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Children’s Minister Roderic O’Gorman said the party could not buck the trend in Ireland of junior coalition partners in Fine Gael and Fianna Fail governments losing support in subsequent elections. He said they expected to retain two to three seats out of the 12 they had won in the 2020 election on the back of a worldwide “Green wave”. “Undoubtedly it’s a disappointing result for our party today,” Mr O’Gorman told reporters in Ongar, Dublin. “It’s hard for a smaller party in government, that’s long been the tradition, the history in Ireland. We hoped going into the election to buck that but we haven’t been able to buck that today.” Mr O’Gorman, a candidate in Dublin West, is among the outgoing Green Party TDs in a battle to retain their seats. Culture Minister Catherine Martin, who is fighting to remain a Green Party TD for Dublin Rathdown, said it was a “very tight” race in her four-seat constituency. “We go in (to government) not afraid of that because the issue of the climate and biodiversity crisis is (greater) than our survival,” she said on RTE Radio. “I stand over and am proud of our track record of delivery.” Green candidate in Waterford Marc O Cathasaigh said he would not be “in the shake-up” to retain his seat in that constituency, while junior minister Ossian Smyth looks at risk of losing his seat in Dun Laoghaire. Junior minister Joe O’Brien is expected to lose his seat in Dublin Fingal, Neasa Hourigan is at risk in Dublin Central, while Wicklow’s Steven Matthews garnered just 4% of first preferences. Former Green Party leader Eamon Ryan, who announced his retirement from frontline politics in June, said his party had not had a good day. Arriving at the count centre at the RDS in Dublin, the outgoing environment minister told reporters: “If you don’t get elected you accept that, but you come back stronger and you learn lessons, and we’ve done that in the past and we will do that again.” He added: “No matter what the results today there will be a strong Green Party in Ireland, we have deep roots in the community and it’s a very distinct political philosophy and I think there is still space for that in Irish politics, for sure.” Mr Ryan said he did not believe his decision to retire, and the timing of his announcement, had affected the party’s showing. “Unfortunately – and this is just one of those days – we didn’t get the number of votes,” he said. He added: “We’ll look back and see what are the lessons, and what can we learn and what can we do differently. “It’s just one of those days when we didn’t have a good day.
On November 26, 2024, the US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the Contract Year (CY) 2026 Policy and Technical Changes to the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit Program (Part D), Medicare Cost Plan Program, and Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) proposed rule ( fact sheet ; proposed rule ). This is part of an annual rulemaking process that includes both substantive and technical changes to the MA, Part D, and PACE programs. This year, the rule proposes new policies related to the coverage of anti-obesity medications in Part D and Medicaid, medical loss ratio and utilization management requirements, use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and more. Comments are due by January 27, 2025. In Depth COVERAGE OF ANTI-OBESITY MEDICATION IN PART D AND MEDICAID CMS proposes to reinterpret the Social Security Act so that anti-obesity medications are no longer excluded from Part D or Medicaid coverage when used to reduce excess body weight and maintain weight reduction long-term for individuals with obesity. CMS would recognize obesity as a chronic disease, so coverage would be permitted even if an individual does not have other medically accepted indications for use of the drug, such as diabetes. CMS estimates that over 10 years, this proposed change would increase costs to the federal government by $24.8 billion for Part D and $14.8 billion for Medicaid. This is a proposal that may be scrutinized more closely by the incoming Trump administration before being finalized. MEDICAL LOSS RATIO RULES CMS has proposed several revisions to the medical loss ratio (MLR) regulations, many of which reflect similar changes recently implemented in the commercial and Medicaid MLR rules. For example, CMS proposes to require that provider incentive and bonus arrangements are tied to clinical or quality improvement standards to be included in the MA MLR numerator. CMS also proposes to require that administrative costs be excluded from quality-improving activities in the MA and Part D MLR numerators. Both changes are based on findings from CMS’s commercial market MLR audits, which led to changes in the commercial MLR regulations. Additionally, CMS is proposing new regulations governing MA and Part D MLR audits, including an appeals process, suggesting that we may observe an increase in government scrutiny and potential enforcement action related to MLR reporting in these markets. Additional changes to the MLR rules relate to allocations of expenses between lines of business, the treatment of Medicare Prescription Payment Plan unsettled balances, new data requests from CMS regarding vertical integration and provider payment arrangements, and rules protecting that additional data from public release. BUILDING ON EXISTING PRIOR AUTHORIZATION AND UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT SAFEGUARDS In the 2024 MA and Part D Rule , CMS codified enrollee protections related to prior authorization and utilization management to clarify when and how MA organizations (MAOs) can use these tools. The protections included, among other things, requiring MAOs to post internal coverage criteria publicly and requiring MAOs to establish a Utilization Management Committee to review all utilization management practices. These rules went into effect on January 1, 2024. CMS continued to address prior authorization processes throughout the year, including in the Interoperability and Prior Authorization Final Rule and through a set of frequently asked questions (FAQs). CMS proposes to build on these safeguards by: Defining “internal coverage criteria” to mean any policies, measures, tools, or guidelines, whether developed by an MAO or a third party, that are not expressly stated in applicable statutes, regulations, national or local coverage determinations, or CMS manuals and are adopted or relied upon by an MAO for purposes of making a medical necessity determination Adding rules regarding the publication of internal coverage criteria on MAO websites Clarifying that decisions made contemporaneously with treatment are organization determinations and are, therefore, subject to appeal and other existing requirements Eliminating MAO discretion to reopen approved authorizations for hospital admissions. ENSURING USE OF AI TOOLS DOES NOT PERMIT DISCRIMINATION In recent years, stakeholders have raised questions concerning the role of AI, algorithms, and similar tools in making coverage determinations. CMS described via FAQs that an algorithm or software tool can be used to assist MAOs in making coverage determinations, provided that such tools comply with all applicable coverage determination rules, and that algorithms and AI cannot be used to solely deny certain care. CMS published a request for information in January 2024 soliciting comments on MA plans’ use of AI and the potential impacts on health disparities. CMS now proposes to revise the MA regulations to ensure that services are provided “[e]quitably irrespective of delivery method or origin, whether from human or automated systems[.]” When AI or automated systems are used, the systems must be used in a way that ensures equitable service access. CMS may conduct program audits and/or take enforcement action where an MAO fails to comply with the regulations. OTHER TOPICS Regulating the Administration of Supplemental Benefits Through Debit Cards. MAOs often use debit cards to provide supplemental benefits. CMS proposes to clarify when and how debit cards may be used by an MAO and enrollee, add disclosure requirements around debit cards, and require MAOs to allow an enrollee to receive covered benefits through an alternative method if there is an issue in using the debit card. CMS is also proposing to clarify and codify existing guidance to prohibit MAOs from marketing the dollar value of a supplemental benefit or the method by which a supplemental benefit is administered. CMS is soliciting comments on all aspects of the proposal. Expanding CMS Review of Marketing Materials. CMS proposes to expand the definition of “marketing” to require submission and review of a broader universe of materials. CMS would require submission of all communication materials and activities that are intended to draw a beneficiary’s attention or influence a beneficiary’s plan enrollment decision. CMS seeks comments on the potential financial impact of the proposal. The proposal does not impact materials that are – and will continue to be – designated as “File & Use.” Adding Topics That Agents and Brokers Must Discuss With Prospective Beneficiaries. CMS has developed a list of topics that MAOs and Part D sponsors must ensure their agents and brokers discuss with beneficiaries prior to enrolling the beneficiary in a plan. CMS proposes to expand the number of required topics that must be discussed to include low-income subsidy eligibility, resources for state programs, and additional information for beneficiaries who are enrolling into an MA plan when first eligible for Medicare or those who are dropping a Medigap plan to enroll into an MA plan for the first time. Integrating Provider Directory Information Into Medicare Plan Finder . CMS seeks to enhance Medicare Plan Finder by making provider network information searchable for all MAOs. CMS proposes to require MAOs to submit provider directory information that is formatted to CMS’ specifications for use on Medicare Plan Finder, as well as attest to the accuracy of the data. Consistent with current provider directory standards, MAOs would be required to update the Medicare Plan Finder data within 30 days of receiving information from providers regarding a change in information. CMS proposes an applicability date of July 1, 2025, to allow for online testing and requests feedback on the attestation process. A range of additional topics are addressed in the proposed rule .
Canada's Trudeau returns home after Trump meeting without assurances that tariffs are off the table
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins LLP reminds investors that a class action was filed on behalf of all purchasers of Celsius Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: CELH) common stock between February 29, 2024 and September 4, 2024. Celsius is a holding company that develops, processes, markets, distributes, and sells energy drinks and liquid supplements in the United States and internationally. For more information, submit a form , email attorney Aaron Dumas, Jr., or give us a call at (800) 350-6003. The Allegations: Robbins LLP is Investigating Allegations that Celsius Holdings, Inc. (CELH) Misled Investors Regarding its Business Prospects According to the complaint, during the class period, defendants failed to disclose that: (a) Celsius materially oversold inventory to Pepsi far in excess of demand, and faced a looming sales cliff during which Pepsi would significantly reduce its purchases of Celsius products; (b) as Pepsi drew down significant amounts of inventory overstock, Celsius’ sales would materially decline in future periods, hurting the Company’s financial performance and outlook; (c) Celsius’ sales rate to Pepsi was unsustainable and created a misleading impression of Celsius’ financial performance and outlook; and (d) as a result, Celsius’ business metrics and financial prospects were not as strong as indicated in defendants’ class period statements. When the truth came out, the price of Celsius' stock dropped, harming investors. What Now : You may be eligible to participate in the class action against Celsius Holdings, Inc. Shareholders who want to serve as lead plaintiff for the class must submit their application to the court by January 21, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. You do not have to participate in the case to be eligible for a recovery. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. For more information, click here . All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses. About Robbins LLP : Some law firms issuing releases about this matter do not actually litigate securities class actions; Robbins LLP does. A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002. Since our inception, we have obtained over $1 billion for shareholders. To be notified if a class action against Celsius Holdings, Inc. settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today. Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1fb87e61-c710-4cb7-b6ab-1c00be45ba08LONDON -- Emma Hayes oversaw a dominant display from her United States team at a packed Wembley Stadium without tasting victory on her return to England on Saturday. Hayes, a Londoner who coached the U.S. women to the Olympic soccer gold medal this summer after 14 major trophies at Chelsea, came home for a friendly against European champion England. In a matchup of the two best women's teams in the FIFA rankings, the U.S. had the best chances but the game ended in a goalless draw. “I'm super proud of the way we imposed ourselves on the game, it's just the last part of the pitch,” Hayes said. “Generally, I'm pleased with the performance.” The U.S. was without its injured attacking trio of Trinity Rodman, Sophia Smith and Mallory Swanson. But the quality among the visitors still overwhelmed England, which had injury issues, too. Forward Lauren Hemp and defender Maya Le Tissier were ruled out. Alyssa Thompson's curling shot forced an early parry from England goalkeeper Mary Earps as the U.S. pinned England in its half and turned over England ball too easily in midfield. The Americans dominated possession and earned a lot of space to develop their game and press high. But they lacked an edge in the final third and could not break the deadlock. Sam Coffey's shot from the edge of the box in the 44th minute was easily stopped by Earps, and at the start of the second half U.S. captain Lindsey Horan had a goal disallowed then missed the target with an angled shot. The U.S. also received a penalty but it was reversed after the VAR showed the ball hit Alex Greenwood’s chest and not her arm. But one of the most successful coaches in the women’s game was left satisfied. Hayes won seven Women’s Super Leagues in a 12-year reign at Chelsea. During that time, the men’s team had 11 different managers. She was asked how she felt about being in the away dugout and listening to the English national anthem. “You can be two things at once,” Hayes said. “I'm a proud Englishwoman who is proud to coach America. I don't have to choose, I definitely love both countries.” ___ AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccerStandout running back Jaydn Ott announced on social media Sunday that he’ll return to Cal for his senior season. Ott, who was slowed by a lingering ankle injury this season after rushing for more than 1,300 yards in 2023, posted on X that he’s coming back to Berkeley. Ott’s return is welcome news for the Bears, who lost starting quarterback Fernando Mendoza to the transfer portal, where he eventually landed at Indiana University. Ott ran for 1,315 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023, while also catching 25 passes for 169 yards and two touchdowns. Ott suffered an ankle injury in the season opener and never could seem to get it completely healed as he rush for just 385 yards on 116 carries with four touchdowns. A resurgence by Ott would give Cal a strong backfield as Jaivian Thomas is also back for a Bears squad that went 6-7 and 2-6 in their first year in the Atlantic Coast Conference this season. Thomas was Cal’s leading rusher with 626 yards on 100 carries, and he scored seven touchdowns.
Former TV host Ellen DeGeneres is done living in the United States. According to reports, DeGeneres and her wife Portia de Rossi have fled for England. They have already settled into their home in the Cotswolds. While that may sound like a surprise, PEOPLE reported that DeGeneres was house hunting in October. DeGeneres and her wife made this purchase prior to the 2024 presidential election. However, TMZ said they were "very disillusioned" with Donald Trump's victory over Kamala Harris. From TMZ: We're told the couple scooped up the place before the election ... but were "very disillusioned" with Trump's victory ... and, as one source put it, they immediately decided "to get the hell out." Ellen was among the high-profile donors for Vice President Harris, cutting a $3,300 check for her. She also endorsed Harris on social media after the VP was tapped to replace President Joe Biden on the ticket back in July. On Thursday afternoon, TMZ reached out to Karoline Leavitt for a comment on DeGeneres' departure from the United States. She quickly replied, "HAHAHA." Pool/Getty Images Last week, Leavitt was appointed Trump's White House press secretary. She'll be the youngest person to ever hold that position. Leavitt was an assistant press secretary during Trump's first term in office. Additionally, she served as a presidential writer. We'll see if DeGeneres fires back at Leavitt's comment. That probably wouldn't be a wise choice though. Related: Ellen DeGeneres Makes Decision On Living In U.S. After Trump's Win
Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100You’re in challenging part of your career — Civil service boss warns new directors