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Waking the dead

2008-07-07T02:39:00.002Z

In the past 48 hours I've managed less than four hours sleep. I've only eaten a mouthful of tender beef too. So as you can probably gather it's not been the most glorious weekend.

Saturday sucked big time. I mean stinkingly huge, big time. Sunday was spent trying to work out how Saturday went so bad - I still have no idea. And now it's almost Monday morning and I'm ploughing through work, albeit very tiredly.

But the funny thing about days that really suck, there's always some positive that you know wouldn't have happened without the sucking - not that it makes up for it, but it helps. Still, Saturday sucked.

Gotta roll with the punches I say!

The Lord is my Shepherd. Am I a sheep?

2008-03-22T21:16:00.003Z

The Archbishop of Wales says faith is more important than the truth. Should we therefore stop asking questions and follow the pack?

The resurrection of Jesus is fulcrum to the Christian faith. Before his crucifixion - while he was certainly revered by his followers - Jesus of Nazareth was no more than a wise teacher, perhaps even today what we call a guru.

But while he seems to have had a small though loyal following, it is not until his death and subsequent alleged rising that Jesus of Nazareth appears to have fulfilled an Old Testament prophecy. That is, he became the Messiah - a long awaited figure it was believed would rule the Jewish people and bring peace. His ascension to Heaven Christians say, is proof that Jesus was indeed the living son of God. So according to such, it is imperative for them to believe that the resurrection occurred.

Yet in his Easter sermon, the Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan, is to tell his congregation that there is no proof this event happened. Instead, he will say it is faith in the reality of the resurrection which of greater importance. In effect, he is asking his audience and the wider community to believe in an ‘apparent truth’ and subtly demanding they not question the validity of the Gospel accounts.

Like all large institutions, the Church wants us to believe in its doctrine, without examination. And Dr Morgan appears happy to have blind followers, rather than those that seek the truth. However, given that this week we have also commemorated the fifth anniversary of the invasion into Iraq, his message falls flat.

In the months leading up to the start of the war, the Government repeatedly claimed that Saddam Hussein was hiding Weapons of Mass Destruction. We were told that he would use these to launch an attack on the Western world. That we were close to losing what we valued most – our freedom.

History now shows us that this was not true. And while millions did protest against the war, the movement was not strong enough to deter the then Prime Minister, Tony Blair, from deploying British troops. The movement was also largely ignored by the UK media. It was chiefly in support of Blair’s decision and failed miserably to check the evidence brandished for WMD’s.

This incredible lack of journalistic rigour was widespread. Fleet Street consumed press releases and churned them out for the wider public. The data seemed concrete and to top it all, Saddam was evil. To add to this, Blair appealed to our compassion and guilt in his arguments. He told us it was ‘the right thing to do’. Morally while many disagreed with war, they also knew the regime of Saddam was not a fair one for the people of Iraq. And so five years ago the bombs fell on Baghdad and the tanks rolled in.

The media showed faith in the Government, faith that was in hindsight misplaced. What Dr Morgan forgets this Easter is that while faith is important, proof in many cases is imperative.

Pack your bags - the Welsh are still anti-English

2008-02-18T00:22:00.003Z

This week backers of a new Welsh daily, Y Byd, accused the Assembly Government of pulling the financial rug from underneath them. In doing so, the paper which had been due to be launched next month, has been killed off before it had chance to breath. Dyddiol Cyf, the company behind Y Byd, have wasted no time in pointing the finger at whom it believes was chief knife wielder - Heritage Minister and Plaid Cymru AM, Rhodri Glyn Thomas.

In a statement, Dyddiol Cyf's chairman, Ned Thomas, claimed the recent announcement on funding of the Welsh press, made it impossible for it to establish a Welsh-language daily paper. Not content with throwing a few stones, Mr Thomas went all out hurling a big fat boulder at Plaid Cymru's part in the current coalition government with Labour. When Mr Thomas said that the Ministers decision surmounted to breaking a commitment as set out in the One Wales document, he was in effect, telling Plaid they were no longer representing the needs of the Welsh speaking community.

The document, which paved the way for the Labour-Plaid coalition, clearly sets out a number of promises, one of which is to "expand the funding and support for Welsh-medium magazines and newspapers, including the establishment of a Welsh-language daily newspaper." Mr Thomas felt that the extra money announced to support a Welsh print publication was not sufficient. That money fell three times (£400,000) lower than Dyddiol Cyf had demanded.

However, given the lack of support the company had gathered from the Welsh speaking community, it could be argued that supply would have far out numbered demand for such a paper. In its original plans, Dyddiol Cyf aimed to attract 5,000 subscribers, a month before it was due to launch it had just 700. Furthermore, Y Byd's backers were not in any shape ever to be the sole recipients of such money.

The extra £200,000 a year offered already has other potential companies sniffing around. It appears that Trinity Mirror, Parent group to Media Wales who own the Western Mail, are one.

When the apparent interest by Trinity Mirror was highlighted to one of Y Byd's backers, Hywel Teifi Edwards, on BBC Radio Wales' morning news programme, Mr Edwards spat the proverbial dummy. He exclaimed that there was a huge difference between having control here in Wales compared to a Welsh daily being controlled "in the hands of a foreign body," who would, he said, "pull the plug," at the first signs of economic weakness. That body of course, being a company based in England.

For all his passion - which is to be admired, Mr Edwards' interview left a nasty taste in the mouth. The sort that brings up memories of holiday homes in Wales owned by English people being burnt. His utter distain for the possibility that a paper he so badly desires to "fulfil a democratic need in Wales," to exist in control other than that of the Welsh, bordered on racial hatred.

While Welsh speakers have every right to wish and even have a daily paper printed in their mother tongue, it shouldn't be a burden for the rest of us. As other Welsh-medium magazines have proven* there is not enough demand from the Welsh speaking public to sustain such publications and keep them afloat economically, without huge subsidies. Until that point, having a company, English based or not, that may take up the offer to pursue publishing solely in Welsh shouldn't be defecated on. A welsh daily, may like many other ventures when they are emerging from the womb, garner support as they mature. At which point, a Welsh paper controlled by the Welsh may be more than just a whim - it could become a reality.

Dyddiol Cyf say they are already considering a number of other positive ideas which could give a much-needed boost to the Welsh Press, this is to be applauded. Perhaps in future it needs to also consider more carefully the fanatical element it attracts in the mould of Mr Edwards.

* Each copy of 'Barn,' a Welsh magazine is subsidised to the tune of £9 per copy

Almost done

2007-09-27T06:53:00.000Z

It's the last day of our shoot in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. All our interviews are done and with the exception of one where it was impossible with the equipment we have to sort out the audio (he sounds like he's growling occasionally into the mike)- I'm relatively happy with them.

We're using this last day to shoot some opening scenes in the countryside around the city - to show a different feel of Cambodia - one most people would be more familiar with and just to tie up loose ends. I've been able to check through the most important tapes, though I'm still a little aprehensive about the work I have ahead of me in the editing suite to make it all flow. If we've missed anything - there's no going back.

Let's hope I did cover all bases...

Half Full

2007-09-23T05:00:00.000Z

I'm mid way through filming a documentary in Cambodia focusing on the relationship between education and children who work the streets. This is my very first experience shooting an extended piece, up until now I've just created short packages for news style programmes while at University. So, I'm constantly learning.

It's a very basic operation, myself and a camera person. I always understood that between us it would be a massive undertaking as we're only here in Phnom Penh for ten days. Perhaps I didn't realise just how intensive it would be.

So far, we've had mis-communication about the style of the piece and had to get to grapples with different ways of shooting. Working with a friend can be tough for the first time, especially if you're not happy with the material gained and it means re-shooting. We're getting there, but it's still difficult to feel that you have to control every element of the piece - even double checking each shot your camera person sets up.

Yesterday we filmed two interviews in the morning with a charity based here called 'Friends'. They're an organisation that works with children who sell books etc on the streets and try and get them back into school. They do this by providing support for parents and aiding with the costs of receiving an education. I checked the set up (the way the person looked on camera) and on both occasions I was happy. From this I thought it was apparent what kind of shot I am looking for in interviews - I now know to not take this for granted.

Reviewing a third interview we took later that day I realised I hadn't checked it carefully enough, relying on our positive earlier experiences that day. So it means we have to re-shoot the entire interview as I believe that what I have with such a wide shot, too many distractions in sight, which would pull focus away from the subject.

Thankfully we can re-shoot this time, but the lesson has been learned. As the Producer and Director of this piece, I need to be the eyes and ears, check every detail throughily until I'm sure it's what I want. Next time I may not have the chance to re-shoot and would have not only wasted time and money, but could have lost a pivitol element.

It's hard work keeping abreast of everything and it's obvious why you need to work with a team before shooting, so you're all on the same level. Though even then, it's my job to check and check - something from here on in I will make sure I do.

We already have some excellent material and there are still interviews we're waiting on. And with four and a half more days of filming, I believe we'll get there.

The dance of mis-communication...

2007-09-21T06:02:00.000Z

After two days shooting, we finally had time today to review some of the material without breaking the time code - for non TV/Filming geeks this is the code that helps us know where exactly on a tape the material we want to use it, saving countless hours of trailing through tape. It's only when you hook up your camera to a better outlet that you get an idea of what shots you have and what went horribly wrong.

I'm here with the aid of a relatively accomplished camera man, but it seems that while I thought we were on the same level, perhaps that was never a given. It turns out that our training and ideas over what the shoot should look and feel like are in every element polarised. I've been educated to look at projects from a journalistic angle, setting up shots for cut aways, 15 second stills, only recording when I'm sure I have exactly what I want - making the editing process easier and saving tape.

On the opposite side, my camera man went to film school, where you move with your subject, frame and re-frame while still recording. It gives a far freer look and even some would argue more dynamic, but to me it's an editing nightmare and requires double the amount of tape - a luxury I don't have.

It's no one's fault - or if it is it's mine. Here is a lesson in communication between those who intend to embark on a project together.

Luckily we're only a few days in. The material that needs to be re-shot can be. From here on in we are on the same page and we're going to blitz this doco. 6 days to go - four more interviews and we'll see where we get to.

Serendipity

2007-09-20T15:17:00.000Z

The idea of creating a documentary from scratch unnerved me from the start. It's a first attempt, so you expect hurdles - lessons as such, especially when your subject is in another country and speaks english as a second language. No matter how much preparation I put in, there was always room for the entire project to fall apart the moment we hit Cambodia. But so far, that hasn't happened.

Arriving in Phnom Penh was generally as I recalled - hot, sweaty, with an abundance of poverty wherever the eye looks. What is different though is the increased wealth, so obvious from the explosion of suv's, upmarkets shops and 5 star hotels popping up along the waterfront.

We spent the first day picking up extra shots, background to the whole feature so that we could adhust to the climate and allow time to make contact with the main feature of my piece - Mr Rarn. He's a man whose story I've often though about since our first meeting two years ago.

It was while travelling through south east asia that I met Mr Rarn - a local tour guide. He'd survived the Cambodian genocide under the rule of Pol Pot and now was trying to make a difference in his own community by educating those who couldn't afford to go to school - using his own earnings to do so.

Unlike in western countries, education in Cambodia is not free, nor obligatory. Most children spend their days begging on the streets and increased tourism is only adding to the problem, as children, and their parents realise that they can make more money from begging or selling in one night, than they could in a whole week. More tourists means more money and less chance the children are sent to school.

All children pay for their education in Cambodia - though the payment is often presented as anything other than a direct payment. Teachers live on dreary salaries - about $25 a month - half of the average wage in the country. So to bloster their wages they charge children for amenities such as electricty and water. Before uniforms - which are manditory - and books are added in the most basic education costs one thousand riel (25 cents US) a week. While this may seem like a paltry amount, most families in Cambodia live on less than $1 aday.

Mr Rarn runs a school for free and though only 15 children attend - that's 15 children who otherwise would not be receiving any kind of education. His input is most defintely invaluable and we're here to tell his story over the next 10 days.

Let's see how it all goes!

I'm alive...by the way

2007-07-06T22:15:00.000Z

I realise that I haven't updated since my last rather dubious blog. More on that soon, but right now I'm back in the UK after an intense couple of weeks. I'm quiet as I'm working crazy hours on a newsdesk training and writting my dissertation - it's great to be back.

Walking on broken glass

2007-06-15T16:34:00.000Z

In the past few days the violence in Gaza has spilled over into the West Bank and the city of Nablus where I'm staying has become the latest front line. Instead of the night being broken up by the sound of Israeli guns and tanks we now live in the constant shadow of the local militia.

Gun shots fill the air as we sit and wait for news. We know how many have been kidnapped so far and we know the names of the dead. What we don't know is when this will end and at what point the borders which have been closed by the Israeli's will re-open. I witnessed a parade today from Fatah; it was a show of strength rather than an intimidation tactic, but the weapons on display was a poweful enough message.

We laugh and we smile amongst ourselves, there is little else for us to do. Sometimes it feels like this is all a trick, but as the bullets flow and the death toll rises, we know this is real. The city of Nablus is in lock down.

Judge, Trial and Jury

2007-06-12T12:19:00.000Z

The past 24 hours has changed my opinion of the Palestinian people and their cause. When I left the UK I was of the opinion that I would find a people enlightened and open to the idea of peace; a people that welcomed foreigners into their hearts to exchange culture and ideas - I was wrong.

After a presentation on the Troubles in Northern Ireland and the peace that has been found, we opened a discussion which raised the similarities of both conflicts. Whereby the question was raised as to whether the peace achieved in Northern Ireland could be found here between Palestine and Israel. I'd expected some anti-Israeli venom, but over all that the locals would be open to a peaceful solution, be that one state or two, that was not the case.

At the end of the discussion one theme remained the same, unless all Israeli's left the land they had taken in 1948, the Palestinians would continue their armed struggle. If this is the opinion of some of Palestine's up and coming youths is there any hope for a peace deal? Not likely.

My opinions were further eroded when the next day I was subjected to an accusation that was fundamentally incorrect, and my word as a woman was not good enough against my accuser - a man. I was taken to a quiet corner by the female camp leader and told, "What you did last night when you kissed (name deleted) was unacceptable. You have brought the camp and Zajel into disrupt and I could now lose my job." I had been accused and found guilty without even entering a plea.

At the end of my lecture, I offered my assurance that no such kissing had taken place, nor would it be. My protestations were not enough and so I asked for my accuser to be brought to me, so that I may ask them directly what they thought they had seen. A local was bought forth and insisted that he had seen myself and a boy having a passionate kiss in the back of the bus.

Again I protested my innocence, but as a woman my evidence is only worth half of his. It was not until I demanded the presence of the man I had apparently kissed and he confirmed that we had not, was my innocence taken more seriously.

Later I questioned a few of the female volunteers over the issur of a woman's evidence only being worth half that of a man's. The response I had shocked me even further. I was told that this was because a woman's memory is not as good as a man's, and women are psychologically un-balanced during menstration. This was repeated over and over with assurances that science has proved the prophet Mohammed true over this claim. The evidence however, could not be brought to me of such scientific proof. Brain-washed springs to mind.

I came to Palestine with the intention of respecting cultural sensitivities when in public, with the idea that I would understand the effort put in by the people here to acheive peace. But I also thought that they would show some respect to me and my culture.The people I have met have no intention of learning anything from me or my co-volunteers, they wish to continue life as it is, never embracing change and never allowing themselves to forget what has gone before. Alot can change in 24 hours, I just never thought it would be my opinion.

Prisoner in Palestine

2007-06-10T12:01:00.000Z

It’s been almost a week since I arrived at the camp base in Nablus, West Bank and I’ve not had a full night sleep since. While looking at my reflection in the mirror this morning I could see that the affects of sleep deprivation are showing physically, as well as emotionally – no wonder it’s such an effective torture technique!

If the other volunteers and I are not being kept awake by the ‘too close for comfort’ gun blasts on the streets, then it’s bombs smashing into buildings not too far away or sirens warning that the Israeli’s are raiding the city. You have to wonder how the locals survive under such conditions; they though argue that this is easy compared to the curfews imposed just a few years ago.

Each night unfolds in a similar pattern. As dark approaches, faces that had been laughing and telling jokes start to show the signs of strain and worry. We are told to finish our coffees and get back to the camp. Not longer after, the shooting starts. Sometimes it’s followed by an explosion, other times you fall asleep counting the shots fired, a Middle Eastern version of counting sheep I guess. But through it all we are in lock-down.

However, it’s not the guns or the fear of being bombed that sends a shudder down my spine, it’s that I feel like a prisoner here in Palestine. Each night before we go to sleep, the doors of our compound are locked with the keys taken away until eight am the next morning. Our every move is chaperoned and contact with the men is well, haram – forbidden.

The idea that so much is harem makes it much more tempting. I’ve not feelings for any of our male companions (though some are rather juicy), but the fact that I can’t have them, makes me want them even more. They are the forbidden fruit. But everything is prohibited, nor at least that’s how it seems. I can’t drink, play pool, show my body in any way, walk alone, jeepers they don’t even let you make a move without someone following two steps behind. I feel trapped.

Yet I try to remember that this is how life is here for women throughout their lives and not just for the three short weeks that I will have to endure such watchfulness. Is it because I am used to so much freedom that I want to run break out? Or is it because I’m independent and strong minded? If it’s the former then I will have to bite my tongue, if the latter, I wonder how strong women here remain so subservient, and do they find other outlets for this part of their nature?

When I talk to some of the local women, I see a little of myself in them; a fire in their eyes. They talk of freedom and rights for women, but when a demand is made of them by the men they meekly submit, without question. So how does it change and will it? The contact these women have with western volunteers is a start. I don’t presume to believe that our customs in the west are superior; I just think women should have the same rights as men. And when they see us question demands or talk to us about the lives we live back in our own countries, it gives them a flavour for a different life.

For the moment we can only talk to them, in the end it’ll be the choice of the women from Palestine to stand up for themselves. Change is slow, people have to adjust and foundations need to be laid. When I look at my reflection I see an individual whereas they see themselves as part of the wider community, perhaps I have a lot to learn from them.

(646 words)

No-man's land

2007-06-04T12:25:00.000Z

We left Jerusalem crammed into the back of a shaky taxi. Following the winding roads from the city I could not but notice the presence of an ever-expanding wall, marking a clear definition of Israeli and Arabic communities. The driver pointed out two shabby looking houses in a brand new development. “See those,” he said, “they are owned by Palestinians who won’t move.” He smiled a big, wide smile and added “The Israeli’s they did everything to make them get out, but it didn’t work.” No small act of defiance.

An hour later I was woken with a gentle whisper, “We’re here,” it said, “You need to wake up now.” Opening my eyes I gazed upon the first of many checkpoints that I’ll pass over the next few weeks. The driver dropped us off and suggested that we travel through separately, not to raise suspicion. As I stood in the baking heat awaiting my turn, I wondered what they would ask me and how I would respond. I took a step on the road and disappeared quickly amongst the crowd.

On the one side a small market appeared bearing fruits and refreshments. Palestinians living in Israel proper discovered that waiting in line for checkpoints for hours at a time makes for hungry and thirsty people. And where there is an opening, it’s filled, quickly. I passed the tempting smells of fresh bread, coffee and the men sitting in groups waving their hands about as if in the heat of an argument and moved closer to the checkpoint.

The iron gates felt like they were launching at me, tanks filled the roads on both sides and soldiers bearing heavy artillery were dotted on the hillside. I kept my head down as I reached the revolving gate allowing entry in, but not out. Pushing it to enter, a shiver rushed down my spine. One step could make the difference between safety and possible isolation. The moment quickly passed, I was through and now the journey was about to begin.

“Taxi, Taxi!” Men screamed at me from all directions. I laughed as I thought of how hard it was to get a Taxi last time I was in New York and here I had 20 guys desperate for my fare. I pushed past ignoring the hawkers on my trail asking me who I was and where I was going. A friendly voice called to me from the left and I rejoined the group.

No more walls or barbed wire fences, instead they were replaced by the rubble of houses that used to stand but now were empty shells just like the ammunition used against them. The inside of the valley was carpeted by small buildings reaching a uniform plateau about half a mile from the top of the hill. I didn’t have to wonder why very long. We turned a corner and the faint blue and white of an Israeli flag glimmered next to what looked like a palace compared to the basic structures below.

A lone figure greeted us at our first base; we huddled into a room and sat waiting for all to arrive. Hours passed, we exchanged small talk with each other and the local volunteers learning names and telling short stories about each other. By five o’clock most had arrived and the opening ceremony had begun. The hunger pangs from the last few hours were replaced with full bellies stuffed with cakes, biscuits and the occasional slice of watermelon.

As our plates empted the locals filled them again. I had to be reminded that I needed to leave a small piece of food on my plate to show that I was full. We were briefed on the do’s and don’t with the women having a list that seemed endless. No short sleeves, no scoop necks, no showing your ankles or bellies… the funny thing though is as I looked about the room all these rules were being broken by the local volunteers themselves. One rule for western women, another for the Palestinian women it seemed.

The night drew in and the heat subsided for a cool breeze that was welcomed by all. I sat down weary from the travelling and looked forward to a restful night sleep. That was not the case. Soon after ten sirens blazed in the distance and then moving closer to our base. Throughout the night we heard guns in the background, so much so that I thought it must almost become like a lullaby to the children as they grow up. I drifted off only to be woken abruptly by an explosion followed by more sirens, then silence.

In the morning we heard that two Palestinians had been killed in the raids, but when I questioned why or how they knew I was greeted with a blank wall. Later that day the same report was available on the BBC website, but here in the West Bank the story changed many times, raising my curiosity to its credibility.

“Every night the Israeli’s they come and demolish a house or kill Palestinians,” said one of the locals to the group as their colleagues nodded in agreement. The mood in the room turned sombre and I realised that to the locals the Israeli’s were always going to be the enemy. I asked one of the women if they had ever met an Israeli apart from the soldiers, “No,” she said, “and I wouldn’t want to, they’re all bad.”

It’s hard to imagine that peace can ever exist if this is how most people here feel. I wondered how they would feel if they knew I was Jewish, would they react differently towards me, would they have tried to befriend me. I guess the answer is obvious. For a moment I wished to be back in Jerusalem where I didn’t have to hide who I was.

(978 words)

Into the lions' den

2007-05-29T08:57:00.001Z

One of my favourite passages from the Hebrew Scriptures is the story of Daniel who was thrown into the lions' den, but survived unharmed by the grace of God. And it is with this in mind that I take on my next mission - a volunteer at a refugee camp in Nablus, The West Bank.

Unlike Daniel, I will not be there as testament to my faith, for that would place me in a very precarious situation. As a Jew, I would not expect to be welcomed into the heartlands of the Palestinian people, so I go in the guise of myself - no ties to religion or ethnicity, just someone who wants to learn.

And learn I will. To achieve your goals you have to push yourself, this is what I am doing. The experiences I'll take with me from the next four weeks will, I hope balance my reports in future years, especially if I am stationed in the Middle East.

For the next four weeks I will live, eat, sleep and socialise with Palestinian refugees; I will see life through their eyes. But throughout it all I will always be safe in the knowledge that for me there is an end in sight, the same is not assured for those I meet.

Daniel survived the lions’ den through faith, I hope to survive Nablus through spirit and hard work.

(232 words)

Bolivian Morale(s)

2007-05-21T14:21:00.000Z

Recently elected president, Evo Morales, has re-nationalised many industries after a decade of privatisation. The multinationals are the obvious losers, but will re-nationalisation bring much needed prosperity to Bolivians?

Life in Bolivia is tough. With two thirds of the population living on less than £1 a day, few have had money spare to send their children to school - until recently.

As part of his plans to revitalise Bolivia, President Evo Morales set up the Bono Juancito Pinto (BJP) programme, a scheme which pays parents to send their children to school. So far, over a million children have benefited from the programme, including the eldest child of Angelicia Rojas, who attended school for the first time last year. But with the scheme costing over $30 million per annum, where has the surplus funding been found?

When Mr Morales was sworn into office last year he made Bolivian history as the country’s first indigenous president. He pledged to end “500 years of social injustice against the people,” reaffirmed his plans to recover the country’s natural resources by re-nationalising them and saying he would drive the extra money into improving the lives of his people.

Over the next few months, the President asserted state control over oil, natural gas and mineral industries throughout the country. He forced tougher contracts on multinationals, increased corporate taxes and reduced the role of foreign investors from total ownership to that of service providers. He claimed the free-market model did not work in Bolivia and re-nationalisation was the way forward to address the country’s needs.

And indeed Bolivia is needy. Although rich in mineral and energy resources, it still remains one of South America’s poorest countries. While privatisation and the competition that comes with it has proven somewhat beneficial in the western world, in Bolivia this was not the case. So what happened, and why did it happen?

In the mid 1990s, poor countries such as Bolivia were pressurised to privatise their public enterprises by the World Bank, an explicit condition of aid. In return, Bolivia was promised more loans and more time to pay them off, an offer few developing countries are in a position to reject.

The World Bank claims the push towards privatisation was in response to the inability of local governments to run public enterprises efficiently. It argued that investment in services was badly needed, as was skilled management – neither of which it believed could be provided by the Bolivian state. As a result, industries such as water, gas and dairy were offered to, and snatched up by foreign corporations on 30 year operating contracts, with the government excluded from involvement.

At first, the exchange proved positive, especially in the hydrocarbons sector, as foreign investors embarked on aggressive gas exploration. New natural gas reserves were found, increasing known reserves by almost fivefold within a few years, and Bolivia received more than $500 million per year in royalties.

However, lower corporate taxes meant that foreign investors such as British Gas, earned ten dollars for every one invested. And with Bolivian gas reserves estimated as being worth $250 billion, the royalties earned by the state were clearly paltry.

But concern over revenue earned by the state from the hydrocarbons sector was not the only issue causing unease in Bolivia. In the central state of Cochabamba, locals saw a 200 percent increase in their water bills a few months after the industry had been leased by Betchel, a San Francisco based corporation. While in El Alto although water bills did not rise, the connection charge did.

Suez, a French services group in charge of water in El Alto increased the connection charge to the equivalent of six months’ wages for poor Bolivians. The result all but halted new connections in an area where the population was continually expanding, as migrants poured in from the poor countryside. Tens of thousands were left without access to clean water or sanitation, predictably leaving communities exposed to illnesses.

Instead of sitting back and letting the multinationals continue to step all over them, Bolivians decided enough was enough, and protests against privatisation began in earnest. Mr Morales himself took part in the revolts and used this as a platform to be noticed by the public. And it worked.

In just over a year since he was elected, the President has stayed true to his re-nationalisation promises, but this has not all been plain sailing. With multinationals on the offensive over losing expected profits through higher taxes, some companies decided to pursue their losses in court. While Betchel initially sued for $25 million it finally settled for less than 30 cents, but other companies including Betchel’s partners, the Abengoa Corporation of Spain and the Swiss mining company Glencore International AG, have not been so easy to dismiss and are still pursuing compensation from Bolivia.

There have been other problems with the plans for re-nationalisation. In August of last year the government had still been unable to increase the state energy company, Yacimentos Petroliferos Fiscales Bolivianos (YPBF), shareholdings to 51 percent or acquire control of facilities like the industry’s refineries, distribution and pipelines.

But these problems have mainly been due to lack of finances and a solution may be close at hand. In 2005, Bolivia had a deficit of 2.3 percent of total GDP, but by 2006, the situation had been flipped to a surplus of 4.5 percent, and this looks set to increase again for 2007. The turn in fortune is widely attributed to the re-nationalisation programme so far.

So who has benefited from re-nationalisation?

Although Mr Morales government has set up some social programmes such as the BJP payments which provide money for resources for school children, Santiago Mosquera*, a Latin American Economist for Global Insight says that few other initiatives have been launched to improve lives for Bolivians. According to Mr Mosquera “The money is not getting to the people,” he continues, “the government needs to start spending on big projects such as construction which will spill over into higher economic growth rates and continue to improve the economy.”

However, Alex Tilley* from the Bolivia Information Forum disagrees. He says “The government has invested in improving water access and transportation links within the country. This is an important start.” He also points out that part of Mr Morales social initiatives, he has begun campaigns to provide identity documents to all Bolivians. Presently the majority of the indigenous community do not have these, which means that they cannot vote or receive any social benefits.

Not all are convinced that such policies are purely being implemented for the benefit of the indigenous communities. Mr Morales seeks to profit from such policies, as an increase in the voting numbers from such communities is likely to be in the interests of his party at the next election.

And there are further concerns, even over programmes already initialised. Last year the government identified over 90 ghost schools that had been receiving money from the BJP programme. This was blamed on poor administration and the difficulties of dealing with remote communities, which are not yet entirely within the country’s skeletal social framework.

Critics and beneficiaries alike have also pointed out that when children reach 11 payments are no longer made. For Ms Rojas eldest child, this has meant a return to the working in the family shop. She says “Without the subsidy, I need my children to help sell my products. If the bonus available to children in high school, then our children would be able to study longer and they wouldn’t grow up uneducated.”

So while the numbers of children finishing their primary education is increasing, there has been no impact on those attending secondary schools. But the project has had a positive impact on poorer communities where the money has benefited 1.2 million children in 13,000 schools. Indeed, as government coffers continue to swell, Mr Morales wishes to expand the programme to improve the number of children graduating from secondary school. And this money is all set to be raised from increased taxes on the hydrocarbons sector.

While the President has received overwhelming support for his policies in his home country and neighbouring countries, such as Venezuela and Ecuador, the World Bank has been much more cautious in its welcome of re-nationalisation. Julio Loayza*, Bolivia Country Economist for the World Bank, points out that although the short-term benefits have shown positives, the medium and long-term effects may not be so encouraging. He says that “sustainability of hydrocarbon revenues is critically dependant on the international oil price and if this drops it will threaten the efficiency of social expenditure.”

In addition to this, the World Bank is concerned over what it believes to be erosion of the investment climate in Bolivia. Mr Loayza concludes that “with private investment being kept to a feeble seven percent of GDP, it is likely to constrain long term growth.”

It is still too early to tell what the lasting effects of re-nationalisation will prove to have in Bolivia, but one thing is certain: so far this policy has created unprecedented levels of income for the government. If spent wisely, re-nationalisation could prove to be the making of Bolivia and will hugely impact on poverty in the country. But how can the government ensure that this happens?

Economist Santiago Mosquera believes that the way forward is for the government to introduce regulatory framework to attract private investment. If this is done, then “the future is bright.”

Education will also play an important part in re-shaping Bolivia and this has already been identified by Mr Morales. If he persists with pushing through policies in a similar vein, Bolivians will continue to see the benefits of re-nationalisation and Bolivia may soon lose its tag as the poor man of South America.

* Quotes from telephone interviews with the Author.
(1631 words)

Yellow ribbons

2007-05-15T09:32:00.000Z

Twelve days ago a three-year-old British girl was abducted from the Portuguese resort of Praia da Luz. Madeleine McCann disappeared from the ground floor room she was sharing with her two-year-old twin brothers, whilst her parents ate dinner just 100 yards away.

It's been reported that they had been checking on the children every half hour, but when Kate McCann returned to the room just before 10pm, she discovered that a window had been forced and that Madeleine was missing.

While it's clearly been an emotional time for the family, a question still needs to be asked. Why did Madeleine's parents feel it acceptable to leave their three toddlers in a ground floor apartment while they ate dinner? Is this what modern parenting amounts too?

Yes, they were only a 100 yards away, but was this a responsible decision? Is it perfectly okay to leave such young children unattended for periods of time? Some may argue that if a person intends to abduct a child then they can do so in a few moments, just think back to the horrendous James Bulger ordeal.

But this is precisely the point. Children can be abducted in moments, so for parents to feel it okay to leave their kids alone for extended periods, clearly is a miscalculation. And in this case that blunder has had serious consequences for the fate of a young child.

Right now, all we can hope is that Madeleine is found safe and unharmed. However, even if this is case her parents need to reconsider the attention they pay to bringing up their children. Next time, and I truly hope there is a next time, perhaps the McCanns will decide to take their children to dinner with them, or organise a baby-sitter.

(293 words)

There's gold at the end of the rainbow

2007-05-04T14:27:00.000Z

After surviving the most utterly painful year in 2006, I eagerly anticipated a change of pace in 2007. And that's exactly what happened.

A more positive outlook has helped shape the first five months and the rewards have been unimaginable. After securing some incredible contacts to interview for my MA coursework, I was happy. After being selected to spend three weeks in a refugee camp in Nablus, I was elated. But today the icing was piped on the cake when I received a very special phone call.

That one minute phone call has sent me into a spiral of ecstasy. Why? Well, I've been chosen to receive a bursary to film a 20 minute documentary in Cambodia later this year. It may not seem so special to you, but for me it’s confirmation that sometimes, and maybe just sometimes, I have good ideas!

Drinks are in order, though they'll have to wait a few weeks. Right now, I have to knuckle down and finish the last pieces of work for uni. Until then I'm just going to have the biggest smile on my face.

(184 words)

Hawks not Doves

2007-04-27T12:23:00.000Z

Thirty years before he announced the birth of Israel, David Ben-Gurion wrote “Palestine is not an empty country … on no accounts must we injure the rights of the inhabitants”. Yet the fledgling state of Israel was born in 1948 on such premises. The US immediately recognised the new state’s government and they would come to form a strong relationship. While links to the terrorist organisations that had helped bring about Israel’s existence were conveniently ignored. Almost 60 years later, that same olive branch has not been offered by Israel’s current Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to the new Palestinian coalition government.

In democratic elections last year the Palestinian people voted overwhelmingly in support of Hamas, a Palestinian anti-occupation organisation, considered by Israel and its friends to be a financier of terrorist activities. The result of the first Palestinian parliamentary elections came as a ‘shock for many observers’ who had not expected Hamas to win a clear majority over the mainstream Fatah party. And in the US, Washington refused to acknowledge the choice of the Palestinian people, preferring to deal with the Fatah President Mahmoud Abbas.

It has been just over a year since those elections took place, yet-to-date, Hamas has been unrecognised as the ruling party of choice by the majority of the International Community. To rub salt into the wounds of an already beleaguered populace, Hamas and Fatah supporters have regularly clashed during this time in a virtual civil war.

However, a glimmer of hope emerged in the past few weeks as both parties reached a power-sharing agreement, forming a new coalition government. But hope was soon diminished. Israel reacted by announcing a boycott of the new government, while US officials have said they will only meet with some members of the coalition, notably those belonging to the moderate Fatah party.

Indeed, without full recognition from the US and Israel, the Palestinian government may remain in a paralysed state. In which case, how is it possible to conceive that a peace deal that will stand the test of time can be reached in the next five years, as suggested in the past month by Mr Olmert?

According to Trevor Royle*, Diplomatic Editor of the Herald Sun, it isn’t possible. “Olmert heads a weak government and he’s still trying to recover from the damage he sustained over the war with Lebanon last year”. Ever since Mr Olmert’s core unilateralism strategy was discredited last summer, the feeling in Israel is that this proved unilateral pullouts from once occupied lands, brews nothing but trouble. Since then, Mr Olmert has been without a firm agenda.

Mr Royle doesn’t mince his words over the position the Israeli Prime Minister finds himself in, saying, “He’s caught between two sides in Israel, and without solid leadership, the peace process cannot move forward”. A stalemate between the two sides is the most likely result of the new government, according to Mr Royle, which could make the process take a step back, not forward.

But Mr Royle also hints that the route to peace will be given a stamp of approval from the US at each and every stage, making America key to what happens next. He says, “The US has so far upheld Israel’s rights, but now with the accepted linkage between what’s happening in Iraq, and what’s happening in Palestine, times are changing”. So does he foresee a shift in policy which would favour the Palestinians? “No”, says Mr Royle, “But pressure in the right amounts, and in the right areas, will start to be placed on the Israeli government by the US, moving the process forward, albeit slowly”.

Such moves are already starting to be made by the current US administration, signalling Israel’s position is not fully endorsed in America. While Mark Regev a spokesperson for the Israeli foreign ministry, made it clear that “Israel will not deal with the new government”, Condolezza Rice, the US secretary of state, has said she would like to open discussions with the non-Hamas members. In particular, with the reforming finance minister Salam Fayyad, a moderate within the new government.

Some analysts suspect the Hamas-Fatah coalition is exactly the excuse Mr Olmert needed to continue to prevent a Palestinian state from emerging. Indeed, the idea that Israel does not wish to see a two-state solution has been proposed by Jennifer Loewenstein*, Associate Director of Middle East Studies at Wisconsin University. In February 2006, she said that Israel ‘has done everything in its power to prevent a Palestinian state from emerging and will continue to do so as long as it can count on the complicity of its powerful friends and on abundant popular indifference’. Does she still believe this now? “Yes”, she says.

According to Ms Loewenstein, “Israel has no intention of relinquishing the territories, especially the West Bank”. She continues, “They say they are freezing the settlements, but they are still expanding naturally. Israel will, if anything, only offer up small carved spaces which are truncated by their sterile roads”. An offer that will not sit well with Hamas.

However, cracks are starting to show in the indifference Israel may have previously relied upon. The war with Lebanon in 2006 was a catalyst for this, as it grabbed the attention of the world and soured Israel’s image in some eyes. In Europe, media attention focused on what was described as a “disproportionate response” by Israel to the cross-border attacks by Hizbullah. While the Council of Europe went further, accusing Israel of “indiscriminate attacks on civilian targets”. But what about in America – Israel’s bed warming partner?

Although the media attention was more pro-Israel than that in Europe during the conflict, some polls have suggested that more Americans now think Jews have “too much influence” in their country, and this is a rising trend. Yet so far this has not proved nearly enough to knock over the might of the American Israel Public Affair Committee (AIPAC). Nor did the war seriously alter the view of Israel as held by the current US administration. But what it did do, is show that people around the world had begun to see Israel through new eyes. Through protests against the war, they showed that the once strong support Israel could guarantee on was not necessarily there any longer.

Tony Blair announced last year that brokering a peace deal between Israel / Palestine was a priority for his government. Fresh from the relative success of the Northern Ireland issue and with his need for a life after No. 10, he may just be the man for the job.

The past ten years has seen the transformation of the IRA – from swearing it would never decommission its arms, to standing down its forces. Yet during this time even when the IRA was still in commission, its political arm Sinn Fein was recognised by the British government as a fully-fledged party. Sinn Fein members were able to stand for office, and more importantly were wholly privy to the peace talks. Something Hamas is not.

Israel and the US are taking the stance that Hamas are only fit to take part in negotiations once it accepts all the conditions set out. This includes recognising Israel, renouncing violence and honouring existing Palestinian agreements with Israel. So far, Hamas has only vaguely promised to respect the international resolutions and agreements signed by the PLO. It appears that Israel wishes to ignore the path followed in Northern Ireland, even though this showed that the very act of taking part in dialogue changed the enemy.

Ms Loewenstein suggests it is a “bold but clever move by Hamas” to not agree to the conditions. She continues, “Fatah have bent over backwards in the past to meet all the stipulations that have been laid out, yet they now have less than they did at the start”. It seems that the Palestinian people have “lost faith in compromise”, when compromise means losing rights but not gaining anything in return.

Jenny Gaiawyn*, an aid worker who has spent time in Nablus agrees that Palestinians have lost trust in the process. She says, “Hamas are seen as a viable alternative and Fatah hadn’t proved that they could give the people the freedom they craved”. She continues, “Hamas provide social work, education, food. They are not just a political party, and this has made them popular. Palestinians felt that Fatah was being walked all over, while Hamas has stood its ground”.

But the fact that Hamas is standing firm has given Mr Olmert the leeway to continue to call for boycotts against the party. Since Hamas was elected last year, financial aid which had been trickling into the territories, dried out. The consequence of this has been all too obvious. As Ms Gaiawyn points out, “A generation that had started to see some hope, some chance of peace, have had their reasons for living taken away from them yet again”.

While Mr Royle connects the dots and says “The basic bottom line is that people who have hope, full belly’s and a work cheque at the end of the week, don’t strap on explosives and become suicide bombers. If Hamas continues to be left out in the cold, a third intifada is very possible”.

This view is also taken by Hamas itself. Khalid Mish’al*, Head of the Hamas political bureau, suggests that if the West and Israel hinder the recent Palestinian national agreement the “outcome will be dire”. He continues, “The entire Middle East region will be driven towards another cycle of bloody escalation”. He also points out the link between stability in Palestine and peace in Iraq, a connection that the current US administration has only recently acknowledged. It seems that Hamas may have a larger bargaining chip than the US and Israel in particular, wishes to recognise.

So what does the future hold and how can the peace process move forward? Mr Royle puts it bluntly by saying that “Talks must include Hamas”. And with polls showing that large majority of people on both sides are ready to back a peace deal on the now-traditional lines: two states, one for each nation, it may be time for Israel and the US to include Hamas without it making all the concessions requested.

Indeed, even when concessions have been made in the past by the Palestinians, this has not proved to be a home run for peace. Mr Mish’al and Mr Royle both state that “There is an anomaly in the US administration – they preach the need for democracy in the Middle East, but when democratic principles are applied, and the results are not favourable, they want to move the goal posts”.

By dealing only with Fatah, the US seems to be attempting to lure the Palestinian people back to the moderate party. Mr Royle suggests that the intended message is “Support for Hamas will continue your isolation, but back Fatah and international support is back on the agenda, resulting in a separate state”. Currently, this simple message appears to have lost its potency.

But there is another issue to consider - keeping Hamas out in the cold may only drive it further into the arms of a country like Iran, which has up until now played a big brother role, advancing Tehran’s ambitions as a regional superpower. A relationship the US and Israel are sure to fear.

Israel should perhaps take some hint from the old saying - keep your friends close and your enemies even closer. Peace may not be possible in the next five years as suggested by Mr Olmert, but it has little chance if the US and Israel continues to ignore the democratic voice of the Palestinian people.

“Today’s terrorists are tomorrow’s statesmen”, says Mr Royle, “but to get there, they need to be treated as the latter, not the former”. Almost 60 years after Israel first fluttered her feathers, perhaps it’s about time she acknowledged the rights of the Palestinians and offered the simple gesture of an olive branch.

*Quotes from telephone conversations and email correspondence with Author
(1998 words)

American History - Covering old ground

2007-04-18T17:05:00.000Z

With lightning speed the US 3rd Infantry division seized Baghdad in April 2003. Among them it became known as the ‘Thunder Run’ – a success story that paved the way for the quick, clean liberation of Iraq.

At the start of the war, Sergeant Brite* was optimistic about the role he was to play. He formed part of a convoy of more than 40 vehicles that entered the city from the south, demonstrating that Baghdad was no longer firmly under the control of Saddam Hussein. Throughout the capture of the Iraqi capital, he saw himself as a welcome liberator, and believed that “The Iraqi people wanted us there, to free them, to give them a voice.” Does he still believe this? Four years later, he is not so sure.

The elation that followed the Thunder Run and other triumphant operations led US President George W. Bush to declare, a few weeks later, that hostilities in Iraq were at an end. That elation was short lived. Since May 2003, violence has erupted throughout Iraq, and the country has been enveloped in a bloody insurgency. Pitched against coalition forces and the newly established government, insurgents have disrupted the smooth takeover planned by America.

In response to the insurgencies, the US Army released a new manual on counter-insurgency in December 2006. Concluding the first chapter is a list of ‘successful and unsuccessful counter-insurgency operational practices.' A sure sign of lessons learnt so far from the war in Iraq, or is it?

On paper, both the successful and unsuccessful lists of identified practices seem to pinpoint a clear understanding by the US military regarding steering Iraq towards a peaceful end. But counter-insurgency tactics have been addressed by many academics and military analysts, long before the new manual was released. In fact, some of the advisors used by the US government have published papers which have addressed issues relating to counter-insurgency operations, and have attempted to provide a framework for the US military to instigate.

One of these advisors was Dr. Bruce Hoffman*, who served in Iraq in 2004. Prior to his involvement he wrote a paper for the RAND Corporation, which specifically dealt with counter-insurgency in Iraq. Dr. Hoffman identified many of the practices now listed in the US Army’s new manual. He describes the new list as “…an epiphany,” and continues “…these conclusions should have been reached by the US long ago and should have been addressed at the start of the campaign, not four years in.”

Indeed, this is not the first time that the US government has identified these successful practices. As Dr. Hoffman states “From the beginning, US counter-insurgency doctrine in the 1960s linked the notions that counter-insurgency is political, social, economic, ideological, and only 10% military.” Successful offensives have been launched in the past, though the US has a poor record. Yet although the insurgency we see in Iraq is unlike previous manifestations, the basic premises of constricting insurgents ‘flow of oxygen’ is similar in many cases.

For an insurgency to flourish, it needs a breeding ground - breathing space. In Iraq, as with many other examples, failure to identify and provide the needs of the population early on, allowed animosity to build. Even more so, failure by the military to provide secure policing led to looting and random violence – hardly the conditions for the peace America said it sought to bring. Poor organization and the slow creation of a new infrastructure further exacerbated the situation, giving Iraqi insurgents the political and geographical space in which to develop.

“We found ourselves fighting against an enemy that we couldn’t see,” says Sgt. Brite. He continues, “They attacked, then immediately blended in with the community. How can you fight against someone you can’t identify, without intruding on an entire neighbourhood?” It is this heavy-handed approach that tops US Army’s list of ‘unsuccessful practices.’ But according to Sgt. Brite, this is how operations to capture insurgents were, and still are, being carried out.

After returning from his second tour of duty in Iraq in the past few months, Sgt. Brite has seen “little evidence to suggest that the way the military is operating has changed.” He feels that one of the main problems “still hurting” US forces is that there is little understanding of the culture in Iraq. He says, “We entered a foreign country, totally different to the US, and we weren’t given any help or training as to how to behave.”

The apparent lack of cultural consideration increased the alienation that Iraqis felt towards the troops. This was amplified by US forces when they stationed themselves in large bases for protection. These bases had access to clean water, food and electricity, necessities that most Iraqis are still lacking. This is just another factor that has created tension between the indigenous peoples of Iraq and the troops.

Without cooperation from the populace, intelligence which has proven vital in previously successful counter-insurgencies is not readily available. Coalition forces have been slow to provide amnesty and security to those that wish to support the new government. Such inadequate safety measures have led to the murder and maiming of many Iraqis willing to join the new host-nation police force. In addition to this, the bomb blast inside the Iraqi parliament earlier this month proved that no one is immune from the insurgents. If safety cannot be guaranteed to those in power, what hope is there for the rest of the population?

Importantly, the failure to build a reliable police force in Iraq is determined by Dr. Hoffman to be a major flaw in the US approach. The US Army clearly agrees. In the new manual, strengthening the host-nation police forces is identified as a ‘successful practice.’ But Dr Hoffman says “Iraqi’s have to take some responsibility. Their justice system needs to be implemented and the failure to do this surrounds the failure to build up the police.”

Indeed, Robert Tomes*, a member of the Council for Emerging National Security Affairs agrees. He believes that “Whenever people feel threatened or afraid, the guerrilla has the upper hand.” Nonetheless, he is also aware that the success of the host-nation police force may involve sustained occupation, which requires political will. And this, he fears, is not necessarily the case with the current Coalition in Iraq.

It has been almost five months since the new manual on counter-insurgency was released. During this time there has also been a change in US command. In February, General David H. Petraeus became the new Multinational Force Iraq commander. This led to some analysts suggesting that a new leaf was about to be turned in the battle against insurgents. Has this been the case?

Not according to figures on the Iraqi Body Count website. In March 2007, it lists a minimum of 1,645 civilian casualties, an increase of over 200 on the number for the same period in the previous year. Insurgents are now even able to attack at the heart of the Iraqi government. The evidence suggests there is little to show that the new measures, if they are being adopted, are making a difference.

However, Mr Tomes disagrees. He says, “You can’t expect things to change overnight.” He continues, “The new initiatives will take time to filter down and to settle in, we need to have patience.” His sentiment echoes that of Gen. Petreaus, who recently said that the new Iraqi security plan can work, but that it will take time.

But do Coalition forces have the time, or for that matter the political backing? Even Mr Tomes concedes that they may not. While Dr. Hoffman considers that the only way to reduce attacks and casualties, is for the “US to reduce their presence in Iraq, not send in more soldiers.” He argues that the US cannot believe that by adjusting policy, significant as this adjustment is, that it will make a change. His view is that to tackle counter-insurgency successfully, the Iraqi Ministry of the Interior needs to be “cleaned up, fully functional and supported by a comprehensive police force.”

Dr. Hoffman does offer a small concession to this view. He suggests that the appointment of Gen. Petraeus may, if anything, “make a huge difference.” “Having a person in charge that understands the situation, the environment, and who understands what needs to be done is important,” he says. But he questions whether the appointment “is too late.”

With a pessimistic tone, Dr. Hoffman states that although Petraeus has more of a chance than his predecessor, the overall chances of success are slim to none. He predicts a long struggle that will, “even if everything goes right” take over a decade to untangle the “mess” of the past four years. Thus, the outlook in Iraq could be more than bleak for sometime yet to come.

*Quotes from telephone conversations with the Author.
(1467 words)

Voting Matters

2007-04-15T17:56:00.000Z

In just under three weeks, elections will take place to choose the new Welsh Assembly Members (AM) who will determine a course for Wales over the next few years. But somehow the fact that there is a pending election seems to have bypassed the notice of much of the population. And in my sleepy village, we seem to have bypassed the interest of any of the candidates, yet again.

Since the first Assembly elections in 1999, I have waited patiently for candidates to canvas the area, to include us, to encourage us to vote. But each time we fail to register in their plans. Leaflets are occasionally dropped through the door, reminding us who the likely lads are this time around, but not once has my door been knocked upon by any Assembly candidate, offering me a reason to give them my vote.

So, in turn I have not voted for any candidate. I strongly believe in the right to chose those who represent us in the seat of government, but I also believe that choice is impossible, when you can make no clear distinction between the parties on the ballot paper. This distinction for me can only come with engagement from candidates with the voting population.

During general elections up until the mid 1990s, I recall the fever of the election trail; canvassers in cars with megaphones attached, telling us why we should give our vote to them, current politicians and hopefuls knocking on the front door or perching over a fence to try and get your attention. Elections were exciting, I couldn't wait to debate the issues of the day with those on the trail when it finally my turn to vote. However, ten years later and apathy has sunk in.

I'm not apathetic to politics, it's stimulating. I'm just apathetic to people that all look grey. Candidates that show no passion for the job that they do, no commitment to securing the understanding of the people they represent. I hear our current AM talking about meeting the needs of the community, and I often wonder which community they are referring to. As this member has not shown interest in our village, perhaps they don't show much interest in any of the other villages they claim to represent either.

I'm not sure that devolution has brought government closer to us; that's it has become more accessible. If the truth be known, I believe that devolution has helped disengage politics from our everyday lives, and that I like to believe was not its intention.

So, yet another election will pass, and my vote, if I manage to find the will to enter a polling station, will be spoiled. And when they count the votes into piles and note the numbers that are spoiled and wonder why, the reason is simple - I exercise my democratic right to vote, but I chose to make no vote for candidates that make no effort to distinguish themselves.

Eggactly

2007-04-07T06:57:00.000Z

With over 80 million Easter eggs being sold this year, you might get the impression that Britain is still a Christian country, observing age old traditions. Big sales? Yes. But an understanding of what Easter really means? Not likely.

As supermarkets cram their shelves sky high with chocolate, cards, flowers and any other knick-knacks that have some tenuous link with the festival, has the real meaning of Easter, become about consumerism? Though, still a relatively small market in comparison to other holidays, it is notching its way up the rankings, and is now rated as only fourth behind Halloween, Valentine's Day and of course, Christmas.

But is it the fault of big business, that the Easter message is no longer so apparent, nor so widely known? Or should we point the finger at a Church that is out of touch with the general public?

In his Easter message, the Archbishop of Wales has called for the Church to stop discriminating against women and gay people. But discrimination has long been a topic of debate, and the Churches recognition of it comes late, very late. And recognition of this fact is just a small part of the wider change we're experiencing in the UK.

The make-up of Britain has been changing for the past few decades, and it's now difficult to describe the UK as a Christian country. Yes, the majority of people if asked, still say they are Christian. But how many of these 'Christians' identify with the religion and not the quasi-social idea, of what it is to be a Christian? Do they go to Church? Do they understand the meaning behind the big festivals? The answer is a big slap in the face to the Church; an establishment that still sees’s itself as having an important role to play in society and government.

Sonja Patel came to Britain from India as a young child. She now has her own children and has brought them up in the Hindu faith. Over the past few years she has bought them Easter eggs. Why? "The children love the chocolate and the boxes they come in, this idea of a bunny bringing chocolate appeals to them," she says. But do her children understand what Easter is about? "No, not at all, it's not about that," she continues "We just like to get involved, we celebrate Christmas too, but we're not Christians."

To Sonja and many others, the Church has no relevance in their lives, nor does the religious meanings behind festivals in the UK. We are a society that is embracing other religions and more importantly, other cultures. Perhaps it's time to see the UK not as a 'Christian' country but just as a country.

(453 words)

Trojan horse

2007-04-04T17:32:00.000Z

After almost two weeks of failed diplomacy, Tehran has announced that the 15 British Navy Crew captured in the Gulf, are to be freed. Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, said the sailors were free to leave and were being released as a "gift" to Britain, as part of the Persian New Year celebrations.

The news comes as a surprise after a fortnight of back and forth, with neither side backing down from their original stances. Britain still maintains that the crew was part of a UN mandate in Iraqi waters, while Tehran continues to claim that they illegally entered into Iranian waters, in the disputed Shatt al-Arab waterway.

But why has this incident taken so long to resolve, and were there any motives behind the capture of the crewmen?

Adel Darwish*, Political Editor of the Middle East Magazine and Mideast News thinks that this was not just the case of a simple misunderstanding. He says "This was a calculated act on behalf of the Iranian government," he continues, "The capture coincided with a public holiday in Iran, so no officials would have been available for immediate discussions, maximising the time that the sailors would be kept."

He is under no uncertainty as to where the British sailors were captured, "They were in Iraqi waters, of that I am sure." He also implied that the capture took place as a response to a British MOD report, released a few days before the crew was seized. The report contained suggestions that Iran was paying insurgents to fight against coalition soldiers in Iraq.

It has also been suggested that Ahmadinejad needed to move the focus of the Iranian people away from his recent failings. During the run up to his election in 2005, he promised to deliver the wealth of Iran "to the table of every home." So far it's a promise he has not been able to keep. Resentment has also grown over the way in which Ahmadinejad has dealt with the International Community, with issues such as the nuclear file and his recent Holocaust denial conference.

"He had lost much of his previous support amongst the Iranian public," says Evaleila Persaron*, a PhD student at Cambridge University, who is researching 'Contemporary Politics in Iran'. She continues "This act has bought him more time. Although Iranians have lost some respect for Ahmadinejad, if the choice is between him and the International Community, they will always stand behind him."

Further sanctions agreed by the UN have concreted his new support, says Ms Persaron, "Iranians will now band together in a time of further hardship." It seems that Tehran has succeeded in using this situation to bolster home support, and now, by agreeing to free the sailors as a "gift," it will not come across as ‘giving in’ to mounting pressure.

According to Dr. Pirouz Mojtahed-Zadeh*, Professor of Geopolitics at London University, "Tehran needed to a way to save face." And that's exactly what this move has done. To the world Iran looks as if it is a reasonable country, but in Iran, the government appears strong, but compassionate. It's a win-win situation, or is it?

Tehran's initial refusals to allow access to the servicemen, combined with the crews apparent confessionals, which were aired on live TV, left a bad taste in mouth of the Foreign Office. British Foreign Secretary, Margaret Beckett used the situation to highlight future problems with Iran. In a statement she said "How can we trust a government with nuclear powers, when they cannot behave reasonably over this?" A sentiment echoed by the International Community. Even Russia and China, who have previously vetoed further sanctions against Iran, showed their support to Britain over this incident.

The release of the crewmen may be welcome, but it is a 'gift' or will the future present a more sinister conclusion?

*Quotes from telephone interviews with the Author
(697 words)

Sunset

2007-03-24T22:39:00.000Z

I've fallen in love...

2007-03-22T19:55:00.000Z

Driving my car home tonight, I fell in love... with a song on the radio, that reminded me of being 15. A time when I felt that the world had so much to offer, that I'd fall onto the road my life was meant to take, and everything would turn out rosy. Remember what it was like when you were still innocent - well, just!

The song that gave me the shivers was from the former lead singer of the Super Furry Animals, a band from Wales that eptimised the 1990's for me. I spent countless hours playing their albums, standing in line for tickets to gigs and blagging my way into the backstage area as a 'fanzine' reporter. In fact, that was pretty much how I spent my latter teenage years.

Looking back, I realise just how great a time it was; no exam worries, no dating nightmares, just books and music. Perhaps as we get older, we forget how it's the simplest things in life that truly make us the happiest.

If you're wondering what the song was... it's 'Gyrru, gyrru, gyrru'and you can buy it or download it from Gruff's myspace site http://www.myspace.com/candylionmusic

Loose Lips

2007-03-20T20:07:00.000Z

Last night in Cardiff was the opening night of 'The Vagina Monologues' at the Wales Millennium Centre (WMC). I decided to embrace my 'woman hood' and go along.

Expecting a rant of how great women are, that men have oppressed us, sexualised and objectionalised us, I braced myself. Surprisingly, this did not happen. The monologues were about personal experiences and 'getting to know oneself.'

No matter how uncomfortable that may be to many women - myself included somewhat, the resonant theme throughout the night was that it doesn't matter how different we react to intimacy, it's who we are and that's ok. I laughed, almost cried and shouted until I was hoarse.

Still, I can't see myself with a compact mirror looking at my 'folds.'

It's Snowing!!!!

2007-03-19T07:58:00.001Z

Ha ha, just when we thought spring was here, it snows. Waking up and seeing the snow capped mountains was just delightful to wake up to. But the sun is out now and I'll just have pictures to remind me how gorgeous it was.

The lights are on, but nobody's home

2007-03-13T20:20:00.000Z

The Environment Secretary David Miliband announced today, that Britain could become the first country to set legally binding carbon emission reduction targets. So how will we cut emissions?

Most individuals have no concept as to how much carbon they emit, so when told we have to cut emissions 60% by the year 2050, the cogs start turning. Sixty percent seems a huge amount to cut anything by. So what would mean for our daily lives? Step up the BBC, with a nice package to spell it out to us.

Firstly, we'll lose the car, cutting our emissions by a whopping 22%, but that's only just a third of the way there. So, what else can we do? According to the BBC, it'll also mean the loss of all our electrical appliances, central heating, changing all our light bulbs to the energy saving ones – but didn’t they say no electrical appliances? And oh, don't forget the foreign holidays, they’re out. All this and we'll only just manage to save the required amount to be within our own imposed legal guidelines.

So, are we expected to move back to Victorian times? Freeze in the winter and no longer participate in jobs that we can't walk to? The entire package smacked like a big, bunch of PR scare tactics. Instead of making useful suggestions about how we can limit our emissions now or looking at the massive contribution made by polluting businesses, Auntie has chosen to frighten us into a corner that's likely to produce a fight or fright response. Irresponsible journalism, if we can really call it that.

It won't be easy for us in the long term, and many individuals will have to seriously change the way they live their lives. But we can start making small changes now such as turning electrical appliances off, not just to sleep mode, or by making small journeys by foot or by bike.

Obviously, this will not cut individual emissions by the proposed 60%, but it will make a positive difference. More importantly perhaps the BBC should look at its own carbon emissions. The TV series Robin Hood apparently couldn't be made here and so they flew the cast and crew for filming, which is currently taking place in the Czech Republic, as there was no suitable location in the UK. Strangely, Kevin Costner managed it 15 years ago.

Even Jeremy Paxman recently criticized the Beebs own environmental policies. He characterized the organisation as wasteful at best. So is it any wonder they're using tactics to scare us, rather than educate us.

Impossible Princess

2007-03-06T11:30:00.000Z

I was laying in bed on that fateful August morning in 1997, when I heard about the death of Diana, the so-called people’s princess. I thought that maybe now the papers would stop being so consumed by her. I was very wrong.

In the immediate aftermath, media attention felt focused on her. Even the death of Mother Teresa a week later was linked to Diana, as if the Saint of Calcutta didn’t deserve to be remembered in her own right.

Since then, conspiracy theories over her death have abounded. Whilst most people have let suspicions pass, Mohamed Al Fayed, father of Diana’s love interest Dodi - who also died in the accident, has stymied attempts to let them rest in peace.

Al Fayed, as reported in Time has won an unprecedented legal battle to have a jury hear the inquest into the deaths, which he believes were plotted by British intelligence agents. Comprised from ordinary members of the public and not the Royal household, the jury will decide whether or not the car crash, was an accident.

What will Al Fayed gain from this minute victory, apart from more Diana headlines?

Sadly, it appears that he can have no rest until we’re all convinced that what happened that night in Paris was a deliberate, thought-out execution. And if a jury returns a verdict of ‘accidental death’, he’ll appeal. As, for him there is only this one possible conclusion.

So, it turns out that the cause of Diana’s death will be resolved by the people – how fitting. Maybe then the papers will stop feeding Diana to us for breakfast, then we can both rest in peace.

Gair Rhydd ain't so 'green' afterall

2007-03-06T08:14:00.000Z

Cardiff University's own paper Gair Rhydd is circulated on a regular basis to the campus at large. It normally stockpiles on the floors outside of the catering venues, waiting for you to pick it up, and have a glance at the hard graft of a few individuals.

Like all good student papers, it's concerned with University life and the wider community in Cardiff. It picks up on the issues of the moment and has recently shown concern for the environment in it's coverage. Litter problems and recycling on campus have been highlighted problems on a number of occasions’ since I began my course last September.

Gair Rhydd has picked up on the poor recycling policy at Cardiff University with very few departments using double sided photocopying, few recycling bins etc., etc. It's therefore a massive dismay to arrive today at JOMEC and find that this week's copy, of an award winning student paper is nicely wrapped in a plastic cover.

Yes, it'll keep it dry. But I wonder how many of the plastic covers will end up in ordinary household bins or on street curbs around the city - rather than in the recycling bins that they should. After all their campaigning, it seems a bizarre tactic.

So, I urge you to not pick up a copy this week. Leave it alone and let the editors and the production team wonder why this issue was of no interest to the masses. Write in and complain, about the seemingly double standards of their 'green' concerns.

It's the little things that make a difference.

Tastes like Heaven

2007-02-27T11:34:00.002Z

There’s very little left in this world that remains or can remain a secret. The temptation of money, or 15 minutes of fame, seems to be enough for most to loosen their tongues, and let it all hang out. No shame, no sense of honour, it’s all about looking after number one, no matter what the repercussions may be and who we trample on in the process.

So, it comes as a massive surprise, that the secret recipe of Portugal’s most celebrated patisserie, the pasties de Belém, remains just that, a secret. The FT recently highlighted the pressure and responsibility felt by the only four so-called “secret masters,” who know the 170 year-old mouth watering recipe. These tarts are so famous, that spies are being sent from all over the world to discover what makes them unique.

Yet, even obscene amounts of money don’t appear to be enough to tempt the secret masters into divulging the enigmatic formula. “I’d never break my contract,” says secret master, Eliseu Ramiro Rodrigues.

As much as it pains many people not to being able to pop down to the local supermarket and pick these dainties up; it’s blissful to know that money isn’t the driving force behind everything. The strength of character of these secret masters should be revered, for many a lesser person would have caved by now – including me.

If you haven’t tried a real pasties de Belém, then I suggest you book a long weekend to Lisbon. Take a stroll down to the café/bakery Antiga Confeitaria de Belém, and sink your teeth into a little tart that will tantalize your taste buds, like nothing before.

Everyone loves Oscar

2007-02-26T11:26:00.000Z

Oscar night is big in my house - well, to be honest the entire awards season is! I just love watching the red carpet, reeling at the shock frocks, drooling over the gowns that I could only afford in my dreams, and listening to a bunch of people kissing arse, generally about people they don't really like.

In my previous life as a film critic this was a massive part of my job and I eagerly awaited it every year. I sat last night in anticipation, with the channel that does sycophantic the best - E! And I wasn't disappointed.

I gasped, gawked and laughed my way though three hours of pure viewing pleasure. There were few good dresses to choose from this year, but most of the stars made massive fashion gaffs.

Beyonce looked on the tubby side, Nicole Kidman was deathly in a rouge Balenciaga gown, and was Jennifer Lopez hiding a baby bump under what could be described as maternity wear? While Anne Hathaway and Michelle Williams clearly got dressed with the lights off. On the plus side, Kate Winslet and Cate Blancett looked radiant, as did Helen Mirren - but maybe that was more to do with the glow from her win.

However, my favourite dress for the night wasn't even on the red carpet. Kate Silverton, who presents BBC Breakfast News looked truly amazing in a plush, floor length red number. Just one question, where can I get hold of it!

Scream blue murder

2007-02-25T14:05:00.000Z

Last night, I indulged in a spot of internet chatting. It's the easy way to stay in touch with mates and colleagues, especially when I live so far away from either. I find out what's going on with their day, or in this case, what went on at uni in a week I missed.

And boy, have I missed something. I'm aghast to learn that a certain rumour that's been through the mill a few times is positively true. Yes, my sources can confirm that at Cardiff University in the JOMEC building, non-native English speakers are marked differently to their colleagues.

By giving them an easier time, it demeans not only their work, but the work of the few British and Irish students on the course. All of whom, could probably consider English to be their second language.

Even worse, it means if any of the non-native English speakers decide to work in an English speaking country, that the name of JOMEC, and the reputation it's worked so hard to achieve, will become tainted. A degree, which currently holds so much weight around the world, drops a few stone and might as well be from a polytechnic.

I admire the many students who have traveled far, have probably given up a lot to be at JOMEC, to study the MAIJ course. To take on a degree, that's not in their mother tongue. But that does not mean that they should benefit from less strict marking.

We entered the course on a fairly level playing field and we're mid way through a game that now appears to have a biased ref. It stinks.

Nerves of Steel

2007-02-23T16:33:00.000Z

Well, I finally survived my first full week working in a newsroom. I'd didn't think it would be a walk in the park, but never, did I think it would be so stressful. Live news programmes take on a life of their own - and so do the guests.

People don't turn up, politicians that think they call the shots, and producers that cry when things are falling apart. Soap opera's have nothing on the inside workings of radio. Miracles exist, believe me. This week I've seen new guests appear in seconds, as lines have failed or meet and greeters have abandoned their duties.

Sometimes I wished I could have disappeared; fallen into a hole in the ground, anything! But after a week of this you develope nerves of steel. As items fall away, you find the cure, even if it's a story you sniffed at the beginning of the day.

Blood really gets spilt. Ok, it was only in the form of a nosebleed, but it was blood none-the-less.

So, what did I learn this week? That working in a newsroom is the best cure for a stress-head. You stop worrying about all the little things when you realise there's a whole two hours to fill and only four hours to do it. On top of that it's a great job for those who like pressure and constant adrenaline rushes - no wonder journo's are married to their jobs - I think I'm in love!

It’s the end of the world…as we know it

2007-02-19T19:22:00.002Z

In this weeks NS, Brian Cathcart ponders whether future generations will mock us for our news values. Since starting an MA, I’ve watched the news with a more critical eye. I’ve also gained hands on experience of news values whilst working in a newsroom. And many times I’ve found myself asking the same question that is puzzling Mr Cathcart.

He refers to a famous quote from the playwright and Nobel Prize winner George Bernard Shaw, who once observed, ‘that journalists were people who could not tell the difference between the end of the world and a bicycle accident.’ It seems to me that he was on to something.

On a daily basis, the news brings us alarmist headlines predicting mass pandemics; terrorist plots that will implode our society; crazy foreign leaders destabilizing the world, and so on. Watching or reading these reports strikes fear into my heart. Just as I feel like I should be building a bomb shelter or stock piling food, the story folds and something newer, more terrible steps into the limelight.

If a story is so important, so potentially devastating, how can be dropped like a hot potato? Was it really so apocalyptic after all?

Competition between news sources especially in today’s world is rife. There’s only one audience and everyone want a bigger slice. I once worked with an editor whose policy was ‘if you’re going to do it, do it big.’ And maybe that’s the problem. We’ve lost sight of what’s really important, as we eye the audience portion too closely.

Brian Cathcart's original article was entitled 'A bit of a flap' and can be found at www.newstatesman.com

Oops Brit does it again

2007-02-18T16:26:00.000Z

After years of consuming glossy magazines under the pretence of working, it's hard not to notice what goes on in the world of celebrity. And today's tabloid front pages have made it impossible to ignore that Britney Spears has hogged the limelight for all the wrong reasons - again.

Yes, the once virginal Miss Spears has undergone a rapid and not so successful makeover to become a bald, biker chick with two new tattoos on her neck and a belly piercing to match. I'm not saying that bald chicks aren't cool, I loved Natalie Portman when she shaved her head for 'V for Vendetta'. Sigourney Weaver and Demi Moore rocked when they razored their locks, but Britney? Well, there are just some head shapes that don't work with a number one.

I feel sorry for the kid. She found sex, stopped asking 'What would Jesus Do?' and decided that quickie marriages and baby popping was the future. But, of course, people who decide to get hitched and divorced after 48 hours sometimes suffer from a short attention span.

The result? Another divorce, barely after the C section scars had closed on the second bub, a new style for the um, nether region that she felt the need to air in public and tempting any guy she can back to her room.

Brit seems to be falling apart and what's more concerning is that nobody seems to be trying to rein her back in. She's a mess and needs sorting out, if only for the sake of her two kids.

One man banned

2007-02-10T17:13:00.000Z

Kolkata’s rickshaw pullers may be the solution, not the problem.

An article in last week’s Economist featured the dying breed of the original man-pulled rickshaws; a practice outlawed by the Communist government of West Bengal last December. Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, the chief minister, described the rickshaw trade as, “a disgraceful practice.”

The article states that many of the rickshaw-wallahs are migrants from Bihar, India’s poorest state, who came to Kolkata to find work. And work they found, even if the government labels it inhuman.

With little or no education, there seems to be two choices available to the wallahs: protest (which they are doing in large numbers) or beg. The latter, is a far worse degradation to impose on those who currently still have the dignity of a livelihood.

The ban on rickshaws seems to be part of the chief minister’s drive to modernise West Bengal. By 2010, he envisions the state to become one of India’s top three producers of IT, and this vision is apparently incompatible with “human horses.”

But is he missing a glimmering opportunity to help clean up India’s polluted streets?

Rickshaws are a cheap, clean way of travelling and are used by all classes; they are even able to move in streets too narrow for cars. So instead of banning the wallahs and pushing them into the depths of poverty, why not invest in up-grading the rickshaws into pedal taxis? An effective, but more importantly, a humane solution. An innovation such as this could improve conditions for the wallahs and reduce some of Kolkata’s notorious pollution. Now, that would be an example to set to the world.

It's just not Cricket.

2007-02-09T20:30:00.000Z

There are many frustrations about being a Welsh Briton when you're abroad, but the biggest bug-bearer is that most foreigners see Britain and England as being one and the same. They are not.

However, there seems to be something about this rather miscued idea that's ingrained in the psyche of other nations. I've stumbled across it throughout my traveling, and even when explained why this reference is not particularly correct, the myth continues.

I find it difficult at times to comprehend how people can be so ignorant; especially when they come to live in Wales. On my course there are significant portion of the class who come from countries as far away as China and India, or as close to the UK as Cypress or Italy. Still, I hear them refer to events in Wales as those in England. And worse still, many of our lecturers reinforce this categorically incorrect piece of information in their classes.

It saddens me; it makes me tear my hair out. But today, when I finally had chance to read through the last few articles in the Economist, dated Feb 3rd to 9th, I felt that the last vestige of authority had collapsed.

On page nine, in the very first paragraph, it makes reference to 'Britain's current somewhat grumpy mood.' This is what is printed:

It is furious about the Iraq war and George Bush. And, to cap it all, its cricket team can't win anything.

Can someone please explain how the England Cricket team has suddenly become the British Cricket team? Understandably there Welsh players in the team,(which brings me to another issue of why aren't they called the 'England and Wales Cricket team') but did anyone at the Economist spare a thought for the Scottish Cricket team?

If a publication like this can make such a blunder, then there seems little hope that we can educate those who visit the UK, that it's not all England. I don't want people to take this as a rant against the English - I have many English friends and England is a massive part of the UK make-up. But let's put the facts straight; England is a country that is one of four countries that make up the UK, also known as Great Britain. Presently the other three are Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

So please, I urge you, refer to England if England is what you mean, but if you're talking about something in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, either name them or say the UK. It's not rocket science.

Apples and Oranges

2007-02-03T09:16:00.000Z

In the past year, sales of organic products have risen by 30% in the UK. As more consumers change their shopping habits, fierce criticism has arisen over the benefits of organic versus mass produced food.

Is organic food better for you? Can you taste the difference? Or have we been sucked into yet another clever marketing campaign?

Restaurant critic, Egon Ronay has stepped into the debate over the health benefits of organic food saying, "There is no scientific proof that it is healthier." Mr Ronay believes that many consumers are confused by the facts surrounding the term organic and that these misconceptions have not been cleared up by the government. Meanwhile, the Soil Association has re-iterated that studies have shown organic food to contain more nutrients.

So does it matter? Choosing organic seems to be more of a statement by consumers who wish to appear more ethical; more considerate; more green. And with the price of organic food significantly higher than normal produce, buying organic has become a status symbol.

At a recent dinner party the host remarked, "Well of course everything I buy is organic." Nods of approval followed. No-one remarked that it tasted any better; that it would be a healthier meal. Whereas, the man next to me leaned in and whispered, "She must have spent a fortune." Organic food has 'Middle Class' stamped all over it.

The organic honeymoon may be coming to an end. Recently the Economist ran a damming feature on the environmental impact of buying organic. It challenged the concept that organic is a greener way to farm over conventional intensive farming. It suggested that lower yields are a by product of organic farming, giving one of two options: Less food production or more land used to grow crops. The latter having a greater impact on deforestation.

We seem to be stuck between a rock and a hard place. All our choices even the ethically minded ones, generate repercussions that may not have been our intentions. My solution - try and buy local, or even better grown your own. A small plot, for those lucky enough to have a garden, can produce enough to keep a person in plentiful supply of the tastiest, healthiest veg, no shop can compete with. So fruitful was my plot last year that I'm still enjoying the beans, tomatoes, and carrots I harvested last September. Now that can't be bad.

Under the Religious gay-dar

2007-01-28T15:59:00.000Z

Shadow home secretary David Davis weighed into the debate over gay adoption today, publicly siding with the Catholic Church.

Speaking to Andrew Marr on Sunday AM, Mr Davies let it be known that he believed faith-based agencies should not be forced to offer babies to gay couples. There was a right in his view, for certain agencies to be protected from discrimination if, they were exercising religious views.

Mr Davies stated that he would “almost definitely” vote for the opt out, when the new Sexual Orientation Regulations is presented to Parliament next month. He was keen to stress however, that these were his personal views and not those of the party.

Tory Leader, David Cameron has yet to offer his own views on the row, preferring to remain silent. A knack he is perfecting on difficult issues, which may dampen his fluffy, new age image.

As the raucous debate continues, Mr Davis said that he felt taking faith-based agencies out of the equation, would not be in the best interests of children. He argued that Catholic agencies were “the best” for placing badly damaged children.

No wonder, it seems the Catholic Church has vast experience in this sector. In August 2006, over 100 former pupils of a Catholic children’s home in Market Weighton, East Yorkshire started legal action over alleged physical and sexual abuse suffered whilst in care. And this is just the tip of the iceberg.

At what point are we able to separate state from religious interference? Perhaps Catholic and other faith-based adoption agencies should look to what is in the best interests of the children, and not to doctrine that has been subjected to human interference since time began. Research has shown that gay couples have a higher success rate at dealing with older and more difficult children. If this is true then faith-based agencies are denying these individuals the best chance in life, and that is negligent

Ignorance is bliss

2007-01-27T19:27:00.000Z

It always amazes me that as humans unless something directly affects us we are happy to ignore it. Whether it be racism; pollution; child abuse or simply the inability to walk an entire pedestrian crossing, in the time it takes the green man to change to red. Youth ignores old age and I ignored how badly designed our towns are for wheel-chair access, until today.

On an outing with my grandmother - who now is only able to walk short distances, we decided to take the chair. 'It would be easier,' I thought. How wrong could I have been?

What should have been a pleasant afternoon became a puzzle more difficult to solve than anything thrown at the contestants on the Crystal Maze. Curbs lowered on one side of the road but not the other, shops with small step up access, stores with only a staircase to reach the part we wanted to get to, pavements too narrow to fit a wheelchair etc. It was an endless battle to pick up a few things and browse the high street as I would have done on two legs alone.

Worse still was the sheer lack of common courtesy that the public showed. How difficult is it to hold a door open for a few more seconds, so that it makes life a little easier for one man and his wheel-chair? I would have imagined that this would have been a problem you'd associate with teenagers - not so. In fact the younger generation seemed more helpful that those who had hit mid life, who clearly preferred to ignore us, allowing swing doors to shut in our faces.

I had my eyes opened today. I hope I don't shut them again. But more than this I hope that no matter what opinions people may have of me, I never will be accused of not giving my seat up to the elderly or infirmed or being unable to spare two seconds of my day to hold a door open.

Girl Power - US style

2007-01-21T21:55:00.000Z

Hillary Clinton has officially made a bid for the Whitehouse. Can she become America’s First, first Lady or did she peak long ago?

For six years she’s been the most talked about non-candidate in the US. Finally, last night, Senator Clinton threw her name into what could become an historic presidential race. Following in the footsteps of successful campaigns by France’s Sergolene Royal and Nicolas Sarkozy, she used the internet as a platform to launch her bid for the 2008 nomination.

All guns blazing and a strap line from the offset, Senator Clinton looked every bit the political goliath, telling her audience, “I’m in and I’m in to win.” Polished and poised, she asked America for a conversation, “Let’s chat,” she said. For a moment you could have been watching Oprah.

Clinton has joined an already overcrowded pitch. But her omnipotent grip on the Democratic party in key states, combined with the support of women across the country and, an ever flourishing money tree has immediately pushed her in front. How long she can stay there, is another matter.

A recognisable face and a longing by American’s for the relatively peaceful times of the Mr Clinton Presidency, may help the Senator in the short term but it could also be her down fall. There is also the question of Iraq. Could America put it’s faith in a woman if they are still in the middle of a war? Especially a woman who has shown wavering support for US troops.

As much as pollsters would like you to believe she’s a shoo in, think again. Illinois Senator, Barack Obama is also eying the Whitehouse in his bid to become the first black President of the US. With charisma seeping from every pore Mr Obama also has credibility. He was an outspoken critic of the war in Iraq, before the invasion in 2003 and has lived in an Islamic country, a definite bonus in a world that is increasingly shunning the white values of the US.

For now Senator Clinton is enjoying the limelight. If she continues to head the pack, there needs to be some serious debate - about Bill. After all, what will we call him – the First Gentleman? It doesn’t quite have the same ring. In any case you can be sure Hillary is already giving him baking lessons. Never underestimate the power of the infamous cookie cook-off in swaying the vote.

Big Bully

2007-01-17T20:23:00.000Z

Has racism finally entered the Big Brother house?

Today’s news has been largely concerned with alleged racist behaviour in the Celebrity Big Brother house. Over 21,000 complaints have been made to Offcom and Channel 4 in reaction to the ‘abuse’ Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty has received from other housemates.

In what is clearly a case of classic school-yard bullying, Jo O’Meara, former singer with pop act S Club 7; Danielle Lloyd, a former Miss Britain; and Jade Goody, reality TV star are at the epicentre of this bad behaviour. They have closed ranks on Miss Shetty, making fun of her accent and generally having bitching sessions of which she is the focus.

The media has picked up on a number of comments. In particular one from Miss Lloyd, in which she referred to Miss Shetty’s habit of picking at food from other peoples plates with disgust.

“You don’t know where those hands have been,” she said.

It is hard to see how this comment when taken in context, is racist. Quite clearly many people have low standards of hygiene and this act of familiarity is generally frowned upon in the UK, unless performed by family or close friends. Miss Shetty is from a very different culture and the divide has been apparent on several occasions.

Indian culture is not being attacked in this programme. This is clearly a case of three moronic idiots who have nothing better to do with their time than pick on anyone who is an obvious outsider. Miss Shetty is receiving the brunt of their attention because she is everything they are not; talented; intelligent; internationally successful – need I go on?

But where does the divide between bullying and racism meet? Had Miss Shetty been British or the tormenters of mixed culture, it would have been more difficult for the masses to point the finger towards racism. Bearing in mind the poor behaviour of these anything but lady-like young women, it is probable that at some point they would have hounded another contestant – be it Ian ‘H’ Watkins, for his camp welshness or Cleo, for her love of sunglasses. They really are that pathetic.

Accuse these girls of bullying certainly, but not racism. Their conduct should not be acceptable to the makers of Celebrity Big Brother. It is up to Channel 4 to make it clear that their actions have repercussions. They should be evicted immediately and forfeit any fee they have been paid. If this does not happen, then Channel 4 are giving credence to bully’s across the globe.

For more information on the Celebrity Big Brother contestants please go to:-
http://www.channel4.com/bigbrother/index.jsp

A dog's dinner

2007-01-16T18:06:00.000Z

Diet pills for obese pets have been approved in the US

It’s not just humans suffering in the obesity stakes – now our dogs are too. Slentrol, a pill said to significantly reduce the appetite and fat absorption in Canines, has been given the green light by the US Food and Drug administration.

There have been welcome calls from owners in the US who want their pampered pooches to slim down fast. Busy lives prevent them from helping their furry friends lose weight the old fashioned way – less food, more exercise. Professor Bonnie Beaver, a veterinary medicine specialist agrees.

“It’s easy to say we will feed them less and exercise them more. Well, we know how well that works for us,” she said.

This is a repulsive sentiment. Part of the responsibility of having a pet is to make sure that you give them an adequate diet and regular work outs. If you let your own weight flare then so be it. To force this on a pet that you’ve made a decision to care for is quite clearly unacceptable, morally and legally.

A guilty verdict was returned last week in the case of two brothers, who allowed their chocolate Labrador, Rusty to gain almost four stone in two years. Rusty was deemed to have suffered unnecessarily after being fed an inappropriate diet and is now required to take medication for the rest of his life.

Understandably there are circumstances where contentious owners fall ill and are unable to exercise their pets regularly, which could lead to obesity. But the acceptance of a diet pill for our dogs is a dark day indeed.

There is hope that the new Animal Rights Bill that is to be passed through the Welsh Assembly later this year will be another step in the right direction. For the first time the RSPCA will be able to take pet owners to court before an animal starts to suffer.

Hope lies in responsible pet ownership. Those that cannot provide basic care, should be unable to have pets, full stop.

Sucker up

2007-01-14T10:36:00.000Z

Essential footwear for those vying for Imelda's crown.

In an age where convenience has become the most important aspect of life, a gap as wide as the Grand Canyon has existed when it comes to household chores - that is until now. Electrolux have invented a gadget as good as a housemaid for those who can't afford one - slippers that vacuum as you walk. Ingenious!

Aptly labeled the Shoover, these modern clog / space shoes have a tiny rechargeable battery inside the base and, a clever little laser movement sensor that turns suction on and off. For those who hate the sound of a vacuum cleaner this is the solution.

The Shoover is made of green nylon and has a built in electrical sock for comfort. Just remember not to wear them into the shower.

So what prompted Electrolux to design this nifty little idea? A survey discovered that only 28% of us vacuum daily, down 6% compared to two years ago. Surely this is good news, as it seems to suggest that OCD involving housework is on the decline.

Without her millions, there's a fair chance that Imelda Marcos will be first in line, followed by yours truly. Now if they only came in pink...

Poor Miss Middleton

2007-01-10T10:02:00.000Z

Falling in love is never the easiest task in the world. There are so many questions we ask ourselves; are they the right one for me? Can I see myself loving this person when they're old and fat? But most of us will never have to ask the question -Are they worth all the hassle from the press / public, which will mean I will never experience a private moment again? This is the question Kate Middleton must now be asking over and, over and, over in her pretty little head.

Miss Middleton has committed the ultimate privacy faux pas - to fall in love with a member of the Royal family. She will now be haunted at every moment possible by those who wish to take a snap so that they can sell it on. There can be no more bad hair days, clothing that clashes and god forbid it if she puts on any weight.

It could be argued that from day one she would have been aware what life as Prince William's consort would mean. But how many of us have started a flirtation with someone with baggage thinking it would never amount to anything serious, only to find a few months later that our emotions are in so deep even the Thorpedo couldn't swim out. It is highly unlikely that this was a military planned operation by the Middleton family to get their daughters claws into the Monarchy.

Whilst her every move has been dogged by the paparazzi, so far Miss Middleton has acted with complete dignity. But how long can she maintain her poise if the onslaught continues? There is some hope that the self censorship imposed on pictures of Miss Middleton when she is alone by News International will set a precedent, but this cannot be guaranteed.

If Miss Middleton and Prince William decide to announce their engagement and subsequently marry then she does so knowing full well what life will entail. However the difference will be that she will then, as a member of the higher levels of the Royal family be entitled to permanent security - a necessity that she does not currently posses.

Convicts rule the roost

2007-01-05T09:49:00.000Z

It's the first Ashes whitewash since 1921 - so what went wrong for England?

There's a big grin on my face today. I have a feeling it will not be shared by many other British nationals. England has convincingly lost the Ashes series and that, not only as a fan of the Australian team makes me happy. Very happy.

When England took the Ashes back in 2005 it seemed that everyone believed they won in the most credible fashion. That the Aussies had played their best and had been out run; out bowled; out played. It was not so. In the last Ashes series, England were 2-1 up and only required a draw to win. It took a combination of poor form from Pointing and Co. and England playing at their absolute best to get that final draw at the Oval which brought the Ashes home.

Australia are the giants in this game - by a long run. The past few weeks have shown that the result in 2005 is not indicative of a strong England side, but an Australian side that had been run ragged after an extended season and injuries had hampered the Gold and Greens. That lost was necessary for the Australian Cricket Board to re-assess the length of the season and the pressures put upon the national side. Australia took a big lesson home with them and have proved that they are not just giants, but that they can learn from experience and become stronger, more dynamic and now walk into this year's world cup as undeniable favourites - as they should.

The calls for a re-examination of just what went wrong for England are a little shambolic. English cricket has not been healthy for decades. The over the top celebrations that followed the Ashes in 2005 are typical of what seems a trend in the UK. The English team does well, beats those convicts, is honoured by the Queen and then fails to deliver on all promises of continuing to remain a force in whatever sport it may be; Cricket, Rugby, need I say more? It is a good thing to recognise those that have achieved excellence, it just feels that when it is only the result of another team playing badly, then perhaps the word excellence is stretching reality a little too far.

Good on the Aussies for proving that when it comes to sport - it just ain't cricket without them. I hope her Majesty decides to recognise her Commonwealth citizens for their achievements.

Honour roll

2006-12-30T16:00:00.000Z

Does the New Year Honours List still have meaning in the modern world?

Crooner Rod Stewart, actor Johnny Briggs and the Queen’s granddaughter Zara Phillips are all named in this year’s honours list. But what does it mean to be on this list and how does that fit into the 21st century with the hordes of other ceremonies which appreciate individuals who make a valid contribution to society?

Coming from a younger generation I find it difficult to see the reasoning behind such a system. There seems no logic to it. Are these honours recognising life long achievements or for just one-off good deeds? There appears to be no distinction and without distinctions how do we know who are the real achievers or those who just hit the mark once?

Is there really some kind of kudos that you get for having the letters MBE, OBE or CBE after your name? Do you have it printed up on your cheque book to show it off? Or is it just about being recognised by the current Monarch for whatever it is that you do?

I understand that the ordinary person, who does a mundane job all their life, may find very little other acknowledgement for their hard graft, so a little prestige may mean a lot but is it necessary to have the Queen give a nod to pop stars or her own flesh and blood. Is that not already celebrated by the multitude of awards ceremonies which probably mean more to these stars in terms of sales. Will Lady Phillips gain any extra benefit from her CBE? I think not.

It seems that the idea of celebrating those who contribute to life in Britain has been obscured by honouring stars, who are already paid grand salaries and given umpteen accolades by their peers. If the current investigation taking place into a possible ‘cash for honours’ scandal involving the government turns out to be accurate, then it will escalate the problems in a system that is still in need of more modernisation, or, perhaps should be scrapped altogether.

Back Seat Driving

2006-12-29T22:50:00.000Z

Ford is struggling to remain competitive. Can a cash injection and restructure gear them up for a role in the automotive industry?

Henry Ford’s dream was to produce affordable cars for a mass market. After carving out a large piece of the home market and then the international automotive industry, 100 years on that dream has collapsed.

Ford recently announced its worst financial quarter in 14 years with a loss of $5.8bn and has had to take out an $18bn loan to improve liquidity. It seems unable to starve off competition from Asian manufacturers like Toyota, who have taken Mr Ford’s original ethos and are using it to undermine Ford’s market place.

But Ford is not alone. The loss of market share has also affected General Motors (GM) and Daimler-Chrysler in almost equal measure. Known as the ‘Big Detroit Three,’ until recently they ruled the American automotive industry. But over the past few years each has seen its share of the American market for new cars, still the largest in the world, diminish. In 2001 after struggling to stem losses, William ‘Bill’ Clay Ford took the helm of Company, replacing then CEO Jacques Nasser. In January this year he introduced “Way Forward,” a back to basics campaign aimed at cutting costs and pass savings onto consumers. So far his five year period in office has not eased Fords continued struggle, and now it’s in worse shape than ever before.

After a long search Bill has finally found the man he wants to take control. Enter Allan Mullaly, formerly number two at Boeing in September 2006. Mr Mulally was recognized as the driving force behind Boeings return to form – can he evoke the same magic at Ford?

Some analysts are not sure and have suggested that Ford is in such a bad way that it could fold in the near future. The basis for such pessimism is the share price.

Ford’s stock has yo-yoed over the past few years. In late 2001 Ford shares were worth almost $17 each. Five years later share price is under $8. Much of the reason is related to poor sales of SUVs. Ford’s shrinking market share illustrates an ongoing trend amongst Detroit’s Big Three.

There have been two prominent falls in Ford’s share price in this period. The first occurred in the second and third quarter of 2002 when share price fell by 45 percent. This was a poor year for Ford, as it announced its first annual loss in a decade following meagre sales and quality problems. Ford also pulled the plug on its failing electric cars, three years after similar projects had been abandoned by GM.

Share price improved in the last nine months of 2003 when shareholders enjoyed a 42 percent increase. Confidence in Ford was bolstered by cost cutting exercises and a ‘back to basics’ campaign. But this didn’t last. Over the next two years share price continued to fall reaching a low of $7.90.

So far 2006 has been a more stable year with share price hovering around $8’s. GM has shown a similar trend with its share price though Ford is still performing worse. In comparison the S&P 500 is up almost 30 percent on its value five years ago. It would appear that the American automotive industry is suffering in an otherwise buoyant economy.

But it is clear that Ford is suffering the most, with an eight percent loss of its American market. Ford’s problems have evolved around “arrogance and complacency,” according to Ed Wallace of Business Week. He believes that Ford have lacked a coherent and strategic view of the industry. He also states that labour costs and poor leadership have contributed to its decline.

It's also apparent that Bill’s takeover didn't ameliorate concern shown on Wall Street. Ford still has not addressed problems such as waning sales of SUVs. SUVs and other gas guzzlers used to account for 70 percent of North American sales. However, rising oil prices in the past few years has seen sales of some vehicles drop by 50 percent. Consumers have veered towards more economical cars, like as those produced by Toyota, yet Ford virtually ignored the change in consumer preference, continuing to produce expensive SUVs and prestige cars that it was no longer was able to sellin the necessary quantities.

The company has not been short of ideas, however. In 2004 Ford launched its Five Hundred saloon the car that was supposed to win back customers. But the saloon was considered bulky and unexciting, and didn't sell as well as expected. Ford has also had problems with Explorer, its light 4x4 SUV crossover with sales slipping by almost 50 percent from a high of 400,000 in 2003.

Quality problems have continued to devalue share price. Last year Ford recalled 4.6m vehicles amid concerns over potential engine fires. This year a further 1.2m trucks, SUVs and vans for the same reason. The combined effect was to produce the fifth largest recall in vehicle history.

Ford’s premier automotive unit (PAG), which includes upmarket brands Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo have also added to the company’s huge deficit. This year PAG increased its losses by $485m. This is such a problem that Alan Mulally has not ruled out a sale of British Brands, which have so far not made a profit. Worsening figures for PAG and the North American market have been the result of Ford being unable to address the key issues affecting the company – declining sales of SUVs, trucks and prestige vehicles.

In response to these problems at the beginning of January, Bill introduced ‘Way Forward,’ a plan which was to stream-line Ford. Like GM, Ford proposed job cuts. Initially aiming to cut the workforce by 30,000, this figure rose to 44,000 as Ford’s problems deepened. The take up of redundancies has been at a higher than expected level, with 38,000 accepting payouts. Although this will initially cost Ford heavily, the long term savings are necessary if the company is to remain in business. JPMorgan’s Himanshu Patel believes the higher than expected acceptance rate could mean that Ford returns to profitability by 2008 – a year earlier than the company itself has suggested.

Indeed, Ford is making progress. The introduction of Mr Mulally as CEO has already increased confidence that Ford will not go broke. He was pivotal in steering Boeing back into the black after their hardest time in history. He also has in-depth knowledge of Toyota’s world beating manufacturing, after completing a study in the early 1990s. This coupled with his ruthless ‘axe-man’ reputation, make him a safe bet as head of Ford. Whilst at Boeing, Mr Mulally slashed the workforce by almost 60% which including his right-hand man of 20 years. With difficult decisions to be made, Mr Mulally may not prove popular in the short term, but the long term should see him reap approval from investors if he is successful.

But can Ford’s problems be solved purely by cost cutting exercises? The last five years suggest that problems at the company stemmed from Ford's inability to move with the market towards economical cars such as those produced by Toyota. Ford has made plans to introduce new models which, it believes, will increase sales. However, new designs, like the Lincoln and Edge are primarily SUVs. This is a market Ford has failed to entice customers back to. Oil prices are unlikely to fall in the near future but, even if they do, environmental concerns over car pollution will continue to plague consumers. These two factors are likely to continue to diminish the SUV market. Ford still has not addressed the key problem, that to sell cars it needs to produce cars that the consumer wants and, that are competitive with Asian manufacturers.

There are some positives for the company. Ford has just been injected with a life line in the form of an $18bn loan. The money is necessary to pave the way for the acquisitions that Ford has been able to secure. Without additional funding, Ford was likely to have had a cash crunch in 2007. Ford will now also have excess money which can be ploughed into research and development, an area which needs greater focus. This is important because Ford needs to develope models that entice customers back. The next decade should see consumers moving towards cheaper cars that are more economical and less harmful to the environment.

Mr Mulally has not ruled out selling failing components of the company. It is expected that brands such as Jaguar, which has attracted interest from JCB, a British construction-machinery group will be first for the chop. Jaguar has cost Ford $10bn since it was bought in 1989 and has not made a profit. Streamlining the company will create focus on more profitable arms which can be improved.

However, the $18bn loan may be a double edged sword. Money will not necessarily lead to success if Ford cannot stem market share loss and reduce massive fixed costs for items like parts. Ford used US plants as collateral for $10bn of the debt. If the company fails to turnaround, it will lose everything. Indeed there is also bad news from Toyota which recently opened up a big pick-up plant in Texas. The new plant may pose more of a threat, as Americans' start to see the Asian company as one of their own.

Analysts are predicting that automotive sales in 2007 are likely to be flat as consumers tighten their belts. Problems will also be heightened for Ford as the cost of raw materials continue to soar. If this is the case, then Ford’s best laid plans will go to waste and it could continue to lose market share.

Ed Wallace of Business Week said that “History proves Ford can go from being almost written off by the public to well over a decade of seriously improving US market share…if Ford has done it once, it could well do it again.” Mr Wallace appears positive in an otherwise gloomy crowd. Ford has moved from reverse into first gear in the past, but the future for Ford still looks uncertain.

2006 - Goodbye and Good Riddance!

2006-12-27T10:17:00.000Z

A year of anger, stress and worry

Two Thousand and six hit my happy little world with a big bang and it hasn’t stopped falling apart since. After almost three years of travel, fun and being in love I was dragged back to Blighty kicking and screaming under the duress of family needs. I understand it was necessary to come back though I still wish I hadn’t.

Ten months had passed since my Grandfather; the glue of my family had died. It was apparent through that time that things were not right with my Grandmother, but I choose to ignore the slide by communicating from my beloved Melbourne via short phone calls and letters that I knew she could not answer. I knew by the end of 2005 that returning to Wales was a certainty and hoped that my stay would be short and sweet; instead it has been the opposite.

I moved back in with my Grandmother to help care for her. As the Alzheimer’s progressed I saw her going from able to eat with a fork and knife one day to the next barely able to take food from a spoon held by me or my mother. I toileted her, bathed her, dressed her and tucked her in at night. I lay awake for hours listening to her breathing. When I did sleep I woke at any creak or muffle wondering if she was trying to escape from a place she no longer recognised and if she was would she put up a fight like the last time, hitting out at a granddaughter she did not know anymore. Each day I woke up hoping that she had left us in her sleep, peaceful at last – she did not. I saw my mother, sister and me being drained of any life. Our days went round in never-ending circles, a merry-go-round that we couldn’t get off. My patience worn so thin I wondered what would be my breaking point.

Things were to worsen as the local NHS Trust wiped us from their books under the veil of administration. No Doctor, no Community Psychiatric Nurse, no Social Worker – no help. My Gran tried drowning, cutting herself. We had to remove all sharp objects, lock all the doors and windows, and make her a prisoner in her own home. We were prisoners too. For six months time dragged on as we battled to have medication checked, to have some rest. She managed to run out on my sister one day after kicking her to the ground. A locum Doctor came to the house and diagnosed her as having psychotic delusions. He said we could not look after her anymore, but no trust would take responsibility. On the hottest weekend of 2006 we had to lock her in a room that could have no windows open and we could not take her any drinks for fear of being hurt. She stayed there for two days until a deal could be reached and she was taken in.

We hoped that this would give us some peace, it did not. We were bombarded with questions, cynicism, distain – we still are and so there seems no rest from it all.

More worry was brought in the form of health scares. My mum and I both found lumps in our breasts. They were confirmed and we then played the waiting game for scans. I was disgusted to find out that the entire breast care team did not work for a whole month in September due to annual leave so it meant more waiting. The scans came a week before I started University, they were inconclusive. More waiting for biopsies which thankfully turned out clear but by now I was at the end of my tether.

Shortly afterwards heartache followed as my relationship that had been tested in a year apart fell down on the penultimate hurdle. From the moment he had walked into a bar on Venice beach, L.A almost four years previously and into my life, he had been my world. It still feels too raw to talk about it so I will say only one thing – distance may make the heart grow fonder but it isn’t a substitute for having someone’s arms around you.

I am now living under the strain of having my home taken away from me to pay for the care that my Gran requires, a fight with the local Trust that neglected their duty of care to a patient, relatives that are clawing for the carpet beneath my feet and a heart smashed and waiting to repair. I have been told that my subsequent behaviour had ‘put up the backs’ of my lecturers who find me abrasive and aggressive – a charge I cannot deny. My anger seems to simmer and is quick to spill over as I muddle through administration, people who don’t respond to calls and governing bodies who cannot read my letters of complaint with care. I spend three hours a day commuting to study for an MA so that I do not lose my house, I run about checking on the care that my Gran is receiving, keep my mothers sprits buoyant, make all the decisions that she feels incapable of and still have the air of disappointment looming over me.

Yes, 2006 will not be a year I look back upon fondly.

Half empty, half full?

2006-12-20T20:32:00.000Z

So we've finally finished the autumn semester of our MA course at Cardiff. I'm not sure if I should be happy that it's all going so fast or not. Seems like only a few weeks ago that we were awkwardly saying 'hi' to new faces, asking the same old questions and forging friendships that will last the distance.

Already I feel as if graduation is just around the corner. That'll we'll be going our separate ways and once we've left the building that gels us together, things will never be the same again. It's the same experience with leaving school; I still ache for those days. I like being surrounded by people who are experiencing life in the same or similar way to me. We're all individuals but we have a connection, a purpose for being on the course, and we all learn from each other. The life lessons are as important as the class learning on a course like this.

Every person has a contribution, great or small and I wish that we lived together so that we could all absorb each others attributes and extend the family connection I think we're building. I wasn't looking forward to going back to Uni. My first time round was a nightmare and I just felt that this would be the same. It isn't. I feel that my eyes are being opened to new possibilities that opportunities will spring out at me, just by being on this course. I feel a bond with Bute building, as ridiculous as that sounds, but it feels like a home. I like knowing where the rooms are, what time the shop opens. It's the little things.

I want time to stand still until I've been able to absorb all that this year has to offer. It won't and although I'll try my best to take it all in, it's impossible. This is a prime example of when you have to enjoy the moment, each moment, every moment, because they pass in an instant and become all but a distant memory. The New Year awaits us all and I'm sure there are many thrills, spills and just simple times ahead. I hope we all live to enjoy them and leave with sweet memories that last for a lifetime.

Wet 'n' Wild

2006-12-08T19:24:00.000Z

Freakish weather has been hitting the shores of Britain. Is this a signal of times to come...

December is renowned for cold, crisp, sunny days a smattering of showers and occasionally the biting winds from November cross over for a few weeks. So far Britain has experienced little of the traditional weather. Within the last week mini-tornado's, hard rain and higher than average temperatures, have made the UK feel more tropical than the traditional chilly.

Spring and summer flowers are in full bloom, Spanish vultures have been spotted - is everything going just a little barmy or are we seeing the effects of Global Warming sooner than expected? Terry Walton, broadcaster and gardener from Radio 2 Jeremy Vine Show fears that the traditional Christmas garden could be a thing of the past, "Within the next 20 years we could see our gardens take on a more Mediterranean feel."

So far this December we have had higher than average temperatures, when we should be expecting to see peaks of four or five degrees Celsius, thermometers are showing readings of 13. This means we are only a few degrees cooler than Tenerife at this time of the year.

It's not only the winter weather that seems to be showing a sign of change. This year scientists discovered that spring started a week earlier. It may not sound much but to indigenous plants and wildlife the change could prove disastrous. Trees in particular require a long rest in the winter many still have leaves on them a month later than they should.

Should we roll with the times or stand up and take notice at how we are changing the world we live in?

Furry Friends

2006-12-08T07:57:00.000Z

Single issue party's - are they just a horse with one leg?

This Saturday, politics in Wales will spawn a new child in the form of Animals Count, a one issue party that wants to champion the rights of animals. Animals Count had its official UK launch last week in London. The party feels that a separate launch in Wales will help solidify a secure base here, believing that the system of proportional representation in Wales will make it more possible for party members to be elected.

Chairman of Animals Count Jasmijn de Boo brought the concept of the party to the UK from her native Netherlands. There, Animals Count already have a number of seats in parliament. "We have brought animal issues to the forefront of politics, playing an educational role," said Ms de Boo, "This week the agricultural budget was discussed in the Netherlands; all but two parties started their speeches with animal rights. The two that didn't still featured the issue prominently."

Ms de Boo rejected claims that 'one issue' parties are limited in their appeal. She says that Animals Count will have a full manifesto representing the party’s stance on other issues such as health and pensions, but it will not set any initiatives. Ms de Boo confirmed that the party would disband if the issues they are fighting for are taken up by the main political parties.

Martin Shrewsbury Leader of the Green Party in Wales has shown concern over the creation of Animals Count. He said "One issue parties are not good for our political system, Animals Count does not even mention climate change in their manifesto - this will have a huge impact on animals." When questioned whether the Green Party were also a 'one issue' party Mr Shrewsbury complained that was how they were represented in the media but that the Greens were all about 'joined up thinking'.

So are the Greens ready to disband now that Labour and the Conservatives have shown they love the environment too? "No" says Mr Shrewsbury, "They talk about Green issues but still do not qualify their pledges." He may have a point. Gordon Brown announced this week that all new homes built would be carbon neutral - he however did not mention what he believes carbon neutral to mean.

Animals Count may bring the issue of animal rights to the surface but can it really change politics in the UK?

The Author interviewed Ms de Bow and Mr Shrewsbury on 7 Dec 2006 as part of a news item that will appear as part of 'GMW' on Radio Wales, 9 Dec 2006.

Blowing a fuse

2006-12-04T18:50:00.000Z

You can tell its Christmas when people start going a little barmy. Often the pre holiday period brings a little peppering of bad tempers. Long store queues, cold outside so you have to wear a big warm coat, hot inside so you have to take it off and lug it about whilst attempting to do your shopping, always a kid having a tantrum, babies crying, that one item so and so (the awkward one) wants is out of stock, need I go on?

You see people fainting under the stress of trying to work, rest and play to the extent of that very popular chocolate advert in the 80’s. It’s impossible! Why do we put so much strain on ourselves when the real reason behind this festival is to be at peace with the world? That certainly wasn’t on the mind of the lady in front of me this afternoon, who almost ripped apart another lady who attempted to jump the queue. Tempers flared, and for a moment a cat fight seemed inevitable. Alas, it was not to be. The second lady apologised profusely and rightfully found her place in the line. There’s no such thing as a free panto these days.

Traffic jams up by 50%, does anyone actually realise that park and ride schemes will diffuse such heightened congestion? Shops full of under paid, young, eager but not terribly well trained staff, just there for the few busy weeks. You can see the shopper’s faces blowing from the clammy, pale white of the general British public to a fuchsia shade of pink, to bright and bubbling purple, as they ask a list of questions the poor dabs cannot answer. “I’ll have to ask my supervisor,” they say. Unfortunately the supervisor is already being fought over by seven other customers and non experienced staff who all want to know what time the store shuts. Finally one ingenious person (me) quietly suggests they check out the sign on the front door – so simple!

So what is so happy about the season we’re all supposed to be so jolly about? Certainly nothing that springs to mind, unless you happen to be Jewish of course. Thank goodness for birth right!

Godzilla Tree

2006-12-03T19:52:00.000Z

Over 27 storeys high, the world’s largest Christmas tree screams for the attention of locals and visitors alike in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. The floating tree erected as part of the traditional celebrations in Rio, was unveiled to frantic crowds who gathered for the ceremony.

It’s the tenth year since the tree was installed. This year it features 26 baubles which all display famous Brazilian sites. No news yet as to whether this includes the infamous Brazilian amongst waxing addicts or Giselle in a skimpy bikini.

On a more serious note, the tree consists of over 2.8 million lights. This will waste energy supplies, add to light pollution and cost the Brazilian state money that may be better spent on improving socio-economic issues that continue to plague this poor country.

Recent figures show that at current consumption rates oil and gas reserves will be depleted within the next 80 years. Is it therefore necessary or wise for cities and people around the world to celebrate this ‘Christian’ festival in such a careless manner? The New Testament does not call for extravagant shows to celebrate the birth of the Christian Messiah.

The phenomenon of covering every inch of our houses in Christmas lights seems to be growing rapidly. In Cardiff one house has become such a Mecca for ‘lights’ enthusiasts that it now displays a prominent notice outside from October telling passers by when the official 'turning on' ceremony will take place. Should we not be addressing such wasteful use of scant resources?

The monstrous tree in Brazil is so in more ways than just height.

Hare and the Tortoise

2006-11-26T09:01:00.000Z

Ecuador takes to the polls as dirty political campaign nears end

In the first round elections just over a month ago, it seemed certain that conservative candidate Alvaro Noboa, would take the lead into today’s ballot for the Ecuadorian Presidency. Choosing to forge closer ties with the Bush administration, Ecuador's richest man has driven a popular campaign, fuelled by generous donations to the public.

The Cedatos Gallop poll announced yesterday, suggests that Mr Noboa's lead was no longer so, with his rival, left-wing Rafael Correa, now standing on 54%.

It has been a bitter race. Both candidates showed unease with the first round elections in October. Mr Correa publicly announcing that they were fraudulent and that Mr Noboa was trying to buy the public. Claims supported by the Church, who criticised the banana baron for handing out $500 cheques and wheelchairs to the disabled.

Mr Correa has urged the public to take their own pens to the ballot boxes, stating that pens handed out at the polls, contained special ink that would fade in 20 minutes. Mr Noboa in return has called Mr Correa a 'Communist devil' for his strong alliance with Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez.

Ecuador has lived through an unstable political period. In the past ten years, three presidents have been forced from office by angry crowds. The country is a patchwork of indigenous communities, many who feel under represented by traditional government.

The riches from Ecuador's largest export, oil, have not benefited an extensively poor nation. Mr Correa has promised to break with past and to direct the economy towards social development. Mr Noboa proposes liberal reforms with major changes to the political landscape.

A sea of green and gold

2006-11-24T09:19:00.000Z

England's barmy army have little to celebrate as the second day of the first Ashes test finishes.

The GABA's home crowd continued their early celebrations, as Glen McGrath dismissed England's opening batsman in a thrilling over. Australia declared on 609/9, centering around a top class performance from Aussie captain, Ricky Pointing who scored 196.

Former Australian captain Steve Waugh has likened Pointing to the late, great, batsman Sir Donald Bradman. Universally acknowledged as the principal batsman of all time - this is indeed high praise. Famous for a Test batting average of 99.94, Sir Bradman's record is still a distant dream for Pointing. His average remains at 59.13.

Glen McGrath ended the second day with 25/2 dismissing worries about his age. The 36 year old, now has 544 career wickets and is the most successful seam bowler in the history of Test cricket.

Age may not be an immediate concern for the Australian cricket team, but with half a dozen veterans playing in this series, the ACB needs more fresh blood introduced. There's certainly no sign of damping Aussie spirits though. Wide sections of the media are already describing the series as a 'whitewash.'

The Antipodeans masterful control of the Ashes so early on, has been blamed by some quarters on jetlag. With over 3 weeks of adjustment since the England team left the UK, this excuse has weak legs. England closed the days play on 55/3.

Jesus Loves You....

2006-11-20T14:56:00.000Z

BA employee looses battle to wear cross openly

Nadia Eweida has lost her fight to wear a crucifix, the size of a small coin on the outside of her BA uniform. She claimed BA’s request to hide the cross under her garments surmounted to religious discrimination, as other employees were allowed to wear turbans and headscarves which were more visible.

In statement BA say that their 34,000 uniformed staff are aware of uniform policy and must abide by it, ‘The policy does not ban staff from wearing a cross. It lays down that personal items of jewellery, including crosses may be worn - but underneath the uniform.’

‘The policy recognises that it is not practical for some religious symbols - such as turbans and hijabs - to be worn underneath the uniform. This is purely a question of practicality. There is no discrimination between faiths.’

Ms Eweida who has been on unpaid leave since being told to hide her cross, has said ‘It is important to wear it to express my faith, so that people will know that Jesus loves them.’ She has found support for her case in the form of Ann Widdecombe MP, who has even set up a site to call for ‘Christian Soldiers’ to boycott BA until they reverse their decision.

However, Ms Eweida has received some scathing criticism from other quarters, supporting BA’s hard line policy. Catholic writer Austen Ivereigh has likened the cross on show to being more like a fashion item used by rap stars than a religious symbol. Mr Ivereigh said ‘It’s obviously not discrimination. There are lots of ways to demonstrate your faith. The true Christian witness is the love and understanding you show people.’

Ms Eweida, who has seven days to appeal the judgement, is not currently extending that love and understanding in BA’s direction.

BA have offered Ms Ewieda an non-uniformed post, which would allow her to plainly display her cross. She has so far refused this offer.

From Russia with poison

2006-11-20T14:05:00.000Z

Ex Russian spy given 50/50 chance to survive after drinking a lethal cocktail

Former KGB colonel Alexander Litvinenko is said to be a stable condition in intensive care at present, after being poisoned with a potentially lethal dose of the thallium.

Thallium a heavy metal, is tastless, colourless and ordourless, easily disolving in liquid. It attacks the nervous system and internal organs. Initial symptoms include hair loss, vomitting and diahorea, convulsions and coma can set in if untreated. A dose of one gram can lead to death.

Mr Litvinenko is an outspoken critic of his former boss and Russian President Vladmir Putin. Best known for co-writing the book 'Blowing Up Russia,' which alleges that agents of the Federal Security Service (FSB), formerly known as the KGB, co-ordinated the 1999 apartment block bombings in Russia. The attack killed over 300 people. The Kremlin blamed the bombing on Chechen rebels and seized over 4,000 copies of the book in 2003.

More recently, Mr Litvinenko was investigating the death of his friend, journalist Anna Politkovskaya. Also, a strong critic of Mr Putin, Ms Politkoskaya was found shot dead at her Moscow apartment in October. It is believed that Mr Litvinenko had arranged to meet a contact at a sushi restaurant in Piccadilly, London to gain information on her assassin.

It is after this meeting that the former Russian agent fell ill and was admitted to hospital. His close friend Alexander Goldfarb has accused the Kremlin of being involved in the attempted murder. Talking to journalists outside University College Hospital, London he said 'Although it's very difficult to imagine that the President would order the killing, it is true. And nobody is saying that Putin personally ordered this, although it is very likely.' The Kremlin have responded saying that theories suggesting that they are mixed up in the attempt on Mr Litvinenko's life, are bordering on 'raving madness.'

It's not the first time that Russian Secret Services have been implicated in such attempts. In 1995 Ivan Kivelidi, then chairman of the Russian Business Round Table of bankers and businessmen, was poisoned. He died three days after falling into a coma. Doctors confirmed the coma was induced by ingestion of "heavy mineral salts". While more recently Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko fell ill after a dinner with security service leaders, while he was a presidental candidate in 2004. Medical experts confirmed he had been poisoned with dioxin

Mr Litvinenko was given asylum in the UK in 2000 and is now a British citizen.

Socialist in stilettoes

2006-11-16T12:18:00.000Z

Segolene Royal faces tough competition to become the Socialist candidate for the French Presidency

France's Socialist Party members head to the polls today, to elect their nominee for the Presidential race next year. Until recently, the French have been amourous over the attractive Ms Royal. Just six weeks ago she lead the opinion polls with a runaway 66%, her nearest opponent Dominique Strauss-Kahn quivreing on 27%.

The Socialist Party adopted a more American style primary this year, which saw Ms Royal face live debates with her rivals; Mr Strauss-Kahn and Laurent Fabiens. She has not faired well. Criticised for being lightweight on international affairs, Ms Royal has fluctuated from favouring open dialect with Hamas in the Middle East to staunchly opposing all nuclear activity by Tehran.

Home policys which include a 'shake up of the schools system' to tackle education failure have not been received well by teachers - who account for a significant portion of the Socialist party membership.

Polls conducted in the light of the live debates have suggested Ms Royal's lead has been dented significantly. Some Socialists are still predicting that she will gain over 50% of the votes - enough to secure her contention against the UMP candiate who will not be choosen until January 2007. Francoise Hollande, the party's first secretary has called for the first-round result to be incontestable. Mr Hollande is also Ms Royals partner.

OpinonWay, a pollster has said that if Ms Royal becomes the Socialist candidate that the Presidential race next year would be neck and neck with Nicolas Sarkovy the likely winner of the UMP contest. Her rivals if elected, are expected to give the UMP an easy accession to continue the Right wing Presidency that Chirac has sheparded over the past 12 years.

If Ms Royal wins the ballot today she will become the first female French President and will have disproven the Socialist grandees, who last year thought her candidacy preposterous. A year later and opinions have taken a U turn.

Radical turns Republican?

2006-11-14T19:40:00.000Z

In 1979 dressed in olive green combats, rifle in hand and a full head of thick black hair, Daniel Ortega swooped into Manaua, Nicaragua as head of the popular revolution. He promised freedom from poverty, discipline and a mandate against the domination of capitalism. Ousting the Amercian backed dictator Somoza he became head of the ruling junta. Finally he was elected as President in the disputed ballot 22 years ago in Novemeber, '84.

Losing his presidency in 1990, he has made two unsuccessful attempts to regain power. The saying 'third times a charm' certainly applies to 60 year old Mr Ortega who has just succeeded in regaining the top job after defeating his rival, Eduardo Montealegre in the November 5th elections, with over 38% of the votes.

Mr Ortega these days looks more relaxed in pink shirts and contact lenses, preaching his new found faith in God. He even drives a Mercedes-Benz SUV. Could he really be the lunatic that ex-White House aide Oliver North has been warning the Nicaraguan public about?

Mr North recently spoke in Managua saying that his election would be the worst thing that could happen. US Ambassador in Nicaragua, Paul Trivelli tried to distance himself from the comments stating that Mr North was not speaking on behalf of Washington. No wonder, with American allies 'falling like flies', all at Capitol Hill are biding their time to see how Mr Ortega wields power.

The Sandinistas leader is being lured by Venezuela's anti-American Hugo Chavez with the promise of continued subsidies on oil and fertilizer. It's not all bad news for Washington though, Mr Ortega has suprizingly backed the Central American Free-Trade Agreement of his old Cold War enemies.

Already courting controversy at home, Mr Ortega recently backed a bill to outlaw all abortions, overturning a 130-year-old policy that allowed for terminations in cases such as rape. A feat George Bush is surely turning green over. If Mr Ortega keeps up this form it'll be the most radical personality change since the bible story of Saul from Damascus.