Evening Update Wednesday 11th September 2024

NEWS
New Monegasque Law Diploma - A new diploma in Monégasque law has been introduced in 2024 at Aix-Marseille and Côte d'Azur universities. The program highlights key differences between Monaco’s legal system and French law, such as Monaco's more streamlined judicial structure, fewer legal codes, and unique employment rules. The diploma aims to address a growing demand for expertise in Monégasque law and to attract more professionals to the principality’s legal field.

Barnier Secures Government Majority - Michel Barnier, the new French Prime Minister, is touring political groups to secure a government majority. He met with centre-right parties Horizons and MoDem MPs and plans to attend Republican parliamentary days. While Republicans show willingness to join his government, Barnier faces challenges recruiting figures from the left, like Carole Delga, who declined involvement.  

Carte Vitale on App - An app allowing users to digitalize their health insurance card (carte vitale) on smartphones has been launched, with 23,000 users activating it so far, in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. While the digital card offers convenience, especially for younger users, not all healthcare professionals are equipped to process it yet, so the physical card is still recommended. The app is expected to be fully operational nationwide by 2025.

Didier Roustan Dies at 66 - Didier Roustan, a renowned French football journalist, has passed away at age 66 after battling illness. Known for hosting Téléfoot in 1984 and working with major networks like Canal+ and L'Équipe TV, he was deeply connected to the Cannes football club, where he grew up and played. Cannes’ mayor has paid tribute to his passion for football and his unique contributions to sports media.

Boat Caught on Fire during Cannes Yachting Festival - Amidst the Cannes Yachting Festival, a boat has caught on fire this morning, Wednesday 11th of September, in the port of Cannes. The boat has been pulled out of the port and the fire was quickly brought under control. No injuries have been reported.

Drug Dealers - Drug dealers have been arrested for evicting asylum seekers from their apartment to use it as a logistics base In Nice. Four suspects, including a minor, had previously committed a similar offense in 2023, attacking the victims with batons. Upon arrival, police seized cash, cannabis, and cocaine. The offenders have been sentenced to prison, and the victims received €3,000 in compensation.

Wild Boars - Wild boars have been regularly entering and causing damage in a residence since spring, tearing up flower beds and green spaces in Marseille. One resident was trapped in his car for two hours, unable to exit due to the presence of the animals. Frustrated, residents are calling for authorities to manage the situation, but so far, no action has been taken.


BUSINESS
Sir Paul Marshall, a hedge fund tycoon and major investor in GB News, has purchased The Spectator magazine for £100 million. The sale follows the collapse of an Abu Dhabi-backed bid to acquire the publication along with The Telegraph newspapers. The Spectator's editor Fraser Nelson expressed confidence in the new owner’s commitment to investing in and protecting the magazine’s editorial independence.

Sony has confirmed the launch of the PS5 Pro, a more powerful and expensive version of the PlayStation 5, set to release on November 7 for £699.99. While the PS5 Pro promises enhanced graphics and smoother gameplay, it has drawn criticism for its high price and limited upgrades. Despite targeting PlayStation's most dedicated fans, analysts suggest the PS5 Pro may struggle to boost console sales in a challenging market.

And - Campbell Soup Company plans to rename itself "The Campbell's Company" to reflect its expanded product line beyond soup, including sauces, snacks, and beverages. While soup remains central, acquisitions like Rao's sauces are part of its adaptation strategy. The company expects steady soup sales, with strong growth from brands like Goldfish crackers, which could become its largest brand by 2027.


SPORTS
Football - Brazil and Argentina were both defeated in their latest qualifying matches for the 2026 World Cup.

Rugby Union - Scotland lock Emma Wassell has been withdrawn from her country's 30-player squad for the forthcoming WXV 2 tournament after being diagnosed with a tumour in her chest that requires surgery.

Hockey - Australia's Tom Craig has been banned from playing hockey for 12 months after being arrested on suspicion of buying cocaine during the Paris 2024 Olympics.


WEATHER
Mostly sunny with moderate to strong winds in the west side of the region before clouds cover the sky this evening until tomorrow morning. Highs of 26 degrees in Nice and Marseille, 28 in Cannes and Toulon, and 31 degrees in Saint-Tropez.

Tonight, cloudy with lows of 20 degrees with moderate winds.

Outlook for tomorrow, bit cloudy until late afternoon when risks of thunderstorm will threaten the Alpes-Maritimes’ skies. Highs of 25 degrees.


BEACH WEATHER
Sea temperatures 25 degrees.

UV levels 6.

Air temperatures 31 degrees with a gentle breeze.

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