Despite a recent ban on performance-related pay following criminal pollution convictions, the former chief executive of Wessex Water, Colin Skellett, received a £170,000 bonus from its parent company, YTL Utilities (UK), last year.

Bonus Awarded Amidst Controversy

According to accounts up to June 2025, Skellett’s total remuneration from YTL Utilities (UK) reached £693,000, including the bonus. This payment has drawn criticism, with the Liberal Democrats stating the government’s bonus ban is “nowhere near strong enough.” The bonus comes after Wessex Water was criminally convicted in November 2024 for a sewage pumping station failure six years prior, an incident that resulted in the death of over 2,000 fish and a £500,000 fine.

In June, the government banned bonuses for the chief executives and finance bosses of Wessex Water and five other companies. More recently, Wessex Water was issued another £11 million fine last month for further sewage failures.

Bonus Justification

While a bonus ban was in place, Ofwat, the water industry regulator, stated Skellett was eligible to receive the payment because it was linked to a separate part of the parent company’s business. YTL is currently involved in developing a large-scale project, Brabazon New Town, encompassing housing, offices, and an arena north of Bristol. A spokesperson for Wessex and YTL confirmed the bonus “entirely relates to his new role and was entirely funded by YTL,” stating Skellett is responsible for YTL UK group businesses, including the Brabazon development.

Skellett stepped down as chief executive of Wessex Water in July 2024 after 36 years with the company, receiving £157,000 for three months of work. He remains chief executive of the parent company, continuing to earn a substantial salary. Over the last decade, Skellett has received £8.4 million in pay from YTL Utilities (UK), including £3.4 million in bonuses – double the £4.2 million he received for his role at Wessex Water Services, bringing his total earnings over ten years to £12.6 million.

Calls for Transparency

Concerns over transparency in executive pay within the water industry have been raised by MPs and Ofwat. Reports surfaced in August revealing that Nicola Shaw, the boss of Yorkshire Water, received £1.3 million in undisclosed extra pay through an offshore company, a payment also permitted by Ofwat as it was not deemed a performance-related bonus. Shaw acknowledged to the BBC earlier this month that hiding the payments was a “mistake,” but did not commit to refusing the additional pay.

The reporting on these payments has prompted Ofwat to consult on changes requiring water companies to disclose all remuneration from related companies starting next year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the government to ban bonuses for water company executives?

The government banned bonuses after Wessex Water and five other companies were found to have committed sewage pollution failures, with Wessex Water receiving a criminal conviction in November 2024.

Why was Colin Skellett able to receive a bonus despite the ban?

Ofwat determined the bonus was not related to the regulated water company activity but to Skellett’s role within the parent company, YTL Utilities (UK), and its development of the Brabazon New Town project.

What is YTL doing to address concerns about transparency in executive pay?

Ofwat is consulting on changes to require water companies to reveal all payments made to executives from related companies, starting next financial year.

As regulatory scrutiny intensifies and public concern grows, what further measures might be necessary to ensure accountability and transparency within the UK water industry?

A fire broke out early this morning in a 16-story residential building in the Spandau district of Berlin, injuring at least two people. According to the fire department, the blaze originated in the basement of the building on Obstallee.

Several basement compartments on the second floor are reported to be engulfed in flames, with smoke spreading throughout the stairwell. Firefighting and building inspection efforts are ongoing.

Of the 200 residents in the building, 60 were temporarily sheltered in a fire department bus, while the remaining residents evacuated themselves.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown. One resident and one firefighter were treated for smoke inhalation and transported to a hospital. More than 100 firefighters remain on scene.

Previous Incidents

This incident follows a pattern of fires in the area. Three years ago, a series of arson attacks targeted the basement of the same housing complex, prompting the building’s owner, Gewobag, to install video surveillance. More recently, on December 14th, a fire severely damaged an apartment on the ninth floor of the same building, injuring three residents – a 26-year-old man, a 20-year-old woman, and a 79-year-old woman.

The area surrounding the Obstallee housing complex has long been considered one of the most socially challenged neighborhoods in Berlin, with approximately 20,000 residents. According to local community management, nearly 60 percent of children in the area live in poverty, and the proportion of residents with a migration background is also high. A lack of social diversity is identified as a key issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the fire?

The cause of the fire is currently unknown, according to reports.

How many people were injured?

At least two people were injured: one resident and one firefighter, both of whom were treated for smoke inhalation and taken to a hospital.

Has this building experienced fires before?

Yes, the building experienced a series of arson attacks in the basement three years ago, and another fire severely damaged an apartment on December 14th.

As investigations continue, will authorities be able to determine the root causes of these repeated incidents and implement effective preventative measures?

With the midterm elections still months away, a record number of members of Congress – 43 in the House and 10 in the Senate – have already announced they will not seek reelection. Notably, Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia announced in November her intention to resign from Congress on January 5th, a full year before her term expires.

A Wave of Departures

Several factors are contributing to this exodus, including frustrations with political gridlock and the current approval ratings of President Donald Trump, which could pose challenges for Republicans in the upcoming elections. As of now, two dozen Republican House members have either resigned or declared they will not run in 2026 – the highest number of departures at this stage in the election cycle in the last 20 years, with only 2018 and 2020 being the exceptions.

There is growing concern within the Republican caucus that Greene’s early departure signals further resignations to come. A political scientist studying congressional elections noted that the sheer number of members leaving suggests a broader dissatisfaction with Washington.

Reasons for Leaving

Many departures are traditional retirements, with experienced members like 78-year-old Democratic Congressman Jerry Nadler and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who will turn 86 in March, stepping down after decades of service. However, members also leave Congress for opportunities outside of public service. Former members are often recruited by lobbying firms and corporations, drawn by their connections and insider knowledge – and often, significantly higher salaries, with over half of all living former members now working as lobbyists.

Beyond career prospects, some members are leaving due to frustration with the job itself and a perceived inability to achieve legislative progress. Senator Thom Tillis, R-N.C., stated in June that the choice between navigating “political theater and partisan gridlock” and spending time with his family was “not a hard choice.”

What Makes 2026 Different?

Several unique factors are influencing the high number of departures, particularly among Republicans. Mid-decade redistricting in several states has created unfamiliar districts, potentially weakening incumbents’ connections with their constituents. In Texas, six Republicans and three Democrats are leaving office, in part due to the state’s new district map for 2026.

Democrats are currently leading in the “generic ballot” – a measure of voter preference for each party – by 13 points compared to Kamala Harris’ performance in the 2024 election. Democrats have also overperformed in recent special elections in New Jersey and Virginia, signaling a potentially challenging environment for Republicans in 2026.

Adding to the instability, House conservatives are reportedly “quietly revolting” against Speaker Mike Johnson’s leadership, and some members may be so frustrated that they are choosing to resign before their terms end, leaving seats temporarily vacant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are so many members leaving Congress now?

A record number of members are announcing their departures due to a combination of factors, including frustrations with gridlock, President Trump’s approval ratings, redistricting, and a challenging political environment for Republicans heading into the 2026 midterms.

What does this mean for the upcoming elections?

These departures could significantly impact the balance of power in Congress. With more open seats, the potential for shifts in party control increases, and the outcomes of the midterm elections become even more uncertain.

Are retirements and resignations the same?

No. Retirement typically involves a member completing their current term before leaving office. Resignation means a member leaves office before their term is finished, creating a vacancy that must be filled through a special election or appointment.

Given these developments, how might the changing composition of Congress impact the legislative agenda and the ability to address critical issues facing the nation?

Gary arrived early for the “unite the kingdom” (UTK) outdoor carol service in Whitehall, hoping to secure a good position. Having witnessed approximately 150,000 people attend a previous UTK rally in September led by Tommy Robinson, the leader of an anti-migrant far-right movement, he anticipated a large crowd.

A Diminished Turnout

However, only around 1,500 people – roughly 1% of the September attendance – came to sing carols in mid-December. Robinson had publicly presented the event as a non-political Christmas celebration, a framing that may have discouraged some of his movement’s more fervent supporters.

While crosses and flags were visible, overt discussion of Robinson’s usual political themes was limited. One attendee complained about her grandchildren being “banned from celebrating Christmas” at school, and a group of women distributed leaflets advocating for “protection from illegal immigration.”

A Complex Response from the Church

The emergence of Robinson, now sporting a beard and a wooden cross, has presented a challenge to churches grappling with the rise of Christian nationalism on the far right. Some church members advocate for a strong rejection of racism and xenophobia, while others caution that a direct response could amplify the far-right message.

Robinson reportedly experienced a religious conversion while incarcerated, with minister Rikki Doolan stating that Robinson “received Jesus Christ as his personal lord and saviour” in prison. Following his release, Robinson asserted that “Christianity” is what “made Britain,” speaking to the far-right Visegrad 24 media platform.

Over the Christmas period, Robinson used X (formerly Twitter) to promote a Christian revival, reposting a tweet claiming a “MASSIVE surge in attendance across all denominations.”

Looking Ahead

The Church of England is scheduled to discuss its response to Christian nationalism in January. According to Nick Spencer, a senior fellow at the Christian thinktank Theos, the church faces a difficult choice: embrace these activists and risk condemnation, or reject them and potentially miss an opportunity for outreach.

Robinson and UTK have announced a “largest demonstration for national unity and strength” planned for May in London, framed as a celebration of “culture, identity and shared destiny” – notably omitting any mention of Christianity. It remains to be seen whether Robinson will continue to emphasize his newfound faith or shift his focus back to his previous political platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the turnout for the UTK carol service in December?

Approximately 1,500 people attended the carol service, representing about 1% of the 150,000 people who attended the UTK rally in September.

What is Christian nationalism?

According to sources within the article, Christian nationalism is a complex phenomenon involving debates about identity, sovereignty, and social cohesion, and is currently unfolding within British politics.

How has Tommy Robinson presented his faith?

Robinson has publicly stated that he was “led to Christ” while in prison and has since emphasized the importance of Christianity to British identity.

How will religious institutions navigate the intersection of faith and political ideologies in the coming months?

Efforts to secure peace in Sudan are underway as the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) enters its third year. A peace initiative presented by Sudan’s Transitional Prime Minister to the Security Council earlier this week has been acknowledged by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who stressed the essential need for a lasting and inclusive peace.

Peace Initiative and UN Response

Secretary-General Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a lasting ceasefire that preserves Sudan’s unity and territorial integrity. He urged Sudanese actors to prioritize compromise and work toward a civilian-led transition. His Personal Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, is prepared to facilitate consultations between the parties to achieve a sustainable resolution, working alongside Member States and regional partners.

Security Setbacks and Peacekeeper Withdrawal

The pursuit of peace is occurring against a backdrop of escalating violence. The UN peacekeeping mission in the Abyei region – which borders Sudan and South Sudan – has withdrawn its logistics base in Kadugli, South Kordofan, following drone attacks on December 13th. These attacks resulted in the deaths of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injuries to nine others. Eight of the wounded are currently receiving medical care in Kenya.

UNISFA continues operations from other locations, including Tishwin and Abu Qussa.

Mounting Humanitarian Crisis

The conflict continues to exacerbate a dire humanitarian situation. A recent UN assessment indicates that female-headed households are particularly vulnerable, facing reduced access to essential resources like cash, education, and water, as well as increased risks of displacement. Intensified fighting in Kordofan and Darfur has led to mass displacement and disrupted aid delivery, worsening conditions for civilians.

The war, now in its third year, has claimed thousands of lives, displaced millions, and created famine conditions in several areas of Sudan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of the UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy?

The Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, is available to advance consultations with both parties involved in the conflict to help secure an inclusive and sustainable resolution.

Where did the recent attacks on peacekeepers occur?

Drone attacks that led to the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers from Kadugli occurred on December 13th, resulting in the deaths of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers and injuries to nine others.

Which groups are currently fighting in Sudan?

The war is between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

As the conflict continues, will the peace initiative gain traction, or will the escalating violence and humanitarian crisis further complicate efforts to achieve a lasting resolution?

Patrick Burke, known affectionately as Pat, passed away peacefully on December 27th while in the care of University Hospital Ennis, surrounded by family. He was a resident of Knockanoura, Tulla Rd., and formerly of Corrovorrin, Ennis, Co. Clare.

A Life Remembered

Mr. Burke’s passing follows the loss of his wife, Kathleen, as well as his brother John, sister Nancy, and parents Jimmy & Mai. He is remembered by his daughters, Martha and Patricia, and their husbands, Mike Hempstead and Michael O’Connor.

The family’s circle extends to include nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, relatives, neighbours, and a wide network of friends who will deeply feel his absence.

Funeral Arrangements

Reposing will be held this Tuesday evening at Daly’s Mortuary Chapel, Francis St., Ennis, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for 10:30 AM on Wednesday at St. Joseph’s Church, followed by burial in Corrovorrin Cemetery.

The family has requested privacy at their home during this time. For those unable to attend in person, the Funeral Mass will be live-streamed via the St. Joseph’s Church webcam: http://ennisparish.com/our-parish/st-josephs-church-webcam/.

Condolences can be offered online via email to [email protected] or by post to Joseph Daly & Sons Funeral Directors, Francis St., Ennis V95AE63. Further information is available by calling Daly’s at 065 6828653.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the schedule of events?

Reposing will take place on Tuesday evening from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Daly’s Mortuary Chapel. The Funeral Mass is scheduled for Wednesday at 10:30 AM at St. Joseph’s Church, followed by burial in Corrovorrin Cemetery.

Where can condolences be sent?

Condolences can be sent by email to [email protected] or by post to Joseph Daly & Sons Funeral Directors, Francis St., Ennis V95AE63.

Is it possible to view the funeral remotely?

Yes, the Funeral Mass can be viewed online via the St. Joseph’s Church webcam at http://ennisparish.com/our-parish/st-josephs-church-webcam/.

What does it mean to lose someone who was described as having a “wide circle of friends”?