" territories
11/02/2022 - Falklands' Rockhopper 200 million Euros award ruling which Italy is working to annul
11/03/2022 - Falklands appoints 14 November as a Public Holiday, to celebrate birthday of King Charles III
11/03/2022 - Falklands MLA Pete Biggs at Security Legislation Conference in Westminster
11/03/2022 - Prince Andrew won't be travelling to the Falklands with Princess Anne this month
11/04/2022 - Falklands fuel prices hit hard, triggers concern and a community solidarity spirit
11/04/2022 - Falklands Legislative Assembly reaffirms rights to self-determination amid Chagos sovereignty negotiations
11/04/2022 - UK Chagos Devolution: Argentina urges bilateral negotiations on Falklands' sovereignty
11/07/2022 - Falklands forecasting record hake catch, plus 62,000 tons
11/07/2022 - Foreign Office' Travel Advice on the Falklands: US$ 200,000 medical insurance
11/08/2022 - Falklands' war landing craft, wins 2022 Flagship Award of the Year
11/08/2022 - Falklands and BOTs delegates invited to the Constituency Garden of Remembrance
11/09/2022 - Travel expenses to Falklands' Darwin Cemetery are not "abroad," Argentine taxpayer cries
11/10/2022 - Falklands' preparations for major Remembrance commemoration next Sunday
11/11/2022 - Falklands: additional funding for overseas students in higher education considered
11/11/2022 - Falklands residents demand “local and world leaders tackle climate change”
11/11/2022 - Falklands Veterans mark the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the Islands
11/12/2022 - Commemorative flight for 130 Falklands Veterans and next of kin, first time in the Islands in forty years
11/12/2022 - Remembrance Sunday Service 13 November in the Falklands, broadcast live to UK
11/12/2022 - Eight UK students win competition to visit Falklands and explore areas of their interest
11/14/2022 - Charles leads Remembrance as King; Falklands present at the Cenotaph with a floral wreath
11/14/2022 - Hundreds attended Remembrance Sunday commemoration in the Falklands
11/16/2022 - Falklands' electricity price up from December first; power allowance scheme for households
11/16/2022 - RRS Sir David Attenborough leaves for Falklands and Antarctica next Sunday
11/18/2022 - "Huge thank you", for the success of Veterans pilgrimage to Falklands
11/18/2022 - Princess Anne and Parliamentary Group at Falklands' Liberation Monument for Act of Remembrance
11/18/2022 - Sei whale breeding song identified for the first time in Falklands' waters
11/19/2022 - Princess Anne leads Remembrance ceremony at Falklands Liberation Memorial
11/21/2022 - Princess Anne visits MPC and meets Falklands' residents at a reception
11/23/2022 - Argentina objects to the presence of Prince Anne in the Falklands, "a discourtesy" complains Carmona
11/25/2022 - Mexican fans pull Falklands card to mock Argentina supporters in Qatar
11/26/2022 - Falklands map with the names of British fallen during the 1982 Liberation of the Islands
11/26/2022 - Princess Anne praises achievements of Falklands Forty anniversary and belonging to the BOTs Family
11/26/2022 - Falklands celebrates Multicultural Day at Goose Green
11/30/2022 - Falklands: UK Overseas Territories shadow minister reaffirms Labour's resolute support
11/30/2022 - Falklands part of the global climate crisis, both in consequences and attempts to find solutions
12/01/2022 - Falklands paper on climate change and oceans' biodiversity accepted at the COP 27 summit in Egypt
12/01/2022 - Digitalized documenst on Argentina's Falklands claim made available to the public
12/02/2022 - UK Government and Royal Family, 'huge champions' in support of Falklands' sovereignty and self determination
12/02/2022 - Argentina to oppose Kosovo troops training at Falklands
12/03/2022 - Role of the Falklands in the development and success of British Antarctic Survey
12/05/2022 - Falklands' science celebrates ten years of SAERI and international academic recognition
12/05/2022 - Falklands tells MPs of its concern with registers of beneficial ownership
12/08/2022 - Councillors of Portsmouth and Whitby visiting the Falklands
12/08/2022 - Francis kisses and blesses an Argentine flag and received soil from the Falklands cemetery
12/08/2022 - Falklands Plaque unveiled at Portland to honor dockworkers involved in readying the Task Force
12/08/2022 - Falklands: Household power and fuel assistance a non taxable allowance
12/10/2022 - Brigadier Dan Duff, next head of Falklands based BFSAI
12/11/2022 - Falklands Government extends Borders & Southern production licenses
12/13/2022 - Falklands' household Power and Fuel Allowance payments
12/15/2022 - RRS Sir David Attenborough docks in Falklands: Saturday begins Antarctic round at Rothera Base
12/15/2022 - Falklands forced to reschedule flu vaccine clinics
12/17/2022 - Princess Anne in the Falklands impressed by Islands continued development and vibrant community
12/17/2022 - “Malvinas are not Argentine, and definitively... Falklands are English,” argues Peruvian lawmaker
12/20/2022 - Falklands prepares for climate change, which is arriving with much less rainfall
12/20/2022 - Non native species commercial farming back in the Falklands debate
12/21/2022 - Tierra del Fuego team planning Falklands trip to assess the economic impact of UK 'usurpation' of the Islands
12/22/2022 - Technical issue impacting Falklands' government departments
12/22/2022 - The Argentine World Cup victory song has references to the Falklands war and the lads killed in combat
12/23/2022 - Senator proposes Falklands claim in the Argentine international sports colors
12/24/2022 - Falklands 40th anniversary: RAF's Nimrod patrolling the South Atlantic in support of the Task Force
12/24/2022 - UK/Falklands airbridge cancelled until 27 December because of climate conditions and defense priorities
12/29/2022 - SAERI: Climate change resilience in the Falklands Fisheries and Marine Ecosystems
01/11/2023 - Falklands' Loligo squid licenses prices climb 12% for the coming season beginning 26 February
01/26/2023 - Falklands: Diverting children and young people away from the Criminal Justice System
01/26/2023 - Falklands Veterinary Service reports Avian pox amongst Gentoo penguins
01/28/2023 - A hot tempered ambassador and will Falklands' HMS Forth be allowed to dock in Chile
02/02/2023 - Falklands Veterinary Officers report on Gentoo rookery Penguin pox
02/04/2023 - Falklands patrol HMS Forth on maintenance; replaced by HMS Medway
02/04/2023 - FCDO Minister reaffirms Falklands' people right to decide their own future
02/07/2023 - Foreign Office Travel Advice for the Falklands and Chile
02/07/2023 - Top Argentine official makes the round of talks and contacts in Spain to complain about Falklands fishing industry
02/09/2023 - Falklands Environment Strategy: First Progress Report available online
02/10/2023 - Factsheet on trade and investment statistics between Falklands and UK in 2022
02/13/2023 - Falklands and Gibraltar in Spanish List of tax havens and alleged money laundering
02/14/2023 - Falklands flagged “RRS Sir David Attenborough” in Chile irks the nerves of Argentine senators
02/15/2023 - Ariane and Shannon qualified in leadership and management by Falklands government
02/16/2023 - "The Falklands are and will remain British," MPs from the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme
02/16/2023 - Multicultural Falklands organizing 'multicultural takeaway' in support of humanitarian needs in Turkey and Syria
02/17/2023 - Falklands: PICTO 21 group told to expect no help from FIG or MLAs
02/21/2023 - Former Argentine FM lashes out at Uruguayan President over Falklands trip
02/21/2023 - Successful Falklands tour for Gibraltar Regiment Band
02/22/2023 - Falklands War frigate to be turned into a museum
02/25/2023 - Falklands / Malvinas War: “Known Soldier” conference touches young students and veterans alike
02/27/2023 - US media: Washington needs to capitalize on Falklands case to restore hemispheric unity
03/03/2023 - Cleverly insists: the Falklands are British
03/09/2023 - The Falklands' voice heard: Commemorating 10 years since the Referendum
03/10/2023 - Uruguayan news team visits Falklands ahead of referendum's 10th anniversary
03/11/2023 - 2022 Was a Boom Year For Falklands Squid and Finfish Fleets
03/16/2023 - Falklands, Chinese jet fighters and the pro Beijing lobby in Argentine Defense and Diplomacy
03/17/2023 - Falklands Education Director discusses history school curriculum with Uruguayan media
03/25/2023 - Falklands contracts qualified explosive ordnance disposal expert for housing development
03/25/2023 - Falklands retains global A+ investment rating; financial and political stability crucial for the achievement
03/25/2023 - Falklands, no confirmed cases of avian influenza in wild or domestic birds

Falklands, no confirmed cases of avian influenza in wild or domestic birds

Published: 03/25/2023 in MercoPress

Senior Veterinary Office, Zoe Fowler, “The fact that we have managed to avoid any real suspect, or confirmed case of avian influenza is a significant achievement.” Photo: WHO / Archive The Veterinary Department can confirm that, following a major implementation of enhanced bio-security across the Islands, there have, to date, been no confirmed cases of avian influenza (bird flu) in the Falkland Islands wild or domestic birds.

Falklands retains global A+ investment rating; financial and political stability crucial for the achievement

Published: 03/25/2023 in MercoPress

Financial Secretary, Tracey Prior: “This rating provides external assurance of our strong public finances” The Falkland Islands Government is pleased to confirm that, following a detailed review of updated fiscal and economic information, supported by a process of confidential interviews with FIG officers and other stakeholders, including representatives of the business community, S&P Global Ratings have confirmed the sovereign rating for the Falkland Islands remains at A+ with a stable outlook.

Falklands contracts qualified explosive ordnance disposal expert for housing development

Published: 03/25/2023 in MercoPress

Guy Marot OBE has agreed to take on the role, having previously worked in the Islands with the demining program which ended in 2020. Following an extraordinary sitting of ExCo, it has been approved for Fenix Insight Ltd to provide a qualified Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Adviser for the development works of Bennett’s Paddock. This decision follows the discovery of a number of unexploded munitions while excavation work has been undertaken to develop properties.

Falklands Education Director discusses history school curriculum with Uruguayan media

Published: 03/17/2023 in MercoPress

Stannard explained that building schools was one of the first things after the 1982 war. Sarah Stannard, Director of Education of the Falkland Islands, told Paula Ojeda of Montevideo's El Observador how the 1982 War is taught to schoolchildren in the South Atlantic British overseas territories where fighting took place. The story was published this week.

Falklands, Chinese jet fighters and the pro Beijing lobby in Argentine Defense and Diplomacy

Published: 03/16/2023 in MercoPress

Sabino Vaca Narvaja, Argentine ambassador in Beijing and member of the pro Beijing lobby The Argentine Embassy in China said confirmed that Buenos Aires is considering procuring the JF-17 aircraft, with Chinese analysts saying on Wednesday that the fighter jet jointly developed by China and Pakistan is the best choice for Argentina in terms of performance and availability.

2022 Was a Boom Year For Falklands Squid and Finfish Fleets

Published: 03/11/2023 in MercoPress

The name LILIBET was proposed by Aimée, a pupil at Stanley Infant Junior School and Camp Education (Pic@LarusDom) Fisheries authorities in the Falkland Islands have said that 2022 was a bumper year for the squid and hake fishing fleets licenced by the territory. Sixteen ships caught a remarkable 101,166 tonnes of loligo squid; a catch that was exceeded only in 1989, when 118,120 tonnes were landed, although that record catch was achieved by almost three times as many ships.

Uruguayan news team visits Falklands ahead of referendum's 10th anniversary

Published: 03/10/2023 in MercoPress

Former MLA Summers wants to renegotiate the agreement to identify fallen Argentine soldiers after Argentina pulled out from the Foradori-Duncan Treaty A team from Uruguay's news show Telenoche (Montevideo's Channel 12) is visiting the Falkland Island marking the 10th anniversary of the referendum whereby the local population ratified its will to remain a British Overseas Territory despite sovereignty claims from Argentina.

The Falklands' voice heard: Commemorating 10 years since the Referendum

Published: 03/09/2023 in MercoPress

A special Referendum film has been produced to outline the reasons for the referendum Ten years ago, the people of the Falkland Islands participated in a landmark referendum, overseen by international observers, to determine their political status as an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom. The question posed was, “Do you wish the Falkland Islands to retain their current political status?” and an overwhelming 99.8% of voters, on a 92% turnout, chose to remain a self-governing territory of the UK.

Cleverly insists: the Falklands are British

Published: 03/03/2023 in MercoPress

The Falklanders have chosen to remain a British Overseas Territory, Cleverly said after being told by Cafiero about Argentina's decision British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly wrote on Twitter that the Falkland “islanders have the right to decide their own future: they have chosen to remain an autonomous British Overseas Territory,” and therefore “the Falkland Islands are British.”

US media: Washington needs to capitalize on Falklands case to restore hemispheric unity

Published: 02/27/2023 in MercoPress

Getting British acquiescence to policies favoring the Falklands rapprochement with South America is something the United States can likely deliver, but Russia and China cannot However small, remote, and irrelevant to Washington the South Atlantic might be, it might prove vital if the United States is to rebuild its hemispheric strategy lost as a result of helping the United Kingdom retake the Falklands from Argentine forces back in 1982, according to a Foreign Policy article published Sunday.

Falklands / Malvinas War: “Known Soldier” conference touches young students and veterans alike

Published: 02/25/2023 in MercoPress

The translator did her job so well everybody cried, Aro explained A conference at London's King College School of Security Studies by 1982 war veterans Julio Aro and Geoffrey Cardozo moved British students who got the opportunity to hear first-hand what an armed conflict meant for those participating in it.

Falklands War frigate to be turned into a museum

Published: 02/22/2023 in MercoPress

HMS Ambuscade was decommissioned and sold to Pakistan where it was recommissioned as PNS Tariq and remained in active service The Royal Navy's HMS Ambuscade is to be preserved as a shipbuilding museum in Glasgow following her decommissioning by the Pakistan Navy, it was announced this week.

Successful Falklands tour for Gibraltar Regiment Band

Published: 02/21/2023 in MercoPress

“A great tour, with a strong sense of teamwork, bound by the love of music,” a Gibraltar Regiment spokesperson described the trip Ten members of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment Band joined forces with colleagues from the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment Band (PWRR) to deliver musical support on behalf of 3PWRR while their battalion were deployed in the Falklands for Exercise Tiger Island.

Former Argentine FM lashes out at Uruguayan President over Falklands trip

Published: 02/21/2023 in MercoPress

The Uruguayan lawmakers also betrayed the legacy of Artigas, Solá claimed on Twitter Former Argentine Foreign Minister Felipe Solá said Uruguay's President Luis Lacalle Pou's “main objective” was “to show his contempt for Argentina” after a group of lawmakers visited the Falkland Islands together with the United Kingdom's Ambassador to Montevideo Faye O'Connor.

Falklands: PICTO 21 group told to expect no help from FIG or MLAs

Published: 02/17/2023 in MercoPress

“I hope that you will enjoy your stay in our beautiful country,” MLA Short told the visiting group while adding that no cooperation could be expected from local authorities The so-called PICTO 21 group of Argentine visitors to the Falkland Islands looking for an accounting approach with which to measure ”the economic impact of the illegal occupation ... by the British government” will have no assistance from the local Legislative Assembly, it was announced.

Multicultural Falklands organizing 'multicultural takeaway' in support of humanitarian needs in Turkey and Syria

Published: 02/16/2023 in MercoPress

The Multicultural takeaway will be receiving orders for their service offering a range of delicacies, representing the cuisines of the many nationalities that make the Falklands community. Generous Falkland Islands are again organizing to aid human tragedy, this time to collect funds to help with the recovery of the tragic earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria, with an estimated loss of plus 41,000 lives and millions of dollars as hundreds of thousands were left homeless with the collapse of hundreds of buildings.

"The Falklands are and will remain British," MPs from the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme

Published: 02/16/2023 in MercoPress

Members of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme with most of the elected members of the Legislative Assembly. Rob Butler MP, Conservative MP for Aylesbury, and Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi MP Labour for Slough are in the Falklands as part of the UK Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme, a program ongoing for more than thirty years with the purpose of better-educating Members of the House of Commons, the House of Lords and others in military matters.

Ariane and Shannon qualified in leadership and management by Falklands government

Published: 02/15/2023 in MercoPress

Ariane and Shannon were presented with a Certificate of Completion by the Chief Executive, Andy Keeling during the Corporate Management Team meeting The Management Trainee Program which was re-launched in November 2020 as part of a two-year initiative aimed at identifying possible future leaders of government has now been concluded, and following their appointment as Management Trainees, Shannon Alazia and Ariane Brownlee have now successfully completed the program.

Falklands flagged “RRS Sir David Attenborough” in Chile irks the nerves of Argentine senators

Published: 02/14/2023 in MercoPress

Tierra del Fuego Senator Pablo Daniel Blanco and his peer from Santa Cruz, María Belén Tapia addressed ministers Cafiero and Taiana requesting if they were aware of the UK icebreaker Two Argentine opposition Senators have requested the Foreign affairs and Defense Ministries to report on the ”unrestricted movements of the UK RRS Sir David Attenborough, flying the 'illegal flag of the Falklands', and sailing between Port Stanley (Puerto Argentino) and Punta Arena (Chile), and the implicit and vital logistic support provided to the vessel by the government of Chile.”

Falklands and Gibraltar in Spanish List of tax havens and alleged money laundering

Published: 02/13/2023 in MercoPress

The List was published last Friday by the Official Spanish Gazette, and “will be submitted to review according to international legislation and the different national advances”. The Falklands/Malvinas and Gibraltar figure among the latest list of countries and territories, which are considered tax havens by the Spanish Government, allegedly involved in money laundering operations, following on the latest international concept of non-cooperative jurisdiction in the matter.

Factsheet on trade and investment statistics between Falklands and UK in 2022

Published: 02/10/2023 in MercoPress

Total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) between UK and Falklands was £128 million, in current prices, in the four quarters to the end of Q3 2022, The following factsheet provides the latest statistics on trade and investment between the UK and Falkland Islands.

Falklands Environment Strategy: First Progress Report available online

Published: 02/09/2023 in MercoPress

Projects have expanded, the Falkland Islands Community School projects on earwig control and 3D printing of recycled plastic Following the adoption of the Falkland Islands Environment Strategy 2021 – 2040 by the Executive Council in late 2021, there has been much work across government towards achieving the Vision of the Strategy. The first progress report for 2022 has been released and is available on the FIG Environment Department website.

Top Argentine official makes the round of talks and contacts in Spain to complain about Falklands fishing industry

Published: 02/07/2023 in MercoPress

Argentine Ambassador in Madrid Ricardo Alfonsin (left) and Secretary Guillermo Carmona (right), with Spanish counterparts during the round of meetings in Spain's capital Guillermo Carmona, secretary of the Malvinas, Antarctica and Southern Atlantic Islands held a round of political talks in Spain in the framework of the bi-national cooperation understandings contemplated in the Buenos Aires Declaration from 2021. The document was signed by Argentine president Alberto Fernandez and his Spanish peer Pedro Sánchez and addressed the Argentina/Spain joint strategic action plan 2021/2023 referred to the Falklands/Malvinas and Gibraltar Questions as well as Antarctic and oceans cooperation.

Foreign Office Travel Advice for the Falklands and Chile

Published: 02/07/2023 in MercoPress

Most visits to the Falkland Islands are trouble-free and there is little crime or disorder. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has updated (February 7) its travel advises to the Falkland Islands and to Chile, with the usual main points of its reports: Summary, Coronavirus, Safety and Security, Terrorism, Local Laws and Customs, Entry requirements, Natural Disasters, Health, Money, Travel Advice and Support.

FCDO Minister reaffirms Falklands' people right to decide their own future

Published: 02/04/2023 in MercoPress

FCDO Minister for the Americas and Caribbean meets MLA Teslyn Barkman The Falkland Islands Government has twitted that last Thursday David Rutley MP, Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office Minister for the Americas and the Caribbean met with an elected member of the Falklands' Legislative Assembly.

Falklands patrol HMS Forth on maintenance; replaced by HMS Medway

Published: 02/04/2023 in MercoPress

 The River Class vessels docked at Mare Harbor The British Forces South Atlantic Command this week welcomed the arrival of HMS Medway at Mare Harbor. HMS Medway is a Batch 2 River class offshore patrol vessel, currently commissioned and since 2019 assigned long-term as Royal Navy guard ship in the Caribbean.

Falklands Veterinary Officers report on Gentoo rookery Penguin pox

Published: 02/02/2023 in MercoPress

Juvenile Gentoo penguin deaths swabs were taken to be tested for avian influenza and have returned a negative result to the N1 gene. On Tuesday 24 January, Veterinary Officers and Falkland Landholdings representatives visited Berthas Beach following reports of several juvenile Gentoo penguin deaths. The unwell and dead penguins that were reported displayed severe penguin pox lesions.

A hot tempered ambassador and will Falklands' HMS Forth be allowed to dock in Chile

Published: 01/28/2023 in MercoPress

Argentine ambassador in Chile, Rafael Bielsa, triggered a serious incident between the two neighboring countries which was finally contained by both sides The leak of an audio message with no kind words from the Chilean foreign ministry top staff and advisors towards the Argentine ambassador in Chile, Rafael Bielsa, triggered a severe incident between the two neighboring countries which was finally contained by both sides with a cascade of compliments for the top figures involved.

Falklands Veterinary Service reports Avian pox amongst Gentoo penguins

Published: 01/26/2023 in MercoPress

Avian Pox is a contagious disease and can be spread through contaminated footwear and clothing. The Veterinary Service section from the Falkland Islands Department of Agriculture has announced that it has received a reported outbreak of avian pox amongst Gentoo penguins in the Falklands.

Falklands: Diverting children and young people away from the Criminal Justice System

Published: 01/26/2023 in MercoPress

The aim of the joint policy is to help criminal justice agencies to identify appropriate cases where children and young people can be diverted away from being prosecuted in court The Royal Falkland Islands Police, the Probation Service, the Social Services Department and the Prosecution Service have released a joint policy that sets out the approach taken to children and young people who become involved in the criminal justice system.

Falklands' Loligo squid licenses prices climb 12% for the coming season beginning 26 February

Published: 01/11/2023 in MercoPress

The Loligo squid fishery in Falkland Islands waters is considered to be one of the best examples of fisheries management in the world As the vessels catching Loligo squid leave Spain for the Falkland Islands, a leading newspaper from Vigo, closely linked to the Galician fishing industry lobby, El Faro de Vigo, praises the management of the Falklands fisheries, and catch results, but also complains about the cost of licenses, particularly since Falklands' Loligo entering the European Union is subject to tariffs. The piece on Falklands fisheries follows,

SAERI: Climate change resilience in the Falklands Fisheries and Marine Ecosystems

Published: 12/29/2022 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands Biodiversity Framework (FIBF) is a threats-based policy that outlines response strategies for identified threats The Falkland Islands (FI) historically lacked herbivorous mammals. The introduction of grazing animals has led to vegetation changes and soil erosion. The impact of these changes on wetland and aquatic habitats is not well-understood; limited past research suggests that water quality may remain fairly natural and is largely influenced by sea salt deposition and humic acids from peat runoff. Some studies, however, have shown evidence of human impacts, such as elevated nutrient concentrations in some ponds.

UK/Falklands airbridge cancelled until 27 December because of climate conditions and defense priorities

Published: 12/24/2022 in MercoPress

It was hoped that TOW 2232 may have been able to arrive in a window of better weather on Wednesday 21 December, but sadly this did not prove forthcoming The cancellation of the Brize Norton/Falkland Islands airbridge service this week, the last before Christmas, triggered much frustration and complaints among Falkland Islanders, who will now have to wait for the flight departing on December 27.

Falklands 40th anniversary: RAF's Nimrod patrolling the South Atlantic in support of the Task Force

Published: 12/24/2022 in MercoPress

The Royal Air Force played a significant role in helping to secure Britain's recapture of the Falkland Islands in 1982 with its aircraft supporting UK forces during many operations. On the fortieth anniversary of the conflict, Forces.net reveals some of the details.

Senator proposes Falklands claim in the Argentine international sports colors

Published: 12/23/2022 in MercoPress

The AFA crest in the uniform of Argentine football competitors Taking advantage of the overwhelming triumphant spirit in Argentina, a Tierra del Fuego province elected Senator for the opposition has re-surfaced an initiative referred to the Argentine colors in international sports competitions.

The Argentine World Cup victory song has references to the Falklands war and the lads killed in combat

Published: 12/22/2022 in MercoPress

Across Argentina, fans have sung Muchachos to express their love for Argentina and unify the country during this time of celebration. The unofficial song Argentina adopted to celebrate victory in the 2022 Qatar World Cup has become the top global viral song and has been streamed 1,5 million times on Spotfy.

Technical issue impacting Falklands' government departments

Published: 12/22/2022 in MercoPress

KEMH, the heart of medical attention in the Falklands The Falkland Islands Government released on Wednesday the following statement: "The public will be aware that KEMH (Stanley Hospital) have been experiencing technical difficulties this Wednesday.

Tierra del Fuego team planning Falklands trip to assess the economic impact of UK 'usurpation' of the Islands

Published: 12/21/2022 in MercoPress

Tierra del Fuego University project is headed by chartered accountants, Ricardo Frías and Maia Gessaga, who next February plan to visit the Falklands The economic impact of the "illegal" occupation of the Falklands Islands by the British, is to be analyzed by the Economic Development and Innovation Institute from the Argentine University of Tierra del Fuego, in coordination with other tertiary education centers both public and private.

Non native species commercial farming back in the Falklands debate

Published: 12/20/2022 in MercoPress

Dr Clausen said the outstanding task of strengthening our existing legislative framework for any fish farming activities is on the legislative timetable for 2024/25 Responding to a question submitted by Sally Poncet, MLA Teslyn Barkman confirmed at the public meeting last week that there was no draft legislation to ban open pen large-scale salmon farming.

Falklands prepares for climate change, which is arriving with much less rainfall

Published: 12/20/2022 in MercoPress

MLA Biggs said there was a lack of long-term climate data across the Islands which has been a limiting factor in understanding the impact of climate change At the Legislative Assembly last week MLA Peter Biggs was invited to outline steps “the government and country had taken to coordinate a plan for climate action and assess and react our ocean needs, and landowners most pressing concern - our drying climate?”

“Malvinas are not Argentine, and definitively... Falklands are English,” argues Peruvian lawmaker

Published: 12/17/2022 in MercoPress

Ernesto Bustamante, member of the main opposition party Popular Force, and an outstanding scientific researcher has criticized Argentine president Fernandez “If Argentine president Alberto Fernandez insists on recognizing coup-monger Pedro Castillo as the legitimate president of Peru, we should definitively say that the Malvinas islands are not Argentine, but British.”

Princess Anne in the Falklands impressed by Islands continued development and vibrant community

Published: 12/17/2022 in MercoPress

The letter thanking the Falklands for the invitation to mark the commemorations of the 40th anniversary of 1982 Letters of thanks from HRH The Princess Royal and Admiral Sir Tim Lawrence, and Rear Admiral Jeremy Larken DSO following their recent visit to the Falkland Islands as part of the 40th Anniversary commemorations have been received addressed to MLA John Birmingham, currently the spokesperson for the Legislative Assembly.

Falklands forced to reschedule flu vaccine clinics

Published: 12/15/2022 in MercoPress

Flu vaccine clinics which were planned for Thursday 15 and Friday 16 December will have to be rescheduled The KEMH regrets to advise the public that the second expected shipment of flu vaccines has not arrived in the Islands in time for the scheduled clinics.

RRS Sir David Attenborough docks in Falklands: Saturday begins Antarctic round at Rothera Base

Published: 12/15/2022 in MercoPress

The state of the art ice breaker was commissioned by NERC, built by Cammell Laird for operation by British Antarctic Survey Falkland Islands RRS Sir David Attenborough has arrived to the Islands, and docked at East Cove, and is scheduled to leave for the Rothera Base on Saturday, beginning the Antarctica campaign.

Falklands' household Power and Fuel Allowance payments

Published: 12/13/2022 in MercoPress

The deadline for applications to be received for December payments has been extended to 31 December 2022 The Falkland Islands government Household Power and Fuel Allowance (HFPA) administrative team would like to inform the public that, all applicants who received a letter confirming their successful application for this allowance will receive their December payment from Monday 12 December.

Falklands Government extends Borders & Southern production licenses

Published: 12/11/2022 in MercoPress

Borders & Southern said on November 30 it had raised £2.5 million, before expenses to advance studies in its Darwin gas condensate discovery Oil and gas company Borders & Southern Petroleum with interests in the Falkland Islands announced this week it had secured the extension of its Production Licenses PL018, PL019, PL020, including the Darwin Discovery Area, according to reports in London's financial media.

Brigadier Dan Duff, next head of Falklands based BFSAI

Published: 12/10/2022 in MercoPress

The new Commander of the British Forces South Atlantic Islands (CBFSAI), Brigadier Dan Duff, is to be arriving in the Falklands in Spring 2023, replacing the current CBF, Commodore Jonathan Lett, who has been the CBF since November 2020.

Falklands: Household power and fuel assistance a non taxable allowance

Published: 12/08/2022 in MercoPress

The Household Power and Fuel Allowance has been implemented to help insulate households on low and middle incomes against rising fuel and electricity prices At a special Falkland Islands Executive Council meeting held on 1 December, it was confirmed that the Household Power and Fuel Allowance will be treated as a non-taxable allowance.

Falklands Plaque unveiled at Portland to honor dockworkers involved in readying the Task Force

Published: 12/08/2022 in MercoPress

South Dorset MP Richard Drax, unveils the plaque commemorating the work carried out by dockworkers over a few dramatic weeks in 1982 to liberate Falklands A Falklands Memorial Plaque was unveiled at Portland Port by South Dorset MP Richard Drax, commemorating the work carried out by dockyard employees over a few dramatic weeks in the spring of 1982.

Francis kisses and blesses an Argentine flag and received soil from the Falklands cemetery

Published: 12/08/2022 in MercoPress

The Pope kisses and blesses the Argentine flag held by Esteban Pope Francis on Wednesday received the head of the Buenos Aires Malvinas Museum, Edgardo Esteban, who visited him at his official residence in the Vatican, and as a gift gave him some soil from the Falklands Argentine military cemetery at Darwin.

Councillors of Portsmouth and Whitby visiting the Falklands

Published: 12/08/2022 in MercoPress

 MLA Birmingham with Linda Wild from Whitby The Falkland Islands City of Stanley is twinned with Whitby and Portsmouth in the United Kingdom, and this week the mayors of both cities are visiting the Islands as part of the commemorations of the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the Falklands in 1982.

Falklands tells MPs of its concern with registers of beneficial ownership

Published: 12/05/2022 in MercoPress

MPs Doughty and Sunderland acknowledged local issues and recognized that work needed to be done to tailor issues to individual overseas territories. During the recent visit of members of the Falklands All-Party Parliamentary Group, a controversial and thorny issue came up at a media conference when Penguin News asked whether the Falklands and the effect on the Islands, were being considered amidst the requirement for British Overseas Territories (BOTs) to establish registers of beneficial ownership (*).

Falklands' science celebrates ten years of SAERI and international academic recognition

Published: 12/05/2022 in MercoPress

During the celebration at Government House, Governor Blake listens to one of the speeches Last Friday night Falklands Governor Alison Blake CMG hosted a reception at Government House to celebrate the founding ten years ago of the South Atlantic Environmental Research Institution, SAERI, a thriving independent institute-undertaking numerous projects and research in the Islands and across the world.

Role of the Falklands in the development and success of British Antarctic Survey

Published: 12/03/2022 in MercoPress

SS Fitzroy from the Falklands played a leading role in Operation Tabarin and the establishment of British Antarctic bases (Pic: A. Taylor) The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) celebrated 60 years of scientific research in Antarctica as the UK’s national operator. BAS evolved from the Falkland Islands Dependency Survey (FIDS), following on the success of Operation Tabarin 1943/46 involving SS Fitzroy from the Falkland Islands. This week's event took place during the marking of Antarctica Day on December first.

Argentina to oppose Kosovo troops training at Falklands

Published: 12/02/2022 in MercoPress

Militarizing the South Atlantic would be against UN resolutions, Argentina's Foreign Ministry claimed Argentina's Foreign Ministry Thursday said it would strongly object to the presence of Kosovo troops in the Falkland Islands even if for training purposes because it would be in violation of UN resolutions.

UK Government and Royal Family, 'huge champions' in support of Falklands' sovereignty and self determination

Published: 12/02/2022 in MercoPress

Sunderland MP said that after talking with Princess Anne, he was sure that “you’ve [the Falklands] got a huge champion there Visiting members of the Falklands All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) reminded Falkland Islanders that they had huge champions in the UK Government and Royal Family during a recent press conference. However Tory James Sunderland MP admitted that “the level of knowledge amongst most MPs about the Overseas Territories is quite limited,” but this does nothing to affect the support for the Islands.

Digitalized documenst on Argentina's Falklands claim made available to the public

Published: 12/01/2022 in MercoPress

Cafiero argued that “activating the memory means informing on our history, which implies understanding the whole historic background, giving us a chance to revalue our claim arguments” Argentina announced the digitalization of many relevant documents referred to the country's claim over the Falkland/Malvinas Islands and which a first delivery has been made available in the web page "Malvinas nos Une" (Malvinas Unites Us).

Falklands paper on climate change and oceans' biodiversity accepted at the COP 27 summit in Egypt

Published: 12/01/2022 in MercoPress

Marine Scientist Dr Narissa Bax from SAERI, made the presentation during her attendance of COP27 in Egypt The Falkland Islands presented a paper on climate education to the COP 27 summit meeting in Egypt which was accepted as part of a presentation to a hub on climate change consequences and possible solutions. Marine Scientist Dr Narissa Bax from the South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute (SAERI), made the presentation during her attendance of COP27.

Falklands part of the global climate crisis, both in consequences and attempts to find solutions

Published: 11/30/2022 in MercoPress

Already visible climate change effects in the Falklands as Laguna Isla dries out on East Falkland Falklands Conservation has called for a commitment to a net-zero greenhouse gas target for the Falkland Islands by 2050 - in line with a range of other nations from around the globe - as CEO of Falklands Conservation Esther Bertram said that without action “the Falklands are part of the global climate crisis, both in feeling the consequences and in trying to find solutions.”

Falklands: UK Overseas Territories shadow minister reaffirms Labour's resolute support

Published: 11/30/2022 in MercoPress

“Wales paid a heavy price in 1982 and I was able to fulfill my personal promise to visit and pay tribute,” said MP Doughty Cardiff South and Penarth Labour MP Stephen Doughty has reported on his visit to the Falkland Islands to mark the fortieth anniversary of the Liberation of the Islands, where he paid tribute to the men of Wales who lost their lives during the 1982 conflict and reaffirmed Labour's resolute support for the South Atlantic overseas territory.

Falklands celebrates Multicultural Day at Goose Green

Published: 11/26/2022 in MercoPress

Princess Anne One of the events Princess Anne and Sir Timothy Laurence much enjoyed during their visit to the Falkland Islands was the colorful and festive display for the Falklands Multicultural Day 2022 at Goose Green.

Princess Anne praises achievements of Falklands Forty anniversary and belonging to the BOTs Family

Published: 11/26/2022 in MercoPress

Princess Anne surrounded by penguins at the Bleaker Island nature reserve "Lots of people should be looking to you as a very good example as to what can be achieved", said Princess Anne in one of several receptions she was honored with during her six day visit to the Falkland Islands to mark the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the Islands and the projection to the future of the dynamic British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic.

Falklands map with the names of British fallen during the 1982 Liberation of the Islands

Published: 11/26/2022 in MercoPress

The map of the Falklands with the identified geographic places that have been named to honor the British fallen during the 1982 conflict The autonomous Government of the Falklands Islands, FIG, Gilbert House in an official release has given its support for the idea of a map to commemorate those who lost their lives during the Liberation of the Falkland Islands in 1982. The initiative started at the time of the 25th anniversary and became reality this year.

Mexican fans pull Falklands card to mock Argentina supporters in Qatar

Published: 11/25/2022 in MercoPress

Two fierce clashes between Argentine and Mexican fans were reported in Doha, which resulted in people injured and arrested. Argentine and Mexican fans did not get along very well in Qatar, particularly after provocative chants underlining that "in the Malvinas (Falklands) they speak English."

Argentina objects to the presence of Prince Anne in the Falklands, "a discourtesy" complains Carmona

Published: 11/23/2022 in MercoPress

Princess Anne meets the experts who helped clear the Falklands of mines From Buenos Aires, Argentina objected to the presence of Princess Anne in the Falkland Islands during her six-day visit, with a brief release.

Princess Anne visits MPC and meets Falklands' residents at a reception

Published: 11/21/2022 in MercoPress

The Princess Royal at Mount Pleasant complex Princess Anne during her third day in the Falkland Islands was at Mount Pleasant Complex, where she was able to meet military staff from the different services and observe much of the equipment deployed to ensure the defense of the Islands and the security of the international airport, the air bridge linking with UK.

Princess Anne leads Remembrance ceremony at Falklands Liberation Memorial

Published: 11/19/2022 in MercoPress

Princess lays a floral wreath at the Liberation Memorial Busy agenda for Princess Anne on her first day of activities in the Falkland Islands, where she arrived on Thursday for a six-day visit. In a beautiful sunny Friday morning Princess Royal, marked the 40th anniversary of the Falklands' conflict with a special wreath-laying ceremony at the 1982 Liberation Memorial in Stanley.

Sei whale breeding song identified for the first time in Falklands' waters

Published: 11/18/2022 in MercoPress

A sei whale in front of the distinctive backdrop of Cape Pembroke. Photos: Caroline Weir Acoustic research by wildlife charity, Falklands Conservation (FC), and the non-profit African Aquatic Conservation Fund (AACF), has revealed seasonal singing by sei whales in the Falkland Islands, documenting a breeding song display in this Endangered cetacean for the first time.

Princess Anne and Parliamentary Group at Falklands' Liberation Monument for Act of Remembrance

Published: 11/18/2022 in MercoPress

Falklands' Liberation Memorial Princess Anne, King Charles III sister and a group of MPs, are currently in the Falkland Islands and the following arrangements have been made for Friday 18 November 2022 to enable Her Royal Highness and the All Party Parliamentarian Group to mark the 40th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Falkland Islands.

"Huge thank you", for the success of Veterans pilgrimage to Falklands

Published: 11/18/2022 in MercoPress

“Thank you to ALL in the community who helped in so many ways to ensure that ‘Corporate Veteran’ was a success”, Phyl Rendell said The success of the November 9/15 visit to the Falkland Islands of 130 Falklands Veterans and next of kin, has been underlined by the Chair of the 40th anniversary Committee and Governor Alison Blake. Letters of gratitude to all the Falkland Islanders for their generosity in hosting and caring for the visitors have been published in the Penguin News.

RRS Sir David Attenborough leaves for Falklands and Antarctica next Sunday

Published: 11/16/2022 in MercoPress

RRS Sir David Attenborough leaves for Falklands and Antarctica next Sunday Next Sunday, 20 November, Falklands flagged he RRS Sir David Attenborough departs from Harwich for a short stop at Portsmouth to take on fuel before leaving for Antarctica. Its first point of call will be the City of Stanley, Falkland Islands, three and a half weeks later. From there it will continue to the freezing region, fully loaded and with its capacity for lodging sixty scientists.

Falklands' electricity price up from December first; power allowance scheme for households

Published: 11/16/2022 in MercoPress

During good moderate steady wind days, up to 40% of Falklands power is generated from eolic turbines Due to the continued impact of increasing fuel prices, the Falkland Islands Government announced that in accordance with Regulation 10A of the Electricity Supply Regulations 1969, there will be a change in the price of electricity supplied to consumers.

Hundreds attended Remembrance Sunday commemoration in the Falklands

Published: 11/14/2022 in MercoPress

A view of residents attending the ceremony at the Cross of Sacrifice As planned Remembrance Sunday, 13 November in the Falkland Islands was joined by a huge crowd of residents and broadcast live to the UK, since some 130 Falklands War Veterans and next of kin were in the Islands for the first time since the end of the conflict in 1982.

Charles leads Remembrance as King; Falklands present at the Cenotaph with a floral wreath

Published: 11/14/2022 in MercoPress

The King was joined at the Cenotaph by other members of the Royal Family, Prince of Wales, the Earl of Wessex, and the Princess Royal, who also laid floral tributes. King Charles III led the Remembrance Sunday service at London's Cenotaph for the first time as monarch to honor Britain's war dead and in a special year, marking the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War.

Eight UK students win competition to visit Falklands and explore areas of their interest

Published: 11/12/2022 in MercoPress

Some students were inspired by the rich biodiversity evident in the Islands and the conservation programs that ensure its preservation, linking these to broader debates about climate change. As part of the Fortieth Anniversary celebrations eight UK students via a competition were offered an all-expenses-paid visit to the Falkland Islands in February 2023. Ben Fogle, who headed the judging panel said: “The Falkland Islands really are a magical place. I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Islands many times over the years, drawn back by the unique wildlife. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Islands and to mark the event, we organized this competition.”

Remembrance Sunday Service 13 November in the Falklands, broadcast live to UK

Published: 11/12/2022 in MercoPress

The Government of the Falkland Islands has announced the arrangements for Sunday 13 November 2022, Remembrance Sunday, which on this occasion will be a very special Remembrance service since it will be broadcast live from the Falkland Islands, at 13:35 UK time.

Commemorative flight for 130 Falklands Veterans and next of kin, first time in the Islands in forty years

Published: 11/12/2022 in MercoPress

Veterans and next of kin have visited former Falklands' battlefield sites and military cemeteries to remember those who lost their lives Many Veterans and relatives who lost loved ones in the Falklands war are back in the Islands, for the first time in four decades, in a commemorative flight funded by the UK Ministry of Defense. The 130 travelers will mark the conflict's fortieth anniversary Sunday 13 November at Remembrance Day in the City of Stanley.

Falklands Veterans mark the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the Islands

Published: 11/11/2022 in MercoPress

The Liberation Memorial, where the ceremony will be taking place The following arrangements have been made for Friday 11 November 2022 to enable Veterans of the Falkland Islands to mark the 40th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Falkland Islands.

Falklands residents demand “local and world leaders tackle climate change”

Published: 11/11/2022 in MercoPress

“Our health, our prosperity and our Islands rely on our environment being healthy. It’s within our best interests to take care of the environment”. Photo: Guy Wenborne<br />
In the light and spirit of COP27 a group of Falklands residents have organized a demonstration to “demand action from leaders, both locally and worldwide to tackle the natural disasters we currently face,” organizer Mark McLeod told Penguin News. The demonstration will take place at the Jetty Centre at midday on Saturday November 12.

Falklands: additional funding for overseas students in higher education considered

Published: 11/11/2022 in MercoPress

“I think everybody is massively concerned about the cost of living increases everywhere,” MLA Roberts said Inflation is biting and additional funding for Falkland Islands students studying overseas for their higher or further education is being considered by Falkland Islands government as cost of living escalates globally, Penguin News was told by MLA Leona Roberts, portfolio holder for Education and Community.

Falklands' preparations for major Remembrance commemoration next Sunday

Published: 11/10/2022 in MercoPress

Photo: Nicholas Roberts / Penguin News The Falkland Islands Government has announced the arrangements and details for the coming Remembrance commemoration, which this Sunday will be counting with the participation of a great number of Falklands' Veterans on a special invitation tour of the Islands because of the fortieth anniversary of the Liberation. The ceremony will also be live stream events to the United Kingdom.

Travel expenses to Falklands' Darwin Cemetery are not "abroad," Argentine taxpayer cries

Published: 11/09/2022 in MercoPress

If the Malvinas are Argentine, expenses incurred there are not “abroad,”  the retired airline pilot argued An Argentine national who visited the Darwin Cemetery on the Falkland Islands to pay his respects to the combatants fallen in the 1982 war was outraged upon his return that his credit card was billing him the surcharges recently created by Superminister of Economy Sergio Massa for expenses abroad.

Falklands and BOTs delegates invited to the Constituency Garden of Remembrance

Published: 11/08/2022 in MercoPress

Representatives from the different BOTs and Commonwealth members at the ceremony in the Garden of Remembrance The Speaker of the House Sir Lindsay Hoyle installed on Monday the opening of the Constituency Garden of Remembrance at the New Palace Yard in Parliament grounds and invited representatives from the Overseas Territories to participate.

Falklands' war landing craft, wins 2022 Flagship Award of the Year

Published: 11/08/2022 in MercoPress

During the 1982 war, Foxtrot 8 played a crucial part, together with other amphibious craft, helping to take the Task Force off the ships, and onto the beach Foxtrot 8 is one of the four vessels that won the 2022 Flagships of the Year Awards, for its public engagement program and media campaign in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Falklands conflict, according to Heritage Machines and National Historic Ships UK.

Foreign Office' Travel Advice on the Falklands: US$ 200,000 medical insurance

Published: 11/07/2022 in MercoPress

You can contact the emergency services by calling 999. The Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office updated last week its travel advice on the Falkland Islands, underlining that all visitors must have comprehensive travel and medical insurance, including at least US$ 200,000 for medical evacuation.

Falklands forecasting record hake catch, plus 62,000 tons

Published: 11/07/2022 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands Department of Natural Resource has announced that the reception of application forms for the Illex packs for the 2023 season must be completed by 16th November 2022.

UK Chagos Devolution: Argentina urges bilateral negotiations on Falklands' sovereignty

Published: 11/04/2022 in MercoPress

Carmona celebrated UK's initiative as “the triumph of justice, peace and International Law over the intransigence of the colonial powers” As was expected the Argentine reaction to Britain's negotiations with the Republic of Mauritius for the return of the Chagos archipelago, including Diego García island, has been immediate with a long release from the Foreign Ministry, once again calling for full negotiations on the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands.

Falklands Legislative Assembly reaffirms rights to self-determination amid Chagos sovereignty negotiations

Published: 11/04/2022 in MercoPress

Falklands Legislative Assembly reaffirms rights to self-determination amid Chagos sovereignty negotiations. Photo: Enrique Marcarian/Reuters Members of the Falkland Islands elected Legislative Assembly made on Thursday an official release commenting on the announcement made by the UK government over the decision to begin negotiations on the exercise of sovereignty over the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) / Chagos Archipelago.

Falklands fuel prices hit hard, triggers concern and a community solidarity spirit

Published: 11/04/2022 in MercoPress

Diesel has increased by 3 pence to 102p per liter, kerosene by a massive 51 pence to 119p per liter and unleaded petrol increased by two pence to 132p per liter. Rumors of a hefty fuel hike were confirmed this week when the Falkland Islands supplier of commercial and domestic fuel Stanley Services Ltd released their fuel prices.

Prince Andrew won't be travelling to the Falklands with Princess Anne this month

Published: 11/03/2022 in MercoPress

“I believe that he wanted to but it was made clear to him that there was no way he could be involved as he is no longer a working royal in public life,” said Dampier Prince Andrew may be feeling “riled and upset” following a recent decision, which prevents him from accompanying his sister Princess Anne during her visit to the Falkland Islands, according to a report in the Daily Mail, quoting royal author and journalist Phil Dampier.

Falklands MLA Pete Biggs at Security Legislation Conference in Westminster

Published: 11/03/2022 in MercoPress

Alicia Kearns, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee next to MLA Pete Biggs at Westminster The chair of the UK Foreign Affairs Committee, Alicia Kearns MP addressed over 30 parliamentarians from 18 legislatures as part of the Conference on the Scrutiny of National Security Legislation organized by the UK Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA UK).

Falklands appoints 14 November as a Public Holiday, to celebrate birthday of King Charles III

Published: 11/03/2022 in MercoPress

Lord Goldsmith, a strong supporter of the Falklands, in a picture with Falklands' MLA Teslyn Barkman The Falkland Islands Executive Council have approved the appointment of 14 November as a Public Holiday in celebration of the birthday of His Majesty King Charles III. This will replace the public holiday previously held on 21 April in celebration of the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Falklands' Rockhopper 200 million Euros award ruling which Italy is working to annul

Published: 11/02/2022 in MercoPress

Rockhopper started arbitration in 2017 after Italy in 2016 imposed restrictions on offshore oil and gas operations in its waters within 12 miles of the coast of Italy Falkland Islands-linked Rockhopper Exploration said that Italy was working to annul the August ruling by an arbitration panel under which Italy has to pay 200 million Euros, plus interest, to Rockhopper for breaching its obligations related to the company's Ombrina Mare field in the Adriatic Sea.

Falklands included in Russia's list of "unfriendly" territories

Published: 10/31/2022 in MercoPress

Ukrainian flag flying next to Falklands colors in Government House. Lawmakers with a Ukrainian flag at Gilbert House Tit for tat. Russia expanded its sanctions list on Sunday to all British Overseas Territories, including the Falkland Islands, accusing them of "unfriendly actions" against Moscow.

A mind blowing donation to the Falklands Museum and a remarkable letter from 1914

Published: 10/29/2022 in MercoPress

The 1914 letter with its envelope, stamps and seals, reflecting fears of a German Navy attack on the Falklands in November 1914 Friends of Falkland Islands Museum and Archives (FIMA) have donated Ł225,000 to the museum in recent months, to go towards the costs of building the new Lookout Gallery.

Falklands thanks Commons' Speaker for the 40th Anniversary support

Published: 10/29/2022 in MercoPress

Representative Hyslop presented Sir Lindsay with the framed envelope to thank the House of Commons for marking the Falkland Islands 40th anniversary this year This week Falkland Islands Representative in London, Richard Hyslop presented the House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle with a 40th Anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands framed stamped envelope.

Lecture on Falklands Liberation Anniversary at Queen's University in Belfast

Published: 10/29/2022 in MercoPress

Falkland Islands Representative Richard Hyslop opened the lecture ceremony at Queen's University Belfast As part of the Falkland Islands' 40th anniversary year of events in the UK, a delegation from Falkland House visited Belfast and Northern Ireland.

Falklands' ExCo pledges more openness and transparency

Published: 10/28/2022 in MercoPress

”Each paper presented for Council consideration should include a recommendation about whether or not it should be made available to the public.” The Falkland Islands Executive Council, ExCo, has agreed some amendments to their Standing Orders relating to ‘Openness, Transparency and Publication’.

Falklands approves package to support the community with the cost of living

Published: 10/28/2022 in MercoPress

A review will be undertaken to determine how inflation is incorporated into the income support budget in future This week the Falkland Islands Executive Council, ExCo approved a paper which looks to support our community with the increased cost of living. The current programs which support those in need have been reviewed and targeted changes will be made to them. A new temporary scheme has also been developed to assist households with rising fuel and electricity prices.

Falklands extends Travel Credit Scheme to include domestic tourism accommodation

Published: 10/28/2022 in MercoPress

The primary purpose of the scheme was to sustain the local tourism industry through a period with little or no international visitors This week the Falkland Islands Executive Council (ExCo) approved the extension of the Travel Credits Scheme to include domestic tourism accommodation.

Dual nationality and right to vote in Falklands: Assembly's Speaker draft statement

Published: 10/28/2022 in MercoPress

Speaker of the Assembly, Keith Biles This week, Falkland Islands’ Legislative Assembly Speaker Keith Biles gave a draft statement on the matter of persons holding dual nationality to vote in elections or to hold office.

Several Falklands' fauna pictures at the Comedy Wildlife Photography awards

Published: 10/27/2022 in MercoPress

“Talk to the Fin!” Two gentoo penguins on the Falkland Islands hang out of the beach when on shook himself off and gave the male the snub. Jennifer Hadley The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards just released a gallery of their 2022 Finalists, and the list is as wholesome and heartwarming as can be for a conservationist competition. The 2022 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards finalists provide a brief respite from the horrors of a politically unstable post-plague world, but they also carry an important message of conservation--.

Life satisfaction in Falklands: on a scale 0 to 10, residents provided an average 7,9 rating

Published: 10/26/2022 in MercoPress

A breakdown of the population has shown there were 1,645 males and 1,497 females counted on census night; giving a ratio of 110 males for 100 females On Tuesday some key findings from the Falkland Islands 2021 Census were advanced with promises of further thematic reports on census data to be published at regular intervals, focusing on areas of interest to the Islands, the community, and the economy. The census provides a snapshot in time of the people living in the Islands, building a picture of the social and cultural life of the community.

Falklands' Health and Social Services logo competition

Published: 10/26/2022 in MercoPress

A view of the well equipped King Edward Memorial Hospital in the heart of the City of Stanley  The Falkland Islands' Health and Social Services Department would like to invite budding artists or technical designers to help design a new logo for the directorate.

Falklands Census 2021: population reaches 3,662, in Stanley 2,964 and Camp, 354

Published: 10/25/2022 in MercoPress

The population in the capital city, Stanley, has grown by 340 people to 2,964, whereas the Camp population of 354 has fallen by 44 people compared to 2016 The Falkland Islands Government published on Monday its findings from the 2021 census. Sunday 10 October 2021 marked the 25th Falkland Islands census since the first was carried out by a resident Governor in 1842.

"Should’ve gone to salmon-savers!" Falklands Unity Marine Limited

Published: 10/25/2022 in MercoPress

There is a strong feeling in the Falklands community that aquaculture is closely linked to salmon farming Unity Marine Ltd. is a Falkland Islands company linked to the aquiculture industry, which has for many years tried to interest the Legislative and local community in diversifying the Islands economy, through fish farming.

Falklands Legislative Assembly holds session at Goose Green Social Club

Published: 10/25/2022 in MercoPress

Goose Green Social Club where MLAs will meet on Thursday On Thursday the Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly will be holding a session at the Goose Green Social Club. Members of the public wishing to attend should be seated no later that 10:50 AM.

Brazil/Falklands commercial air link needs "more time for restart"

Published: 10/21/2022 in MercoPress

A Latam airplane stationed at the Falklands MPC While the Falkland Islands Brazil commercial airlink is not yet resuming, Director of the Department of Development and Commercial Services (DCS), Becky Clark has confirmed this isn’t a complete cancellation of the LATAM flight.

Falklands community will host 150 pilgrims for five days in November

Published: 10/21/2022 in MercoPress

Fantastic hosting response from the Stanley community The 40th Anniversary Committee of the Falklands Islands recently appealed for hosts to accommodate 135 pilgrims and 10 support staff during their visit from 9 to 14 November and are very pleased to report that over 150 beds have been offered by the Stanley community for the veterans, next of kin and their partners.

Falklands/Malvinas: Ecuador Legislative overwhelmingly votes in support of Argentina's claims

Published: 10/20/2022 in MercoPress

President Lasso visited Argentina last April, but Carmona apparently did not receive a reciprocity treatment from the Ecuadorean foreign ministry Ecuador's one House Legislative Assembly overwhelmingly voted on Wednesday in support of Argentina and “its battle in defense of Malvinas, South Georgia, and South Sandwich Islands, and adjoining maritime and insular spaces”, which according to the Argentine ministry of foreign affairs, “are illegitimately occupied by the United Kingdom”.

Queen's University, Belfast, conference on Falklands' Forty Years of Progress

Published: 10/20/2022 in MercoPress

The Islands are an internally self-governing Overseas Territory of the UK by choice, and are thriving, with their own democracy, financial self-sufficiency “The Falkland Islands and Forty Years of Progress: environment and science”, in the title of the conference to be held this Thursday 20 October at a very special academic event hosted in Queen's University, Belfast, and sponsorship from the Royal Geographical Society.

UK ambassador in Peru: "Falklands/Malvinas is a closed case for us"

Published: 10/20/2022 in MercoPress

Ambassador Cook insisted that what really matters are the human rights of the Islanders, on which is based their right to self-determination. UK ambassador in Peru, Gavin Cook, interviewed by the Lima media said that the Falklands/Malvinas issue is a "closed case" for London, ratifying UK sovereignty over the Islands but also admitted having discussed the issue at length with officials from the host country.

Update on Falklands commercial air-link with Brazi

Published: 10/19/2022 in MercoPress

FIG and LATAM remain committed to the reinstatement of this route, however we are not yet in the position to do so Falkland Islands Government has confirmed that commercial air links with Brazil will continue to remain suspended until 2023.

Update on Falklands commercial air-link with Brazil

Published: 10/19/2022 in MercoPress

FIG and LATAM remain committed to the reinstatement of this route, however we are not yet in the position to do so Falkland Islands Government has confirmed that commercial air links with Brazil will continue to remain suspended until 2023.

UK and Argentina clash at UN Fourth Committee on Decolonization over Falklands, South Atlantic Islands and self determination

Published: 10/19/2022 in MercoPress

The Committee took the draft resolution titled “Implementation of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples” Among the several issues addressed by the UN Fourth Committee was the draft resolution titled “Dissemination of information on decolonization”, contained in Chapter XIII of the Special Committee’s report. The text was approved by a recorded vote of 143 in favour to 3 against (Israel, United Kingdom, United States) and 1 abstention (France).

Falklands: 40th Anniversary Veteran’s Pilgrimage, appeal for drivers

Published: 10/18/2022 in MercoPress

Vehicles must have the appropriate tyres The Falkland Islands 40th Anniversary Committee are keen to hear from anyone in our community who may be able to drive the visiting veterans, Next of Kin and chosen companions on Saturday 12 November.

Falklands MLA will report on trade agreements with EU, UK following on Brexit

Published: 10/15/2022 in MercoPress

MLA Teslyn Barkman will be informing MPs on the European Scrutiny Committee The UK represented the Crown Dependencies and British Overseas Territories in relations with the EU while a member of the block. But since Brexit, how is it performing at engaging the EU to represent their individual interests?

Falklands constitutional debate: can dual nationals vote and stand for office?

Published: 10/14/2022 in MercoPress

Attorney General Simon Young said “I think it is only going to affect people who have taken steps, probably as an adult, to obtain a second nationality.” Questions surrounding dual nationality have been raised in the Falkland Islands, which could potentially leave a Legislative Assembly seat empty and trigger a by-election, as well as remove the ability to vote for an unknown number of Falklands residents.

Falklands new port suspension: resuscitating packages required for FIPASS functioning

Published: 10/13/2022 in MercoPress

Skyrocketing costs of the new port project ballooned from an original £50-70m, to the most recent of almost £160 million Following the recent Falkland Islands' Executive Council decision not to proceed with the new port facility construction as tendered by BAM, Members of the Legislative Assembly are committed to ensuring that the facilities at the current FIPASS port terminal continue to function while options in respect of the future operational requirements for the facilities at the location are examined.

Falklands' SAERI scientist invited to COP27 at Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

Published: 10/12/2022 in MercoPress

Beautiful New Island, Falkland Islands – a world away from COP-27, where remote biodiversity thrives in isolation. Photo: Dr. Narissa Bax The 27th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties (COP-27) is a platform for 197 states, or ‘parties’ to discuss lessons learnt from the 6th Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report and how they will achieve the goals agreed to in the Paris Agreement, to keep global warming below 1.5°C-2°C.

Argentina has ten companies in the “bad boys” list for involvement in Falklands oil activities

Published: 10/11/2022 in MercoPress

Navitas Petroleum that recently reached an agreement with Rockhopper Exploration in the Sea Lion project is the last company to join the list The Argentine Secretary of Malvinas affairs has included another oil company with interests in the Falklands hydrocarbons industry in the “list of bad boys” for allegedly operating without authorization from Argentina.

Falklands Mensun Bound received a lifetime achievement award in Montecarlo

Published: 10/11/2022 in MercoPress

Mensun Bound receiving a lifetime achievement award in Montecarlo Falklands marine archaeologist, Mensun Bound, received a lifetime achievement award on September 14 on behalf of the Atlantic Youth Trust. The award was presented by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, at a gala dinner in Montecarlo. 2022 marks the 40th year since Mensun began directing underwater archaeological excavations.

China increasingly aggressive on the Falklands: "UK stubbornly clings to its colonial sin"

Published: 10/10/2022 in MercoPress

OAS has been steadfast in upholding Argentina's “inalienable territorial rights” over the Malvinas Islands and in asserting that the British presence is a remnant of colonialism. The following is the lead editorial of China Daily's 6 October edition, a newspaper belonging to the Chinese Communist Party editorial and refers to the recent Organization of American States declaration in support of Argentina's claims of Falkland Islands sovereignty.

Falklands strict protocol in case of Avian influenza reaching the Islands

Published: 10/10/2022 in MercoPress

Measures call to be aware that as birds return from their winter migrations it's likely that cases of Avian Influenza will be found in the Falklands. The Falkland Islands government and Falklands Conservation have announced a series of precautionary measures in the event of an outbreak of Avian influenza that has spread in European countries.

UK representative challenges OAS Assembly to recognize Falklands right to self determination

Published: 10/08/2022 in MercoPress

OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro said the final resolution on Malvinas reaffirms “what the organization has historically expressed” The United Kingdom called on the Organization of American States (OAS) on Friday to “recognize the right to self-determination” of the Falklands/Malvinas islanders who had decided to remain citizens of a British Overseas Territories and members of the British Family, despite Argentina’s sovereignty claims.

Falklands tribute at the International Bomber Command Center

Published: 10/08/2022 in MercoPress

The silhouettes are framed by poppy wreaths marking the installation’s purpose – recognition and remembrance. Reports from Lincolnshire Today indicate that the International Bomber Command Centre (IBCC), Lincoln has unveiled a new installation paying tribute to those who lost their lives during the 1982 war on The Falkland Islands with Argentina.

Falklands Tourist Board survey to expand industry strategy from 2025 to 2030

Published: 10/05/2022 in MercoPress

Back to the future, cruise vessels at the port of Stanley With the end of the Covid 19 pandemic (hopefully) one of the pillars of the Falkland Islands economy is preparing for a return of tourists and visitors, and a successful cruise season.

Falklands Chamber of Commerce renews the Board; prepares for 30tth anniversary celebration

Published: 10/05/2022 in MercoPress

The Falklands Chamber of Commerce offices in Stanley. The building has an ample conference room, library and several offices The Falkland Islands Chamber of Commerce held its 29th Annual General Meeting on Friday, 30th September 2022. During the meeting, members re-elected Mike Summers as Chairperson and Marika McKay as a Director of the Board. Mark Neves stepped down as a Director, and members nominated Sam Cockwell to the Board in his stead.

Foreign Secretary at Falklands 40tth anniversary reception at Birmingham

Published: 10/04/2022 in MercoPress

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly with MLA Mark Pollard at the reception Great day for the Falkland Islands delegation at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham with some four hundred plus people attending the 40th Anniversary reception, and as guest of honor and speaker, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Secretary, James Cleverly.

Latin American countries support Argentina's Falklands' claim at UN Fourth Committee

Published: 10/04/2022 in MercoPress

Uruguay’s representative, Carlos Amorin, speaking on behalf of Mercosur, was among many delegates expressing support for Argentina in its dispute on the sovereignty of the Falklands/Malvinas The Fourth Committee (Special Political and Decolonization) began its general debate on decolonization and related agenda items on Monday, with speakers underscoring their nations’ commitment to eliminating colonialism in all corners of the world, with Latin American countries emphasizing in the Falklands/Malvinas dispute..

Fernandez upgrades Falklands strategic position; promises to reinforce military presence in southern Argentina

Published: 10/03/2022 in MercoPress

Argentine president addresses the military top commanders promising more funding for defense equipment and better pay  Argentine president Alberto Fernández again claimed sovereignty over the Falklands and other South Atlantic Islands, "usurped" by the United Kingdom, asking London to comply with international resolutions, since "this occupation could limit the flow of vessels between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and the access to Antarctica."

Argentine student winner of Falklands' competition travels to the Islands "with an open mind"

Published: 10/03/2022 in MercoPress

Braian from Argentina participated in the “Regional Falklands' Student Competition” sponsored by the Islands' government and UK embassies "Since a child I have been passionate about the Malvinas dispute between Argentina and the UK, which was reinforced by the stories from my uncle who was a member of the Argentine crew sent to South Georgia to scrap the remains of the rusting whaling station", reveals Braian Espinoza Salazar, an Argentine International Relations student at the Mendoza University.

Rockhopper/Navitas plans to develop Falklands' Sea Lion offshore project in late 2023 or 2024

Published: 10/01/2022 in MercoPress

This month Israel’s Navitas Petroleum completed an associated farm-in obtaining a 65% operating stake in five licenses in the North Falkland basin Falklands upstream firm Rockhopper Exploration said a final investment decision (FID) on the Falkland Islands project Sea Lion should be taken by end-2024 the latest. Officials are working on a lower upfront cost project and seeking financing.

Falklands suspends new port facility works due to an 'increase in costs': from Ł50-70m to some Ł157m

Published: 09/30/2022 in MercoPress

The projected new port facility, which had an original cost of £50/70 million but now stands at least at £ 157 million The second phase of the development of the Falklands' new port facility is not to go ahead due to an “increase in costs” according to the Falklands Government, FIG.

Cafiero claims the Falklands during a ministerial Atlantic Basin meeting chaired by US Secretary of State

Published: 09/21/2022 in MercoPress

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken chairs the meeting to consider organizing an Atlantic Basin Association Foreign minister Santiago Cafiero said that "Argentina aspires the South Atlantic becomes a region recognized as an example of peace and dialogue among nations. For this it is essential to find a solution, through peaceful means, to the sovereignty controversy between Argentina and the UK regarding the Malvinas, South Georgia, and South Sandwich Islands, and adjoining maritime spaces, a controversy which has been ongoing for almost 190 years.

Falklands governor and Legislative Assembly representative MLA Roger Spink meet House of Commons Speaker

Published: 09/21/2022 in MercoPress

Governor Alison Blake CMG next to Sir Lindsay Over the weekend and ahead of the state funeral on Monday 19th September, the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle met with representatives from British Overseas Territories, attending ceremonies in London.

Falklands new Director of Education: ex Principal and Chief Executive of City College Southampton

Published: 09/21/2022 in MercoPress

Ms Stannard is knowledgeable of the Falklands which she visited as Vice Principal at Chichester College. The Falkland Islands Government has announced the appointment of Sarah Stannard as the new Director of Education, who arrived in the Islands on Monday 12 September 2022. Sarah read History at Kings’ College London and, more recently gained a Masters in Education at the University of Southampton.

Falklands: end of Covid-19 support schemes; small businesses and Bounce Back tourism options remain

Published: 09/21/2022 in MercoPress

Administrated by the Falkland Islands Tourist Board, the Bounce Back Grant aims to assist businesses with the cost of preparing for the 2022/2023 tourist season. Since April 2020 the Falkland Islands Government have had in place a number of support schemes to assist businesses impacted by COVID-19. In July 2022 FIG agreed that the schemes would close on Friday 30 September 2022 alongside all other existing support schemes. Applications will continue to be received until 4.30pm on Monday 17 October for any claims relating to Friday 30 September 2022 or earlier.

Falklands and change of monarch: banknotes and coins, and stamps remain legal tender

Published: 09/21/2022 in MercoPress

Queen Elizabeth II was the first monarch to have her portrait attached to the new decimalized currency. Following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the proclamation of King Charles III the Falkland Islands Government would like to reassure the public that all existing notes and coins with the face of Her Majesty will remain legal tender for some time. This will also be the case for all existing stamps.

Argentine president again calls on the UN for Falklands' sovereignty negotiations

Published: 09/21/2022 in MercoPress

“Malvinas Islands are Argentine national territory and are illegally occupied by the United Kingdom, since almost 190 years,” president Fernandez said in his speech to the United Nations Assembly On Tuesday, Argentine president Alberto Fernandez addressed the United Nations General Assembly and in his long speech as usual there was a special demand for Argentina's legitimate sovereignty rights over the Falklands and other South Atlantic Islands.

Prince Charles visit to the River Plate and the Falklands, with a little help from Uruguay

Published: 09/19/2022 in MercoPress

Then Prince Charles with president Julio Sanguinetti during his full agenda in Uruguay In March 1999, King Charles III, then Prince of Wales made a three countries visit, Argentina, Uruguay and the Falkland Islands. A visit which was mainly a retribution to the one then Argentine President Carlos Menem and his daughter Zulemita, acting as First Lady, had done to London the year before, October 1998.

Argentina rejects naval exercise in Brazil because of Falklands' HMS Forth

Published: 09/19/2022 in MercoPress

The OPV HMS Forth stationed in the Falkland Islands (Pic RN) Argentina has dropped out of this year's UNITAS annual naval exercises sponsored by the United States, with the participation of South American and other extra-region naval units, which are currently taking place in the Atlantic organized by Brazil.

Falklands: Motion of Condolence for Her Majesty The Queen on Friday

Published: 09/16/2022 in MercoPress

The queue to see the Queen Elizabeth lying-in-state stretches from Westminster Hall all the way past Tower Bridge, along the south bank of the River Thames The Falklands Legislative Assembly will be holding a Motion of Condolence for Her Majesty the Queen at the Court and Assembly Chambers, Friday 16 September, 09:00 hours.

Falklands to join UK Moment of Reflection on Queen Elizabeth, next Sunday

Published: 09/15/2022 in MercoPress

The National Moment of Reflection will take place in the UK at 8pm on Sunday 18 September (4pm local time in the Falklands). The Falkland Islands' Government in addition to the national two minute’s silence to be held at 11am on Monday 19th September, is inviting the public to take part in a National Moment of Reflection to mourn the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and reflect on her life and legacy.

Falklands' Fortuna Group establishes Taiwan subsidiary

Published: 09/15/2022 in MercoPress

James Wallace MD of Fortuna said this is another step on the road to strengthening our company’s international presence and a significant investment. Falkland Islands' Fortuna Group has established a wholly owned company in Taiwan to manage its Illex business. Atlantic catch (Taiwan) will be a subsidiary of Atlantic Catch Falkland Islands both of which will be 100% Falklands owned.

Falklands Public Holiday and national two minute’s silence for Queen Elizabeth II

Published: 09/14/2022 in MercoPress

All flags, including the Union flag, should continue to be flown at half-mast until 8am on Tuesday 20 September, when the period of national mourning ends Falkland Islands Government has made the following announcement referred to the state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II: Buckingham Palace has confirmed that the state funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will take place on Monday 19 September at 11am (UK time) in Westminster Abbey.

Next British Prime Minister strong supporter of the Falklands

Published: 09/06/2022 in MercoPress

Chair of the Legislative Assembly, MLA Roger Spink said: “I would like to  congratulate the Rt Hon Liz Truss on becoming our new Prime Minister” On Monday 5 September 2022, it was announced that the Rt Hon Liz Truss MP had been elected the new leader of the Conservative Party, following the resignation of Boris Johnson MP and subsequent leadership election.

Falklands' Stanley Penguins U12, the Golden team of ice hockey Cup in Chile

Published: 09/05/2022 in MercoPress

In the final game Stanley Penguins beat the Vikings from Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego 7-0. On Saturday and following five days of intense competition the ice hockey Endemic Celebration Cup 2022, came to an end with an extraordinary triumph for the Falkland Islands Under 12 team, Stanley Penguins, who won gold in their category. In the final game, they beat the Vikings from Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego 7-0.

Falklands' Veteran hero paratrooper who acted on a BBC show on the war dies in air crash

Published: 09/05/2022 in MercoPress

Chris Waddington, who lived in Herefordshire, recently appeared in a BBC TV show to mark 40 years since the Falklands War. An inquest has been opened into the death of Chris Waddington, the Falklands War Veteran who was tragically killed in a plane crash in Herefordshire reports the HerefordTimes. The Parachute Regiment veteran, who served for more than 20 years in the British Armed Forces, was killed five days before his 60th birthday when the plane he was flying hit the ground at Shobdon Airfield, near Leominster.

New theory on mass strandings among pilot whales, includes Falklands' experience

Published: 09/01/2022 in MercoPress

At sea cetaceans form family pods, which include multiple generations of pilot whales all related to a single female Mass stranding events among cetaceans – a group of marine mammals including the whale, dolphin, and porpoise – have been reported since the times of Aristotle and there has been a long drive to understand what causes them. Long-finned pilot whales – a gregarious species with complex social bonds – are those most often affected.

Falklands' students achieve excellent results in secondary school live examinations

Published: 09/01/2022 in MercoPress

Marie Horton, Director of Education said: “The Education Directorate is thrilled to see so many students achieve highly and move onto the next rung of their education ladder” The Falkland Islands Community School is thrilled with this year’s GCSE results - our best set of results from a live examination series. This is the first year of ‘live’ international examinations since before the pandemic and FICS students have had a successful year. Staff and students have displayed determination and resilience to complete the Key Stage 4 studies.

Falklands training the next generation of government leaders

Published: 09/01/2022 in MercoPress

Shannon Alazia and Ariane Brownlee were successful in their applications and the 2 year program provided a consistent and cohesive approach to study and training In November 2020, the Falkland Islands Government launched its new Management Trainee program as part of a two-year initiative aimed at identifying and supporting the next generation of government leaders.

Falklands' Beauchene Fishing orders a new trawler to replace "Baffin Bay" sunk in Vigo

Published: 08/30/2022 in MercoPress

The Baffin Bay sunk in December 2020 in Vigo where it was undergoing maintenance work. The trawler had been fishing in Falklands waters since 1995 Galicia's Copemar and their Falkland Islands partner Beauchene Fishing have contracted Armón Vigo, an affiliate of the Asturian Naval Group Armon, for the construction of a trawler to replace the "Baffin Bay" which caught fire and sunk in the port of Vigo on its return from the Loligo season in the Islands.

UK tells India, “Britain has no doubts about Falklands sovereignty,” and Islanders right to self determination

Published: 08/30/2022 in MercoPress

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited Buenos Aires last week and held discussion on broadening cooperation across bilateral and multilateral arena (Pic Twitter) Days after India extended support to Argentina's campaign to restart international negotiations on the Falkland Islands sovereignty claim in the South Atlantic, a British official on Monday said there was “no doubt” about the United Kingdom's sovereignty over the Islands.

Falklands Conservation undertakes summer seabirds monitoring program

Published: 08/29/2022 in MercoPress

Scientists counting and recording the Black browed albatross site  The Falkland Islands support seabird populations that are of global importance, both numerically, and in terms of conservation status, and Falklands Conservation initiated in 1989/90 the Falkland Islands Seabird Monitoring Program (FISMP) in 1989/90.

1982: UK forces downed Argentine Pucara with a Stinger missile during Falklands San Carlos' landing

Published: 08/26/2022 in MercoPress

It was the first time British forces fired a Stinger missile in combat. The Stinger was provided by the American Delta Force In 1982, Britain's Special Air Service troops were the first to fire a Stinger missile in combat, during the Falkland Islands conflict. They had been drafted in to distract Argentine forces from the San Carlos landings, carried out by British soldiers in response to Argentina's invasion of the Islands in April 1982.

Falklands strongly supports Ukraine Independence Day, Slava Ukraini

Published: 08/26/2022 in MercoPress

MLAs Gavin Short and Roger Spink at Gilbert House with Ukrainian flag The Falkland Islands has shown its strong solidarity with Ukraine on August 24, Independence Day of the central European country suffering the invasion of its powerful neighbor, Russia.

Falklands Government announces “no questions asked” firearms and ammunition amnesty

Published: 08/18/2022 in MercoPress

The amnesty allows people to surrender unlicensed firearms and small arms ammunition to the police with the assurance that they will not be reported for prosecution The Falklands government in a public service announcement is offering a ”no questions asked' Royal Falkland Islands Police firearms and ammunition amnesty running from 26 August to 3 September..

Falklands Volunteer Defense Force is currently recruiting

Published: 08/18/2022 in MercoPress

The annual recruitment season of FIDF begins in coming weeks and training starts in October The Falkland Islands Defense Force (FIDF) is the locally maintained volunteer defense unit in the Falkland Islands and is currently recruiting. The FIDF works alongside the military units supplied by the United Kingdom to ensure the defense and security of the Islands

Queen's congratulations and good wishes on Falklands' Day, 14th August

Published: 08/15/2022 in MercoPress

The Blue Plaque honoring Captain John Davis who made the first recorded sighting of the Falklands on 14th August 1592. On the occasion of Falklands Day, (14th August), Her Majesty The Queen has sent her good wishes to the people of the Falkland Islands, and congratulations to the Chair of the Legislative Assembly, particularly on the 40th anniversary of the Liberation.

Falklands Day celebrated in Parliament with Islands' flag flying at New Palace Yard

Published: 08/13/2022 in MercoPress

MLAs Leona Roberts and Mark Pollard with Sir Richard Hoyle and a Falklands Flag Following on instructions from the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the flag of the Falkland Islands in flying at New Palace Yard, to mark Falklands Day, when the first sighting of the Islands in 1592.

Falklands first look at over 30 years of seabird monitoring results

Published: 08/13/2022 in MercoPress

Monitoring gentoo penguin breeding populations in the 1990s would have been worrying with almost year-on-year declines The Falkland Islands are frequently associated with globally significant seabird populations. Indeed, the inshore waters of the Islands have not long been designated as a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) for this very reason. Understandably stated as a reason for national pride, tourism, conservation and research benefits,

Successful refueling of RAF Atlas flying from Brize Norton to Falklands

Published: 08/11/2022 in MercoPress

Air-to-air refueling is one of the most challenging manoeuvres for pilots (Picture: RAF). A Royal Air Force Atlas C1 transport aircraft has been refueled over the South Atlantic for the first time. The Atlas was flown from RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire to Ascension Island before flying on to the Falklands.

Falklands Veterans and families invited to register for a balloted flight to the Islands

Published: 08/11/2022 in MercoPress

The flight will see those chosen the chance to be in the Falkland Islands over Remembrance Weekend in November The United Kingdom Ministry of Defense has announced that Veterans and the families of those who died during the Falkland Islands conflict are being invited to register for a balloted flight to the Islands. There will be 100 places on the flight, funded by MOD, with seats allocated to those eligible and a partner of their choice.

South African business analyst joins Falklands Development Corporation

Published: 08/09/2022 in MercoPress

Talent has a solid understanding of working with smaller and rural communities and will provide much needed capacity to the FIDC Talent Muzambi joins the Falkland Islands from South Africa, with a wealth of education and over 26 years’ work experience.

Falklands Conservation 2-year project to eliminate invasive species from New Island

Published: 08/05/2022 in MercoPress

Phyl Rendell, commented: “Securing Darwin Plus funding to investigate the possible restoration program for New Island is a major step forward in the preservation of a key Falklands’ habitat” Falklands Conservation (FC) has announced the launching of its new Darwin Plus-funded project for long-term restoration work on New Island Nature Reserve. New Island is one of the remotest islands in the Falklands archipelago, which runs a wildlife reserve and centre for scientific research, expected to considerably improve with the appointment of a new Bio-security and Invasives Manager.

Bristow Group completes acquisition of BIH, including Falklands' operations

Published: 08/04/2022 in MercoPress

BIH currently deliver combined search and rescue (SAR) and support helicopter services for the UK Ministry of Defense with operations in the Falkland Islands The Bristow Group announced on Wednesday that it has completed its acquisition of British International Helicopter Services Limited (BIH) effective 2nd August 2022, further enhancing its global Government Services offering. BIH also operates support helicopter services in the Falkland Islands.

Detractor of Falklands people's rights, Argentina's candidate to the International Law Court of The Hague

Published: 08/03/2022 in MercoPress

Dr. Mauricio Kohen is an Argentine born distinguished International Law professor in Geneva. Currently he ís Secretary of the International Law Institute Dr. Marcelo Kohen is an Argentine lawyer who for more than three decades has been living in Switzerland where he is a professor of International Law at the University Institute of International High Studies in Geneva, He is also currently secretary of the prestigious International Law Institute created in 1843.

Falklands Conservation tracking Southern Right Whales

Published: 08/02/2022 in MercoPress

Map 1: The tracks of five whales tagged with the SPLASH location + depth tags, with expected lifespan of approximately three months As part of the Darwin Plus funded project (DPLUS126), Falklands Conservation are aiming to deploy up to 10 satellite tags on southern right whales during the winters of 2022 and 2023. The research questions for southern right whales mean that Falklands Conservation scientists will use two different types of tags:

Falklands peaty soil spread in the main ring of the Palermo cattle show in Buenos Aires

Published: 08/01/2022 in MercoPress

 Veterans at the center of the main ring, with people applauding, shouting patriotic slogans and giving support. (Pic LN) The main Argentine agriculture and business show is annually held on the grounds of Palermo, since Saturday in its major ring where the best cattle, sheep, and horses of the event are paraded, has in the center peaty soil from the Falkland Islands.

Falklands celebrates Daphne's win in Lawn Bowls and England's Euro Women's Cup

Published: 08/01/2022 in MercoPress

Celebrations in Wembley after victory 2-1 over Germany in the final match Double celebration for the Falkland Islands. The Islands Lawn Bowls Ladies Single Daphne Arthur Almond beat India's Tania Choudhary in a very tense competition from 21 to 20.

Falklands approves importation, possession, use and sale of Cannabidiol (CBD)

Published: 07/28/2022 in MercoPress

“The subject of CBD and CBD oil was widely discussed in the lead up to the election,” explained MLA Roger Spink The Executive Council of the Falkland Islands has approved that the importation, possession, use and retail sale of excepted products containing Cannabidiol (CBD) in the Falklands should be lawful. The announcement was reported on the Falklands government page.

Falklands extends oil licenses two years for farm-in Rockhopper/Navitas accord

Published: 07/27/2022 in MercoPress

Rockhopper and Navitas will seek to align working interests across all their North Falkland Basin petroleum licenses – Rockhopper 35% / Navitas 65% Positive news for Falklands' oil industry development. All regulatory consents for the transaction between Harbour Energy plc and Israel's Navitas Petroleum LP of its Falkland Islands offshore license interests have been approved by the Falkland Islands government and the United Kingdom minister of state.

As of Saturday, Falklands have the first woman Governor, Ms Alison Blake CMG

Published: 07/23/2022 in MercoPress

Ms Alison Blake CMG taking the oath of office at the Court and Assembly Chamber It's official, the Falkland Islands have a new Governor, and the first woman to occupy that position, Ms. Alison Blake CMG. The governor designate for the Falkland Islands, and Commissioner of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Ms. Blake took the oath of office on Saturday morning at the Court and Assembly Chamber.

Falklands' Governor designate Alison Blake swearing in ceremony on Saturday

Published: 07/21/2022 in MercoPress

The ceremony commences at 9:00 in the Court and Assembly Chamber The Swearing in Ceremony for the Falkland Islands Governor Designate, Ms Alison Blake CMG will take place in the Court and Assembly Chamber on Saturday 23 July 2022, commencing at 09:00 hrs. Invited guests only will attend this ceremony because of the limitations on space.

Falklands Covid-19 booster vaccination postponed because of airbridge delays

Published: 07/21/2022 in MercoPress

”The children’s clinic planned for Saturday 23 July remains unaffected, again this clinic is dependent on the airbridge arrival.” Falkland Islands Thursday 21 July vaccination program against Covid 19 has been postponed. In a release KEMH regretted ”to announce that the planned vaccination session at the FIDF complex on Thursday 21 July, has be postponed. This is due to vaccine stock issues; which are anticipated to be rectified with the arrival of the flight on Friday 22 July.

Prince Charles thanks Falklands' Veterans at a reception on flagship HMS Queen Elizabeth

Published: 07/21/2022 in MercoPress

The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall met members of the South Atlantic Medal Association 82 on board HMS Queen Elizabeth. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall thanked Falkland Islands veterans at a unique ‘garden party’ on the UK’s flagship, HMS Queen Elizabeth. The Wednesday gathering in the hangar of the carrier in Portsmouth marked the end of official 40th anniversary commemorations of the conflict.

Veteran Simon Weston will visit the Falklands next February on the “Balmoral”

Published: 07/21/2022 in MercoPress

Veteran Simon is well-known for his charity work and as a motivational speaker and broadcaster after he sustained serious burns to over 46% of his body Falklands War Veteran Simon Weston CBE will be visiting the Islands next 22 February when Fred Olsen Cruise Lines “Balmoral” calls at Stanley. The cruise will be next year on an epic 78-night voyage to South America and Antarctica, with Weston joining the trip for fourteen nights and sharing with fellow travelers his experiences during and after the Falklands war.

Falklands expects a great summer season: return of cruise ships and air links

Published: 07/20/2022 in MercoPress

So far the air link is with Chile and closer to summer, Brazil is expected to open The Falkland Islands Tourist Board has released its July newsletter in which it gives an update of what everybody is expecting to be a great summer season after a hiatus of two years because of the pandemic.

A decommissioned C 130 Hercules to honor Argentine combatants fallen in the Falklands' war

Published: 07/20/2022 in MercoPress

The trailer transporting the main body frame of the Hercules C130, 30 meters long, seven wide and five tall A decommissioned Hercules C 130 from the Argentine Air Force and which was involved in combat, transport, surveillance, and supply operations during the Falkland Islands war has arrived at Pilar, a city in the province of Buenos Aires, where there is a monument to the fallen during the 1982 conflict.

Falklands black browed albatross: from prey feeding to fishery discards

Published: 07/19/2022 in MercoPress

Counting albatrosses in New Island Falklands' located South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute, SAERI, PhD researcher Amanda Kuepfer and her collaborators have published in the ICES Journal of Marine Science on discard use by black-browed albatross chicks, and how this relates to natural foraging conditions and breeding success.

Bookings good for coming season says Falklands Tourism Board Executive Director

Published: 07/15/2022 in MercoPress

FITB Executive Director, Stephanie Middleton says the coming 2022/23 season is looking good both for visitors and tourists The 2022-23 tourist season is “looking good,” says Falkland Islands Tourist Board (FITB) Executive Director Stephanie Middleton, as cruise ships with passenger numbers upwards of a thousand are expected to return to the Falkland Islands for the first time in three years.

Falklands' SAERI project on Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems of the Southwest Atlantic

Published: 07/13/2022 in MercoPress

Dr Tabitha Pearman chairing the session ‘Habitat mapping for maritime spatial planning within an ecosystem based approached’. Research from the Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems (VME) project has been showcased at the GeoHab Conference held at The Venice International University in Italy during the month of May 2022.

End of Falklands War: Euphoric home welcome for SS Canberra and returning troops in Southampton

Published: 07/12/2022 in MercoPress

The rapturous welcome of SS Canberra when she entered the port of Southampton on 11 July 1982  On Monday 11 July 1982, forty years ago, the SS Canberra – an ocean liner requisitioned by the British Ministry of Defense to transport personnel - returned from the Falklands conflict to Southampton, where she was escorted by a fleet of small vessels and some 2,500 members of the Armed Forces were greeted by cheering crowds.

"Falklands offers a different lifestyle, but if you love it, you tend to really love it," MLA Leona Roberts

Published: 07/07/2022 in MercoPress

“We are Falkland Islanders, proud people who have lived in the Islands for generations and proud of our association with the UK”, MLA Roberts.  "The Falklands Islands are a funny place, it's not for everybody, it's quite a different lifestyle, but if you love it, you tend to really love it. People who come to the Falklands and make the Islands their home generally stay," MLA Leona Roberts told the Spanish news agency EFE, in an interview at the Falklands House in London.

Carmona: air link with Sao Paulo is 'dead'; Aerolineas will finally fly directly to Falklands

Published: 07/05/2022 in MercoPress

“Argentina will continue to demand that any further flights to the Malvinas from the continent must be done in an Argentine flagged aircraft, preferably Aerolineas Argentinas,” Carmona said Argentina might be in the midst of a major political and cabinet conflict of yet unknown consequences, but certainly not positive given the precarious situation of the economy, but there is always time to address the claim obsession, Malvinas Islands.

LATAM air link to Falklands from Chile normalized after 30 months

Published: 07/04/2022 in MercoPress

LATAM aircraft at MPC. Flight LA984 left the Falklands with 41 passengers The commercial air link between Punta Arenas, southern Chile, and the Falkland Islands resumed last Saturday after an absence of more than two years because of the Covid 19 pandemic.

Falklands War: nuke sub HMS Spartan honors heroes and crew members

Published: 07/01/2022 in MercoPress

Peter Malone, flew from Canada, and Dougie McAllister, laid a wreath at Sunderland's War Memorial marking the 40th anniversary of the conflict. Some thirty former crew members of Swift-sure Class nuclear submarine HMS Spartan gathered at the war memorial in Sunderland’s Mowbray Park, county of Durham, and paid their respects to fellow Falklands War heroes who did not make it home.

Falklands will host the Red Ensign Group Conference next February

Published: 07/01/2022 in MercoPress

The event is being supported by the Falkland Islands Government, and the Red Ensign will fly at Victory Green during the Conference. More than 50 maritime professionals from across the Overseas Territories, Crown Dependencies, and the UK are coming to the Falkland Islands for the Red Ensign Group Conference.

Johnson disappointed Falklands issue was brought up by Fernandez, but described the meeting as frank and friendly

Published: 06/30/2022 in MercoPress

PM Johnson talks with president Fernandez, “I would say it was frank, it was free but it seemed to me to be friendly” Boris Johnson has admitted he was "disappointed" that Argentine president Alberto Fernandez used the G7 summit bilateral meeting to bring up the issue of the Falklands/Malvinas dispute.

Boris Johnson and Putin clash over "toxic masculinity" and Falklands' war

Published: 06/30/2022 in MercoPress

“If Putin was a woman, which he obviously isn't, but if he were, I really don't think he would've embarked on a crazy, macho war of invasion and violence” Russian President Vladimir Putin would not have started the military offensive in Ukraine if he was a woman, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said during the G 7 leaders summit in German

Falklands new fisheries patrol vessel name: “Lilibet” in honor of Queen Elizabeth

Published: 06/30/2022 in MercoPress

The new FPV will be operating from 2023 for the next fifteen years. The Damen Stan 5009 surveillance patrol model is a smaller, faster Coast Guard-style vessel. The Falkland Islands Government's new Fishery Patrol Vessel (FPV) provided under a 15-year contract by Seagull Maritime Limited, beginning in 2023, finally has a name, “Lilibet”. The name was put forward by schoolchild Aimee Walker following an open competition at both Falkland Islands Schools in May.

Falklands in agenda of Fernandez bilateral meeting with Johnson at G7

Published: 06/27/2022 in MercoPress

President Fernandez arrived this weekend to Munich for the G7 leaders summit meeting Argentine president Alberto Fernandez confirmed that this Monday afternoon, at the G7 summit in Munich he will be holding a fifteen minutes bilateral talk with UK prime minister Boris Johnson in which he plans to bring up the issue of the Falkland Islands.

Uruguay congress Falklands declaration expected first week of July; differences on the term 'usurpation'

Published: 06/27/2022 in MercoPress

President Lacalle Pou with Prime Minister Boris Johnson at 10 Downing Street The Uruguayan parliament is expected to make a legislative declaration relative to the Falkland Islands conflict and the 40th anniversary of the war during the first week of July. The initiative was presented by the opposition catch-all coalition (Broad Front) in April, but the final decision has been delayed since the senior member of the ruling coalition which supports president Luis Lacalle Pou, does not agree with the wording.

C24 resolution calls on Argentina and UK to resume Falklands' negotiations

Published: 06/24/2022 in MercoPress

Chile introduced the resolution text noting that the question under consideration is a highly sensitive issue for the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean The Special Committee on Decolonization adopted on Thursday a resolution requesting the Governments of Argentina and the United Kingdom to consolidate the current process of dialogue through the resumption of negotiations to find a peaceful solution to the sovereignty dispute relating to the question of the Falkland Islands (Malvinas).

MLA Rogers visits Whitby, twinned to Falklands Stanley City

Published: 06/24/2022 in MercoPress

The sign of Stanley and Whitby twinning at the access of the Falklands capital As part of the commemorations marking the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the Falkland Islands, the city of Whitby welcomed a special guest, reports the local media. The special guest is none else than elected lawmaker MLA Roger Spink who has been doing the round of commemoration events in the United Kingdom.

MLA Spink visits Whitby, twinned to Falklands Stanley City

Published: 06/24/2022 in MercoPress

The sign of Stanley and Whitby twinning at the access of the Falklands capital As part of the commemorations marking the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the Falkland Islands, the city of Whitby welcomed a special guest, reports the local media. The special guest is none else than elected lawmaker MLA Roger Spink who has been doing the round of commemoration events in the United Kingdom.

Argentina and C24 members want a return of real colonialism to Falklands and Southwest Atlantic, MLA Short

Published: 06/24/2022 in MercoPress

“It is my belief that this Committee needs to look inwards and reflect on its core principals as some seem to have lost sight of them.” My name is Gavin Short and I am a democratically elected representative of the Government and people of the Falkland Islands and my family have lived there for 173 years.

Falklands challenges C24 to visit the Islands: the inconvenient truth a bully Argentina wants to hide, MLA Roberts

Published: 06/24/2022 in MercoPress

The C24 has a duty to understand the territories and people it considers Chair, Committee Members – my name is Leona Roberts and I am proud to be one of the eight elected representatives of the Falkland Islands Government. I am here today to speak for our people and to defend our tiny, democratic, and freedom-loving country against the colonial ambitions of our aggressive neighbor.

The "communist" map that irked nationalists because Malvinas are Falklands and don't figure as Argentine

Published: 06/22/2022 in MercoPress

Fanatically anti Communist as his father, Eduardo Bolsonaro warns that the “responsibility of the Brazilian voter has become ever more challenging” When it's not the father, president Jair Bolsonaro, it's one of his sons, in this case Eduardo Bolsonaro, federal lawmaker who is involved in a controversy over his interpretation of South America's political mood and trend, which he described as mostly pure red communist.

Freedom of the Falklands granted to South Atlantic Medal holders

Published: 06/22/2022 in MercoPress

MLA Mark Pollard and Gary Clement MBE, SAMA representative in the Falklands As part of the Falklands40 commemorations, the South Atlantic Medal Association 82 Holders were awarded the Freedom of the Falkland Islands.

Argentine Army Panhard AML90 refurbished in time for Falklands 40th anniversary

Published: 06/21/2022 in MercoPress

The Panhard AML90 of the Destacamento de Exploración de Caballería Blindada 181 was abandoned in Stanley following the surrender by Argentina A French built armored reconnaissance vehicle which saw service during the 1982 Falklands conflict by the Argentine Army has been painstakingly refurbished in time for the Falklands 40th Anniversary.

UK domestic problems could favor resumption of talks on Falklands with Argentina, says Malvinas secretary

Published: 06/20/2022 in MercoPress

“Not only the end of war but on 10 June 1829, the country declared the political military territorial governorship of Malvinas, until ”usurped“ by the UK in 1833,” Carmona said The head of the Argentine Secretariat on Malvinas, Argentine Antarctica and South Atlantic Islands who will be also attending the UN Special Decolonization Committee this week said he was optimistic about a resumption of Falklands/Malvinas discussions with the UK.

1982: Falklands' Task Force removes Argentine base from South Sandwich islands

Published: 06/18/2022 in MercoPress

Remains of the Corbeta Uruguay outpost in the island of Thule Having recovered South Georgia at the end of April and defeated the Argentine forces in the Falklands marking Liberation of the Islands on June 14, the Task Force still had another job, this time in the South Sandwich Islands.

Falklands Veterans memorial service and parade in Portsmouth on Sunday

Published: 06/18/2022 in MercoPress

The Falklands Memorial, next to the Square Tower in Portsmouth Falkland Islands Veterans from all branches of the British military will be holding the annual memorial service and parading on Sunday, in Portsmouth, to mark the fortieth anniversary.

Falklands' landmarks to be named after 238 fallen in 1982

Published: 06/17/2022 in MercoPress

The map of locations to be named after servicemen and civilians who gave their lives in 1982 Additional locations around the Falklands are to be named after the 258 servicemen and civilians who gave their lives for the liberation of the Falklands in 1982 as part of the 40th Anniversary commemorations.

Beauchene Fishing generous support for the Falklands' team to the Island Games in Guernsey

Published: 06/17/2022 in MercoPress

Cheryl Roberts from Beauchene Fishing Co Ltd announced a generous funding support package for the Falklands team of £50,000 National Sports Council and Beauchene Fishing Co Ltd have jointly announced a generous funding package to support the Falkland Islands team for the Island Games in Guernsey next year.

Falklands' Veterans limited from claiming "cold injuries", because of a 1987 Crown Armed Forces Act

Published: 06/16/2022 in MercoPress

Cold injuries are divided into freezing and non-freezing injuries and include hypothermia, frost-nip, chilblains, immersion foot and frostbite Falklands' War Veterans are currently exempt from claiming damages for "cold injuries" suffered during the war with Argentina and are seeking legal advice against the Ministry of Defense (MoD), according to the lawyer acting on their behalf.

Defense Secretary Wallace pays tribute to Falklands' Veterans

Published: 06/16/2022 in MercoPress

“That's what makes Britons great – what makes our Armed Forces great: that not only do we stand up for what we believe” Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has paid tribute to veterans of the Falkland Islands conflict. In an address released by the Ministry of Defense (MOD), Mr Wallace reflected on the “sacrifice” and the “amazing achievement” of the UK's Armed Forces.

Veterans will always find "a home from home" in the Falklands, MLA Roberts tells SAMA82 members

Published: 06/16/2022 in MercoPress

“What the task force did for us in 1982 resonates in the hearts and minds of Falkland Islanders every day,” MLA Leona Roberts said. Every bearer of the South Atlantic Medal will always find “a home from home”, Falkland Islands lawmaker Leona Roberts assured the men and women of Operation Corporate as they bestowed the Freedom of the Falklands on them, on Turesday, 14 June. .

HMS Forth, permanent presence in the Falklands, and South Atlantic naval guardian

Published: 06/16/2022 in MercoPress

From East Cove port, she conducts regular reassurance patrols not just of the Falklands, but also on South Georgia to support the government and Antarctic scientists HMS Forth, naval guardians of the Falklands have spoken of their pride of patrolling the Islands at keeping the eternal flame of 1982 burning. As such they joined the Falklands' fortieth anniversary of liberation and end of the war, on 14 June together with RAF and Army personnel, VIPs and Islanders marking Liberation Day. June 14 is a public holiday in the Falklands since the Argentine surrender 40 years ago and was commemorated with a memorial service, parade and reception in Stanley.

“People everywhere have a right to decide their own future,” PM Johnson at Falklands' Liberation ceremony

Published: 06/15/2022 in MercoPress

The prime minister joined veterans, bereaved family members and senior defense figures at a service in the National Memorial Arboretum. Photo: Number 10 At a ceremony Tuesday morning held at Staffordshire's National Memorial Arboretum, British prime minister Boris Johnson praised the daring bravery of Veterans, recalling that on the very day, exactly forty years ago, British soldiers entered Stanley and liberated the Falkland Islands from foreign occupation. And since Liberation, the Falkland Islands have lived and thrived in peace and freedom looking into the future.

Falklands ceremony and parade at Liberation Memorial on the 40th anniversary

Published: 06/15/2022 in MercoPress

Minister Quin and Royal Marines Commandant Lt Gen Robert Magowan at the Liberation Memorial with wreaths Hundreds turned out in Stanley on Tuesday to follow events marking the 40th Anniversary of the Liberation of the Falkland Islands from the Argentine occupation in 1982.

"We reject any questions over the Falklands' right to self determination," Foreign secretary Liz Truss

Published: 06/15/2022 in MercoPress

“Today the Falklands are thriving as part of the British family, they are a shinning beacon of freedom and democracy as a self governing Overseas Territory” British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss sent a strong message in support of the Falkland Islands people right to self determination on the fortieth anniversary of the Falklands Liberation, 14 June 1982, while at the same time recalling the effort and sacrifices of the troops sent to ensure that aggression could not succeed.

Falklands War: end of hostilities, General Menendez surrenders to Major General Jeremy Moore

Published: 06/14/2022 in MercoPress

The returning of the 11,313 prisoners of war in their own ships was not accepted and 4,167 of them were repatriated to Argentina on the ocean liner Canberra alone With the capture of Mount Tumbledown, Wireless Ridge and Sapper Hill the Falkland Islands conflict was effectively over and at 2100 hours on the 14th June 1982 the commander of the Argentine garrison in Stanley, General Mario Menendez, surrendered to Major General Jeremy Moore.

Mounts surrounding Stanley taken by British forces, end of Falklands war

Published: 06/13/2022 in MercoPress

Cross at Mount Tumbledown, remainder of the fierce fighting The Argentine occupation of the Falkland Islands is coming to an end and Liberation is in the air. Royal Marines, Paras, Scot Guards, and Gurkhas with naval bombardment support were attacking and capturing the Mounts surrounding Stanley, which would inevitably lead to the collapse and surrender of Argentine forces on 14 June.

Memorial service for 14 sailors from HMS Glamorgan killed in Falklands

Published: 06/13/2022 in MercoPress

Veterans at the commemoration service in the Falkland Islands for HMS Glamorgan (Picture: BFBS). The Falkland Islands marked the forty years since the attack on HMS Glamorgan which killed fourteen crew members. The Memorial service was held at the Glamorgan memorial, Surf Bay, and streamlined live on Forces News despite awful weather conditions.

Locking in Stanley by land, sea and air, was stalemate for Argentine occupation and Falklands Liberation

Published: 06/11/2022 in MercoPress

British Armed Forces fought their way towards the capital of the Falkland Islands, Stanley, in a series of battles on the evening of 11 June 1982. The objective were the mounts Two Sisters and Harriet, securing the high ground next to Stanley facilitating the definitive surrender of the Argentine occupying force and Liberation of the Falklands

Falklands War: Royal Marines in UK honor commando units that yomped 56 miles across the Islands

Published: 06/11/2022 in MercoPress

The yomp has been immortalized by the iconic picture of the commando flying the Union Jack as they started the 56 mile march to the mounts surrounding Stanley Royal Marines from all over the United Kingdom have taken part in marching challenges, repeating the 56 miles (90km) across three days, which 42 Commando yomped back in June 1982 during the last week of the Falkland Islands war

Fitzroy air attack, Britain's major loss in a single incident in the Falklands War

Published: 06/10/2022 in MercoPress

Wreaths were laid on behalf of the people of the Falkland at Fitzroy memorial, 40 years to the day since RFA supply ships were bombed in the waters off Fitzroy Memorial services were held in the Falkland Islands and in Southampton for those who lost their lives when two Royal Fleet Auxiliary ships were bombed during the Falklands conflict.

The unsung heroes of, "Glimpses of the Falklands War"

Published: 06/10/2022 in MercoPress

Every sale from the book generates a donation to Blind Veterans UK. Glimpses of the Falklands War, from the British Modern Military History Society, recounts some of the personal experiences and stories of over 100 service men and women, Falkland Islanders, and others who were involved in the Falklands War.

Falklands War: Armed Forces charity, SSAFA, concerned with UK public little knowledge about the conflict

Published: 06/09/2022 in MercoPress

A staggering 35% of British adults could not name the year the Falklands Conflict took place and a fifth had no idea which countries fought at the time. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Falklands Conflict and SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is calling on the British public to remember those who served during the Falklands Conflict, particularly those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Resumption of Chile/Falklands air link, a “historic event”, says Argentine official Carmona

Published: 06/09/2022 in MercoPress

Carmona said that there are still pending issues with the UK referred to “migration restrictions and the permanence of Argentine citizens in the Islands” (Pic M. Kennard/DCUK) “A historic event” is how Guillermo Carmona, the Argentine Secretary for Malvinas, South Atlantic islands, and Antarctica affairs described the confirmed resumption of the weekly air link between Punta Arenas in Chile and the Falkland Islands, with a monthly stop over at Rio Gallegos in Santa Cruz province.

Commercial air link Falklands/Chile scheduled to resume 2nd July. Ticket booking begins

Published: 06/08/2022 in MercoPress

The LATAM Airbus at Mount Pleasant international airport on its Saturday weekly flight  Following the announcement made on 7 April 2022, the air link between the Falkland Islands and Chile will resume on Saturday 2 July 2022. LATAM flight schedules will be reinstated with flights stopping in Punta Arenas and Santiago, and once a month stopping in Rio Gallegos.

With a 'quieter' Westminster, Johnson admits he might visit the Falklands

Published: 06/08/2022 in MercoPress

Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, last week spent a few days in a visit to the Falkland  with Boris Johnson PM and Princess Anne underlined it was always a pleasure to travel to the Falklands. (Pic PA) Prime minister Boris Johnson said that “now things are a bit quieter in Westminster”, he might be able to visit the Falkland Islands, pointing out he was probably the only person at the Speaker's House ceremony who has never visited the Islands.

Falklands: Royal Marines repeat the famous 90km yomp from San Carlos to Stanley in an impressive time

Published: 06/07/2022 in MercoPress

The Royal Marines team that completed the yomp in an impressive two days, at the Liberation Memorial in Stanley (Pic BFSAI) BFSAI is reporting that the Paras are not the only elite British forces currently in Mount Pleasant Complex for the Falkland Islands 40th-anniversary commemorations.

When Peron offered to buy the Falklands/Malvinas in a long term deal

Published: 06/06/2022 in MercoPress

 General Juan Domingo Peron sent as his representative and envoy to the ceremony his vice president, Admiral Alberto Teisaire. Some seven decades ago when the crowing of the princess to become Queen Elizabeth II, Argentine president General Juan Domingo Peron sent as his representative and envoy to the ceremony his vice president, Admiral Alberto Teisaire.

Falklands receives the Queen's Baton for the Birmingham Commonwealth Games

Published: 06/06/2022 in MercoPress

 The Queen’s Baton will visit all 72 nations and territories across the Commonwealth, (Falklands is listed 65) in a 294-day journey The Queen's Baton for the Commonwealth Games which kicks off in Birmingham on July 28, will be making its stop in the Falkland Islands on June 6 and beginning June 7 in the City of Stanley will make a forty-kilometer relay with some forty volunteers, across the Islands.

Falklands' War: Royal Marines cadre clear Top Malo House of Argentine special forces

Published: 06/02/2022 in MercoPress

Captain Boswell of the Royal Marines Mountain and Arctic Warfare Cadre and 18 of his men were given the task of neutralizing the threat from Top Malo House. Forty years ago, British troops were advancing towards Port Stanley in the Falklands – most of them on foot. Standing in the way of the advance was Top Malo House, a property suspected of containing Argentine special forces that sat in a compromising high ground position.

Falklands war: Argentina insists HMS Invincible was hit by an Exocet; Taiana recalls the joint navy/air force mission

Published: 06/01/2022 in MercoPress

Two Super Etendard from the Navy and carrying the last Exocet missile, together with four Sky hawks attacked HMS Invincible While in Tierra del Fuego Argentine defense minister Jorge Taiana participated with Malvinas War Veterans of the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the joint operation attack on the Royal Navy's carrier, HMS Invincible, while again condemning UK for the "illegitimate" occupation of the Falklands/Malvinas Islands.

Across the Atlantic from UK to the Falklands, for a first autonomous marine research vessel

Published: 06/01/2022 in MercoPress

Plymouth Marine Laboratory, said Oceanus will be 23.5m long by 3.5m wide,  it will be self-righting, and will be propelled by two rear-mounted pod drive motors Britain's Plymouth Marine Laboratory has commissioned Plymouth-based M Subs Ltd to design and build the autonomous mono-hulled vessel, supported by funding from the Natural Environment Research Council. The vessel-sub Oceanus is scheduled to make its inaugural voyage from the UK to the Falkland Islands, doing marine research along the way without any crew on board.

At Falklands Thursday sunset, Queen's Platinum Jubilee Beacon will be lit

Published: 06/01/2022 in MercoPress

The lighting of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Beacon which will take place at Moody Brook on the site of the old Hovercraft hangar at 16:51 on June 2nd. Falkland Islands Chief Fire Officer announced spectators are invited and are welcome to the lighting of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Beacon which will take place at Moody Brook on the site of the old Hovercraft slipway and hangar at 16:51 on June 2nd.

Crown coin commemorating the Liberation of the Falklands for every child in the Islands

Published: 06/01/2022 in MercoPress

Children will be presented their coins on Friday 10 June at the Infant and Junior School and Falkland Islands Community School, plus the children at MPC The Falkland Islands Commissioners of Currency and the 40th Anniversary Committee are delighted to announce the issue of a Crown Coin to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands.

Children from the Falklands say “Thank you” in a video to veterans who liberated the islands in 1982

Published: 05/31/2022 in MercoPress

The film will be shared at forthcoming Falklands 40th anniversary events in the fortnight running up to Liberation Day on 14th June. As part of the commemoration events for the 40th anniversary of the Falklands war, school children from both the Junior and Secondary schools in the Falkland Islands have created special “Thank you” messages to all the veterans involved in liberating the Falkland Islands in 1982. The school children are keen that their messages are seen by as wide an audience as possible, so that as many veterans and their families and families of those 255 lost, get to see them and know that what they did 40 years ago is still greatly appreciated and not forgotten, even by the most recent generation of young Islanders.

Falklands' Government publishes Budget for 2022/23: "stability and continuity"

Published: 05/28/2022 in MercoPress

The capital projects commitment recognizes priorities are the new Port Facility, new Power Station, school expansion, improvements to the hospital plus the new waste management facility Stability and continuity are at the heart of the Falkland Islands Government Budget for 2022/23. The Budget recognizes these two themes are essential in the time of continued uncertainty stemming from the global COVID-19 pandemic and the work on global recovery.

The Falklands Conflict – Then and Now

Published: 05/26/2022 in MercoPress

The book is a reminder of the “Forgotten Falklands” as “Help for Heroes” called them in their poll indicating that most people in the UK care little about the conflict By Harold Briley for MercoPress (Stanley) – The 40th anniversary of the Falklands Conflict is being commemorated all year with events in the Falkland Islands, the United Kingdom, and Argentina as MercoPress has reported.

Falklands war: Plymouth and Liverpool remember UK merchant navy sailors killed

Published: 05/26/2022 in MercoPress

Deputy Lord Mayor of Plymouth Chris Penberthy said the commemoration was “a really important day... to specifically remember the civilians who [supported] the task force” (Pic BBC) The city of Plymouth held a ceremony to remember British Merchant Navy sailors killed in the Falklands War and other conflicts. Wreaths were laid during the gathering at the Merchant Navy Monument on the city's Hoe seafront.

Judge Simmons loves the Falklands; has the largest judicial jurisdiction in the world

Published: 05/25/2022 in MercoPress

“For many years, I have wanted to visit the Falklands but have never had the opportunity. When this vacancy arose, I jumped at the opportunity” “I have always had an interest in the Falkland Islands ever since, as a schoolboy in London in 1982, I watched the Task Force set sail. While the conflict in the Falklands was short, it had a huge impact on the people of the Falkland Islands and their relationship with Argentina," said Judge Malcolm Simmons, senior judge and Coroner of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, South Sandwich Islands, and the British Antarctic Territory.

Carmona makes UN C24 round before the coming Falklands/Malvinas debate in June

Published: 05/25/2022 in MercoPress

The Argentine official also visited Ambassador Keisha McGuire, current president of C24 In anticipation of the coming annual meeting of United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization or C24, Argentina's Secretary of Malvinas, Antarctica and South Atlantic Islands, Guillermo Carmona was at UN headquarters for a couple of days with the "purpose of consolidating supports", indicated Argentine pro government media.

New Darwin Plus Initiative funding for Falklands' New Island Nature Reserve

Published: 05/24/2022 in MercoPress

Threatened species will benefit from funding to tackle invasive species and strengthen climate change mitigation. Threatened species across the UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) are set to benefit from Ł6.4 million in government funding announced on Monday 23 May. Green turtles and the West Indian whistling duck are just some of the species that will be boosted by a share of the Darwin Plus Initiative. Likewise Falklands' New Island Nature Reserve and Peatlands.

Argentine officials question city status awarded to Stanley, Falklands capital

Published: 05/23/2022 in MercoPress

Santiago Cafiero said the “decision has no effect but confirms UK does not respect international law”, insisting that Malvinas is “Argentine territory” Argentine Foreign Minister and the head of the Malvinas, South Atlantic Islands and Antarctica Office strongly questioned the Queen's decision to award city status to the capital of the Falkland Islands.

MoD offers free flights to Veterans wishing to travel to the Falklands after RAF concessionary fare increased six fold

Published: 05/21/2022 in MercoPress

“The Falklands War was a vital moment in our national history,” Ben Wallace said. “It is entirely right that we help our Veterans commemorate it properly” British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has offered Veterans free flights to the Falklands after the Standard reported a massive hike in fares to the Islands on the 40th anniversary of the war.

Falklands War, May 21, UK begins landing troops in San Carlos for the definitive recapture of the Islands

Published: 05/21/2022 in MercoPress

Ewen Southby-Tailyour off Pebble Island in the Falklands, 1979 (Picture: Ewen Southby-Tailyour). On 21 May 1982, following the invasion of the Falkland Islands by Argentina, the UK began landing troops in East Falkland, the first stage in Operation Sutton to recapture the British Overseas Territory.

Falklands: Stop double standards UN says MLA Short

Published: 05/20/2022 in MercoPress

Gavin Short MLA; two big powers talking together about our future whilst we Falkland Islanders, the people of that country MEMBER of Legislative Assembly Gavin Short called on the United Nations not to have “double standards” when it came to the Falklands while giving a speech during a meeting in St Lucia.

Falklands' capital Stanley granted city status as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations

Published: 05/20/2022 in MercoPress

A view of the modern Stanley undergoing a housing boom and continuous expansion of the capital, now with city status Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands is among eight places to win coveted city status as part of celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Stanley is the first Overseas Territory to win the competition for city status, while Douglas on the Crown Dependency of the Isle of Man has also claimed the civic honor.

Cunard Falklands' loss, and a tribute to the Merchant navy will be commemorated by Liverpool

Published: 05/20/2022 in MercoPress

On 25 May 1982, the Atlantic Conveyor a support vessel of the Task Force sent to recover the Falkland Islands was struck, and sank, by two Exocet missiles fired by Argentine aircraft. The Cunard owned vessel was registered in Liverpool and the city will commemorate the 40th anniversary, which cost the lives of twelve people.

Falklands prepares for the Big Plastic Count, starting next week

Published: 05/15/2022 in MercoPress

Plastic waste is even more important issue in the Falklands than the UK, as it is not able to be recycled. This means the majority of plastic ends up in landfill. Next week (16th-22nd May), Falkland Islands residents should consider taking part in Falkland Conservation’s Big Plastic Count. Inspired by Greenpeace's plastic count in the UK, Falklands Conservation are launching an island-wide survey with the aim of recording all plastic used by Falklands residents in just one week.

Limited editions of whisky, rum and gin to commemorate Falklands War and raise funds for SAMA82

Published: 05/14/2022 in MercoPress

The launch includes the brewery’s three staple spirits, whisky, rum and gin. DropZone Brewery is releasing 258 bottles of each spirit DropZone Brewery, a veteran-owned business which supports former servicepeople, has launched three limited-edition spirits to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War and raise funds for charity. All profits from the launch will be donated to the South Atlantic Medal Association 82 (SAMA82), formed by veterans of the Falklands conflict.

Merchant Navy cadets join RRS Sir David Attenborough in the Falklands for training deployment

Published: 05/14/2022 in MercoPress

RRS Sir David Attenborough completes ice trials on its maiden voyage to Antarctica Four Trinity House Merchant Navy Cadets are joining Britain’s new polar research vessel RRS Sir David Attenborough this week in the Falkland Islands on a four-month training deployment.

FIMA Funded Falklands 40th Photo Exhibition Moves to Chatham's Historic Dockyard Museum

Published: 05/12/2022 in MercoPress

FIMA donated the A3-format prints to the museum, and the resulting exhibition, titled “Everything Changed”, first opened in Stanley in February. Last year, FIMA, (Friends of the Falkland Islands' Museum and the Jane Cameron National Archives), agreed to fund the restoration and printing of 40 photographs taken by a Falklands photographer during and in the aftermath of the 1982 war for the Falklands Museum.

Chilean president will address the Falklands issue with Boris Johnson in Egypt

Published: 05/09/2022 in MercoPress

The Chilean president talked with Boris Johnson last week Chilean president Gabriel Boric will be talking about the Falklands and South Sandwich Islands sovereignty claims with Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Argentine president Alberto Fernandez during the next COP27 scheduled for November.

Air-link Falklands/Sao Paulo "discontinued" or exchanged for a direct flight from Buenos Aires

Published: 05/09/2022 in MercoPress

Buenos Aires has offered as an option a direct flight to the Islands but through Buenos Aires and with an Argentine carrier. Argentine media is reporting that Buenos Aires informed UK that it is not willing to renew the 2019 political agreement which enabled the establishment of a second air link between the Falkland Islands and the continent (Brazil), but is prepared to discuss a new air link under different conditions.

Falklands War: MPs demand inquiry on Exocet "kill switch"; how transparent was France?

Published: 05/05/2022 in MercoPress

Forty years on from the sinking of the destroyer, lawmakers have called for answers on how transparent France was with the UK in discussions on the Exocet British lawmakers have demanded an inquiry into whether France was dishonest about the existence of a “kill switch” in missiles used by Argentina in attacks that killed British sailors during the Falklands War, with the sinking of several vessels, the first of which was Type 42 HMS Sheffield.

Argentine Ministry posted an image of a British vessel on ARA General Belgrano's sinking memorial in Falklands War

Published: 05/03/2022 in MercoPress

The Education Ministry's account deleted the post (on this image) and published a new one, besides apologizing for the original publication Last Monday was the 40th anniversary of the sinking of the ship ARA General Belgrano, one of the flagships of the Argentine Navy after being hit by torpedoes from the British submarine Conqueror during the Falklands War. As part of the tributes for the more than 300 Argentine sailors who died in that attack, the Argentine Ministry of Education wanted to honor the anniversary on social media. However, it ended in an embarrassment.

Brazil in the crossfire of the Falklands/Malvinas war

Published: 05/03/2022 in MercoPress

The Brazilian report point to Galtieri, who managed a huge rally in Plaza de Mayo, “making people believe they could defeat the world's third strongest military power” Brazil apparently was quite active during the Falklands War, and mounted a network to "search and collect information" on its neighbor (and historic competitor) Argentina, keeping a close eye on the military actions in the South Atlantic, and potential allies of the military Junta.

Falklands war was instrumental in accelerating the return of democracy in Argentina, Ambassador Figueroa

Published: 05/03/2022 in MercoPress

Javier Figueroa at the ambassador’s office in Belgrave Square (Victoria Jones/PA) By Catherine Lough, PA - The memory of the Falklands War is an “open wound” for Argentina, the country’s ambassador to the UK has said. Speaking to Catherine Lough of Press Association news agency to mark the 40th anniversary of the conflict, Javier Figueroa said wrangling over the Islands’ sovereignty is “ridiculous”, but admits that the war was instrumental in accelerating the return of democracy to Argentina.

Calendar of May events and commemorations of the Falklands War

Published: 05/02/2022 in MercoPress

Sunday May first

Falklands War remains 'an open wound' in Argentina, says ambassador

Published: 05/01/2022 in BBC News - World

The conflict is a "deeply emotional issue" for politicians and the public at home, the diplomat says.

Partial solar eclipse on Saturday can be seen in southern South America, Falklands and Antarctica

Published: 04/30/2022 in MercoPress

This eclipse will be a partial solar eclipse, as the Sun, Moon and Earth will not be perfectly lined up The Earth is all set to witness its first solar eclipse of the year 2022, and according to NASA, this cosmic event will take place on Saturday, April 30, at around 6:45 PM UTC. Parts of South America, Antarctica and the Pacific and Southern Oceans will be able to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon.

Queen's birthday with 800 guests in Buenos Aires; special tribute to Falklands Veterans from both sides

Published: 04/29/2022 in MercoPress

Ambassador Kirsty Hayes addressing the more than 800 guests at the Queen's Platinum Jubilee With over 800 guests the British Embassy in Buenos Aires celebrated on Thursday both the birthday, and Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth. The celebration took place at the official residence of Ambassador Kirsty Hayes, who hosted members of the Argentine federal and provincial governments, lawmakers from all parties, business people, diplomats, academics, artists, journalists and other representatives from the community.

Duncan downplays comments on Foradori, but damage to Falklands' 2016 Joint Statement has been done

Published: 04/29/2022 in MercoPress

Sir Ian Duncan and Carlos Foradori during the 2016 negotiations Ex Foreign Office minister for the Americas, Alan Duncan has said that former Argentine deputy foreign minister Carlos Foradori was a formidable negotiator, despite having written in a book on his memoirs that his counterpart in trade, cooperation and Falklands/Malvinas negotiations at the British embassy cellar in Buenos Aires, rang the following morning to say he “was pissed” since the night before he had drank too much.

Gibraltar's Falklands war exhibition: "we share the right to freedom and self-determination"

Published: 04/27/2022 in MercoPress

Dr Garcia underscored the “unbreakable bond” between Gibraltar and the Falklands that explained was cemented during the war, and “exists to this day”. An exhibition marking the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands was opened in Gibraltar by Deputy Chief Minister Dr. Joseph Garcia. The exhibition was curated by the Archivist Anthony Pitaluga and prepared by the Gibraltar National Archives.

Argentina targeting the Foradori/Duncan statement on the Falklands

Published: 04/27/2022 in MercoPress

Duncan and Foradori during the signing of the Joint Statement of September 2016 Argentine foreign minister Santiago Cafiero has ordered an internal investigation to determine whether former deputy foreign minister Carlos Foradori back in 2016, became drunk during a meeting with British diplomats in which UK and Argentina agreed to an improved relationship through closer cooperation on areas of mutual interest, including a chapter on the Falkland Islands.

Falklands' inshore waters globally recognized as Key Biodiversity Areas

Published: 04/26/2022 in MercoPress

The inshore waters of the Falkland Islands are important breeding grounds for numerous seabird populations. Photo: Falklands Conservation A Falklands Conservation project has identified the Falklands Islands’ inshore waters as globally recognized Key Biodiversity Areas (KBA) for breeding seabirds, driving forward their aim for quality marine management practices in the Islands.

BFSAI command at Falklands commemorates Liberation of South Georgia

Published: 04/26/2022 in MercoPress

Raising the flag in South Georgia The British Forces South Atlantic Islands, BFSAI, stationed at Mount Pleasant Complex in the Falkland Islands, commemorated on Monday 25th April the 40th anniversary of the liberation of South Georgia.

Tepid New Delhi support for Argentina's sponsored Falklands/Malvinas dialogue commission

Published: 04/25/2022 in MercoPress

The initiative seems to have run into rough weather since members of the ruling party BJP of Prime Minister Narendra Modi declined to attend The Commission for Dialogue referred to the Falkland Islands dispute which was launched in India, with the support of outstanding political figures, as was announced by Argentine minister of Foreign Affairs Santiago Cafiero, does not seem to have had the response expected, according to the Indian media in the framework of the annual Raisina Dialogue organized by the Indian government.

Falklands War: HMS Sheffield memorial to be unveiled at the National Arboretum

Published: 04/25/2022 in MercoPress

The memorial resembling the prow of the ship breaking through waves was designed by artist Peter Naylor. It is the result of the HMS Sheffield Association fundraising campaign A memorial marking the 40th anniversary of the sinking of the Royal Navy destroyer HMS Sheffield during the Falklands War will be inaugurated next month at the National Memorial Arboretum.

Navitas banned from Argentina for twenty years for operating in Falklands' waters

Published: 04/23/2022 in MercoPress

The Israeli oil company has been sanctioned for activities in the Argentine Continental Shelf close to Malvinas Islands  Israel's Navitas Petroleum has been banned from all activities in Argentina for the next twenty years for involvement in the hydrocarbons industry in the Falklands/Malvinas zone without Argentine permission.

Falklands “Evening of Reflection,” a gathering of those in the Islands during the conflict

Published: 04/23/2022 in MercoPress

While there might have been 633 civilians present in Stanley during the Falklands war in 1982, only 156 of those residents are still alive today. On Thursday night, an evening of reflection was hosted at the Town Hall for members of the Falkland Islands community and their families who were in Stanley during the war in 1982.

New BAS aircraft to ensure transport between Falklands and Antarctica

Published: 04/23/2022 in MercoPress

The replacement aircraft will be modified by Field Aerospace, for BAS's need to operate in extreme environments and should be delivered by April 2024. The British Antarctic Survey has signed a contract for a replacement aircraft to ensure transport between the Falkland Islands or South America to the research station at Rothera, Antarctica. The contract was signed by Professor Dame Jane Francis, Director of BAS, Nigel Bird, Director of Major Programs at UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and Brian Love, Chief Commercial Officer, Field Aerospace

”Recognition '82’,” special edition gin to commemorate Falklands War and Chatham Dockyard workers

Published: 04/23/2022 in MercoPress

The Dockyard was home to the ‘Stand-by Squadron’, frigates poised to replace warships allocated to the Falklands task force. A Kent distillery has created a Navy strength gin to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War. “Recognition ‘82” has been made by the Copper Rivet Distillery based at Chatham Dockyard, which played an important role in the conflict.

The Argentine officer who terrorized and favored a final solution for Islanders during the Falklands' occupation

Published: 04/22/2022 in MercoPress

The impeccably dressed Mayor Patrick Dowling, of Irish origin who loathed everything British, and police-abused Islanders during the occupation The visiting Argentine reporter Hugo Alconada Mon who spent time in the Falkland Islands reporting for the Buenos Aires daily La Nacion, on the 40th anniversary of the April 2nd Argentine military invasion and occupation of the Falklands, has included a story on an Argentine army officer.

Falklands: Covid-19 community transmission confirmed at MPC, protective measures recommended

Published: 04/21/2022 in MercoPress

After large scale surveillance testing of approximately 500 people, 22 individuals were confirmed as being positive for COVID-19, Protective measures for all Falkland Islands residents are being advised following a number following a number of cases of COVID-19 being confirmed at MPC. The Commander British Forces South Atlantic Islands implemented a number of precautionary measures at Mount Pleasant Complex (MPC), following a number of positive COVID-19 cases which were identified outside of quarantine it was announced on April 15. This action enabled BFSAI and the Falkland Islands Government to understand the situation in depth.

Falklands 40: why Malvinas are still such an emotive issue in Argentina

Published: 04/20/2022 in MercoPress

Writing in UK's Guardian newspaper, foreign minister, Cafiero, stated that “the recovery of sovereignty [of Malvinas] is an inalienable objective of the Argentine people”. By Matthew Benwell (*) – At this time of year, the Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) take center stage in public and political life across Argentina. April 2 marked the 40th anniversary of what many Argentines think of as the “recovery” of an integral part of their national territory from the UK. The “recovery” was only to last for 74 days before a British task force defeated Argentine troops and reclaimed what the UK government recognizes as British overseas territory – the Falkland Islands.

Problems and challenges Brexit brought for the Falklands' economy still pending

Published: 04/19/2022 in MercoPress

Since the end of the transition period in January 2021 Falklands’ exports to the EU have been subject to tariffs, 42% for meat and 6% to 18% for fisheries Brexit has “brought problems” for the Falkland Islands’ fishing industry, a Labour former defense minister has warned. Derek Twigg, chairman of the Falkland Islands All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), said there had “been a lot of concern” over the impact of the UK’s exit from the EU on Falkland Islands fishing exports, such as squid.

Falklands, first war mapping project at Mount Tumbledown is completed

Published: 04/19/2022 in MercoPress

Waterloo Uncovered surveyed the area around Mount Tumbledown, to gain a better insight into the battle that took place during the last days of the 1982 war The first-ever intensive archaeological survey of the Falklands War took place last week. Waterloo Uncovered, a team made up of researchers, veterans and archaeologists surveyed the area around Mount Tumbledown, in order to gain a better insight into the battle that took place there during the last days of the 1982 conflict previous to the Argentine surrender.

Record, two Falklands' full year inflation in a month in Argentina

Published: 04/19/2022 in MercoPress

On average annual inflation in Falklands is below 4%. In March in Argentina, suffered an inflation of 6,7% and 7,5% in the item Food The Falkland Islands inflation during the last decade, on average has been below 4% annually. This however does not mean the Falklands are not vulnerable to the volatility of world energy and food prices.

Refit Sikorsky S61N helicopter arrives at MPC in Falklands

Published: 04/18/2022 in MercoPress

Mount Pleasant Complex in the Falkland Islands welcomed the arrival of G-FLKI, a Sikorsky S61N helicopter, which recently arrived via the Falkland Islands Resupply Ship. G-FLKI is operated by British International Helicopters

Forty Years on, the legacy of the Falklands War continues to show

Published: 04/18/2022 in MercoPress

The liberation of the Falkland Islands came at a high price, and Falkland Islanders are acutely aware of this In the 40th anniversary year of the Falklands War, Derek Twigg writes just how the legacy of the war continues to impact Islanders and Veterans 40 years on, and what the future holds for the Islands. 

Moskva, the first major surface combatant vessel sunk since the Falklands' war

Published: 04/16/2022 in MercoPress

Moskva, the flagship of the Black Sea Russian fleet sinking When the Russian missile cruiser Moskva sank on Thursday, allegedly hit by two anti/ship missiles (Ukrainian version), it was the largest warship lost at sea since World War II, and the first major surface combatant ship sunk since the Falklands War in 1982. Moskva was the flagship of the Russian navy in the Black Sea and was involved in the attack and capture of Ukrainian ports.

Forty years after the war, Falklands remain an Argentine obsession

Published: 04/15/2022 in MercoPress

There are constant reminders stating “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” murals with the shape of the Islands, and road signs specify the distance to the Falklands. By Henry Srebrnik (*) – Forty years since Argentina launched its disastrous invasion of the South Atlantic archipelago in early April of 1982, its claim to the Falkland Islands remains a national obsession, even enshrined in the country’s 1994 constitution.

Commemorative Ł2 coin to mark 40th anniversary of Falklands' Liberation

Published: 04/13/2022 in MercoPress

The coin features the official emblem of Falklands 40th Pobjoy Mint has announced the release of a brand new produced on behalf of the Falkland Islands Government, as this year marks the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Islands.

Price of diesel in the Falklands increases to 80p a liter

Published: 04/12/2022 in MercoPress

Stanley Services petrol station The price of diesel in the Falkland Islands has risen. Gareth Goodwin from Stanley Services was quoted by Falklands Television saying volatility risen from the war in Ukraine following the Russian invasion has caused disruptions in global fuel markets.

Falklands oil company shares skyrocket following extension of license

Published: 04/12/2022 in MercoPress

Argos Resources is an oil and gas exploration company listed on AIM and based in the Falkland Islands Argos Resources shares surged 23% to 2.4p on news that the Falkland Islands government extended its second term PL001 license. The Falklands Islands-based explorer will not need to commit to any additional work to be granted the license between 1 May 2022 and the year-end.

763 Uruguayans volunteered to fight for Argentina during Falklands conflict, reveals Senate bill

Published: 04/12/2022 in MercoPress

“Leaving aside that the conflict was an attempt by the Argentine civic-military dictatorship to overshadow the terrible situation (…), we wish to express our total support”, said lawmakers. Senators from the Uruguayan opposition coalition Frente Amplio are sponsoring a declaration in support of Argentina and its Falkland Islands' claim, recalling at the same time that 763 Uruguayans, from a very miscellaneous background, had volunteered to join the Argentine Army during the South Atlantic conflict to combat Britain.

Britain won the Falklands war but paid a steep price and the dispute isn’t settled

Published: 04/11/2022 in MercoPress

“...I could also appreciate the plight of the Islanders who overwhelmingly considered, and still consider, themselves British” By George Foulkes (*) – This month marks the 40th anniversary of the start of the Falklands war – a conflict that cost both British and Argentine sides dearly and ultimately failed to resolve the dispute over the Islands' sovereignty, which continues to this day.

Falklands War: 'The UK is still usurping our land'

Published: 04/10/2022 in BBC News - World

Argentina's president has said he will keep fighting for control of the islands, also known as the Malvinas.

Gibraltar joins commemoration of 40th anniversary of Falklands conflict

Published: 04/08/2022 in MercoPress

Gibraltar helped with the refitting of the SS Uganda to a hospital ship and the HMS Hecla to an ambulance ship As part of the commemorative plans for the 40th anniversary of the Falklands Islands conflict, Gibraltar Cultural Services on behalf of the Ministry of Culture, will be hosting a series of lectures. 2022 marks 40 years since the end of the conflict.

Latin American focus, support for Argentina's Falklands' claim and diplomacy to solve continental shelf disputes, Boric's agenda

Published: 04/07/2022 in MercoPress

President Gabriel Boric with his neighbor friend, Alberto Fernandez (L) during his recent visit to Argentina Chilean president Gabriel Boric in his recent visit to Argentina stated some of the basic pillars of the new administration's foreign policy, focused mainly on Latin America, human rights, support for Argentina's claim over the Falklands, and willingness to address border disputes its neighbor through diplomacy and patience.

“MPC is entirely defensive, to defend Falklands from any potential threat,” BFSAI commander

Published: 04/06/2022 in MercoPress

“MPC is entirely defensive, to defend Falklands from any potential threat,” BFSAI commander The visiting Argentine reporter Hugo Alconada Mon who is in the Falkland Islands reporting for the Buenos Aires daily La Nacion, on the 40th anniversary of the April 2nd Argentine military invasion and occupation of the Falklands, has included in his round of interviews, British Forces South Atlantic Islands Commander, Jonathan Left.

Argentina complains over Falklands tourism stand at WTM in Sao Paulo

Published: 04/06/2022 in MercoPress

The video shows the a well located Falklands' stand at Sao Paulo MTM fair Argentina expressed concern and requested specific measures from Brazilian authorities because of the presence in Sao Paulo at the World Trade Market, Latin America fair, of a Falkland Islands' stand.

Princess Anne attends Falklands' war anniversary service at St. Paul's Cathedral

Published: 04/06/2022 in MercoPress

Princess Royal greeted by Alderman Sir David Wootton. Photo: St Paul’s Cathedral<br />
Princess Royal has joined veterans at a service to remember those who fought or died in the Falklands War, and to mark the conflict’s 40th anniversary. The Falkland Islands Government organized the service of reflection and remembrance in St Faith’s Chapel at St Paul’s Cathedral on Tuesday.

Pepe Mujica: Britain's stance regarding Malvinas/Falklands a thing of the past

Published: 04/05/2022 in MercoPress

“It would be good for the central world to have the self-critical vision to understand that history goes the other way,” Mujica underlined Former Uruguayan President José "Pepe" Mujica, who was in Buenos Aires during the weekend to join Alberto Fernández for the ceremonies marking the 40th anniversary of the 1982 armed conflict with the United Kingdom, insisted “the Malvinas claim reminds us that there is still colonialism in the world.”

Foreign Office travel advice for Argentina: watch out for petty crime, strikes and Falklands' related protests

Published: 04/05/2022 in MercoPress

The most common incidents affecting tourists are distraction thefts, bag snatching, pick pocketing and street robberies The latest travel advice on Argentina from the Foreign Office points out that in 2019, (the last normal year), 126,548 British nationals visited Argentina in 2019 and most visits are trouble-free.

Falklands expects air links fully operational for the next tourist season

Published: 04/05/2022 in MercoPress

MLA Pollard confirmed that 'humanitarian' flights will continue, “they were approved in the past  and will always be” The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) expects to reestablish commercial air links with Chile early next July, and with Brazil in November in time for the tourist high season, plus the humanitarian flights for the Argentine next of kin of the combatants buried at the Argentine military cemetery in Darwin.

Nigel Phillips CBE from the Falklands to governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha

Published: 04/05/2022 in MercoPress

Mr. Nigel Phillips will be taking office next August as governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Mr. Nigel Phillips CBE, currently governor of the Falkland Islands has been appointed Governor of St Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha in succession to Dr. Philip Rushbrook. Mr. Phillips will take up his appointment in August 2022.

Falklands newsman would like an apology for 1982

Published: 04/04/2022 in MercoPress

The Falklanders did not deserve to suffer as they did in 1982, Bound stressed. Photo: Graham Bound While Argentina's Foreign Minister Santiago Cafiero wrote for The Guardian last week that his country posed a threat to no one, Graham Bound, founder of Port Stanley's Penguin News, told the Spanish newswire service EFE that the presence of British troops on the islands did serve a purpose.

Falklands' people have rights, but Argentina's 'cruel' attitude creates the feeling “war has not gone”

Published: 04/04/2022 in MercoPress

“We know what is to wake up and be invaded, what it means to have your home shelled and being forced to abandon your home” (Pic H. Alconada/LN) Hugo Alconada Mon is a prestigious Argentine journalist, and lawyer, who has written several books, besides belonging to the international consortium of investigative journalists which among other things was involved in exposing the Panama Papers.

A photographic exhibition commemorates the Falklands conflict 40 years later

Published: 04/02/2022 in MercoPress

The exhibition showcases a unique photographic journey through the eyes of a local journalist in occupied Port Stanley photographer and journalist Graham Bound April 2022 marks the 40th anniversary of the outbreak of the Falklands War, a 74-day conflict fought over the Falkland Islands. Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust is commemorating this anniversary through a photographic exhibition and gallery display.

Falklands' war vivid frontline sketches by Linda Kitson who marched alongside the troops

Published: 04/01/2022 in MercoPress

As the first official female war artist, Kitson served alongside frontline personnel, documenting the conflict through a series of vivid drawings The National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire, has opened a new free exhibition featuring frontline sketches of the Falklands War by Linda Kitson who was appointed as the official war artist by the Imperial War Museum.

UK commandos hope to raise Ł56,000 in memory of comrades who fought in Falklands' war

Published: 03/31/2022 in MercoPress

Back in 1982, Royal Marines yomped 56 miles across East Falkland to liberate the Islands from Argentine occupation. British Commandos hope to raise Ł56,000 in memory of comrades who fought in the Falkland Islands war. They’re organizing a four-day physical challenge – and hope the public will join them for the final leg.

When Prince Philip visited the Falklands, in 1957 and 1991

Published: 03/30/2022 in MercoPress

In 1957 Representatives from United Kingdom Overseas Territories also attended the Service of Thanksgiving for Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh held at Westminster Abbey Tuesday morning.

Falklands lawmaker meets Shadow ministers and attends CPA conference

Published: 03/30/2022 in MercoPress

MLA Leona Roberts next to (L-R), MP John Doughty, Shadow Foreign Secretary MP David Lammy and Shadow Defense Secretary MP John Healey Falkland Islands lawmaker MLA Leona Roberts, currently in UK where she attended the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) British Islands and Mediterranean (BIM) conference, on Tuesday was in London to meet with shadow ministers.

Falklands war runs the risk of becoming a “forgotten war”, charity survey confirms

Published: 03/29/2022 in MercoPress

One in four younger people in the UK have never heard of the 1982 fierce fighting with Argentine forces over the Falklands, according to the latest survey The British charity “Help for Heroes” has done a poll to mark the 40th anniversary of the Falkland Islands conflict and the report on results is astonishing to the point that the South Atlantic war risks becoming a “forgotten war” since many of the people polled have no idea about events.

“Radio Atlántico Sur”, Britain's propaganda station during the Falklands' war to demoralize Argentine combatants

Published: 03/29/2022 in MercoPress

'Radio Atlántico Del Sur', with Spanish-speaking UK military personnel tried to persuade their Argentine counterparts to surrender, broadcasting in Spanish. It has been forty years since the Falklands, a conflict fought between April and June 1982 and which claimed the lives of 649 Argentines, 255 British service personnel, and three civilian Falkland Islanders. While the UK sent a task force to reclaim the Falklands following the Argentine military invasion, there was a top-secret operation launched at the same time.

Tierra del Fuego Debit cards with the Falklands map for Malvinas Veterans

Published: 03/29/2022 in MercoPress

Veterans showing the debit cards with the Falkland Islands map and the motto “Malvinas are and will be Argentine” The Tierra del Fuego province bank has issued special debit plastic cards for Malvinas veterans with a picture of the East and West Falklands map, to mark the fortieth anniversary of the South Atlantic conflict, and reaffirmation of the Argentine claim over the Islands.

Falklands war anniversary: UK cities have scheduled a raft of events to mark the 40th anniversary of the conflict's end

Published: 03/28/2022 in MercoPress

Margaret Thatcher Day is celebrated every January 10 in the Falklands, the anniversary of the first visit by the former prime minister in 1983 A series of lectures, memorials, exhibitions, and other events will be launched in the United Kingdom in the coming days to mark the 40th anniversary of the end of the Falklands War. The aim is to commemorate the sacrifices made in 1982 and to celebrate the progress made in the South Atlantic archipelago over the past 40 years.

Falklands Chamber of Commerce satisfied port project advances, but warns FIG on "gaps and issues"

Published: 03/25/2022 in MercoPress

“The Chamber of Commerce is pleased to see Executive Council approve the plans for the new port so that this project can progress to the next stage. The Falkland Islands Chamber of Commerce has reacted positively to news that the new port construction will go ahead. Invited to respond to the news in the light of recent controversy (FIG approved the Port Development Planning application despite a recommendation against by the Planning and Building Committee) a spokesperson for the Chamber responded to the Penguin News as follows:

Falklands' War Mapping Project expected to begin this month at Mount Tumbledown

Published: 03/24/2022 in MercoPress

The Project brings together team members from Oxford University, Glasgow University, the Falkland Islands Museum & National Trust, and Waterloo charity. Waterloo Uncovered, the groundbreaking charity that combines archaeology with veteran care and recovery, will be visiting the Falkland Islands this month to begin the first intensive archaeological survey of its battlefields.

Falklands launches consultation on Marine Managed Areas to conserve the Islands marine environment

Published: 03/24/2022 in MercoPress

The proposed MMAs set aside areas for special protection and balance conservation as a primary objective The unique marine environment of the Falkland Islands is important to the community and is vital in supporting biodiversity and the economy of the Islands. As part of the role in caring for and managing our marine environment for current and future generations, the Falkland Islands Government is undertaking policy development for Marine Managed Areas (MMAs) for the Falkland Islands.

Rio Grande prepares for the Malvinas Vigil and a remake of the Falklands landing 2 April

Published: 03/23/2022 in MercoPress

Malvinas Heroes Monument in Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego second largest city The municipality of the Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego province, together with the local branch of the Malvinas Veterans have organized an agenda of activities, with an open invitation to all residents from the province and former combatants from the 1982 Falklands war.

Falklands' Liberation: 5,6 miles yomp Charity challenge, remembering Royal Marines epic 56 mile yomp in 1982

Published: 03/23/2022 in MercoPress

An image of both sides of the commemorative coin (Picture: RMA - The Royal Marines Charity). Britain's Royal Marines Charity has set a challenge for its supporters, wherever they are in the world, to run, walk or cycle 5.6 miles in June to mark 40 years since the liberation of the Falkland Islands and raise money.

Falklands Liberation 40th anniversary: April calendar of events

Published: 03/21/2022 in MercoPress

The 1982 Liberation Memorial in Stanley, Falkland Islands. Photo: MercoPress The April calendar of events listed includes those taking place in the Falkland Islands and separately in the United Kingdom:

Falklands celebrated its fantastic diversity on the Multicultural Day Festival

Published: 03/16/2022 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands celebrated last Saturday, March 12th, Multicultural Day, with massive participation from the different communities who participated in the event with a display of dance, music, food.

Falklands' 40th Anniversary: Type 21 Club Frigate Association joins Royal British Legion event

Published: 03/14/2022 in MercoPress

Type 21 ships, Antelope, Ardent, Alacrity, Active, Ambuscade, Amazon and Arrow served in the Falklands War with Antelope and Ardent lost in action Plymouth-based Type 21 Club Frigate Association will be taking part in the Falkland Islands 40th Anniversary event at the National Arboretum in Staffordshire on 14th June 2022, organized by the Royal British Legion.

Falklands Forty Schools Competition: Once in a lifetime opportunity for eight UK students to visit the Islands

Published: 03/12/2022 in MercoPress

The 40th anniversary logo This year the UK and Falkland Islands will mark the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Falkland Islands. As part of the anniversary, the Falkland Islands Government is offering eight lucky UK students the opportunity of a lifetime – an all-expenses-paid visit to the Falkland Islands in February 2023, where they will experience for themselves the Falkland Islands’ culture, history, and extraordinary natural environment.

In 2013, “we reaffirmed our wish to be a part of Global Britain”, Falklands Legislative Assembly chair

Published: 03/12/2022 in MercoPress

“Since 1982, we have worked hard to develop a self-sufficient economy and future for the Falklands and this has not always been simple” UK's news agency Press Association has interviewed the current chair of the Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly, MLA Teslyn Barkman on the 40th anniversary of the Falklands' war and the ninth, on the self-determination referendum from March 2013.

Falklands: Planning Committee unanimously recommends rejection of plans for the new port

Published: 03/10/2022 in MercoPress

Objections raised by the Committee include concerns about noise pollution, chemical pollution on food supply, the public consultation process. Photo: Penguin News The Falkland Islands Planning and Building Committee (PBC) has recommended, unanimously, that the current plans for the new port to be refused by Executive Council. Following the decision the committee adjourned to provide written reasons, --environmental and shortcomings--, to Executive Council (ExCo) for consideration when making the final decision whether to accept or not.

Falklands government and community fundraising in support of Ukraine

Published: 03/09/2022 in MercoPress

The Ukrainian flag has recently been flying high on Victory Green, but we now want to start fundraising in earnest The war in Ukraine is at the forefront of our minds in the Falkland Islands community, not least as it brings back strong memories of 40 years ago, when our peaceful home was also invaded by a hostile neighbor, intent on seizing land and assuming sovereignty, without concern for the safety, security or rights of the people living here.

Falklands: HMS Forth and MPA personnel honor HMS Glamorgan, the last vessel damaged in 1982

Published: 03/09/2022 in MercoPress

The imposing monument of Welsh granite erected to HMS Glamorgan at Hookers Point, outside Stanley . Sailors and military personnel in the Falkland Islands saluted the last Royal Navy ship damaged in the 1982 conflict, according to a Royal Navy report. A small group from HMS Forth – the patrol ship which serves as the Islands’ constant guardian – and Mount Pleasant gathered at Hookers Point outside Stanley and the imposing monument of Welsh granite erected to HMS Glamorgan.

Compassionate charter flight for the Falklands' Chilean community on March 19

Published: 03/09/2022 in MercoPress

 The return flight to Santiago will cost £550 and a return flight to Punta Arenas £350. One way flights are available and will cost half of that. Next March 19, a 'compassionate' charter flight with a capacity for 168 passengers, will be flying to Chile from the Falkland Islands, returning Saturday, April 9, 2022. The flight will only stop in both Punta Arenas and Santiago on the outbound and return journeys.

New sports facility for Falklands: an artificial all-weather pitch, and a multi-purpose sports hall

Published: 03/08/2022 in MercoPress

An agreement was signed on April 28th, 2021 between the FIG and the Islands’ National Sports Council for the development of a brand new sports facility for the Falklands. Photo: FIG The Falkland Islands Executive Council has given final approval to the National Sports Council (NSC) to proceed with the construction of a new national sports facility for the Islands. This follows the signing of a Development Agreement in April 2021, and subsequent work to develop a detailed Concept Design.

Falklands exploration company raising funds to appraise and develop a gas condensate discovery

Published: 03/05/2022 in MercoPress

Oil and gas exploration Borders & Southern Petroleum has a 100% interest in three Production Licenses in the South Falkland Basin Borders & Southern Petroleum PLC said on Friday that it intends to conduct fundraising of up to US$1.8 million to appraise and develop its Darwin gas and condensate discovery in the Falkland Islands.

Gibraltar will place a plaque to commemorate Falklands' war anniversary

Published: 03/04/2022 in MercoPress

In 1982 Gibraltar civilian dockyard workers converted the SS Uganda and HMS Hecla into a hospital and ambulance ship in 65 hours. The Gibraltar Heritage Trust and the Friends of Gibraltar Society (FOGHS) have filed a planning application to place a plaque to commemorate the 40th Anniversary of the Falkland’s War and Gibraltar’s contribution to the war effort.

Copy of 1983 Franks Report on events leading to Falklands War, becomes part of Islands' heritage

Published: 03/03/2022 in MercoPress

Lord Lee of Trafford hands the copy at the Falklands' Government Office in London to representative Richard Hyslop A copy of the 1983 Franks Report signed by Margaret Thatcher and Minister of Defense John Nott has been donated to the Falkland Islands Historic Dockyard Museum as part of the 40th anniversary of the Liberation of the Islands.

HMS Invincible battle Ensign will be displayed at Falklands' Museum

Published: 03/03/2022 in MercoPress

The flagship of the Task Force sent to recover and liberate the Falklands, HMS Invincible during her victorious return The battle Ensign from aircraft carriers HMS Invincible, which as the flagship of the Task Force sent to recover the Falklands Islands played a leading role in combating the Argentine occupation forces in the Islands, has made it to its new home, the Historic Dockyard Museum in Stanley.

Falklands: Argentina interested in a third phase of the Plan to identify fallen combatants in Malvinas

Published: 03/02/2022 in MercoPress

Alberto Fernandez addressing congress next to Cristina Kirchner, who presides over General Assembly debates and Sergio Massa president of the Lower House Argentina is interested in a third phase of the Humanitarian Project Plan which has successfully helped with the identification of Argentine combatants fallen in the Falklands/Malvinas during the 1982 South Atlantic conflict, triggered by the Argentine invasion of the Islands. Argentine president Alberto Fernandez made the announcement during his annual March first speech to Congress, officially opening the legislative year.

Argentina asks the resumption of flights to the Falklands with stopover in Rio Gallegos

Published: 03/01/2022 in MercoPress

The flights were halted for reasons beyond Argentina's control, the note said Argentina has requested the resumption of flights between the mainland and the Falkland Islands twice a month after the service carried out by Latam Airlines was halted amid COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Argentina asks for the resumption of flights to the Falklands with stopover in Rio Gallegos

Published: 03/01/2022 in MercoPress

The flights were halted for reasons beyond Argentina's control, the note said Argentina has requested the resumption of flights between the mainland and the Falkland Islands twice a month after the service carried out by LATAM Airlines was halted amid COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

Falklands Government confirms compassionate charter flight to Chile 19 March

Published: 03/01/2022 in MercoPress

The Governor went on to describe Chileans as a vital and irreplaceable part of the Falklands community. Photo: GH The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) can confirm that it intends to charter a flight to Chile from the Falkland Islands on Saturday 19 March 2022, returning Saturday 9 April 2022. The flight will only stop in both Punta Arenas and Santiago on the outbound and return journeys.

CFK decries double standards within UN Security Council regarding Ukraine and Falklands/Malvinas

Published: 02/28/2022 in MercoPress

Under her presidency, Argentina supported Ukraine against Russia’s annexation of Crimea Argentine Vice President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner (CFK) Sunday said Western powers had double standards when addressing the Ukraine crisis. The former head of state (2007-2015) recalled that in 2014 -under her presidency-, Argentina supported Kyiv against Russia’s annexation of the Crimean peninsula by force.

Cristina Fernández de Kirchner still complaining about Falklands' 2013 referendum

Published: 02/28/2022 in MercoPress

Cristina addressed her criticism to the US Security Council which she described as outdated, and its permanent members having a double standard Argentina's main leader and vice-president, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner recalled on Sunday in Twitter that her government strongly supported Ukraine back in 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea, but also complained about the double standard of the "great powers" in their stance regarding the Falkland/Malvinas Islands issue.

The Ukraine flag proudly flies alongside the Falklands flag

Published: 02/26/2022 in MercoPress

The flag of Ukraine will be lowered on Monday This Friday, members of the Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly raised the flag of Ukraine in Stanley. The people and the government of the Falkland Islands stand with the people of Ukraine at this time. The Ukraine flag proudly flies alongside the Falklands flag.

April deadline to get involved in key Falklands 40th events

Published: 02/24/2022 in MercoPress

Four decades after fighting came to an end, the National Memorial Arboretum will be the setting for a 'Liberation Day' event. Veterans of the Falklands War have until the end of April to register their interest for a 'liberation day' commemorative event, marking 40 years since the conflict.

Memorial events to mark Falklands 40th anniversary take shape

Published: 02/23/2022 in MercoPress

The service is being organized by the South Atlantic Medal Association 82 – the umbrella organization for Falklands veterans. Four decades to the day that the fighting in the South Atlantic conflict came to an end, the National Memorial Arboretum near Lichfield will be the setting for a Falkland Islands ‘Liberation Day’ commemorative event, organized by the Royal British Legion on June 14.

Private donation of Ł100,000 for expansion of Falklands Museum

Published: 02/23/2022 in MercoPress

FIMNT Director, Andrea Barlow said, “this significant donation will go a long way towards making LGEH a visitor attraction the Falklands can be proud of” The Staff and Trustees of the Falkland Islands Museum & National Trust announced on Tuesday that a donation of Ł100,000.00 has been made towards the Lookout Gallery & Exhibition Hall’s exhibitions and displays.

Spanish sailors in Falklands honor their fellow crew members from Villa de Pitanxo lost off Newfoundland

Published: 02/23/2022 in MercoPress

Villa de Pitanxo had a crew of 24, three survived, nine died and twelve remain disappeared Crew members from the Spanish fleet which operates with Falkland Islands licenses met on Monday in the capital Stanley for a poignant ceremony to honor their fellow mariners who went down with the fishing vessel Villa de Pitanxo, off Newfoundland.

Falklands' Chamber of Commerce organizes First Environmental Business Symposium

Published: 02/18/2022 in MercoPress

The Symposium is scheduled for 18 March with speakers from SAERI, Falklands Conservation, eLink, Georgia Seafoods and RSK Falkland Islands participating, The Falkland Islands Chamber of Commerce has announced the first Falkland Islands Environmental Business Symposium, will be held at 12:30 on the 18th of March. The Chamber is bringing together speakers from organizations across the Falklands to share knowledge and discuss what businesses can do to reduce or offset their environmental impacts.

Patagonia January inflation 3,6%, double the Falklands' annual retail prices index

Published: 02/17/2022 in MercoPress

In Patagonia, Communications ballooned 6,3%, restaurants and hotels 6,1%, Housing, rents and public rates 4,4%, Food and non alcoholic beverage, 3,7% and Transport 3,5%   Despite highly subsidized public rates, a long list of coerced consumer prices, relatively cheap fuel in the current global energy-short environment, the Consumer Price Index in Argentine Patagonia, mainly Tierra del Fuego, reached 3,6% in January, according to the latest report from the official stats office, Indec.

Last living Yagan language speaker dies aged 93; members of her ethnicity lived in the Falklands

Published: 02/17/2022 in MercoPress

The Yagan indigenous people lived in Tierra del Fuego and its surrounding islands. Descendents struggle to have their culture and traditions respected The last known living person who spoke Yagan, the language of the indigenous people who inhabited Tierra del Fuego, passed away this week in the Clinics Hospital from Punta Arenas, extreme south of Chile. She was 93, and had to be transported urgently from Puerto Williams to the Magallanes Region capital.

Falklands Government reiterates the need to respect human rights and democratic liberties of the Falklands' nation

Published: 02/15/2022 in MercoPress

MLA Teslyn Barkman said FIG has anticipated the increasing rhetoric about Falklands self determination, because 2022 is the 40th anniversary of the Liberation  On Tuesday the Falklands government in an official release reiterated the need for human rights and democratic liberties of the Falklands' nation to be respected, particularly self-determination.

Scientific survey of penguins response to climate change in Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica

Published: 02/12/2022 in MercoPress

The team stayed on board the purpose-built Antarctic expedition yacht, Falklands' based, Vinson of Antarctica, VOA, for 30 days An international team of scientists, including two from the University of Bath, has just arrived back from an expedition studying penguin colonies in the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctic Peninsula, reports Phys-org.

Latin American and Caribbean parliament call for Falklands' sovereignty talks with UK

Published: 02/12/2022 in MercoPress

“Argentina is interested that the region and the South Atlantic become a space of peace and cooperation, free of all forms of colonialism”, insisted Carmona. The Latin American and Caribbean Parliament, (Parlatino) met this week in Panama and called on the international community to support Argentina's request for a resumption of Falkland/Malvinas Islands sovereignty talks with the UK. The issue addressed was the "Malvinas Question, a Latin American cause".

“China must respect Falklands' sovereignty”, foreign secretary Truss message to Beijing

Published: 02/07/2022 in MercoPress

Argentine president Fernandez is currently in China where he met Xi Jinping Foreign Secretary Liz Truss defended the Falkland Islands as “part of the British family” after Beijing backed Argentina’s sovereignty claim over the South Atlantic islands.

Falklands: Update on Humanitarian Project Plan 2 to identify remains of Argentine combatants

Published: 02/05/2022 in MercoPress

The Argentine military cemetery close to Darwin where most of the humanitarian activities took place On Friday Falkland Islands lawmakers, MLAs John Birmingham and Roger Spink met, via video link, with Laurent Corbaz from the International Committee of the Red Cross Laurent Corbaz and members of his team to discuss the progress made in HPP2 (Humanitarian Project Plan 2) work. Laurent, together with colleagues from the ICRC, visited the Falkland Islands in August 2021, with the aim of identifying human remains buried in grave C.1.10 in the Argentine Cemetery near Darwin.

Falklands updates international connectivity, but community's health remains the priority

Published: 02/03/2022 in MercoPress

The international airport at Mount Pleasant Complex The Falkland Islands Government said on Wednesday it recognizes that many people are keen to receive an update on restoring our international connecting flights with mainland South America. Media across the world is starting to report on the relaxations of borders, removal of testing requirements, and returning to a relatively normal way of life in many countries.

Falklands publishes audited annual financial statements; underlines S&P Global A+ credit rating

Published: 02/02/2022 in MercoPress

MLA Roger Spink said FIG have been able to produce a positive end of year outturn and robust cash position The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) published its annual financial statements for the financial year ending 30 June 2021. The statements have been reviewed by external auditors, Mazars LLP, who provided an unqualified and independent opinion that the documents present a true and fair view, and are free from material misstatement.

Falklands' Sea Lion project, Rockhopper, Harbour and Navitas extend heads of terms to 31 March 2022

Published: 02/02/2022 in MercoPress

Rockhopper Exploration CEO Sam Moody Rockhopper Exploration, Harbour Energy, and Navitas Petroleum have extended the provisions of their previously signed heads of terms concerning the Sea Lion project offshore the North Falkland Basin. The new deadline is March 31, 2022: the aim is to sign definitive documentation on the transaction by this date. Harbour plans to exit operations offshore the Falklands, leaving the other two partners to take the development forward.

Falklands 2021 census preliminary figures: 2,887 people counted on Sunday night 10 October

Published: 02/02/2022 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) announced on Tuesday its preliminary population figures from the 2021 census. Work to error-check and validate the census data received is ongoing, however, provisional data on high-level results are now available.

Argentina decries increasing UK flights to Falklands with Brazil stopovers

Published: 02/01/2022 in MercoPress

On Jan. 21 a RAF Boeing C-17 Globemaster III aircraft landed at Porto Alegre to refuel and left the next day for the Falklands Argentina's Ambassador to Brazil Daniel Scioli has filed a note expressing his country's concern over British military aircraft stopping en route to the Falkland Islands.

A day of discussions on the Falklands' Wetlands future

Published: 01/31/2022 in MercoPress

Wednesday, February 2nd. is World Wetlands' Day Wednesday, February 2, World's Wetlands Day will be celebrated in the Falkland Islands with a day of conferences and discussions at the Falklands College, from 09:00 to 16:00.

Falklands Government appoints new Director of Health and Social Services

Published: 01/25/2022 in MercoPress

Bale was part of the Covid-19 response team deployed with 16 Medical Regiment to Hillside Camp, in March 2020 The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) has announced the appointment of Thomas (Tom) Bale as the new Director of Health and Social Services, taking up the position from 14 February 2022.

Let us celebrate Penguin Awareness Day with Falklands one of the world's great penguin capitals

Published: 01/21/2022 in MercoPress

As many as a million penguins nest in the Falklands every summer, representing five of the world’s eighteen species, King, Gentoo, Rockhopper, Magellanic and Macaroni Penguin Awareness Day is celebrated annually on the 20th of January and this year was on Thursday. The founder of Penguin Awareness Day is unknown, and there is no information on when this day was first celebrated.

Falklands Senior Veterinary Officer is an woman Islander, born and educated in the Islands

Published: 01/19/2022 in MercoPress

Zoe Fowler, who attended the Royal Veterinary Service takes the role on July first and replaces Steve Pointing who has been on the job for 14 years The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) confirmed that following a recruitment process at the end of 2021, Zoe Fowler was offered and has accepted the post of Senior Veterinary Officer for the Falkland Islands Government.

Falklands' Maritime Heritage Trust resumes search for Shackleton's Endurance

Published: 01/15/2022 in MercoPress

Stunning day and beautiful view of the Aghulas II (Pic Endurance22) Last week the Falklands Maritime Heritage Trust announced the resumption of the search for Ernest Shackleton’s Endurance which lies in deep water beneath the ice of the Weddell Sea. A hundred years after his death Shackleton is still big news and media outlets around the world were quick to pick up on the story.

Falklands' War 40th anniversary: HMS Sheffield veterans raising money for a memorial

Published: 01/15/2022 in MercoPress

HMS Sheffield burns fiercely in the aftermath of the missile strike. Veterans of the former Royal Navy destroyer HMS Sheffield are looking to raise Ł15,000 in just a couple of months – in time to install a memorial on the 40th anniversary of her loss during the Falklands war.

Former Spanish PMs support dialogue between Argentina, UK over Falklands

Published: 01/14/2022 in MercoPress

Ambassador Alfonsín held a reception in Madrid where Spanish politicians favored dialogue over Falklands Argentine President Alberto Fernández Friday thanked former Spanish Prime Ministers for their support to resuming dialogue with the United Kingdom over the Falklands / Malvinas issue.

Catholic mass in Spanish in the Falklands beginning 6 February

Published: 01/12/2022 in MercoPress

Father Ambrose grew up speaking Spanish in the US and wants to use his linguistic ability to reach a wider group of the local faithful. A Catholic mass will soon be offered in Spanish at St Mary’s church in Falkland Islands' capital, Stanley in a bid to make services more accessible. The Falklands community is richly diverse, including a strong representation of South American nationalities.

UK/Falklands 2021 trade in goods and services was down 9,7% compared to the previous year

Published: 01/06/2022 in MercoPress

Falkland Islands was the UK’s 139th largest trading partner in the four quarters to the end of Q2 2021 accounting for less than 0.1% of total UK trade. Total trade in goods and services (exports plus imports) between the UK and Falkland Islands was Ł112 million in the four quarters to the end of Q2 2021, a decrease of 9.7% or Ł12 million from the four quarters to the end of Q2 2020. Figures are from the UK ONS, Office for National Statistics.

Ushuaia Logistics Pole to compete with Falklands and Punta Arenas as Gate to Antarctica

Published: 12/30/2021 in MercoPress

Defense minister Jorge Taiana has created a Follow Up Unit of the Ushuaia Base project, which will demand an initial investment of some US$ 140 million Argentina's Antarctica Logistics Pole to be built in Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, at the current naval base will be totally financed, managed and autonomous, no strings with any of the leading powers in the ice continent and intended to compete with the Falkland Islands and the Chilean complex of Punta Arenas, as the gate to Antarctica.

Falklands' capital Stanley aims for Platinum Jubilee city status in 2022

Published: 12/24/2021 in MercoPress

MLA Ian Hansen said, “we have applied for city status because 2022 is going to be an incredibly special year for both Her Majesty and for our country” Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands, has been confirmed as one of 39 applicants being considered for city status as part of The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations next year. The competition for this prestigious civic honour has been expanded, for the first time, to include British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies.

Falklands waiting for Argentine response on the request for a compassionate charter flight to Chile

Published: 12/23/2021 in MercoPress

On December 15 the Argentina published on its website that it intended to sponsor two humanitarian flights to the Falklands in December and January The Falkland Islands Government Head of Communications has confirmed that “we are still waiting for a response from the Government of Argentina,” on the matter of the Falklands Islands request for a compassionate charter flight to Chile, “so no further information since the request was made eleven days ago.”

Boris Johnson message: Falklands are part of the Great British family

Published: 12/23/2021 in MercoPress

A staggering 97% of the Falklands’ adult population has been vaccinated, one of the highest rates anywhere in the world The traditional Christmas and New Year message from the UK's Prime Minister to the people of the Falkland Islands was published in the last 2021 edition of the Penguin News.

BAS 2021/22 Antarctic summer field season underway; Rothera/Falklands air link twice a week

Published: 12/21/2021 in MercoPress

The Dash 7 aircraft is flying from the Falkland Islands to Rothera twice a week, transporting scientists and support staff to the station Science and support teams from British Antarctic Survey (BAS) are gearing up for the start of the Antarctic summer field season. All five BAS research stations will be open and undertaking essential science research after a year’s break caused by Covid-19 last season. This will be another challenging season with ongoing Covid-19 protocols to maintain safety for our staff and collaborators.

Falklands flagged Sir David Attenborough reaches Rothera Station in Antarctica

Published: 12/18/2021 in MercoPress

RRS Sir David Attenborough arrival at Rothera Wharf in Antarctica. Credit: Will Clark Britain’s new polar research vessel, Falklands' flagged RRS Sir David Attenborough, has travelled to Antarctica on its maiden voyage, with its first call on Friday at Rothera Research Station – the UK’s largest Antarctic research station on the continent.

Falklands: successful start to minefield fence removal program

Published: 12/16/2021 in MercoPress

The fences with their danger warnings being removed from the once mined fields after almost four decades The Falkland Islands Government announced on Wednesday that the first phase of its three-year program of works to remove former minefield fences is progressing well and is ahead of schedule.

Falklands: Update on resumption of passenger flights

Published: 12/13/2021 in MercoPress

As part of the regular review process concerning Covid-19 measures affecting the Falkland Islands, the government is in regular dialogue with LATAM concerning the resumption of flights with South America, namely with Chile and Brazil.

Falklands' Government requests Argentina for compassionate charter flight to Chile

Published: 12/11/2021 in MercoPress

South American residents in the Falklands have been unable to visit their relatives or renew documents since before the pandemic The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) confirmed on Friday that in effect it has held conversations with the UK government about the possibility of putting on a charter flight for South American members of our community to visit family and friends during the festive season.

“All Human, All Equal”, Falklands Government advocates Human Rights Day

Published: 12/11/2021 in MercoPress

MLAs Pollard and Leona Roberts told C24 how the invasion of 1982 denied basic human rights of the Falklands' population during 74 days The Falkland Islands Government remembers Human Rights Day with the following statement, "Today, Friday 10 December, is the United Nations Human Rights Day, which was established in 1950 to draw the attention of ‘the peoples of the world’ to the inalienable rights of individuals as defined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).

Falklands' flagged RRS Sir David Attenborough reaches “home”; anchored at Port William

Published: 12/10/2021 in MercoPress

 RRS Sir David Attenborough approaches the Falkland Islands. (Pic FITV) RRS Sir David Attenborough has completed the first leg of its journey to Antarctica, arriving in the Falkland Islands on 9 December. Since the draft of Britain’s new polar ship is too large for it to berth in Stanley harbor, so the ship will anchor north of the Narrows at Port William. However, the ship is visible from vantage points around the coastline.

Fresh air for Falklands' oil industry: Navitas to become operator with Rockhopper, and Harbour exits

Published: 12/09/2021 in MercoPress

Israel based explorer and producer Navitas will end with 65% interest in the Sea Lion project, compared to the 30% originally agreed last year Encouraging news for the Falkland Islands budding hydrocarbons industry. Rockhopper Exploration officially announced on Wednesday that it had reached a new agreement with Navitas Petroleum by which its potential farm-in portion of the Sea Lion project increases significantly, while the current holder of the majority share, Harbour Energy exits the undertaking.

Argentina's Xmas present: Falklands offered two humanitarian flights for residents to visit relatives

Published: 12/09/2021 in MercoPress

According to Infobae the British government thanked Argentina, but said talk it over with the Falklands' government. Photo: MercoPress Britain allegedly thanked Argentina for its offer of two humanitarian flights so that Falkland Islands residents could visit relatives, mainly in Chile, or for other reasons during the holidays season, but the UK also recalled that air links with the Islands are the exclusive responsibility of the Falklands' elected government.

Falklands prepares to welcome state of the art RRS Sir David Attenborough on 9 December

Published: 12/03/2021 in MercoPress

RRS Sir David Attenborough is one of the most advanced polar vessels in the world and provides a modern and multidisciplinary research platform  /Pic BAS) The Falkland Islands Government has invited the public to welcome the RRS Sir David Attenborough as it makes its maiden voyage into the Falkland Islands on Thursday 9 December 2021.

Antarctica, Falklands and South Georgia will see a total and partial solar eclipse

Published: 12/02/2021 in MercoPress

During a total solar eclipse, the Sun, Moon, and Earth line up so that the Sun is blocked when viewed from within the Moon's shadow on Earth. On Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021, some people in the Southern Hemisphere, Falklands, South Georgia Islands, will have the chance to experience a total or partial eclipse of the Sun, according to US space agency NASA.

US, only country with more civilian weapons than citizens; in Falklands, 62 weapons per 100 people

Published: 11/30/2021 in MercoPress

Gallup survey conducted in October 2020, showed about 44% of US adults live in families with weapons, and about a third of the population owns them personally. The United States is the only country in the world where there are more civilian weapons than citizens. In effect, there are 120 weapons for every 100 US citizens and according to researchers from the Swiss organization Small Arms Survey even when the exact number of civilian firearms is difficult to quantify for several factors, including unregistered and illegal trade, researchers estimates that US citizens account for some 393 million, which is about 46% of all civilian weapons in the world.

Falklands/Malvinas: City of Ushuaia has its logo for the 40th anniversary of the war

Published: 11/30/2021 in MercoPress

The winning logo collected the support of 1,826 replies, the second that of 710 while the third, 72 votes in the website of Ushuaia town hall. The City of Ushuaia has a logo and crest that will represent all activities organized by the city during next year when the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of Malvina's war feat. The institutional image of the anniversary was circulated among some 67,000 residents and neighbours of the city, and finally, some 2,600 voted on the three images that were presented as options.

Falklands member of the Table Tennis Federation, despite Argentina's objection

Published: 11/27/2021 in MercoPress

Falklands received the support of 75% of country members at the ITTF Argentina lost to the Falkland Islands at the International Table Tennis Federation, ITTF, where overwhelming support had the Islands registered as an independent member. This despite the strong allegations from the Argentine Table Tennis Federation president Fernando Joffre, at the ITTF annual assembly.

Research done in Falklands shows albatrosses are “divorcing” because of climate change

Published: 11/25/2021 in MercoPress

For 15 years, researchers studied a population of 15,500 breeding couples in the Falklands, and in effect only 1 to 3% of couples would separate after picking a partner A recent Royal Society study shows climate change and rising oceans are pushing black-browed albatross breakup rates higher. Among the world's most devoted monogamous species, they are “divorcing” more frequently. For 15 years, researchers studied a wild population of 15,500 breeding couples in the Falkland Islands, and in effect, only 1 to 3% of couples would separate after picking a partner to pursue more romantic pastures.

UK MPs suggest asylum seekers crossing the English Channel be sent to Falklands

Published: 11/23/2021 in MercoPress

Allegedly the Home Office has been in talks with several Overseas Territories to send the migrants to them while they are assessed for asylum According to UK news reports, the British government is becoming quite desperate about the asylum seekers braving the English Channel, a record 25,000 so far this year, and all sorts of radical measures to contain the increase in arrivals are being considered, including sending the refugees south to the Falkland Islands.

"Significant plans" to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Falklands' campaign

Published: 11/19/2021 in MercoPress

Minister of State Leo Docherty "There are significant plans underway to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Falkland Islands' campaign" and will be soon announced, UK Minister for Defense People and Veterans, Leo Docherty MP said.

Construction boom: FIH wins contract to build 70 houses in the Falklands

Published: 11/19/2021 in MercoPress

The £17.3m contract involves the construction of 40 houses for FIG and a further 30 units for the MoD over a period of four years FIH group plc the AIM quoted international specialist services group with businesses in the Falkland Islands and the UK, has announced an important new contract secured by its Falkland Islands business “FIC”.

Falklands' delegation participates in first JMC presential meeting since 2018

Published: 11/18/2021 in MercoPress

The Falklands team at the JMC, FIGO London representative Richard Hyslop Richard Hyslop, Speaker of the House,  MLA Teslyn Barkman and Michael Betts Falklands had a most busy week in London with ministerial meetings, contacts, speeches, addressing an agenda full of issues in different fields most of them of interest for the Islands and shared with colleagues from the Association of Overseas Territories.

RRS Sir Attenborough off to Antarctica; Falklands' call in three weeks and a half

Published: 11/17/2021 in MercoPress

State of the art RRS Sir David Attenborough photographed during sea trials earlier this year. Britain’s new polar research ship, RRS Sir David Attenborough, departed the UK this week for its maiden voyage to Antarctica. She left Harwich on Tuesday, with 66 crew and personnel on board, for a short stop at Portsmouth to take on fuel before departing the UK by 18 November.

Chinese top scholar suggests resolving the Falklands dispute “by force”

Published: 11/16/2021 in MercoPress

Director Qi Hongjian from the European Research Institute at the Institute of International Studies in China In recent years Beijing has incorporated itself into the Falkland Islands sovereignty dispute debate between UK and Argentina siding with its South American increasingly political, financial and trade partner.

Falklands' Representative marks century of Remembrance with Speaker of Commons

Published: 11/09/2021 in MercoPress

Falklands Representative Richard Hyslop at the Constituency Garden of Remembrance The Falkland Islands Representative, Richard Hyslop, joined the Speaker of the UK House of Commons at the planting of the first-ever ‘Constituency Garden of Remembrance’ in London.

Falklands/Malvinas: Red Cross presents final report after six Argentine soldiers are identified

Published: 11/09/2021 in MercoPress

The Argentine military cemetery at Darwin where remains of 115 soldiers were identified The International Committee of the Red Cross presented on Monday, in Geneva, its final report on forensic work to identify the remains of Argentine soldiers in the Falkland/Malvinas Islands.

Royal Navy Type 21 Association will honor HMS Ardent and HMS Antelope at Falklands' Remembrance Sunday

Published: 11/08/2021 in MercoPress

A wreath will be laid at Stanley' Liberation Memorial on Remembrance Sunday to commemorate those that lost their lives on HMS ARDENT and HMS ANTELOPE The Royal Navy Type 21 Association will be represented both nationally and internationally on Remembrance Sunday with the laying of poppy wreaths bearing the Type 21 Association Crest in Remembrance of all those that lost their lives whilst serving on Type 21 ships, and all those that lost their lives in the service of their country in war and peace.

Environment top priority as Falklands elect new Legislative Assembly

Published: 11/05/2021 in MercoPress

MLA's candidates waiting for the result of the vote at the Town Hall Falkland Islands voters yesterday elected a new Legislative Assembly with a clear mandate to put the environment front and center of the coming legislature.

Ice Patrol HMS Protector sailing to Falklands and Antarctica; she called at St Helena and Rio

Published: 11/04/2021 in MercoPress

In Rio HMS Protector caught a glimpse of the Brazilian Navy flagship PHM Atlântico, formerly known as HMS Ocean during their quick fuel stop at anchor The Royal Navy's ice patrol ship HMS Protector on her trip to the Falkland Islands and Antarctica sailed past an old work colleague during a fuel stop in Rio de Janeiro earlier this week.

Falklands' annual service of Remembrance will take place Sunday 14 November

Published: 11/04/2021 in MercoPress

The service will be held at Christ Church Cathedral with a collection made for the Poppy Appeal Gilbert House in the Falkland Islands has announced the arrangements for Sunday, 14 November 2021, Remembrance Sunday. The Annual Service of Remembrance, this year commemorating the 103rd anniversary of the end of the First World War, will be held in Christ Church Cathedral commencing at 9.30 am.

“Tommy” soldier silhouettes to commemorate Remembrance and Falklands' war 40th anniversary

Published: 11/04/2021 in MercoPress

Next year there will be 255 silhouettes, representing the number of lives lost in the 1982 war and three more for the civilian ladies who were also killed.(Pic Standing with Giants) More than 100 'Tommy' soldier silhouette figures have been installed at Victory Green in the Falkland Islands' capital Port Stanley as part of the Remembrance Observance Day and the 40th anniversary of the South Atlantic conflict next year.

Closer to solving the mystery of the extinct Falklands' canid warrah

Published: 10/28/2021 in MercoPress

The enigmatic, now-extinct Falkland Islands wolf had human visitors on the remote archipelago up to 1,070 years ago The team headed by Kit Hamley also extended its research into the warrah (Dusicyon australis), an extinct species of fox. The warrah was the only native and terrestrial mammal to reside on the Falkland Islands at the time of European arrival. Subsequent hunting wiped the species out in 1856, making it the first extinct canid in the historic record, Hamley says.

Crystal Endeavour scheduled to visit Falklands 21 December and 16 January

Published: 10/27/2021 in MercoPress

Crystal Endeavor, the cruise vessel for the Antarctica expeditions Crystal Expedition Cruises will provide included round-trip chartered flights non stop between Miami and Ushuaia, Argentina, as well as hotel nights in both cities for Crystal Endeavor’s inaugural Antarctica program.

Falklands Election: Peter Biggs, “Our allegiance with the UK is vital; I hope Argentina will mature into a democracy”

Published: 10/22/2021 in MercoPress

Peter Biggs has announced his intention to stand for the Falklands General Election and is running for the circumscription of Stanley. Follows his manifesto:

Falklands Election: Mark Pollard and Stacy Bragger after reelection

Published: 10/21/2021 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands Election is scheduled for Thursday, November 4th. So far MP has published the manifestos of the four candidates for the three benches corresponding to the Camp Circumscription in the Legislative Assembly.

Falklands election: manifestos of candidates for Stanley's five benches

Published: 10/20/2021 in MercoPress

Tomorrow will be published the manifestos of the remaining five candidates The Falkland Islands General Election is scheduled for Thursday, 4 November, and in our previous edition, we published the manifestos of the four candidates for the three benches representing the Camp circumscription in the Legislative Assembly.

Falklands election: manifestos of the four Camp candidates

Published: 10/19/2021 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands are scheduled for next Thursday 4 November and four are the candidates for the three benches that represent the Camp constituency at the Legislative Assembly. Candidates are Ana Crowie running for the first time, John Birmingham who is a former lawmaker of the Legislative Council, before it became the Legislative Assembly, plus Ian Hansen and Teslyn Barkman, both running for reelection. Follows their manifestos:

Fragments of Argentine aircraft downed in Falklands donated to museum

Published: 10/11/2021 in MercoPress

Richardson highlighted Fioni's work as well as that of the brothers Robert and Nick Tozer, founder of the South Atlantic Council of London. British soldier David Richardson, who found the fragments of a downed Argentine Air Force Dagger downed by a British Harrier during the 1982 Falklands War, has donated the items to be exhibited at a museum in the province of Córdoba, Argentine ambassador to the United Kingdom, Javier Figueroa announced.

Falklands' decisive in supplying Covid-19 vaccines to BAS Antarctic base Rothera

Published: 10/08/2021 in MercoPress

A small Twin Otter plane which took off from the Falklands was used for the final leg into the British Antarctic Survey's (BAS) Rothera base The BBC has reported that nine months after it was rolled out, the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine has finally reached the Antarctic. It was flown in, via the Falkland Islands, this week to immunize the 23 staff members who've been keeping the British Antarctic Survey, BAS, Rothera research base running through the polar winter.

Falklands ends a great performance, as the Manchester curtain comes down

Published: 10/07/2021 in MercoPress

Secretary of Defense Ben Wallace standing next to MLA Bragger and FIGO representative Richard Hyslop, while Rex Rockhopper keeps watch The curtain came down in Manchester on Wednesday, putting an end to the 2021 main English political parties conferences, with the Falkland Islands delegates and stand performing an excellent campaign, ahead of the Climate Change summit to be held in Glasgow hosted by London, and the coming events of next year when the Falklands will be "Looking Forward at 40".

Falklands Chamber of Commerce wants to discuss "Business Priorities" with November election candidates

Published: 10/06/2021 in MercoPress

Chamber Chair Mike Summers said addressing the areas identified makes good economic sense, and we hope that this document will help candidates understand the business community needs The Falkland Islands Chamber of Commerce is pleased to publish its priorities for the upcoming general election, scheduled for November 4th, titled “Business Priorities – What our business community needs to succeed”.

Amateur radio call signs: VP8 for Falklands and VP0 for South Georgia, South Sandwich and BAT

Published: 10/05/2021 in MercoPress

It is proposed that the Falkland Islands Communications Regulator will administer these licenses on behalf of the governments of British Antarctic Territory and South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands Due to an administrative oversight in the new Falkland Islands Communications Ordinance implemented way back in 2017, new VP8 licenses for use in the former Falkland Islands Dependencies have not been available for some years now.

Falklands: Rockhopper targets lower costs for Sea Lion project and potential entry of Navitas Petroleum

Published: 10/05/2021 in MercoPress

Rockhopper Exploration presented on the last day of September its half-year interim report, which follows on the shock announcement from Harbour Energy that it will seek to exit the Sea Lion Project in the North Falkland Basin.

Busy start for Falklands' stand at Manchester Conservative conference

Published: 10/05/2021 in MercoPress

Members of the delegation at the Falklands' stand CPC 21 with MP Liz Truss, the newly appointed Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs Secretary  A delegation from the Falkland Islands is now installed in Manchester City attending the Conservative Party Conference21, which took off on Sunday 3 October and will extend until Wednesday 6 October.

Birmingham 2022 Queen's Baton Relay in the Falklands on June 7

Published: 10/04/2021 in MercoPress

The Relay will begin on 7 October 2021, once?Her Majesty Queen?Elizabeth II has placed her message?to the Commonwealth?into the?Baton. The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games to take place from 28 July to 8 August will be preceded by the 16th?official Queen’s Baton Relay. An epic journey across?the Commonwealth,?with the Queen’s Baton?visiting?all 72 nations and territories,?reaching Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, the Caribbean and in the Americas, among others the Falkland Islands on 7 June 2022.

Rockhopper hosting a retail investor meeting on Falklands' oil industry

Published: 09/30/2021 in MercoPress

A presentation will be given by CEO Sam Moody, CEO, and the management team will be present to meet shareholders and answer their questions Rockhopper Exploration plc (AIM: RKH), the oil and gas exploration and production company with key interests in the North Falkland Basin, confirms it will be hosting a retail investor meeting this Thursday, 30 September 2021.

Falklands makes second donation to Uruguayan charity, which assist vulnerable people

Published: 09/28/2021 in MercoPress

CEPRODIH is a non-profit association, founded in 1998, which assists vulnerable people in situations at risk of harm, particularly women and children. The Falkland Islands Government, as part of its continuing efforts to contribute to the worldwide Coronavirus relief response, it has made a further donation of Ł5,000 to Centro de Promoción por la Dignidad Humana (CEPRODIH), based in Uruguay.

Falklands extends tourism recovery incentive for a second season

Published: 09/28/2021 in MercoPress

Users rated their experience of the first TRIP scheme as being 9.5 out of 10, while the broader impact on the sector was 8 out of 10 (Pic D. Pettersson) Following the success of the initial Tourism Recovery Incentive Program – or ‘TRIP’ – which was designed to support tourism-related businesses and stimulate economic growth across the Islands during 2020/21, the Falklands Islands government announced that the scheme will run again this year.

Falklands governor dissolves the Legislative Assembly and tries a cueca on a crouch

Published: 09/27/2021 in MercoPress

Governor Phillips CBE signs the writ for elections next November Busy days for the Falkland Islands Governor Nigel Phillips CBE, despite his plastered left leg and crouch. Last Friday morning he signed the proclamation to dissolve the Legislative Assembly and the writ to instruct that election take place in six weeks, next November 4.

Falklands at Labour conference, climate change and “Looking forward at 40”, the main issues

Published: 09/27/2021 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands stand at the Labor Conference in Brighton with its staff The Falkland Islands have a stand at the Labour conference in Brighton which took off on Saturday and will extend until Wednesday 29 September. Official hosts of the stand are MLA Stacey Bragger and the Falklands Representative to the UK and Europe, Richard Hyslop...plus Rex the Rockie penguin.

Falklands' makes charitable donation to Falklands Veterans Foundation

Published: 09/24/2021 in MercoPress

“Falklands Veterans Foundation has been part of our lives for 19 years and it was a natural choice for our donation”, pointed out MLA Roger Spink The Falkland Islands Government confirmed on Thursday that, to thank Falklands Veterans Foundation for their support in accommodating residents from the KEMH during the pandemic, it has made a donation of Ł10,000 to the charity.

Oil company lifts all South Atlantic operations, future of project in Falklands now reshaped

Published: 09/24/2021 in MercoPress

“This represents a very difficult time for Rockhopper, but also a great opportunity,” said Rockhopper CEO Sam Moody. A hydrocarbon development project in the Falkland Islands faces new challenges following the announcement of one of the companies involved that it shall be lifting all South Atlantic operations.

Falklands government defines Illex fishing and transhipment licences in 2022

Published: 09/23/2021 in MercoPress

Jiggers in Port Stanley waiting for their Illex squid licenses At the final Executive Council meeting of the Legislative Assembly, elected members considered and approved recommendations concerning Illex fishing and transhipment licenses for 2022.

British Ambassador at Montevideo's Expo Prado: Falklands stand in the show is aligned with UK theme, climate change

Published: 09/17/2021 in MercoPress

President of ARU German Valdes and the Livestock, Agriculture minister Fernando Mattos, Ambassador O'Connor inaugurated a pavilion somewhat different from previous years. Pic:Sebastian Astorga For the eighth year, the United Kingdom participated in Montevideo's Expo Prado Show, annual international livestock and agricultural industry exhibition where the largest productive sector of the Uruguayan economy shows its muscle to the thousands of visitors and private and public exhibitors who turn up for each edition. This year is the second time that Ambassador Faye O'Connor has appeared at the opening of her country's pavilion, which will also house, once again, a Falkland Islands themed stand promoting industry and tourism.

New Falklands port gets green light to proceed as part of ambitious infrastructure investment program

Published: 09/15/2021 in MercoPress

The projected new port that will replace FIPASS, moves to Stage One B, Detailed Design, to take place over the next 13 months. Last Friday 10 September 2021, the Falkland Islands port project received ExCo (Executive Council) approval to proceed to Stage One B, Detailed Design, which will take place over the next 13 months. Stage One A began in July 2020 and involved an extensive series of stakeholder workshops, surveys, demand studies and environmental assessments in order to produce the initial Concept Design for the new facility.

British Pavilion in Expo Prado focuses on climate change; Falklands stand promotes trade and tourism

Published: 09/08/2021 in MercoPress

The British Pavilion will seek to convey the message that every action, no matter how small, counts when it comes to caring for the planet and protecting it for future generations The British Embassy will be present at the Uruguayan Expo Prado 2021 for the eighth consecutive year with a pavilion focused on promoting different initiatives to help combat climate change. In November this year, the UK will host the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP26, in Glasgow, Scotland.

Falklands stand at Montevideo Show: as a matter of courtesy UK ambassador informed her Argentine peer

Published: 09/04/2021 in MercoPress

Argentina has complained in past shows about the presence of a Falkland Islands stand in the show despite the fact it is normally in the British Pavilion. As a “matter of courtesy” on Friday UK ambassador in Uruguay Faye O'Connor informed her Argentine peer, Alberto Iribarne that in the coming agribusiness show in Prado 2021 the Falkland Islands will have a stand.

Argentina and Uruguay ladies love and celebrate the Falklands

Published: 08/27/2021 in MercoPress

 Lawmaker Silvina Perez Bonavita with British Ambassador to Uruguay Faye O’Connor during the Commemoration of the Independence of Uruguay last Wednesday (Pic Twitter)<br />
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Ladies support for the Falkland Islands in the River Plate is expanding. As happened just a few weeks ago in Buenos Aires when two historians, one of them with an international reputation, acknowledged the Falklands belong to the Falkland Islanders and doubt Argentina's claim, in Uruguay a member from a ruling coalition junior party last 14 August twitted the hashtag “HappyFalklandsDay”.

Project with Falklands' SAERI to safeguard South Georgia’s Blue Belt

Published: 08/26/2021 in MercoPress

It is estimated that current shipping traffic transports 10,000 different species between bio-geographic regions in ballast water alone Following a horizon scanning exercise that identified marine invasive species as a key threat, the Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands (GSGSSI) is embarking on a marine bio-security project with the Falkland Islands based South Atlantic Environmental Research Institute (SAERI).

Falklands Police finds no evidence of human remains at Teal Inlet; Red Cross satisfied with excavation results

Published: 08/23/2021 in MercoPress

 Chief of Police for the Falkland Islands, Chief Superintendent Jeff McMahon thanked the ICRC for their support and expertise The Royal Falkland Islands Police (RFIP) has continued to investigate reports of a burial site at Teal Inlet, alleged to contain the remains of unidentified Argentine soldiers.

Patagonia Top Gear cars with Falklands' war plate number reference, crushed by Argentina

Published: 08/23/2021 in MercoPress

Jeremy Clarkson's Top Gear Porsche 928 with the H982 FKL plate number Have you ever wondered what happened to Jeremy Clarkson and his Top Gear crew cars involved in the Argentine Patagonia incursion, which triggered a major diplomatic controversy since the number plate of the Porsche 928 read H982 FKL and was interpreted in Argentina as referring to the 1982 Falklands conflict?

Argentine congress fearful Falklands' new port could overshadow Ushuaia

Published: 08/19/2021 in MercoPress

 The request was supported by fourteen Senators. The Argentine congress is restless and is concerned since the Falkland Islands started to build its new deep water port, fearing, besides the usual cacophony of claims, that the Islands could replace Ushuaia as the main access to Antarctica.

Spanish trawlers believe Falklands is heading for a record catch of Loligo

Published: 08/19/2021 in MercoPress

In 2019 Loligo landings reached 80,334 tons but the record is 1995, with 98,409 tons The fleet of trawlers from Vigo. Spain operating in the Falkland Islands waters are most enthusiastic about the current second squid season and believe Loligo landings already totaling 72,200 tons according to records from Falklands' Natural Resources Department could anticipate, if catch rates continue, a record similar to that of the best year back in 1995, with 98,409 tons.

Falklands receive batch of Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccines; fishing vessels crews immunized

Published: 08/19/2021 in MercoPress

 On 15 August, 354 vaccines from the new batch were administered to Indonesian and Peruvian crew. A further 180 fishermen will be vaccinated this weekend (Pic Fortuna Ltd)<br />
The Falkland Islands Government has received a batch of Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccines, supplied by the UK government. These 960 doses arrived on 12 August and are being rolled out as part of the ongoing vaccination programme which began in February.

Falklands TRIP scheme survey: help make this tourist season even better

Published: 08/18/2021 in MercoPress

Although feedback on the first scheme was very positive, ”we believe that we can always do better: the survey will run from Tuesday 17 August to Sunday 5 September” Following the success of the Tourism Recovery Incentive Program – or TRIP scheme – which ran from October 2020 until May 2021, the Falkland Islands Government will be running a survey to understand what aspects of the scheme went well and where improvements can be made.

Falklands: Unexploded landmine disposed of at Yorke Bay, close to Stanley

Published: 08/18/2021 in MercoPress

The device was detonated in the evening, rather than waiting for the morning, due to the potential for it to be washed away by the next tide The Falkland Islands government has confirmed that overnight on Monday 16 August, the Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team from the Joint Operations Command Centre at Mount Pleasant Complex was contacted by the Royal Falkland Islands Police (RFIP) regarding possible unexploded ordnance at Yorke Bay.

Falklands Islands (Malvinas): Forensic identification of fallen Argentine soldiers begins

Published: 08/16/2021 in MercoPress

AN overview of the Argentine military cemetery in Darwin with all its crosses and most graves now identified after HPP1, but where there is another tomb yet to identified The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has begun a second phase of forensic work to identify Argentine soldiers buried on the Falklands Islands (Malvinas).

Falklands: excellent set of GCSE results for FICS students

Published: 08/12/2021 in MercoPress

“The Education Directorate is delighted to see so many students achieve highly and move onto the next rung of their education ladder, ” Marie Horton, Director of Education The Falkland Islands Community School is thrilled with this year’s GCSE results. Against a complex background following the cancellation of UK GCSEs and the continuation of ‘live’ international GCSE exams, students and staff have again displayed resilience and determination to secure strong GCSE outcomes.

Falklands Chamber of Commerce meets with future UK ambassador to Argentina

Published: 08/11/2021 in MercoPress

Roundtable discussion with Kirsty Hayes, members of the business community, Mike Summers president of the Chamber of Commerce and governor Nigel Phillips. On Monday 2nd August, the Falkland Islands Chamber of Commerce hosted a working lunch to allow members of the business community to meet with Kirsty Hayes, the British Ambassador (Designate) to Argentina.

Team of forensic experts arrives in Falklands for second phase of Humanitarian Project

Published: 08/09/2021 in MercoPress

During the first phase of the HPP at the Argentine military cemetery in Darwin 115 Argentine soldiers were given names thanks to check crossing DNA samples (Pic ICRC) An international team of six forensic experts, including two Argentines, and coordinated by the International Committee of the Red Cross is scheduled to arrive this Monday to the Falkland Islands for the second phase of the Humanitarian Project Plan to identify remains of Argentine combatants fallen during the 1982 conflict.

Beatriz Sarlo: Falklands belong to the Islanders, despite useless nationalism myths

Published: 08/09/2021 in MercoPress

“General Leopoldo Galtieri planned to save a dictatorship that was already collapsing, saving it the way chosen by dictatorships: lightening the patriotic bonfire” "Nationalism is a useless myth, certainly not the way to address current and real problems", underlined the historian and political analyst Beatriz Sarlo who last week triggered a storm in Argentina by reiterating that the Falkland Islands are a British territory, belong to the Kelpers and remind her of southern Scotland.

Falklands reviews Infectious Diseases Regulations and Directions, effective Sunday 8 August

Published: 08/07/2021 in MercoPress

New sanitary regulations apply to all those arriving to the Falkland Islands, be it by air, via MPC or by sea to FIPASS (Pic FIG) The existing requirements of the Infectious Diseases Control (Coronavirus, Quarantine) Regulations 2021, together with the Directions in force under these regulations, were recently reviewed ahead of their expiration on 8 August 2021.

Argentine literary critic says Falklands are British, sparks rejection and controversy

Published: 08/05/2021 in MercoPress

Sarlo could not care less about the reactions her words could ignite Statements by Argentine literary and cultural critic Beatriz Sarlo who Tuesday said that the Falkland Islands were “British territory” sparked nationwide controversies about which she defiantly warned she “cared very little.”

Falklands signs HPP2 Memorandum of Understanding ahead of August visit by ICRC

Published: 07/29/2021 in MercoPress

The Argentine military cemetery, close to Darwin, where a team of ICRC experts will be working since the month of August (Pic ICRC). This Thursday the Falkland Islands Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between FIG, the UK Government, and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Falklands agrees further economic support measures for community and businesses

Published: 07/28/2021 in MercoPress

MLA Pollard: “We have said from the start that we would support both our people and our economy throughout the pandemic, and this is a commitment that we continue to uphold”. On Wednesday, ExCo agreed a further set of economic support measures for the community and local businesses, in light of the ongoing pandemic.

Falklands' fishery exports to EU: small window opens but much negotiations still ahead

Published: 07/23/2021 in MercoPress

CEO James Wallace: ”We estimate that only around 20% is sold to EU processors for processing in the EU James Wallace, CEO Fortuna Ltd., made the following comments regarding the European Union Council Regulation referred to Falkland Islands fishery exports to the EU. We welcome the publication today of Council Regulation (EU) 2021/1203 as regards autonomous union tariffs for certain fishery products (ATQ).

Falklands' fishery exports to EU: small window opens but much negotiations still ahead

Published: 07/22/2021 in MercoPress

CEO James Wallace: ”We estimate that only around 20% is sold to EU processors for processing in the EU James Wallace, CEO Fortuna Ltd., made the following comments regarding the European Union Council Regulation referred to Falkland Islands fishery exports to the EU. We welcome the publication today of Council Regulation (EU) 2021/1203 as regards autonomous union tariffs for certain fishery products (ATQ).

As in the Falklands, Colombian children in rural areas taught to identify mines and unexploded ordnance

Published: 07/22/2021 in MercoPress

Falkland Islanders celebrated the termination of the last mines with a great party and “invasion” of areas for decades out of bounds As happened during decades in the Falkland Islands, children in rural Colombia are being taught how to identify landmines and ordnance planted near their villages by the several guerrilla groups that ravaged the country during the half-century-long insurrection.

Trawler operating in Falklands' waters is in Montevideo with positive COVID-19 cases

Published: 07/22/2021 in MercoPress

The Spanish trawler “Playa de Galicia”   An Indonesian crewmember from the Spanish flagged trawler “Playa de Galicia”, operating in the South Atlantic, died of Covid-19 and the vessel is currently in the port of Montevideo under quarantine conditions, with several other seamen hospitalized, according to the latest news from Uruguay and Spain, which have been difficult to confirm.

Falklands/Malvinas architecture and urban planning exhibition in Ushuaia

Published: 07/21/2021 in MercoPress

Mario Daniele was the main speaker at the event in Ushuaia The Town Hall of Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego province, extreme south of Argentina, together with the local branch of Malvinas war Veterans opened this week an exhibition under the title of “Architecture and Planning in Malvinas, 1764/1833” dedicated to the people that lived in the Falklands/Malvinas Islands during that period of time.

Argentina committed to a WTO agreement on fishing subsidies – but don't forget the Falklands

Published: 07/19/2021 in MercoPress

Minister Felipe Solá: “because of the nature of negotiations, it is necessary that the future text contemplates aspects of extreme sensitivity for its members” Argentina participated in the recent Trade negotiations of the World Trade Organization at the ministerial level, which addressed the issue of rules for global fisheries and limits to government subsidies to fishing, committing its support for an agreement, but not forgetting the Falkland Islands claim.

Search for possible interment of Argentine combatant at Falklands' Teal Inlet agreed by UK and Argentina

Published: 07/16/2021 in MercoPress

The Argentine military cemetery  close Darwin settlement. Argentina and the UK together with the International Committee of the Red Cross subscribed on Thursday in Geneva the international instruments to advance in the search and identification of a possible interment at the Teal Inlet, in the Falkland Islands, that could hold remains of non identified Argentine combatants.

Falklands puts in practice quarantine options and warns about symptoms of Delta variant

Published: 07/16/2021 in MercoPress

Convalescent cases will be eligible for early release after 5 or 8 days, depending on their vaccination status Falkland Islands' Executive Council, ExCo, approved on Thursday a further change to quarantine measures for people travelling to the Falkland Islands by air with the introduction of a new 5-day‘ test to release’ option. This initiative was identified during the latest six-week review of quarantine arrangements, in line with the requirements of the Infectious Diseases Control Regulations 2020, as well as in light of the Covid-19 vaccination status of the community.

Three companies (two UK and one Israel) involved in Falklands' oil industry, added to Argentina's sanctions list

Published: 07/08/2021 in MercoPress

The announcement was made by Daniel Filmus Secretary of Malvinas and Antarctica and Energy Secretary Darío Martinez Argentina announced it has launched a sanctions process against several foreign oil companies, the UK based Chrysaor Holdings Ltd, Harbor Energy Plc, and Israel's Navitas Petroleum for involvement in hydrocarbons activities, with illegitimate Falkland Islands licenses, in the Argentine continental shelf, more precisely at the Sea Lion project in North Malvinas basin

Falklands' government awards contract for improvement of Stanley airport terminal

Published: 07/08/2021 in MercoPress

Works will include the demolition of the current air terminal entrance/exit doors and the construction of a modern entrance with automatic, push-button doors (Pic R. Goodwin) The Falkland Islands Government has informed that after a competitive tender, the contract for the construction of a new terminal entrance at Stanley Airport has been awarded to Falkland Building Services (FBS), a subsidiary of the Falkland Islands Company (FIC). Materials for the work should arrive in Stanley in early September 2021 and construction will then begin.

Search at Falklands' Teal Inlet for more possible Argentine soldiers interments

Published: 07/07/2021 in MercoPress

McMahon said that investigations are at an early stage, but credible evidence has been presented which suggests up to 20 bodies were buried near the Teal Inlet bay Falkland Islands' Chief Police Officer Superintendent Jeff McMahon is heading an inquiry to find the remains of Argentine soldiers who are still unaccounted for and maybe in unmarked interments in the north of East Falkland at a place called Teal Inlet.

Falklands English with a Uruguayan flavor, “Chay”

Published: 06/28/2021 in MercoPress

 The Falklands gaucho legacy includes over two hundred Spanish place names (for example, Chancho Point, Cerro Monte, Laguna Isla, Arroyo Malo) By Yliana Rodríguez (*) – An English variety with an Uruguayan flavour Falkland Islands English has called my attention for more than a decade since my dear friend George Stewart once told me about the Spanish words used down there. I flew home to tell my Dad, who to my surprise remained unruffled at the news and went on to tell me about Uruguayan gauchos in the Falklands.

Drones to census Falklands Albatrosses and Rockhopper penguins

Published: 06/28/2021 in MercoPress

The Falklands are home to the world’s largest colonies of Black browed Albatrosses and second-largest colonies of Southern Rockhopper Penguins The implementation of drones to monitor large seabird colonies can be as effective as traditional on-the-ground methods while reducing costs, labour, and the risk of human error, a new study has found.

Lord Mayor of Plymouth presented with Falklands' flag during commemorations

Published: 06/25/2021 in MercoPress

The flag is in recognition to all the sailors, Royal Marines and soldiers who sailed from Plymouth 39 years ago to liberate the Falkland Islands Double commemoration in Plymouth's HMS Raleigh at a ceremony recalling the Falkland Islands' Liberation Day. For one, the Islands' flag is flying throughout British Armed Forces Week, recognition of the sailors, Royal Marines and soldiers who sailed from the city 39 years ago to liberate the South Atlantic archipelago.

Game over: C14 resolution ignores Falklands' pleas and again calls for a bilateral dialogue Argentina/UK

Published: 06/25/2021 in MercoPress

 Solá denied the right to self determination of Islanders and complained strongly about the British military presence in the Falklands The United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization, C24, addressed on Thursday the annual Falklands/Malvinas sovereignty question, which once again concluded with an appeal to the governments of Argentina and Britain to resume dialogue with the purpose of finding, in the shortest time possible, a peaceful solution to the controversy.

Argentina intends to “colonise” the Falklands and use C24 to do it, MLA Mark Pollard at the UN

Published: 06/24/2021 in MercoPress

MLA Mark Pollard, current Clerk of the Elected Legislative Assembly of the Falkland Islands Falkland Islands’ Chair of the Legislative Assembly, MLA Mark Pollard and Deputy Chair MLA Leona Roberts both stood before members of the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization (C-24) and each delivered a speech which spoke of their personal histories as well as the future of the Falkland Islands as a whole.

Falklands/Malvinas: Solá meets with UN chief Guterres ahead of the C24 conference

Published: 06/23/2021 in MercoPress

 The Argentine minister reiterated the request for Guterres “good offices mission” to convince UK to sit and discuss with Argentina Falkland Islands sovereignty Argentine foreign minister Felipe Solá requested United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to intercede before UK so that the British “consent to resume discussions” over the Falklands/Malvinas Islands.

Scholarships for Falklands' alumni to continue their graduate and postgraduate studies in Argentina

Published: 06/21/2021 in MercoPress

Falklands students normally continue their tertiary studies in UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US Argentina has launched a program of scholarships for Falkland Islands' students, who “have the full right to access the Argentine national education system”, announced Daniel Filmus, head of the Malvinas and Antarctica Department, and Jaime Perczyk chairman of the Ministry of Education University Policies.

Brussels drops tariffs for 75,000 tonnes of Falklands squid

Published: 06/19/2021 in MercoPress

Falklands fishing vessels at Vigo Port (Pic O. Vasquez) The European Commission has reached an agreement to allow 75,000 tonnes of Falklands loligo to be imported tariff-free into the European Union, according to reports in Galician daily Faro de Vigo.

Mines-free Falklands will remove fences of fields that remained out of bounds for almost forty years

Published: 06/19/2021 in MercoPress

The fenced areas had warnings of MINES signs in red, and the skull and crossed bones (Pic Guy Marot) The Falkland Islands Executive Council (ExCo) approved a proposal to remove the fences which secured former minefield sites around the Islands over a three-year period of 2021 to 2024.

Falklands' fisheries legislation reform, a view from Galicia

Published: 06/16/2021 in MercoPress

Enrique Cesar López Veiga titled his article “Storm in the Malvinas?” and recalls he was in charge of negotiating the  first fishing licenses with the Falklands A former Galician Fisheries Councilor has published a piece in a newspaper closely linked to the industry in the northwest of Spain, El Faro de Vigo, questioning the long term viability of new Falkland Islands' legislation, particularly the concept of Qualifying Companies and the fact that they must be at least 51% property of Falkland Islanders.

Falklands dispute: Solá heads the Argentine mission to the C24 conference

Published: 06/15/2021 in MercoPress

Argentine foreign minister Felipe Solá will be travelling to New York on June 24 for the C24 conference  June is a hectic month for the dispute between Argentina and UK regarding the British Overseas Territory Falkland Islands, with a string of remembrance dates referred to the ongoing disagreement.

Falklands pay tribute to 1982 fallen on Liberation Day

Published: 06/14/2021 in MercoPress

14th June 2021, the people of the Falkland Islands and British Forces South Atlantic Islands, celebrated in Stanley the 39th anniversary of Liberation Day Falkland Islanders are today paying tribute British Armed Forces killed during the 1982 conflict and commemorating the 39th anniversary of liberation from Argentine occupation.

Lack of regional cooperation on fisheries could have ‘disastrous outcomes’ on Falklands finfish fishery

Published: 06/13/2021 in MercoPress

 Dr Andrea Clausen is the Director of the Falklands' National Resources Department. She has a PhD in Marine Biology from Bangor University  An independent study of the Falkland Islands finfish fishery has found that lack of international cooperation over fish stocks straddling international boundaries to be one of ‘the most constraining factors to sustainable ecological and economic management of the [Falklands’] finfish fishery,’ adding that ‘it is also likely to have disastrous outcomes; a prediction supported by the current status of many, although not all, of the finfish stocks.’

Falklands Governor: a "superb season" for Fisheries based on catch volumes

Published: 06/09/2021 in MercoPress

Governor Nigel Phillips, CBE in the ceremonial suit addressing the Falklands' elected Legislative Assembly On June first Falklands governor Nigel Phillips CBE, delivered the annual address to the Islands Legislative Assembly on the budget for the new financial year. The following is the chapter on Fisheries and the "superb season", based on the catch numbers.

Small expedition ships to be allowed into the Falklands in southern summer

Published: 06/07/2021 in MercoPress

‘Clean’ expedition ships carrying fewer than 530 passengers will be allowed to visit the Falkland Islands this Southern summer under a new visitor policy approved by the Falkland Islands Government this week.

Falklands' program for the anniversary of Liberation Day 14 June 2021

Published: 06/07/2021 in MercoPress

At 11.00am a ceremony will be held at the Liberation Monument in front of the Secretariat building To mark the anniversary of the Liberation of the Falkland Islands from Argentinean occupation in 1982, the following program has been arranged for Monday 14 June 2021, according to a release from Gilbert House.

Small expedition ships to be allowed into the Falklands in southern summer

Published: 06/05/2021 in MercoPress

‘Clean’ expedition ships carrying fewer than 530 passengers will be allowed to visit the Falkland Islands this Southern summer under a new visitor policy approved by the Falkland Islands Government this week.

Falklands publishes ‘prudent budget’ for 2021/22

Published: 06/01/2021 in MercoPress

Roger Spink MLA said: We have like the rest of the world, experienced a significant financial impact as a result of the pandemic, nevertheless we are still delivering a surplus in the current year. The Falkland Islands Government yesterday published its budget for the upcoming financial year, describing it as a prudent budget that focuses on stability and continuity. The budget forecasts operating expenditure of Ł78.3m and revenues of Ł92.2m, as well as a capital programme totalling Ł53.5m for the upcoming financial year.

Royal Navy's Type 31 frigates have names; HMS Active recalls her predecessor and Falklands liberation

Published: 05/27/2021 in MercoPress

HMS Active served the Royal Navy until the mid-1990s. She took part in the operation to liberate the Falklands, supporting the final battles for Port Stanley The names of five next-generation Type-31 frigates for the Royal Navy have been announced. Approved by HM The Queen, the vessels will be named HMS Active, HMS Bulldog, HMS Campbeltown, HMS Formidable and HMS Venturer.

Falklands, 40th anniversary of liberation to be a year of commemoration and celebration

Published: 05/21/2021 in MercoPress

Falkland Islanders are hoping to mark the 40th Liberation anniversary with a year of events that both commemorate the liberation of the islands and look to their future, the Chair of the 40th-anniversary committee told Mercopress this week.

Falklands waters: A haven for Sei whales

Published: 05/17/2021 in MercoPress

Sei whales, which typically inhabit offshore, deep-water areas, are still classified as endangered on the International Union for Conservation’s Red List of Threatened species The coastal waters of the Falkland Islands have been confirmed as a Key Biodiversity Area for Sei whales, the first of its kind in the world. The announcement comes after five years of surveys carried out in Falklands waters by Falklands Conservation.

Falklands plans to borrow US$ 85 million for the port, and manages a credit rating of A+ from S&P Global

Published: 05/10/2021 in MercoPress

Its new A+ rating puts the Falklands, which has a population of just 2,563 according to the government's website, in line with China and Japan.(Pic PLC Architects) Reuters has reported that the Falkland Islands got its first sovereign credit rating, an investment-grade A+ score from S&P Global on Monday, as the tiny British-run territory looks to dip into borrowing markets to pay for improvements to its main port.

Vigo anticipates a 50,000 tons Falklands' Loligo catch but it will have to pay tariff to access the EU

Published: 05/10/2021 in MercoPress

Javier Touza underlined the exceptional catch and the raft of conservation measures to ensure the Loligo fishery  (Pic La Voz de Galicia) The Falkland Islands' fishing industry partners/associates in Vigo are faced with good and bad news. The good news is that the Loligo catch is expected to reach 50,000 tons, while the bad news is that the exceptional squid harvest expected to begin arriving next week in Vigo will be, for the first time facing a 6% tariff when landed in Spain, according to the Galicia media.

Falklands closes first Loligo season earlier; successful catch anticipated

Published: 05/10/2021 in MercoPress

Dr Clausen explained Loligo are protected by not allowing fishing in the spawning grounds at any time – spatial management The Falkland Islands Loligo (Falkland Calamari) fishery, which holds two seasons a year, closed its first season of 2021 early – the northern part of the box on April 14 and the south on April 28, three days before the planned last day of May 1.

Falklands economy boasts healthy trade surplus but income inequality increases

Published: 05/06/2021 in MercoPress

The report warns that ‘for an economy to rely on few export commodities also means being vulnerable to world market prices.’ The value of goods exported from the Falkland Islands recorded a compound annual growth rate of 8.1% between 2010 and 2019, according to the Falkland Islands Government’s State of the Economy report.

Falklands to record ‘modest’ population growth over the next 15 years

Published: 05/05/2021 in MercoPress

‘Essentially I want to see Falkland Islanders encouraged to remain in the Islands and Falkland Islanders overseas to want to return” said MLA Pollard The population of the Falkland Islands is set to grow by an average of 2% a year over the next fifteen years, according to a State of the Economy report published by the Falkland Islands Government.

Argos granted extension to Falklands production licence

Published: 04/29/2021 in MercoPress

”Argos applied for this extension in respect of PL001, and a 12 month extension was recently granted,” said Stephen Luxton, Director of Mineral Resources  FIG Argos Resources has successfully secured a 12-month extension to the second term of its Production Licence in the North Falkland Basin, the company announced this week. The extension, which runs until 1 May 2022, was approved by the Falkland Islands Government’s Executive Council on March 24.

Jigging fleet finds large squid off Falklands – season not over yet

Published: 04/28/2021 in MercoPress

The squid “was surely there to be caught since January,” said Redini. As the catching season seemed over for Puerto Deseado's fleet, the new finding brought relief to the squid sector and work now may continue for a while.

Royal Navy takes bomb disposal experts to South Georgia to remove Falklands War munitions

Published: 04/23/2021 in MercoPress

Leftover ordnance from the 1982 conflict is safely detonated above Grytviken (Photo: Royal Navy). The Royal Navy's HMS Forth has taken bomb disposal specialists to South Georgia as part of a mission to protect the island's wildlife. The ten-day environmental mission set out to remove bombs and ordnance left behind during the Falkland Islands conflict involving the Argentine armed forces in 1982.

Falklands, A 21-gun salute and parade to commemorate HRH The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

Published: 04/10/2021 in MercoPress

Today, the death of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was marked by a 21-gun salute on Victory Green in Stanley at midday. This went alongside a short parade, consisting of a marching detachment provided by the Falkland Islands Defence Force, with His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Nigel Phillips CBE, taking the salute.

Falklands: Half-mast flags during period of national mourning for the Duke of Edinburgh

Published: 04/10/2021 in MercoPress

The FIG will fly flags at half-mast outside of its buildings, until after the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral. The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) will observe a period of mourning in respect to the passing of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, FIG announced on Friday.

Argentina strongly opposes UK's firing of missiles in the Falklands

Published: 04/10/2021 in MercoPress

The British government warned Rapier missiles would be launched during military drills as evey year (BFSAI) Argentina Friday expressed its government's utmost rejection of the announcement by British authorities that missiles were to be launched at the Falkland Islands. The Foreign Ministry warned that the “alleged defensive condition of the British military base in the South Atlantic is not only totally unjustified, but also represents a threat to the entire region.”

Falklands warn of difficulties in medical evacuation to Chile and Uruguay

Published: 04/02/2021 in MercoPress

A source from the British Hospital of Montevideo confirmed MercoPress that the Medical Director will have to decide on a case by case basis to admit a critical care patient The Falkland Islands Government has urged people in the islands to “take extra care” in undertaking high-risk activities due to the Covid-19 situation in Chile and Uruguay making it “extremely difficult” to arrange the medical evacuation from the Falklands.

Lufthansa to repeat historic trip to Falklands

Published: 03/29/2021 in MercoPress

The flight’s crew duty period lasted a mammoth 20 days. Photo: Lufthansa Lufthansa will on Tuesday repeat its longest-ever non-stop flight as it flies an A350 from Hamburg to Mount Pleasant Airport in the Falkland Islands, according to aviation industry website Simple Flying. The German flag carrier first flew the route in January 2021 with a flight clocking in at 15 hours and 36 minutes.

Falklands vaccination programme moves onto 18-44 year-olds

Published: 03/28/2021 in MercoPress

The vaccination campaign began on 8 February, and saw vulnerable groups and front-line workers receive their second dose last week Falkland Islands residents aged between 18 to 44 are set to receive their first dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine this week, as the Islands enter the final tranche of adult vaccinations.

Andy Keeling: New Chief Executive to arrive in the Falklands next week

Published: 03/23/2021 in MercoPress

“Anya and I are really looking forward to starting our new life in the Falklands Islands and we hope to be full and active members of the community,” Mr. Keeling said. Andy Keeling, the new Chief Executive for the Falkland Islands Government is due to arrive in the Islands next week to start the transition of power following a month-long handover with current Chief Executive Barry Rowland. Mr. Keeling will undertake two weeks of quarantine before start working with Mr. Rowland, the Falkland Islands Government announced on Monday.

Falklands ready to receive third batch of Covid-19 vaccines

Published: 03/19/2021 in MercoPress

People aged 18 to 45 years living in the Western or Outer Islands will receive the first dose of the itinerant vaccination team. The Falkland Islands Government has received confirmation that it will receive a third batch of Covid-19 vaccines and, while the exact timing is yet to be confirmed, it is anticipated that these will arrive in the week beginning 22 March.

UK, Argentina and the Falklands signed an agreement for the second phase to identify soldiers fallen in 1982

Published: 03/18/2021 in MercoPress

ICRC President Peter Maurer, the UK and Argentine representatives in Geneva and Ambassadors Braithwaite and Villegas at today's ceremony. (ICRC) The governments of the United Kingdom, the Falkland Islands and Argentina agreed on Thursday to carry out a new stage of the Humanitarian Project Plan that began in 2017 and has allowed the identification of 115 Argentine soldiers fallen during the 1982 armed conflict. The agreement was signed at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Geneva, Switzerland and the Plan will be resumed in August, as confirmed by the British Embassy in Buenos Aires.

Falklands: begins second phase to identify Argentine soldiers remains

Published: 03/18/2021 in MercoPress

The Argentine military cemetery at Darwin The accord for the second phase of the humanitarian initiative to identify the remains of Argentine combatants buried at the Argentine military cemetery in the Falkland Islands is scheduled to be signed this Thursday in Geneva, while work could be starting by next August.

Second dose of Covid vaccinations set to begin in the Falklands

Published: 03/18/2021 in MercoPress

No positive cases of Covid-19 in the Falklands. (Pic T. Barkman MLA Twitter) The next phase of Covid vaccinations in the Falklands is set to begin on 23 March, the Falkland Islands Government confirmed on Tuesday. The upcoming vaccination round will see people who received their first dose between 8-12 February receive their second dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab.

Second dose Covid of vaccinations set to begin in the Falklands

Published: 03/18/2021 in MercoPress

No positive cases of Covid-19 in the Falklands. (Pic T. Barkman MLA Twitter) The next phase of Covid vaccinations in the Falklands is set to begin on 23 March, the Falkland Islands Government confirmed on Tuesday. The upcoming vaccination round will see people who received their first dose between 8-12 February receive their second dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca jab.

Resumption of Sao Paulo and Santiago/Falklands air links taking off next July?

Published: 03/13/2021 in MercoPress

The Latam Brazil weekly flght from Sao Paulo is scheduled for 5 July with a Boeing 767-300 that has a 221 passenger capacity. Commercial air links between Chile and Brazil and the Falkland Islands are expected to resume next July according to Aviacionline, an air industry site that revealed it obtained the information through Cirium which specializes in aviation and travel data and analytics.

April 30, a critical date for when Falklands first squid catches are landed in Spain

Published: 03/12/2021 in MercoPress

“We are negotiating and looking at different options with the Spanish government to try and minimize the impact of the tariffs, according to WTO rules”, pointed out Touza (Twitter) April 30 is a critical date for when the South Atlantic squid catches reach Vigo in Spain. It will also be a Brexit test since tariffs involving third countries such as the UK do not apply to catches from British waters, except for increased customs paperwork, but do apply for fish produce from British territories overseas.

Falklands tighten up vessel entry policy

Published: 03/12/2021 in MercoPress

The Falkland Islands’ Executive Council this week agreed to tighten the policy governing the entry of vessels into the islands’ territorial waters and ports. Under the new policy, any vessel which has suspected or reported cases of Covid-19 “should not seek to enter Falkland Islands territorial waters and ports,” the Falklands government has confirmed.

Falklands: lively debate on the possibility of a salmon farming industry

Published: 03/06/2021 in MercoPress

Great attendance at the Environmental strategy workshop with some interesting and great points made by those attending. The Falklands ocean coastal ecosystems are one of its biggest assets and, “its value is beyond measure,” commented Islander Josh Peck speaking against the introduction of a salmon-farming industry to the Falkland Islands, at last Tuesdays workshop on an environmental strategy held at the Chamber of Commerce, as reported by the Penguin News.

Falklands extends Rockhopper's offshore licenses until November 2022

Published: 03/06/2021 in MercoPress

 The extension until November first 2022, includes no additional license commitments. The previous expiry date was May 1, 2021. The Falkland Islands government has agreed to extend each of Rockhopper Exploration plc’s offshore North Falkland basin petroleum licenses, including the Sea Lion discovery area, until Nov. 1, 2022. The extension includes no additional license commitments. The previous expiry date was May 1, 2021.

After thirty years of prolific research, RRS James Clark Ross makes final call to the Falklands

Published: 03/02/2021 in MercoPress

The JCR departed FIPASS for the final time at 6pm on Monday 1 March and proceeded down Stanley Harbour, before turning and heading out through the Narrows. (Pic by C.Paige) The RRS James Clark Ross (JCR) made her final call to her homeport of the Falkland Islands on Monday March first, since after thirty years of service, the JCR will be sold at the end of her 20/21 Antarctic season.

Argo Pereira off to the Falklands for the squid season, after 16 days in Montevideo

Published: 03/01/2021 in MercoPress

Argos Pereira left Vigo on 24 January following Covid 19 negative tests from the 54 members of the crew The Red Ensign trawler Argos Pereira finally left on Saturday evening for the Falkland Islands to begin the squid season after spending 16 days in Montevideo because of an outbreak of Covid 19 on board, as reported by the Uruguayan Chamber of Foreign Fishing Vessels Agents, CAPE.

The Venturer leaves Brazil and is sailing for the Falklands

Published: 02/25/2021 in MercoPress

The trawler with its 63 crew had left Vigo on January 14, but had to call in Bahía following an outbreak of Covid 19 on board Following four weeks docked in Bahia, northeast Brazil, because of a Covid 19 outbreak on board, the Red Ensign flagged trawler Venturer left on Tuesday night for the Falkland Islands.