NS6 || Gadalland and Aspern
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SATURDAY, 5 June, 2021
Hemberdale Edition
THE SERTIAN TIMES
GOVERNMENT TO ANNOUNCE SANCTIONS AGAINST ISTKALEN
Councillor of Diplomacy Ralph Haydham announced Friday that the Council of Diplomacy would propose sanctions on the Republic of Istkalen to the Customary Logistics Council on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week. The decision to impose sanctions comes after the Republic of Istkalen's unstable government has committed numerous human rights violations.
The move would also be pursuant to the actions of the Republic of Nofoaga, which imposed strict bans on the trade of many raw minerals and military equipment and prevented Istkalenians from entering Nofoaga unless they were refugees of war. The government has not said whether they will follow Nofoaga's harsh sanctions, but many in the government feel that we should trust our allies.
"What penalties we impose is a matter of how much we decide to condemn the actions of the Republic of Istkalen," said spokesperson Ande Rylon. "Something must be done, and we must show our new allies that we do not stand for this behaviour." Rylon also mentioned that the government, along with diplomatic sanctions, would most likely stop the trade of marine equipment to Istkalen as well as Gold, Tungsten, Silver, and other raw metals found in Gadalland and Aspern.
If the Customary Logistics Council approves the sanctions, some experts argue it may hurt Sertian relations with Istkalen in the future. "We have interests...in Istkalen that we must not compromise," businesswoman Ílod Breon tweeted. "We don't want to ruin our chances with the EU when we've just joined."
PRECIAN TRAVEL BAN IN PLACE FROM MONDAY
As of Monday, 7 June, the Council of Security, with approval from Council Alcalde has announced a provisional travel ban of Sertians travelling to Precia as well as Precians coming to Gadalland and Aspern. Though the government cannot control where boats go, citizens are strongly encouraged to refrain from travel into the Further West Olves.
"We cannot be held responsible for those wishing to risk their lives in the Further West Olves, knowing well that it is extremely dangerous to tempt the Precians," the government said in an official notice, and said they will not be reponsible for any kidnappings or deaths in the Further West Olves. The Interior Council has said that it is not required to respond to a mayday call in the Further West Olves, as it may be a bait.
Tensions in the past month have escalated with regards to the People's State of Precia, following the terror attack on the Council Seat and the mysterious children found at the resort outside Osperfey.
The travel ban will go into effect Monday, 7 June at 22:00. The Customary Logistics Council will vote on the legislation on Wednesday. If it does not pass the Customary Logistics Council, the regulation will end Friday, 11 June at 00:00.
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8 June, 2021
International EditionCUSTOMARY LOGISTICS COUNCIL APPROVES SANCTIONS LAW, WITH ISTKALEN NOT ON THE LIST
This afternoon, the Customary Logistics Council approved Rolling Sanctions Act 2021 into law, making it easier for the government to place sanctions on countries that are seen as a threat to Gadalland and Aspern.
The new law allows the Government to put in place harsh sanctions against treacherous countries or individuals, including a ban of trade on all resources with an abundance of 1% or more, a strict ban on the trade of Sertian-made marine equipment coming from any country, and a travel ban with very limited exceptions.
Noticeably, the Republic of Istkalen was not on the list of sanctioned countries due to a stringent requirement of approval to add an EU country to the list. The law requires all islands' councils to vote unanimously upon applying sanctions to an EU country. The Council of Tytnyn did not provide a unanimous vote, and Istkalen will remain unsanctioned for the time being.
However, all high-ranking government officials from the Istkalenian state are subject to individual sanctions.The current list of sanctioned countries is:
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PEOPLE'S STATE OF PRECIA (as of Friday, 11 June at 00:00)
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FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF SYRNASERIA (as of Friday, 11 June at 00:00)
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CHAMPAGNE SOCIALIST SHARIFISTAN (as of Friday, 11 June at 00:00)
The following individual sanctions are in force as of Tuesday, 8 June at 14:00:
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All high-ranking government officials from the Republic of Istkalen, with the exception of a duly elected EU councillor, are subject to the rules of Rolling Sanctions Act 2021 with immediate effect.
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All government officials from the People's State of Precia are subject to the rules of Rolling Sanctions Act 2021 with immediate effect.
All officials familiar with the matter declined to comment.
The government will release guidelines for affected parties including those awaiting a visa decision, those residing legally in Gadalland and Aspern and those with direct family in Gadalland and Aspern.
The list of sanctioned countries is to be reviewed at the end of each month, with countries to be added or taken off at any time. There will be a four day grace period before a sanction comes into force or is removed.
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OUTRAGE OVER ‘CHAOTIC’ NEW SANCTIONS LAW
Government has given no guidance to affected parties since the sanctions came into force.
Chaos followed the enforcement of Rolling Sanctions Act 2021 on Friday at midnight as those affected scrambled to make plans to return to their country. The most affected were those subject to individual sanctions, and the government has given no guidance for persons subject to individual sanctions or persons from countries subjected to sanctions.
Nationals of Sharifistan, Syrnaseria, and Precia have been allowed to remain in Gadalland and Aspern provided they are residing or visiting legally. However, the narrow list of exemptions to the newly enforced law has forced many to change plans, and no new permits or visas are being awarded. Nationals from sanctioned countries may stay if they have a visitor’s permit or other travel permission, they are deemed essential, they have direct family, they are refugees or they are citizens of Nofoaga.
The most widely infuriating part about this new law, according to a NS6 poll, is the rules for sanctioned individuals. The law states that “high ranking officials” from Precia and Istkalen are prohibited from entering Gadalland and Aspern at all costs. From last Friday, they have a week, or 168 hours, to leave Gadalland and Aspern from an approved port of entry and head directly for their country of nationality. Under this rule, refugees who fall under the rather vague umbrella of “high ranking” are to be sent back to their country of nationality. There are thought to be about 10,000-15,000 escaped government workers from Precia in Gadalland and Aspern as refugees who will be forced to return to the fascist state.
“We cannot, and we will not tolerate individuals who may well be spies remaining in Sertia from a hostile state,” said CLC general manager Goordon Dreb. “These states must be sent the message that these illegal activities committed by these people in Gadalland and Aspern are unacceptable.”
While Iskalen didn’t make the list of official sanctioned countries, the government approved, along extremely partisan lines, individual sanctions for any government staff worker coming to Gadalland and Aspern from the Istkalenian Territory. It is unclear what is meant by that wording in the law.
“This is absolutely ridiculous,” remarked Terry Halensót, Council Member 5 who voted against the bill. “We’ve barely even thought about having a summit with EU member nations, or how we’re going to achieve the Climate Accord goals and instead we’re resorting to un-Vernidian punishments such as banishment.This law comes about a week after the notorious CLC meeting that ended in a shouting match over how to respond to the Istkalenian crisis, as well as a longer movement by the Tríante Party to curb immigration. Proponents of the new law say it will condemn the actions of "unsavoury" governments, and critics say it will harm the Sertian position within the EU, as well as trade with potential partners such as the Istkalenian state.
“It is an inhumane, unjust, confusing and poorly worded, and completely unnecessary law, and to be honest I feel we've ruined our relations with some countries by banishing their diplomats and foreign officials. We should focus on making agreements, not enemies.”
The government has yet to publish any guidance for sanctioned parties, leaving many affected people confounded and unsure what to do. Sanction notifications were sent out on Friday at 00:00 when the law went into effect.
The list of sanctioned countries will be reviewed the last day of each month.
13/6/2021
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News in Brief
25 June, 2021
Early Morning International EditionNOFOAGAN CITIZENS EVACUATED BY GADALLAND AND ASPERN
The eruption of the Mauga'afi volcano in Nofoaga has prompted a large response by the Sertian government.
Whilst all persons in Nofoaga at the moment are held under the control of the Spanish military in bunkers, the government has advised that those who can reach the Embassy of Gadalland and Aspern will have emergency travel to Gadalland and Aspern arranged for them. Additionally, the government has promised emergency six-month passports to anyone arriving from Nofoaga in order to depart for another destination away from the proximity of the Mauga'afi.The government's carrying out of this thorough response has been riddled with holes and inconsistencies, and guidance for Nofoagans arriving in Gadalland and Aspern has been minimal. Hemberdale International Airport was filled with evacuees, to the point at which persons coming to seek shelter for the night had to be turned away. Homeless shelters have been making nightly drives to pick up evacuees with nowhere to stay.
This is a developing issue, and updates will be posted here.SPIGGEN DEFIES SPAIN, CONTINUES EVACUATIONS
In a controversial statement, Head Councillor Henry Spiggen has said that he will "defy the orders of Spain until every single Sertian citizen in Nofoaga is home."
Earlier this morning, Spain indicated in an official statement that evacuations unauthorised by the government of Spain are illegal and highly discouraged. There is no evidence of correspondance from the Sertian government with the government of Spain on the evacuation of Sertians from Nofoaga.Boats have been arriving all night and throughout today and this morning to the Consulate Major of Gadalland and Aspern, the embassy in Nofoaga, to take Sertians back to the islands.
There are an estimated 340 Sertian citizens in Nofoaga, and about 140 have evacuated. However, only about 100 have been acknowledged as present by the Sertian government.
Critics of Spiggen have expressed concern about the dangers of encouraging citizens to defy a foreign government in a time of crisis, when the danger is not only to themselves but to the reputation of Gadalland and Aspern's government. The individuals that have disappeared all used private sea vessel transport.Citizens of Gadalland and Aspern are currently urged by the government to proceed immediately to Consulate Major of Gadalland and Aspern in Nofoaga in order to be evacuated and to use the transport provided.
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News in Brief
2 July, 2021
Hemberdale EditionTWO MONTENBOURG CITIZENS DETAINED BY SERTIAN POLICE
Earlier this morning, the Council of Defence announced that they had been holding two Montenbourg citizens in custody since yesterday morning for entering Gadalland and Aspern illegally. The two individuals, who are currently not being identified, were not only accused of Illegal Entry and Residence but were later found to have forcibly entered a home outside of Brenshower in the Nay'Duns.
In Gadalland and Aspern, it is illegal to keep a person in custody for over 24 hours unless more compelling evidence was found. If that is the case, then the person must be either formally charged with a crime or released. However, the government is utilising the Holding Period Extension Clause which only applies to foreign citizens. This gives the government time to communicate with the relevant foreign government.
It is yet to be seen whether these individuals will be charged with a crime or released and deported to Montenbourg. It is also not known whether the government of Montenbourg has even been notified of this arrest.
Montenbourg is an ally of Gadalland and Aspern, and there is hope that relations will not be dashed by this unfortunate incident.
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3 August 2021
International EditionTwo New Acts Introduced to the Customary Logistics Council
This afternoon, Councillor Jamison Earhart of the Cadinafoy province and Councillor Fey Sewarty of the West Olves introduced two major bills to be debated and voted upon in the Council Chamber.
The first, introduced by Councillor Earhart would allow a judge appointed by Council Alcalde to change the category of a case from Layeonic (civil, in international terms) to Criminal in order to impose a criminal sentence upon someone who is suspected to have committed a heinous felony or an Unaccepatable Offence. Such would be done if the judge presiding over the case could prove beyond any doubt to Council Alcalde that the suspect should be tried for a criminal offence.
There are four Unacceptable Offences in Sertian Law:
- Treason
- Kidnapping
- Grade 4 murder
- Perjury
The controversial punishment for the four Unacceptable Offences, under medieval code, is permanent and strict exile which still exists today. However, many convicted of these offences are permitted to remain in Gadalland and Aspern under detention to have their case appealed. About 20 Sertian citizens per year are exiled under this pretense.
The bill would also serve to protect those wrongly accused of a criminal offence by allowing a judge to change the category of a Criminal case to that of a Layeonic one, eliminating the chance of detention.
"I am confident that this bill will only serve to promote fairness in our justice system," Councillor Earhart said in opening statements.
Thus began a long debate in the War Chamber today, with Councillor Earhart defending the bill from the many verbal attacks delivered by disapproving councillors.
"I am worried, councillor Earhart, that this bill will make it easier for us to banish our citizens. It is surprisingly easy to find someone guilty of an Unacceptable Offence, the idea of which is wholly outdated," said Councillor Gillibry of Unthrushroe. Councillor Unthrushroe also serves as a Council Alcalde appointed judge.
The second bill, introduced by Councillor Sewarty, would allow for countries with "strong diplomatic ties" to Gadalland and Aspern to be permitted entry for 90 days without needing to apply for a visa. This comes after the Embassy of the Kingdom of Reitzmag opened in Hemberdale last week, and the Embassy of the Nofoaga Islands opened last month.
This act received a more positive response in the War Chamber, which has tried to promote healthy tourism after Gadalland and Aspern has been placed on high-risk travel advisories. The act defines "strong diplomatic ties" as nations with which Gadalland and Aspern has established embassies.
The Council of Diplomacy hopes to establish embassies with all European nations by next year in order to promote the well-being of European citizens.
A separate provisional act has been put in place for citizens of the Nofoaga Islands still seeking refuge from the eruption and subsequent displacement caused by the volcanic eruption last month, allowing them to obtain an emergency six month passport for safe passage through or residence in Gadalland and Aspern. The provision is set to expire the end of this year.
There has been no debate on this bill in the chamber yet, and all councillors have declined to comment.
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19/8/2021
News In BriefFirst Memorial Day Without Head Councillor
Today, 13 August is the date upon which Sertians remember the dark times of Pre-Vernaian Sertia, which saw the deaths of almost half of the Islands' population over a course of about 419 years from 805-1224. The academic and formal name of this time period is the Pre-Vernaian Era or the Pre-Vernaian Wars, which is compared to the Middle Ages in other European countries.
The Pre-Vernaian Wars were a result of the lack of organisation amongst the islands that today compose the Sertian Union, including drastic and vast differences between economies, currency and trade expectations. The most likely explanation for the economic and social discrepancies between each individual island nation was the lack of interaction with the other island kingdoms. The border between the historic Gadalland and Aspern was agreed upon in 1180.
This Memorial Day, Councillor Spiggen is still missing, with no news regarding the situation coming from the government. Experts close to the government say that in order to 'maintain stability,' the office of Head Councillor Dína will remain silent on the matter until further notice.
Historic Number of Immigrants Arrive in Gadalland and Aspern
Many ports of entry to the Sertian Union reported the highest number of refugee applications being opened today.
At Hemberdale Airport, where usually 16-20,000 people pass through each day, a whopping 35,000 people were recorded arriving on flights from mostly outside the EU in addition to the usual flow of passengers. Some of the refugee applications were opened from the Nofoaga Islands and elsewhere around the EU.
Anybody can apply to be a refugee in Gadalland and Aspern. All circumstances are taken into account when a refugee application is opened. The application is not required to originate from an unstable state . However, there must be firm reasons why the application should be opened such as an abusive household, or pursuit by gangs or other hostile groups.
In addition to refugees, many have taken advantage of the new scheme set up by the government that allows passengers from states with embassies or consulates in Gadalland and Aspern to enter the country without a Visitor Visa. These states include Reitzmag, Inimicus, Inquista, Spain and the Nofoaga Islands.
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GADALLAND AND ASPERN ON LOCKDOWN DAYS AFTER MEMORIAL DAY
23 August 2021
The government, led by pHC and European Councillor Dína, has placed the country under a severe lockdown following news that the government has once again been infiltrated by the terrorist organisation, the Drarts.
Yesterday afternoon the government released the provisions of the lockdown, prohibiting all non-essential functions in public spaces in order to isolate those who may be planning terrorist actions. Such a drastic measure has never been taken by any previous Head Councillor. However, Dína indicated she was acting on Head Councillor Spiggen's goals prior to his kidnapping.
It is believed that Mr. Spiggen is being held within Gadalland and Aspern, but the Drarts' network is vast and far-reaching and hard to track down.
"A Necessary Evil"
Whilst nothing is known about how the government came to the conclusion of a lockdown, officials and councillors have called it 'a necessary evil.' Those close to the government speculate that the Sertian Intelligence Force may have introduced the idea to the Customary Logistics Council, which is how it received a unanimous vote in the War Chamber.
"The idea which I think [the Sertian Intelligence Force] has is that, if you keep people inside, the people who are outside are more likely to be associated with the terrorist threat," said a source who spoke on the condition of anonymity.
Differing Mandates
For those in cosmopolitan areas living in high-rises or apartments, it will be easier to conduct life whilst the government is in lockdown. However, for many who live outside of the city or on farms, it will be more dangerous to do their job.
The government has issued additional guidance saying that those whose occupations are agricultural, or they use any outdoor activity to support themselves financially, must stay on their property unless it is absolutely unreasonable to.
Those whose jobs are solely outside are further instructed to closely monitor their property for any suspicious activity, as the Drarts are known to hide under peoples' noses.
Not A New Threat
The history of the Drarts can be traced back to about the 13th Century CE, when a group of unsatisfied farmers and city dwellers banded together to attempt to overthrow the society that Verna II of Osperfey had created. They were most active in the 14th-17th centuries, when they created a network of people and underground passages through catacombs and canals, many of which are confirmed to exist today.
The Drarts also operated by use of symbolic objects to recognise one another such as tapestries and pots.
Intelligence services are actively scouring the country for tunnels and symbolic objects that represent Drart activity. However they are speculated to use more modern techniques such as hacking.
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LOCKDOWN REPEALED, SPIGGEN'S BODY FOUND
ALL EVIDENCE POINTS TO DRART ATTACKS
MAJORITY OF DRART POPULATION, OUTPOSTS DESTROYED15 September 2021
Only three weeks after the terror-related lockdown came into place, forcing all Sertians to upend their lifestlyes, the lockdown has abruptly ended after the Security Council reported they have now occupied a majority of Drart encampments and many of the members have now fled the country or been arrested.
The body of Head Councillor Henry Spiggen was found late on 2 September in a Sertian Bothorist church near Helmskeep in the Kingdom of Aspern. Sources say this placement was very much intentional and based on scaring Gadalland and Aspern into submission. The nation has gone into a period of mourning for the influential Head Councillor, who was known for his devotion to the improvement of Sertian society as well as making Sertian culture more well-known. He was also known for his quick wit and his compassionate view on immigrants and refugees.
Taking his place will be European Councillor Dina, who was an appointment by the Independent European Council for Sertia (IECS), the government's main advisory body on all issues regarding relations with the EU. IECS is known for its more conservative viewpoints and keeping Gadalland and Aspern a 'sovereign' nation.
There has been speculation that some of Spiggen's policies in immigration and taxes will be repealed, but that will not be certain for some time.
Ms. Dina is expected to give a statement on the end of the lockdown and the beginning of her term as Head Councillor tomorrow, 16 September at 16:00.
COUNCILLOR DINA'S FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS
It has been reported in the past few days that the government has mulled the idea of requiring all nations to register for an embassy by 31 December or face immigration curtailments for foreign nationals coming to Gadalland and Aspern, including refugees. This comes after the plans for more strict security at airports and more police presence at the border.
A spokesperson for Dina has said that the reason for the move is "to make sure everyone who comes to Gadalland and Aspern is not abandoned by their own government" and to make sure they are able to return to their country when stipulated by their immigration permission.
Immigration is counted on by experts to be a hot topic in the next few months, with Councillor Dina making new appointments to the Customary Logistics Council. However, this policy has overwhelming support with the majority of officers in the CLC at the moment.
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17 September 2021
International EditionSERTIA, NOFOAGA TO PROPOSE CARIBBEAN TREATY
This morning, Councillor Dina announced that she has been in discussion with the President of Nofoaga, Jacques Sale, about the drafting of a Caribbean Treaty. The main portions of the draft include mentions of a joint maritime security agency, a customs union and a free movement agreement between the two close allies.
The treaty would establish the Caribbean Maritime Service, which will have the power to enforce border and customs security, oceanic research, weather monitoring and emergency sea rescues.
The treaty was called for after some Nofoagan citizens arrived to Gadalland and Aspern and received Sertian emergency passports, which allowed them to reside in the Sertian Union for six months. Many did not make it to Gadalland and Aspern, though finding the prospect encouraging, after being urged to defy the Spanish Government by late Councillor Spiggen, an act all Sertian parties condemned as 'deplorable.'
The main task of the Maritime Security Service during times of crisis would be to oversee the safe execution of evacuation measures between Nofoaga and Gadalland and Aspern.
In addition, citizens of both countries would be permitted to move freely between the Sertian Union and the Republic of Nofoaga, protecting their working and residence rights in both places.
Both governments see the value in working with one another in order to reach common goals, as it goes without saying the two nations have very much in common.
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28 October, 2021
International Edition'Stay Out of Europe' Movement Gains Some Limelight As Election Cycle Begins
All council seats will be up for election on 13 December, 2022
More nominees running on 'Stay Out of Europe' platform
The first nominations for the General Election on 5 January, 2022 were due for submission to the Council Heads yesterday morning. Almost 2,000 nominees in total, were on the list.
The most nominations were for the position of Head Councillor.Some of the more prominent nominees include philanthropist Freer Halsworth, former Alcalde Councillor Cashel Yrtryras, and incumbent Diplomacy Councillor Haxxen Fermota.
But possibly the most notable candidate in the past two weeks has been former Head Councillor Guthren Wond, who was most notable during his time in office for his stiff position on refusing to approve the ratification of any large-scale treaty organisation admissions, such as the EU. He has returned with the same message: 'Stay Out of Europe'.
However, the public's stance on Gadalland and Aspern's EU membership is overwhelmingly positive, and Wond's stance is noticeably more moderate than before. Rather than a 'total parting' with the EU, Wond believes 'limiting our contact with the mainland' would be helpful in the long run.
Elections in Gadalland and Aspern
Elections in Gadalland and Aspern are generally quite straightforward. Every legal citizen registered with a council can vote for both the Head Councillor and one of the candidates for their Council of Profession (CP). They cannot vote for any other members of the Customary Logistics Council.
Election Week, more commonly known as Pillor, sees the hiring of recreational horse carriages streak upward. Though more and more people now have cars in Gadalland and Aspern, the main transportation is by foot or by horse carriage which is the reason for such long election cycles.
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12 November 2021
International EditionCouncil of Innovation Passes New, Lower Tax Rates
The historic 70.4% total tax rate for Sertian citizens is due to see a decrease in the coming weeks.
The new Sertian Tax Act 2021 was just passed by a unanimous vote by those voters registered with the Council of Innovation. A unanimous vote on a law has not been seen since 1981, when the Council of Diplomacy proposed funds to rescue the stranded Sertians on the Isle of Precia.
The law will affect the three major tax sectors in Gadalland and Aspern: Income, Property and Healthcare.
The law will see the Healthcare tax completely eradicated, with the legislation also regulating the affairs of private healthcare corporations so as to make both options the most affordable. Non-citizens who need a visa to come to Gadalland and Aspern will still be required to pay a one-time fee for access to healthcare.
The funds to support the Health system will come from the significant backlog of unused money the government has from the old tax system. Because private healthcare will become more accessible, the government hopes every Sertian will have access to efficient health services.
On savings accounts, taxes will be applied only after the funds accumulated exceed |B| 580,000, or less if your bank's interest rate is higher, and will not exceed 3%.
The new tax rates will be as follows:Non-Taxable Amount (NTA): |B| 90,000
Tax Bands
Band 1: |B| 90,000-250,000
Income Tax: 5%Band 2: |B| 250,000-500,000
Income Tax: 7%Band 3: |B| 500,000-1,000,000
Income Tax: 30%Band 4: |B| 1,000,000-250,000,000
Income Tax: 35%Band 5: |B| 250,000,000-500,000,000
Income Tax: 40%
No NTABand 6: |B| 500,000,000+
Income Tax: 50%
No NTAThe maximum Property Tax for Bands 1-3 will be 4%, whilst Bands 4-6 will be 18%.
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What You Need to Know About Christmastide in Gadalland and Aspern
30 November, 2021
Tomorrow begins the religious recognition of Advent in Bothorism, which is the lead up to the great Christmas celebration.
In Gadalland and Aspern, cities, farms, and people are preparing for Advent the traditional Sertian way.
In Bothorism, Christmas is usually celebrated a week earlier than in other Christian countries. This is because up until 1882 Christmas always fell on the last day of the Gallish year. The Gallish calendar, unlike many things, was not changed by Verna II of Osperfey on her 'Efërmaias Forsutrum', or "Union Walk" in the 11th century as it was one thing the seven islands never fought over.
In 1882, Head Councillor Renet Poirsom turned the Gallish calendar into antiquity in order to organise events and policy with other nations. However, in a patriotic move, Poirson kept the original date Sertians celebrate Christmas.
Since 1882, Christmastide starts on 1 December and ends 16 December, even though the calendar is now normalised.
After Christmas is the time when young people, who have come of age, move away from Gadalland and Aspern to start a new life elsewhere, which is why the first half of December is a celebration of family and life.
Cities will host Poorschendren Haywyt, an equivalent of Christmas Markets, where vendors will sell decorations, traditional food such as Goritha, flying fish and eggs, and Poorschwieth, Christmas Fruit Mash.
In the university tradition, students usually return home during the month of December, except at the ancient Dredthe University, where examinations are held on 17 December.
Later in Christmastide, the country will quiet down, and on 16 December many places are completely closed.
On 16 December, at dawn, the country will wake up and go to the docks to celebrate Seeing In the Mast. In ancient tradition, the Sun of a new year is welcomed over the horizon, and those who arrive in Sertia at sunrise will have one year of God's good faith.
In the afternoon, families will go home and gather for conversation. As today is the day the young workers leave, this is the last chance to speak as an entire family. With new online video calling, this tradition is left to the older folk. But nonetheless, it is recognised by those who remain in Gadalland and Aspern.
In the evening, it is time for Seeing Out the Mast, where the young people are set aboard their vessel and depart with the setting Sun, but not before eating a last Sertian feast. It is also ancient superstition that your boat must leave at sunset on Christmas to be on God's good side.
Some will go as close as Nofoaga, and some as far as Spain or Inquista. In Bothorist tradition, it is said the leavers who depart on Christmas now have the Blessing of the Isles, which is important for a safe sea voyage.
Many of the Leavers still travel to those foreign lands by sea, a last signal of respect for the old Sertian tradition before entering the cosmopolitan world. Seeing Out the Mast is a heavily advertised event, and tourists come from all over the world to take part.
It was normal up until this past century that those who left Gadalland and Aspern never once returned. Now, however, many come and visit for the Holidays due to the accessibility of air travel.
Many workers who used to have only half of December as a holiday now have all of December as holiday.
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5 December 2021
International EditionCLC votes 13 December Election Decision Date
The polls for the 2021 Customary Logistics Council Elections have opened today, after the current Council voted on 13 December for a decision to be made on the new council members.
Each year, the CLC votes for a date to hold the election, usually in December, in order to make adjustments as needed. Candidates can also request extra time to campaign.Most notably this election cycle, the 'Stay Out of Europe (SOOE)' campaign has been run by a number of candidates who seek less association with the European continent. The frontrunner of this campaign is the Social Conservative Party member Holerth Nunnen, who began his campaign with staunch anti-immigrant, rather radically conservative and nativist views, but has since modified his message to more moderate standpoints.
At this point, it is too early to tell who is projected to become Head Councillor, but Nunnen has led the strongest in the polls since the spat between Spain and Yosai and the rise of SOOE.
The CLC has indicated they will release public information about the election, including facts about each candidate and what they hope to achieve as councillors. This information will be available for free to the general public.
In tradition, election day is heavily regarded as one of the most important holidays in Gadalland and Aspern. It is generally viewed as an honour and privilege to vote, but there is a large number of people each year who do not cast a ballot.
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23 December 2021
International EditionUPSET VICTORY FOR GUTHRUN WOND, NATIONALIST PARTY
Guthrun Wond To Be New Head Councillor In 2022
In what seemed to many a shocking upset of an election, on 13 December it was announced that Guthrun Wond, the figurehead of the Nationalist Party for Gadalland and Aspern, has been popularly elected to the seat of Head Councillor for the next term.
The Nationalist Party Association spokesperson, Emmy Gwynath was 'admittedly a bit surprised' after hearing the news, but she attributes it to 'the popular opinion of the state at this moment in time'.
Meanwhile, some expressed shock and dismay over this upset victory, one of whom being Councillor Dína, the current Head Councillor.
"I am shocked people in Sertia feel so strongly about some issues, enough to elect a nationalist leader. I can only speculate the things which may happen in the future." Many others are not optimistic about what Mr. Wond may do to Sertia, calling him 'corrupt' and 'embarrassing.'
Mr. Wond began his political career, after graduating from Dredthe University in Hemberdale, as an outspoken member of the Customary Logistics Council. He was ousted in 2021, just before Gadalland and Aspern joined the EU. However, when such deliberations came about in early 2021, Mr. Wond vehemently opposed membership, calling it 'illegal' and 'pointlessly expensive'.
As Interior Councillor from 2014-2017, Mr. Wond made a concerted effort to prevent rail development across the country, calling it 'inefficient and crowded', and that 'taxpayers will absolutely think us monsters'.
In 2018, Mr. Wond was arrested and tried by Council Alcalde over suspected money-laundering whilst he was Interior Councillor. To the dismay of many, he was acquitted.
'I want to thank everyone who helped me get here. You're all truly great', he said in his victory speech. 'Now we start what should have started long ago'.
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Head Councillor Guthrun Wond Instates Berrá Nacar as European Councillor, Ousts Dína
New Head Councillor Guthrun Wond continued his overhaul of the Sertian government Tuesday by ousting longtime European Councillor Édutitalle Dína and replacing her with Berrá Nacar.
Nacar to this date has no history in politics, and was installed by Mr. Wond on the basis of their mutual 'positive working relationship'.
Mr. Nacar is known by many for his fiery rhetoric regarding immigration, healthcare and calling former Head Councillor Henry Spiggens kidnapping and subsequent death 'the best reform ever'.Today, Mr. Nacar is expected to vote against the current bill up for voting in the European Government, regulating employment contract formation and termination. However, this has not been confirmed.
There is significant outrage regarding Mr. Wond's shocking CLC victory and his appointments, many of whom have no political background. Ms. Dína has, and is expected to remain silent on this matter.
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Wond Recommended for Expulsion Vote by Third Party
13 January 2022
Head Councillor Guthrun Wond has been recommended for expulsion in the upcoming Vote of Expulsion, set by the Customary Logistics Council for 15 January, 2022.
The recommendation was given by the Interim Leadership Authority, responsible for maintaining stability in the event that something happens to the head councillor.
Guthrun Wond has been formally charged by the ILA with Obstruction of Custom, which is not a charge to be taken lightly. A charge of Obstruction of Custom doesn't simply mean tradition has been broken, but that a crucial part of CLC protocol has been intentionally overlooked for the purposes of circumventing justice and a fair CLC vote.
Wond is charged with Obstruction of Custom for unlawfully appointing a new EU councillor without a public vote. According to EU law, a public vote is required to instate a new EU councillor. The reasons for Wond's actions are unclear, but many are certain it is due to his 'aggressive political nature', as dubbed by his aides.
Wond is known for his deep dislike of the European Union as a community creation on the basis that it is too controlling of EU countries. "We are not here to be controlled, we're here because some dummies voted on it", Wond previously said.
Mr. Wond has been in the process of upturning immigration law in Gadalland and Aspern before the recommendation by the ILA came in. For now, Mr. Wond is on probationary call and is unable to pass new orders without a full CLC vote.
On 15 January, the CLC will vote on Mr. Wond's charges. If a majority decide he is guilty, he will be ousted and Édutitalle Dína will return to Head Councillor position effective immediately. If he is found not guilty by the CLC he will be excused and his full powers as head councillor will return.
Either way this goes, the ILA has also found that Mr. Wond will be eligible for formal Layeonic charges in a court of law.
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GUTHRUN WOND REINSTATED BY CLC VOTE
Passes Action to Curtail Refugee Admissions
24 January, 2022
International EditionIn a decision that seemed a shock to many, Guthrun Wond, who was charged with Obstruction of Tradition, has been reinstated to his position as Head Councillor of the Customary Logistics Council.
This afternoon, Cllr. Wond passed a number of orders aimed at curtailing the number of refugees admitted to Gadalland and Aspern under the pretense of 'putting citizens first'.
"We cannot, and will not, treat our people like second class citizens. They will always be our first priority", Mr. Wond said in a statement.
This comes after Mr. Wond was placed on leave by the Independent Leadership Authority, after an assessment that Mr. Wond violated EU Constitutional law by ousting Édutitalle Dína, the current European Councillor for Gadalland and Aspern without a public vote.
However, he has been found not guilty of this offence, and the Customary Logistics Council has voted him to remain as councillor.
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Government Offices, Historic War Room to be on display
Exhibitions and tours beginning 20 February
9 February
After a plan was put in place almost 15 years ago, the Customary Logistics Council sessions will now be open to the public, in person and through a live-streaming service.
The CLC building, also known as Myrwray hn Daqer ("highest seat" in Old Sertian), will now be host to the Museum of Gadalland and Aspern, which will feature exhibitions downstairs. Upstairs, the notorious War Room, where the Customary Logistics Council has met since August 1227, will also be on display whilst CLC deliberations are not in session.
Exterior of Myrwray hn Daqer from Eldren Street
The CLC War Room, in use since 1227 -
25 April, 2022
International EditionHorse-drawn street carriages to expand to the countryside
Sertians living in cities are very familiar, and reliant upon, horse-drawn, rail guided street cars.
The government has approved funding for long-distance horse-drawn carriages, which will be run primarily by an incentive-based system. Those who volunteer to operate this new form of public transport will receive special tax breaks, as well as increased loan forgiveness and inflated Elders' Care and Health
The new scheme, which the government announced just today, includes about 2,000 miles of rail laid across the country, in the scheme's first phase, for these carriages to follow. They will mainly be city-oriented. In other words, they will connect the countryside to the cities.
In more recent months, since Gadalland and Aspern has joined the EU, there have been more Election Day celebrations within cities. Traditionally, country folk are meant to make pilgrimages to the cities for elections. However, EU elections are more frequent, and thus this tradition may not apply to these elections in the future.
There have also been reports that, when the time comes, the rail and stations built for horse-drawn carriages will double as rails for high-speed electric trains. However, these reports are unconfirmed.
Currently, the horse carriages that are common land transport throughout most of the country are self-guided, and result in more occurrences of delayed journeys because of lost drivers and slow progress.
This new scheme will put Sertia at an advantage, with respect to future development of railways, in that any contracts agreed upon will not need to include the price of building the railway.
The project completion date has not yet been released.
