Latest news with #Greenwood
Daily Record
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- Daily Record
New Blue Badge update simplifies process for people applying for parking permit
There are nearly three million Blue Badge holders across Great Britain, including more than 235,700 in Scotland. How to apply for a Blue Badge The UK Government has confirmed new measures are in place to help local authorities decide whether someone applying for a Blue Badge meets the eligibility criteria. Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood also explained how the Department for Transport (DFT) has 'produced a model application form with accompanying guidance notes for applicants on how to complete the form'. Ms Greenwood's comments came in a written response after Labour MP Anna Gelderd asked 'what steps are being taken to simplify the renewal process for Blue Badge holders'. There are nearly three million Blue Badge holders across the UK, including over 235,700 in Scotland, who may not realise that although their application is processed by their local authority, the parking permit is issued overseen by the Department for Transport. Ms Greenwood said: 'Local authorities are responsible for the day-to-day administration and enforcement of the Blue Badge scheme. They are responsible for determining and implementing the administrative, assessment, and enforcement procedures which they believe are in accordance with the governing legislation. 'Whilst it remains a matter for each individual local authority to decide on and to produce application form(s) for their area, to assist local authorities in deciding whether an applicant meets the eligibility criteria, the DfT has produced a model application form with accompanying guidance notes for applicants on how to complete the form.' The Transport Minister continued: 'The Department also recommends that authorities provide the guidance notes as a separate document to the application form so that they can be retained by the applicant for future reference after their application has been submitted. 'In addition, the Department works closely with its Blue Badge Digital Service supplier to identify possible improvements to the online application and renewal process as part of its continuous improvement programme.' The UK Government recently confirmed that 90 per cent of all Blue Badge applications are being made through its online service, which process first-time and renewals for people living in Scotland, England and Wales. Using the online application service could also help all 2.8 million users when the time comes to renew their parking permit. For users of the scheme due to renew this year they may not be aware that the processing time can take up to 12 weeks to complete - it's usually much quicker. However, the UK Government is now issuing emails to Blue Badge holders, who previously completed the application process online, giving them advanced notice their parking permit is due to expire soon. The email states this is a 'Blue Badge Reapplication reminder' and gives details of when your badge is due to expire. It goes on to give the specific date you need to reapply by 'otherwise you could be without a valid badge '. That's the important bit as Blue Badge holders could face a hefty £1,000 fine if they continue to display it after it has expired. This is because displaying an out of date Blue Badge is classed as 'misuse'. Transport Scotland guidance states: 'Misuse of a badge is a crime. You may be prosecuted if you misuse a badge.' Permit holders may also not be aware that applying for a Blue Badge early has no impact on the current Badge as the new one starts the day after the current one expires. It's also worth noting that once the local council has approved and entered the application on to the UK Government system, it usually arrives within 10 working days. Once you have completed the renewal process online, which involves providing details of your existing Blue Badge, personal details and eligibility criteria, you will receive an email confirming whether or not you have been successful. If you have, the email will also include instructions on making the Blue Badge payment to your local council - in Scotland this is £20. It costs up to £10 in England and is free in Wales. Most Blue Badges are issued for a maximum of up to three years, but this can vary by issuing council area and claimant. Once the payment has been made, you will then receive an email from the Department for Work and Transport confirming that your Blue Badge has been ordered and will arrive within 10 working days. The email also include: Name of your local authority issuing the Badge Badge number Badge start date Badge expiry date If your Blue Badge is due to expire in September or October, you can renew it now and have peace of mind that you won't forget. It's also worth checking your emails for the UK Government reminder. Eligibility for a Blue Badge is also reviewed every time a renewal application is submitted. Guidance on explains: 'Your Blue Badge is not renewed automatically. You need to reapply for it every 3 years. 'Your eligibility will be checked every time you reapply. This is to make sure you can still get a Blue Badge. Your local council processes your application and decides if you can get a Blue Badge. 'You should reapply 12 weeks before your badge expires.' The eligibility criteria for a Blue Badge was extended in 2019 to include individuals with non-visible disabilities such as Parkinson's, dementia and epilepsy to help more people park closer to the places they want to go when they travel as a driver, or a passenger. How to renew a Blue Badge online You will need a recent digital photo showing your head and shoulders. You will also need a photo or scan of your: proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport or driving licence) proof of address (such as a Council Tax bill or government letter) proof of benefits (if you get any) You will also need to know: your National Insurance number (if you have one) the details of your current Blue Badge You can start the application online and save the information you enter if you need to look for the required documents. You can easily return to it later and complete the process. Change of details You should contact your local council if there's a change to your: name address council area contact details Top 10 things to remember when using your Blue Badge You must follow the rules when using your Blue Badge, if you don't you are committing a crime You can only use your Blue Badge as a driver or passenger No-one else should use your badge if you are not in the vehicle with them If you are not getting out of the vehicle, you should not use your Blue Badge to get a parking space You must not let other people use your badge You must display your Blue Badge the right way up so the number can be seen clearly and your photo is face down You must apply for a new badge before your old badge runs out If your badge gets damaged you must apply for a new one Keep your badge safe. If it is lost or stolen, you must tell the police and the Local Council Check signs to make sure that Blue Badge holders are allowed to park there
Sky News AU
10 hours ago
- Business
- Sky News AU
Warning issued as Microsoft targeted in global cyberattack
Sky News Business Editor Ross Greenwood says an urgent warning has been issued to Australian companies and organisations that use Microsoft's content management platform SharePoint. The Australian Cyber Security Centre is urging organisations to "act now" after Microsoft observed active attacks targeting on-premises SharePoint Server customers. 'The danger is that hackers are exploiting a vulnerability in SharePoint that can be used to steal sensitive data and remotely execute malicious code,' Mr Greenwood said. 'The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency reported evidence of active exploitation on Sunday.'
Mint
a day ago
- Politics
- Mint
US Green Card delay forces MARTA CEO Collie Greenwood to step down mid-tenure
In a striking example of how immigration hurdles can impact even top leadership roles, Collie Greenwood, the CEO of one of America's largest public transit systems, has stepped down after his work permit expired, before his green card could be processed, Newsweek reported. Greenwood, a Canadian citizen and head of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), was forced into early retirement after his Employment Authorisation Document (EAD) lapsed in June. Despite being in the US legally and awaiting his green card, he was no longer permitted to work under current immigration laws. According to MARTA's official statement, Greenwood's green card approval is imminent, but the gap in documentation left him with no choice but to step aside. 'Mr. Greenwood's Canadian visa is valid, and he remains in the US legally while awaiting delivery of his Green Card,' the agency said. His absence was noted during Thursday's board meeting, where MARTA Chair Jennifer Ide described the situation as 'very unfortunate' and acknowledged that immigration in the United States remains a complicated issue. Greenwood did not attend the meeting due to his current immigration status. Greenwood's departure marks the end of a remarkable journey. He began his career as a bus driver 35 years ago and rose through the ranks to become CEO of MARTA in 2022. He first joined the agency in 2019 as head of bus operations and urban planning. During his tenure, Greenwood helped steer MARTA through the COVID-19 pandemic and led the organisation following the unexpected death of the previous general manager. Under his leadership, the agency is now preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Atlanta set to host eight matches, including a semifinal. Greenwood's exit comes at a time of heightened immigration scrutiny in the United States. Former President Donald Trump has pledged to launch mass deportation efforts if re-elected, and immigration officials have intensified enforcement, targeting even individuals with valid documentation in some instances. Green card processing times can vary widely, ranging from six months to several years, depending on the applicant's nationality and background, leaving many in limbo despite being legally eligible to remain in the country. While MARTA begins the search for Greenwood's permanent replacement, Rhonda Allen, the agency's Chief Customer Experience Officer, has been named interim CEO and general manager.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
US Green Card delay: CEO of one of America's largest public transit authority resigns as work permit expires
The long waiting for American Green Card has started hurting US corporate world. Delays in the U.S. Green Card process are impacting leadership across various sectors. In some cases, it is forcing highly experienced executives to step down as their work permits expire. The growing backlog for permanent residency is now affecting even senior professionals who have legally resided and worked in the country for years, leaving them unable to continue in their critical roles without proper documentation. In a high-profile case highlighting this issue, Collie Greenwood, CEO of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), stepped down on July 17. His departure came after his U.S. work permit expired, and ongoing delays in receiving his green card made it impossible for him to continue in his position. Greenwood, a Canadian national, opted for early retirement, despite MARTA confirming on Thursday that the delivery of his green card remains "imminent." Immigration timelines 'hurting' corporate America Greenwood, who assumed the role of MARTA's CEO in January 2022, is widely credited with stabilizing the transit agency's finances. However, in recent months, MARTA has faced hurdles in executing key expansion and improvement projects. His unexpected departure adds to a series of high-profile resignations within the U.S. transit sector recently, many of which have been linked to operational challenges and increasingly stringent immigration timelines. Greenwood's Employment Authorization Document (EAD) expired on June 18, 2025, prompting his decision to take early retirement. MARTA confirmed that he remains legally in the U.S. on a valid Canadian visa while awaiting the "imminent" arrival of his Green Card. What MARTA said on CEOs resignation Following the expiration of his permit, Greenwood immediately ceased working. He personally informed all MARTA board members and executive leaders of his situation and formally delegated authority to Rhonda Allen, MARTA's Chief Customer Experience Officer. In a statement, MARTA acknowledged the challenging circumstances, saying, 'The immigration process is extensive and has had an impact on Mr. Greenwood's personal and professional progress. These challenges have been resolved with Mr. Greenwood's decision, and the MARTA family supports him.' AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Sky News AU
3 days ago
- Business
- Sky News AU
AUSTRAC broadens scope of anti-money laundering crackdown to target billions of dollars of drug money investment
Australia's financial crimes agency is cracking down on the billions of dollars of drug money laundered throughout the economy as it broadens the scope of its interrogations. Join to watch the full interview behind the crackdown on Business Weekend from 11am AEST. The Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) on Thursday revealed it is looking at how real estate agents, lawyers, conveyancers, accountants and other professions can prevent money laundering. It marks a shift for AUSTRAC which typically looks into the finance sector. 'AUSTRAC will look at risk and behaviour at an industry and sector level rather than focussing solely on individual entities,' AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas said. The department's deputy chief executive Katie Miller joined Sky News Business Editor Ross Greenwood where the question of how Australian criminals were laundering drug money arose. 'One number that rolls in my head … is the consumption of, for example, cocaine (and) illicit drugs in Australia is around $14 billion worth per year,' Greenwood said. 'That money has to be laundered because much of it is in cash. Same thing would go for the illegal tobacco trade. 'This is all money that becomes much more difficult to launder as a result of the actions that you will take against the gate keepers to much of the cash that might otherwise engage or find its way to legitimate business.' Ms Miller said the financial crimes agency had broadened the scope of its concern to further crackdown on money laundering practices. 'This is about trying to close those gaps that money launderers can exploit,' she said on Business Weekend. 'Money laundering is organised crime. They look for every opportunity where they can hide their money (and) where they transfer their money. 'This is a constant game of just trying to fill those gaps, lift up the standards so that we just make it harder for criminals to hide the illicit proceeds of their crime.' Greenwood on Thursday said the new efforts by AUSTRAC puts pressure on professionals, such as lawyers and real estate agents, to know where their clients' money is coming from. They will need to have proof of where the money originates before spending large sums of cash into something like property. 'A lot of the money that comes through the cocaine trail ends up in houses in very affluent suburbs in Australia,' Greenwood said. Ms Miller said by expanding the scope of AUSTRAC's view, it was cracking down on criminals that use professional services to access the financial sector. The agency will particularly focusing on cash-heavy businesses and crypto ATMs, which AUSTRAC previously revealed it was cracking down on. 'We're still seeing very high risks of money laundering in that sector and the industry does need to lift its standards and start managing those risks a lot better than is currently happening,' Ms Miller said. AUSTRAC in the past fined Westpac $1.3b, Commonwealth Bank $700m and is poised to fine Star Entertainment Group about $300m for money laundering practices.
