Thursday 31 January 2008
Leanne Wood's new blog and website
Leanne Wood AM has a new blog and a new website. Please link to them if you are regular bloggers....
article on eating disorders
An interesting article in today's Independent from Sister Marie Thérèse, and her longstanding eating disorder, and its connection with religion.
Sunday 27 January 2008
Bridgend youth suicides
I am truly moved by the news of the suicides in the Bridgend area- where seven young people have committed suicide since January 2007. South Wales Police are now looking in to whether this may have been some sort of suicide pact, initiated via chat sites such as Bebo.
Suicide rates amongst young people are on the increase unfortunately, and this may be due to there being more pressure on young people today, or a raft of other reasons. The Times reports that these suicides may have come about as a way for young people to reach 'instant fame', and that of the young people in the area that they interviewed, many cited that the victims could have been 'bored', and that they wanted to escape their everyday lives. Young people may be more passionate, take things out of proportion, but it is worrying that so many young people in this particular area have resorted to committing suicide.
I know that this is not a new phenomenon amongst young people. I am not that naive. I have experience personally of knowing someone who committed suicide at a young age. There is no clear answer as to what can be done to ensure that there isn't a growth in youth suicides, but it is an area that must be looked at more seriously than it is currently.
I know the areas where the young people come from relatively well - Pontycymmer and Blaengarw. They may be relatively deprived areas, but I sincerely believe that this doesn't explain the current situation. It may be a symptom of a larger problem, but not the only one. It is a challenge for people like me to ensure that there are more support groups and community facilities for young people in such areas, and that young people do not feel sidelined from society. There is still a long way to go.
Organisations such as the Samaritans are vital in helping young people through their problems, but again, as The Times article points out clearly, young people may not be aware of them, or know where to go for help. When I was attacked at University by a group of girls, I did not know where to turn to for help, and so I understand fully how we must ensure that we take the message to young people, as opposed to assuming that they will be OK, and that they can get on with their lives unscathed.
I am hoping to arrange to meet with young people in the Bridgend area to discuss this issue, amongst many, and I hope that the families affected by the suicides are receiving the support that they need. It is a message that more preventative work must be done to help young people who resort to suicide as the only answer to their problems.
Suicide rates amongst young people are on the increase unfortunately, and this may be due to there being more pressure on young people today, or a raft of other reasons. The Times reports that these suicides may have come about as a way for young people to reach 'instant fame', and that of the young people in the area that they interviewed, many cited that the victims could have been 'bored', and that they wanted to escape their everyday lives. Young people may be more passionate, take things out of proportion, but it is worrying that so many young people in this particular area have resorted to committing suicide.
I know that this is not a new phenomenon amongst young people. I am not that naive. I have experience personally of knowing someone who committed suicide at a young age. There is no clear answer as to what can be done to ensure that there isn't a growth in youth suicides, but it is an area that must be looked at more seriously than it is currently.
I know the areas where the young people come from relatively well - Pontycymmer and Blaengarw. They may be relatively deprived areas, but I sincerely believe that this doesn't explain the current situation. It may be a symptom of a larger problem, but not the only one. It is a challenge for people like me to ensure that there are more support groups and community facilities for young people in such areas, and that young people do not feel sidelined from society. There is still a long way to go.
Organisations such as the Samaritans are vital in helping young people through their problems, but again, as The Times article points out clearly, young people may not be aware of them, or know where to go for help. When I was attacked at University by a group of girls, I did not know where to turn to for help, and so I understand fully how we must ensure that we take the message to young people, as opposed to assuming that they will be OK, and that they can get on with their lives unscathed.
I am hoping to arrange to meet with young people in the Bridgend area to discuss this issue, amongst many, and I hope that the families affected by the suicides are receiving the support that they need. It is a message that more preventative work must be done to help young people who resort to suicide as the only answer to their problems.
Saturday 26 January 2008
Plaid nominate for the Second Chamber
Dafydd Wigley
Eurfyl ap Gwilym
Janet Davies
It was very close between Janet Davies and Rhian Medi so I understand, but congratulations to the three who may be going to the Lords...sorry, Second Chamber. I played my 'democratic' role in voting for the three of my choice regardless of my well documented opposition to our party being there at all. But as it is party policy I felt it only right to play my part in electing the 3 representatives for Plaid. The debate was of a high standard, and so the show must go on.
On the gender balance front the party voted for zipping on the regional list.
Eurfyl ap Gwilym
Janet Davies
It was very close between Janet Davies and Rhian Medi so I understand, but congratulations to the three who may be going to the Lords...sorry, Second Chamber. I played my 'democratic' role in voting for the three of my choice regardless of my well documented opposition to our party being there at all. But as it is party policy I felt it only right to play my part in electing the 3 representatives for Plaid. The debate was of a high standard, and so the show must go on.
On the gender balance front the party voted for zipping on the regional list.
Friday 25 January 2008
Eating Disorders- support for the cross party group.
This letter was in the Western Mail today from David Samuel. I was on the Richard Evans show with Ali Valenzuela, a girl from Swansea who suffered from the illness on Wednesday, and David phoned in to the show to say that he too had anorexia while a student in Cardiff. I was actually in school with David, and he has been very active with the BMA in Wales in raising important issues affecting student Doctors. I hope that everyone who is interested in this subject will take part in the debate, and also attend the launch of the eating disorders cross party group campaign on the 27th of February at the National Assembly for Wales.
Eating disorder need
SIR – I welcome the call by Bethan Jenkins to improve the services dedicated to treating eating disorders in Wales (Health Wales, January 21).
Despite over 50,000 people in Wales suffering from such disorders, the limited in-patient service offered in Wales is over-run and community services are limited and stretched to breaking point.
Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses. It impacts on the patients’ physical and mental status, and also transforms their lives and that of their family and loved ones.
Unless patients are treated quickly then their obsession with food, exercise and their illogical desire to be thin turns into a live threatening, life-dominating condition.
As a medical student who has suffered from anorexia, I have seen the effects of this condition from both sides. I am only too aware of the dangers of the condition, as well as the illogical thoughts that possesses a sufferers’ mind.
At a time when preventing obesity seems high on the agenda in the UK, let us not forget those at the other end of the spectrum who are underweight, undernourished and suffering in silence as anorexia and bulimia torment and haunt their everyday lives. No family should have to travel over the border to receive treatment for what is an already immensely burdensome condition. I only hope WAG listen to Ms Jenkins’s call and also take note of the silent cries of many eating disorder sufferers across Wales. I only hope that as a practising doctor in six months time I will be able to offer help to my patients close to their homes to overcome their dying desire to diet.
DAVID GWYNFOR SAMUEL
Fifth year medical student, Cardiff University. Pant, Merthyr Tydfil
Paul Murphy is Secretary of State.
Paul Murphy is the new Secretary of State for Wales. One man, one job to do-for how long is anyone's guess, mind. Lets hope that even though he describes himself as a 'devo-realist,' that the system of transferring powers via the LCO system to the Assembly can now start to run a smoother course. It can only be tried, although if relations fail between Westminster and Cardiff Bay, there may be interesting times ahead...The Lib dems have already come all out criticising the appointment. Roger Williams, said:
“I have the highest regard for Paul Murphy as a person and as a Minister. However, his views on devolution are well known – in policy terms he is a devo-sceptic. I do not believe he is the right person to take devolution forward.”
Plaid's Elfyn Llwyd took a far more conciliatory approach:
“He is hard working and sincere, and his track record in Northern Ireland speaks for itself. He is a man of the highest calibre, and we’re sure he will co-operate with the One Wales government'.
So there we have it.Thursday 24 January 2008
Who will be the next Secretary of State for Wales?
Hain has gone. We all know this by now. He has done the honourable thing in resigning, as his position had clearly become untenable-especially following the referral of the investigation to the police by the Electoral Commission. I think that looking to the future, the Labour party as an institution has to reflect and ask itself whether its obsession with big business is healthy. What were Hain's donors gaining from giving him such vasts amount of money anyway?
For now, and until we get primary legislative powers here in Wales, a Welsh presence at the Cabinet level is a practical necessity. Once Wales has the powers to pass its own laws, the need for a Secretary of State is questionable. The appointment of a new Secretary of State is imminent, and a decision for Gordon Brown to make ( if he doesn't dither for too long) We need a Secretary of State who will be consistent with the progressive agenda of the One Wales Government in Cardiff Bay, and not someone who will act in the inherent self interest of the unionist wing of the Labour party. A Secretary of State who will oversee the historic transition of primary law making powers to the National Assembly following a successful 'yes' referendum campaign.
For now, and until we get primary legislative powers here in Wales, a Welsh presence at the Cabinet level is a practical necessity. Once Wales has the powers to pass its own laws, the need for a Secretary of State is questionable. The appointment of a new Secretary of State is imminent, and a decision for Gordon Brown to make ( if he doesn't dither for too long) We need a Secretary of State who will be consistent with the progressive agenda of the One Wales Government in Cardiff Bay, and not someone who will act in the inherent self interest of the unionist wing of the Labour party. A Secretary of State who will oversee the historic transition of primary law making powers to the National Assembly following a successful 'yes' referendum campaign.
Tuesday 22 January 2008
BBC Network News- the debate continues
Today I attended a breakfast meeting hosted by Sir Michael Lyons on the 'BBC Trust a year on'. While breakfast meetings are commendable in theory, questions arise as to whether such meetings are accessible for all AMs, or the public with interest in this issue- those with family commitments could be a case in point. This is a side issue of course, but one worth taking in to consideration. In one of the breakfast meetings that I attended in my region for example, I was one of two women present out of over 30 men....
Coming on to the issue of the BBC, its network news provision and the lack of Welsh news coverage was raised by numerous AMs- and raised quite passionately so. We made the point that Plaid MP Adam Price made last year regarding the shockingly miniscule time and resources provided to cover Welsh news on the BBC network, and I also raised the way in which we have to battle to get any political representation on Question Time when it comes to Wales even though, ironically, a Welsh company, Tinopolis produces the show! There is an ongoing review into this particular issue, so we will have to wait and see what come of that. Nevertheless, it was ackowledged that all 'regions' needed to be reflected in the news provision, so that 'regions' are not disillusioned with output from the BBC in the future.
Of course, on other issues, we celebrated the shows made in Wales by BBC Wales such as Torchwood (members of the Arts committee here at the Assembly were invited to a launch of the show last night. Not including me unfortunately!) and Doctor Who, but the point was made that such programmes should be expanded, and expertise used in Wales to produce first class programmes. The Coal House was a tremendous success, for example, and I know that my family really enjoyed it, even if I think that it was a little stereotypical myself! This is how we need to progress anyhow, and justify clearly to the people of Wales as to why paying the license fee really is worth it.
Coming on to the issue of the BBC, its network news provision and the lack of Welsh news coverage was raised by numerous AMs- and raised quite passionately so. We made the point that Plaid MP Adam Price made last year regarding the shockingly miniscule time and resources provided to cover Welsh news on the BBC network, and I also raised the way in which we have to battle to get any political representation on Question Time when it comes to Wales even though, ironically, a Welsh company, Tinopolis produces the show! There is an ongoing review into this particular issue, so we will have to wait and see what come of that. Nevertheless, it was ackowledged that all 'regions' needed to be reflected in the news provision, so that 'regions' are not disillusioned with output from the BBC in the future.
Of course, on other issues, we celebrated the shows made in Wales by BBC Wales such as Torchwood (members of the Arts committee here at the Assembly were invited to a launch of the show last night. Not including me unfortunately!) and Doctor Who, but the point was made that such programmes should be expanded, and expertise used in Wales to produce first class programmes. The Coal House was a tremendous success, for example, and I know that my family really enjoyed it, even if I think that it was a little stereotypical myself! This is how we need to progress anyhow, and justify clearly to the people of Wales as to why paying the license fee really is worth it.
Eating Disorders in Wales
This article on eating disorders and provision in Wales was printed in yesterday's health section of the Western Mail for your information.
Roedd yr erthygl yma wedi cael ei brintio yn y Western Mail ddoe am anhwylderau bwyta, a gwasanaethau yng Nghymru.
Roedd yr erthygl yma wedi cael ei brintio yn y Western Mail ddoe am anhwylderau bwyta, a gwasanaethau yng Nghymru.
Monday 21 January 2008
Murder of Ipswich women- the Daily Mail reaction
This is how Richard Littlejohn from the Daily Mail chose to report the case regarding the five women from Ipswich who were brutally killed around December 2006- this on the day when the jury visited the defendant's home, and the areas where the women were viciously killed.
Regardless of the work status of the women, I believe that the comments of this reporter are totally and utterly unacceptable- whether it is in the Daily Mail or the Evening Star. I was appalled when I read it, especially this comment- and I hope you are too.
Regardless of the work status of the women, I believe that the comments of this reporter are totally and utterly unacceptable- whether it is in the Daily Mail or the Evening Star. I was appalled when I read it, especially this comment- and I hope you are too.
'We do not share in the responsibility for either their grubby little existences or their murders. Society isn't to blame.
It might not be fashionable, or even acceptable in some quarters, to say so, but in their chosen field of "work'=", death by strangulation is an occupational hazard.
That doesn't make it justifiable homicide, but in the scheme of things the deaths of these five women is no great loss'.
Editor: Paul Dacre
The Daily Mail
Associated Newspapers Ltd
Northcliffe House
2 Derry Street
London
W8 5TT
Email: letters@dailymail.co.uk
Is Jacqui Smith 'out of touch'?
For fear of being eaten alive by Labour bloggers, they will be pleased that this post is not a 'separatist' rant!
News over the weekend and today reports how opposition parties have attacked Jacqui Smith for stating that she wouldn't walk alone on the streets of London- even the most affluent areas. The opposition parties say that she is 'out of touch with reality' in making such remarks.
While the Home Secretary may be out of touch on a raft of issues, I don't think that this is one of them. To admit to not walking alone at night is common practise. I wouldn't do it, and if pushed to do so, I would carry an alarm with me. So many women are attacked when they either carelessly believe that they will be safe in a relatively quiet area, or walk home alone after a night out, or flatly fail to see the dangers of walking alone. Many men are also attacked, and this perhaps doesn't get as much attention.
I am sure that there are many measures that the Government need to embrace to ensure that our streets are safe, but placing all this emphasis on the individual actions of the Home Secretary is unfair.
Perhaps the best place to start is to ensure that there is better lighting in our towns and suburbs. While I was at University I organised a Reclaim the Night March in Aberystwyth around those areas which were poorly lit, and raised this issue with the University and the Town Council to demand that lighting was increased. This has proven to make pedestrians feel safer at night. We still didn't advocate that women walked home alone, but ensured that they were with a friend or colleague. Another area to look at is ensuring that more Police Officers patrol the streets at night, and that they provide people with personal alarms. There are a raft of initiatives in this area, which Jacqui Smith will be in a rush to implement before she gets any more criticism....
News over the weekend and today reports how opposition parties have attacked Jacqui Smith for stating that she wouldn't walk alone on the streets of London- even the most affluent areas. The opposition parties say that she is 'out of touch with reality' in making such remarks.
While the Home Secretary may be out of touch on a raft of issues, I don't think that this is one of them. To admit to not walking alone at night is common practise. I wouldn't do it, and if pushed to do so, I would carry an alarm with me. So many women are attacked when they either carelessly believe that they will be safe in a relatively quiet area, or walk home alone after a night out, or flatly fail to see the dangers of walking alone. Many men are also attacked, and this perhaps doesn't get as much attention.
I am sure that there are many measures that the Government need to embrace to ensure that our streets are safe, but placing all this emphasis on the individual actions of the Home Secretary is unfair.
Perhaps the best place to start is to ensure that there is better lighting in our towns and suburbs. While I was at University I organised a Reclaim the Night March in Aberystwyth around those areas which were poorly lit, and raised this issue with the University and the Town Council to demand that lighting was increased. This has proven to make pedestrians feel safer at night. We still didn't advocate that women walked home alone, but ensured that they were with a friend or colleague. Another area to look at is ensuring that more Police Officers patrol the streets at night, and that they provide people with personal alarms. There are a raft of initiatives in this area, which Jacqui Smith will be in a rush to implement before she gets any more criticism....
Sunday 20 January 2008
Fuel poverty, child poverty. A race to reach the targets.
Keeping up my blog and working has proved difficult this week. First week back at the Assembly, and multi-tasking is harder than expected!
I've just been watching the Politics Show in Wales, and the interview with Rhodri Morgan. The discussion came on to whether or not Rhodri Morgan will endorse a candidate for the future leader of the Labour Party when he retires in 2009, and if today is anything to go by- it doesn't appear likely. The contest should kick off this year at some point, so watch this space for grand statements or attempts to shore up party membership support. I can only hope that all the candidates finances are in check before they launch head first in to any campaign!
On Friday I shadowed the Child Welfare Rights Officer for Neath Port Talbot . His work includes encouraging benefits take up in the Borough, and Friday's work specifically centred on the take up of the Disability Living Allowance. I visited a family in Neath- a single mother with 3 children, whose youngest child has been diagnosed with autism. Neath Port Talbot has one of the highest areas of DLA take up, but there's still a long way to go in ensuring that people know what they are entitled to. This will go a long way in tackling poverty, as families are often unaware that they are able to claim DLA, and other benefits. With news today that there is a sharp increase in fuel poverty, its vitally important that all the poverty agendas are connected, and that these areas are prioritised by Governments in Wales, and in Westminster. Looking at them individually misses out how the agendas are intertwined, and how poverty initiatives will not be acheived without investment in these areas.
News today also reports that Branson could be offering Brown the deal of a lifetime in saving Northern Rock from its financial woes. Nothing like another Millionaire to keep the London Government stable, is there?
I've just been watching the Politics Show in Wales, and the interview with Rhodri Morgan. The discussion came on to whether or not Rhodri Morgan will endorse a candidate for the future leader of the Labour Party when he retires in 2009, and if today is anything to go by- it doesn't appear likely. The contest should kick off this year at some point, so watch this space for grand statements or attempts to shore up party membership support. I can only hope that all the candidates finances are in check before they launch head first in to any campaign!
On Friday I shadowed the Child Welfare Rights Officer for Neath Port Talbot . His work includes encouraging benefits take up in the Borough, and Friday's work specifically centred on the take up of the Disability Living Allowance. I visited a family in Neath- a single mother with 3 children, whose youngest child has been diagnosed with autism. Neath Port Talbot has one of the highest areas of DLA take up, but there's still a long way to go in ensuring that people know what they are entitled to. This will go a long way in tackling poverty, as families are often unaware that they are able to claim DLA, and other benefits. With news today that there is a sharp increase in fuel poverty, its vitally important that all the poverty agendas are connected, and that these areas are prioritised by Governments in Wales, and in Westminster. Looking at them individually misses out how the agendas are intertwined, and how poverty initiatives will not be acheived without investment in these areas.
News today also reports that Branson could be offering Brown the deal of a lifetime in saving Northern Rock from its financial woes. Nothing like another Millionaire to keep the London Government stable, is there?
Wednesday 16 January 2008
A right to peaceful protest
Bethan Jenkins AM
Plaid Cymru – The Party of Wales
Wednesday 16 January 2008
EMBARGO: For immediate release
Protect Freedom of Speech – Plaid AM
Plaid Cymru’s Bethan Jenkins AM has today written to the Home Office in London urging the repeal of the Serious Organised Crimes and Police Act, that bannes peaceful protest outside the Houses of Parliament.
Ms Jenkins’ letter comes before the Government’s deadline for comments on its consultation on sections 132 – 138 of the Act.
In her letter to the Home Office, Ms Jenkins said:
" My support for the repeal of the Act stems from my deep concern at a continuing trend on a UK level to restrict peoples’ right to peaceful protest at the heart of UK parliamentary democracy."
Submissions to the consultation must be forwarded to the Home Office no later than the 17th of January.
In her letter, Ms Jenkins added:
"Such fundamental human rights as the freedom of peaceful protest are guaranteed in international law, and indeed, form the corner stone of basic democratic principles.
The Government in London is already seeking to restrain our rights in their intention to introduce ID cards. This is just another way of restricting our human rights.
To stop people from protesting- from exercising their democratic right is wholly unacceptable. Gordon Brown came to power as Prime Minister promising change, and a restoration of faith in democracy. These measures do not reflect this stance at all.'
ENDS
Notes to Editors
Plaid Cymru – The Party of Wales
Wednesday 16 January 2008
EMBARGO: For immediate release
Protect Freedom of Speech – Plaid AM
Plaid Cymru’s Bethan Jenkins AM has today written to the Home Office in London urging the repeal of the Serious Organised Crimes and Police Act, that bannes peaceful protest outside the Houses of Parliament.
Ms Jenkins’ letter comes before the Government’s deadline for comments on its consultation on sections 132 – 138 of the Act.
In her letter to the Home Office, Ms Jenkins said:
" My support for the repeal of the Act stems from my deep concern at a continuing trend on a UK level to restrict peoples’ right to peaceful protest at the heart of UK parliamentary democracy."
Submissions to the consultation must be forwarded to the Home Office no later than the 17th of January.
In her letter, Ms Jenkins added:
"Such fundamental human rights as the freedom of peaceful protest are guaranteed in international law, and indeed, form the corner stone of basic democratic principles.
The Government in London is already seeking to restrain our rights in their intention to introduce ID cards. This is just another way of restricting our human rights.
To stop people from protesting- from exercising their democratic right is wholly unacceptable. Gordon Brown came to power as Prime Minister promising change, and a restoration of faith in democracy. These measures do not reflect this stance at all.'
ENDS
Notes to Editors
Cross party group on eating disorders gets under way
I've had a busy few days back at the Assembly. Today is a little less frantic so I have prepared to say a few words during the Lib dem minority party debate on ID Cards today. I am hoping to concentrate on the issue of Welsh identity in the context of the argument against ID cards, and the way in which ID cards are another way for Gordon Brown to push forward his obsession with 'Britishness'.
Yesterday, I launched the new Cross-party group on Eating Disorders. I'm really looking forward to the work of the group. Edwina Hart was present, and requested that we draw up a strategy, and raise awareness of eating disorders in order to mainstream the issues surrounding the illness. We are hoping to launch the aims and objectives of the group during Eating Disorder Awareness Week, which starts on the 25th of February. The National campaign this year focuses on the role of carers of those who suffer from eating disorders. While this is an important issue, as this will be our first event as a National Assembly group, we will be a little more general in our approach. If anyone would like to contribute to the group or to help with the organisation of the event, then please do get in touch.
Yesterday, I launched the new Cross-party group on Eating Disorders. I'm really looking forward to the work of the group. Edwina Hart was present, and requested that we draw up a strategy, and raise awareness of eating disorders in order to mainstream the issues surrounding the illness. We are hoping to launch the aims and objectives of the group during Eating Disorder Awareness Week, which starts on the 25th of February. The National campaign this year focuses on the role of carers of those who suffer from eating disorders. While this is an important issue, as this will be our first event as a National Assembly group, we will be a little more general in our approach. If anyone would like to contribute to the group or to help with the organisation of the event, then please do get in touch.
Tuesday 15 January 2008
I prove my point.....
A wonderful little story in the Mail today about a Tory peer who hit out at a cyclist with her handbag for cycling through a red light. The Tories can safely say that they are 'tough' on crime!
I hope that prospective Plaid peers are taking note on the conduct expected of them at the House of Lords;-)
Monday 14 January 2008
An interesting National Council to come....
So Dafydd Wigley has put his name forward for the House of Lords. No surprises there then. I sincerely hope that whoever is 'elected' to the House of Lords, or the 'Second Chamber' as we have been told to call it, will represent the people of Wales to the best of their abilities, especially with regards to reforming the Second Chamber, and to pushing forward with the legislation process. I understand that Pauline Jarman has not put her name forward. It will be a contest then for Janet Davies and Rhian Medi on the women's front then, I guess.
The vote for the House of Lords will take place at the end of the month- on the same day as the discussion on gender balance within the party. It will be a fiery discussion probably, but I hope that the discussion can remain good-natured and policy driven. John Dixon- the Chair of Plaid conducted a review on gender balance to present to the National Executive, with input from party members. I am not quite sure what the outcome is at the moment, or what the motion will look like finally.
I have to say that I still see the need for a form of gender balance in the party, and in Welsh politics as a whole. I totally understand the argument that political parties must 'encourage' more women to stand, and to be much more pro-active in organising training sessions for women and for other minorities so they can find the confidence to put their names forward for selection. Nevertheless, I sincerely believe that gender balance is necessary to a certain degree in order to ensure that we have a balanced team of representatives within Plaid Cymru. I don't need to list the statistics, firmly backed up by the campaign group Fawcett to tell you why this action is still needed, but I am sure that I will need to later on in the comment section of this post!
I will await with interest as to what decision our National Council will make. The blogger Normal Mouth may be pleased to know that following Council's decision, I may be inclined to say that Plaid are ever so slightly off the 'progressive' radar....Who knows?
The vote for the House of Lords will take place at the end of the month- on the same day as the discussion on gender balance within the party. It will be a fiery discussion probably, but I hope that the discussion can remain good-natured and policy driven. John Dixon- the Chair of Plaid conducted a review on gender balance to present to the National Executive, with input from party members. I am not quite sure what the outcome is at the moment, or what the motion will look like finally.
I have to say that I still see the need for a form of gender balance in the party, and in Welsh politics as a whole. I totally understand the argument that political parties must 'encourage' more women to stand, and to be much more pro-active in organising training sessions for women and for other minorities so they can find the confidence to put their names forward for selection. Nevertheless, I sincerely believe that gender balance is necessary to a certain degree in order to ensure that we have a balanced team of representatives within Plaid Cymru. I don't need to list the statistics, firmly backed up by the campaign group Fawcett to tell you why this action is still needed, but I am sure that I will need to later on in the comment section of this post!
I will await with interest as to what decision our National Council will make. The blogger Normal Mouth may be pleased to know that following Council's decision, I may be inclined to say that Plaid are ever so slightly off the 'progressive' radar....Who knows?
Sunday 13 January 2008
Lembit's Lib-Lab love in
Unfortunately I've been quite ill the last few days, and I wasn't given a remedy when I sat down to watch the Politics Show in Wales today. A brief post this will be to say how outrageously and sickeningly pompous Lembit Opik was on today's show. Typical of the Lib dems really, in that they always seem to want to appear above all criticism, and Opik's performance, as a friend of Hain's really didn't wash today. If I wasn't so cynical, I'd say that there are a few people in the Lib dems vying yet again for a Lib-Lab pact- waiting ( or seeking to play a part in demolishing) for the One Wales Government to fall on its knees for whatever scheme some anti One Wales AMs and MPs will concoct next.
For the first time ever, I found myself agreeing with David Davies MP for Monmouth who was on Radio 4 yesterday. He stated clearly that no, and apology from Hain was not good enough as it allowes for other MPs to make the same mistake as Hain in the future, only to be smacked on the wrist for doing so. It is not political opportunism at all that Plaid has raised questions over this issue publicly. The fact is that the people of this area, and electors generally, have the right to know what has happened in this instance.
Touhig says on today's show that Hain willingly offered the information to the public with regards to his failure to register the money for his campaign, but I wonder had Hain not done so on his own terms, would others have been quick to take his moment of glory from him?
Yes, lets see what comes of the two inquiries that are underway at the moment, but lets also keep a keen eye on what Gordon Brown will do next. I am almost certain that his judgement on Hain will materialise before that of any inquiry.
For the first time ever, I found myself agreeing with David Davies MP for Monmouth who was on Radio 4 yesterday. He stated clearly that no, and apology from Hain was not good enough as it allowes for other MPs to make the same mistake as Hain in the future, only to be smacked on the wrist for doing so. It is not political opportunism at all that Plaid has raised questions over this issue publicly. The fact is that the people of this area, and electors generally, have the right to know what has happened in this instance.
Touhig says on today's show that Hain willingly offered the information to the public with regards to his failure to register the money for his campaign, but I wonder had Hain not done so on his own terms, would others have been quick to take his moment of glory from him?
Yes, lets see what comes of the two inquiries that are underway at the moment, but lets also keep a keen eye on what Gordon Brown will do next. I am almost certain that his judgement on Hain will materialise before that of any inquiry.
Friday 11 January 2008
We're all talking about Peter Hain
Hain is all over the news for failing to declare £100,000 that was used during his Deputy Leadership campaign. He's been reported to Parliamentary Standards, and the Electoral Commission have launched their own investigation into the whole saga. Hain should be quaking in his boots at the moment, but with Brown's support I don't think that he's that worried. A few people popped in to my office in Neath today, and they all got on to the subject of Hain, and said that it was quite an embarrassment for the local area that this had happened. I hope that he is brought to account, because it won't go down well with the public in this area, or in Wales. Blaming campaign staff is also a no-g0, especially as the legal responsibility to record all donations lies with Peter Hain. At the end of the day, it was all conducted in his name, and therefore he is ultimately responsible for his own actions.
I am also amazed how much Hain spent on a campaign in all, considering that he came in at a sorry 5th position in the overall contest. Of course, American candidates spend far more on election campaigns, but perhaps if Hain had spent less, he may have been able to keep track of his expenses! Who knows?
During the last couple of days, the violins have been out from the Hain camp, stating that he is a politician of conviction- and they bring out the old story of him protesting against apartheid. I fear that Hain is far removed from those days of passionate politics.
I am sure there will be more developments on this story over the weekend. I'd advise Hain to stay at home, and cook something tasty on his aga cooker.
I am also amazed how much Hain spent on a campaign in all, considering that he came in at a sorry 5th position in the overall contest. Of course, American candidates spend far more on election campaigns, but perhaps if Hain had spent less, he may have been able to keep track of his expenses! Who knows?
During the last couple of days, the violins have been out from the Hain camp, stating that he is a politician of conviction- and they bring out the old story of him protesting against apartheid. I fear that Hain is far removed from those days of passionate politics.
I am sure there will be more developments on this story over the weekend. I'd advise Hain to stay at home, and cook something tasty on his aga cooker.
Eating Disorders
Plaid Cymru – The Party of Wales
Thursday 10 January 2008
EMBARGO: For immediate release
Plaid AM to launch Cross Party Committee on Eating Disorders
Plaid Cymru Assembly Member for South Wales West, Bethan Jenkins, has announced the date for the first Cross Party Committee on Eating Disorders at the National Assembly for Wales.
The meeting will be held at the National Assembly on the 15th of January with all sixty Assembly Members invited to attend.
Assembly Health Minister Edwina Hart AM will be among those attending, as will Rowenna Menzies, Director of the Graham Menzies Foundation which plans to open the first specialist, residential treatment facility for people across Wales.
26 year-old Neath based Bethan Jenkins AM said:
"I am very proud to be convening the first ever cross party committee on a subject I feel particularly strong about. Last year I met Ali Valenzuela from Swansea who described to me the challenges she faced as a victim of eating disorders. I am determined to raise awareness on this issue and to use all means possible to put the topic at the heart of the political agenda."
Ms Jenkins added:
"It is estimated that 50,000 people suffer from eating disorders in Wales yet there is no national strategy, and support capacity for sufferers barely exists."
ENDS
Notes to Editors
The Cross Party Committee on Eating Disorders will be held at 17.30 on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 in Conference Room 24 at the National Assembly for Wales.
Thursday 10 January 2008
EMBARGO: For immediate release
Plaid AM to launch Cross Party Committee on Eating Disorders
Plaid Cymru Assembly Member for South Wales West, Bethan Jenkins, has announced the date for the first Cross Party Committee on Eating Disorders at the National Assembly for Wales.
The meeting will be held at the National Assembly on the 15th of January with all sixty Assembly Members invited to attend.
Assembly Health Minister Edwina Hart AM will be among those attending, as will Rowenna Menzies, Director of the Graham Menzies Foundation which plans to open the first specialist, residential treatment facility for people across Wales.
26 year-old Neath based Bethan Jenkins AM said:
"I am very proud to be convening the first ever cross party committee on a subject I feel particularly strong about. Last year I met Ali Valenzuela from Swansea who described to me the challenges she faced as a victim of eating disorders. I am determined to raise awareness on this issue and to use all means possible to put the topic at the heart of the political agenda."
Ms Jenkins added:
"It is estimated that 50,000 people suffer from eating disorders in Wales yet there is no national strategy, and support capacity for sufferers barely exists."
ENDS
Notes to Editors
The Cross Party Committee on Eating Disorders will be held at 17.30 on Tuesday, January 15, 2008 in Conference Room 24 at the National Assembly for Wales.
Thursday 10 January 2008
AMs salaries under review
The Western Mail reports today about the panel which is being set up to discuss AMs allowances and pensions. William Graham AM will be the political representative sitting on the panel alongside Sir Michael Wheeler-Booth (chairman), Mair Barnes a non-executive adviser to the Commission, Eileen Heasman of the Office for National Statistics and Professor Steven Martin of Cardiff Business School.
I am sure that there will be quite a debate surrounding this as people often seem quite negative about giving politicians any money at all- despite all our hard work. This debate will have significant resonance this year also, as Gordon Brown is urging MPs to vote against a pay rise for themselves at Westminster.
Having watched the programme last night with Dan Snow and Peter Snow titled 'What Britain Earns?' I don't think that AMs have room for complaint over salary given that 90% of the population earn far less than politicians! I think that the salary is more than sufficient.
The programme 'What Britain Earns' was very interesting, especially when it came to discussing the salaries of Imams and Bishops, and how they must often rely on the goodwill of their congregation for a stable salary, which varies from £5,000 a year to £20,000 a year. The Imam questioned on last night's show was concerned that due to the fact that a salary could be so low, they are failing to attract the calibre of people that they would like to see enter the role of Imam in their Mosques.
All in all the programme was very informative, but it did highlight what we already know, in that poverty is still rife in Britain, and that the minimum wage is still far from sufficient to ensure that we lift people, and their families out of poverty. When you think about people scraping to survive compared to the lifestyles of celebrities who shockingly employ people to organise their clothes wardrobes for them, then surely that is enough to move us to action, and to campaign for change.
I am sure that there will be quite a debate surrounding this as people often seem quite negative about giving politicians any money at all- despite all our hard work. This debate will have significant resonance this year also, as Gordon Brown is urging MPs to vote against a pay rise for themselves at Westminster.
Having watched the programme last night with Dan Snow and Peter Snow titled 'What Britain Earns?' I don't think that AMs have room for complaint over salary given that 90% of the population earn far less than politicians! I think that the salary is more than sufficient.
The programme 'What Britain Earns' was very interesting, especially when it came to discussing the salaries of Imams and Bishops, and how they must often rely on the goodwill of their congregation for a stable salary, which varies from £5,000 a year to £20,000 a year. The Imam questioned on last night's show was concerned that due to the fact that a salary could be so low, they are failing to attract the calibre of people that they would like to see enter the role of Imam in their Mosques.
All in all the programme was very informative, but it did highlight what we already know, in that poverty is still rife in Britain, and that the minimum wage is still far from sufficient to ensure that we lift people, and their families out of poverty. When you think about people scraping to survive compared to the lifestyles of celebrities who shockingly employ people to organise their clothes wardrobes for them, then surely that is enough to move us to action, and to campaign for change.
Wednesday 9 January 2008
NUS reform. About time too!
According to the Guardian, the NUS has undergone reform that will steer it in to more 'corporate Blairite waters.' Its hard to tell where the Guardian Education section has been all these years if it believes that it has only now embraced the Blairite way! When I was a student President at Aberystwyth, the NUS was a far cry from its left-wing placard waving days, and was an organisation dominated by Labour activists- both in the Bay and in London. We need only be reminded of the leadership of NUS Wales at the time, and their inability to announce their opposition to the recommendations of the Rees Review (which proposed top-up fees for Wales) as an example of how the Ministers sought to influence the student body.
We sought change then, and some of us bolder members tried to push for reform so that the NUS would be a body that would actually be run by students, and not by officers in Cardiff, but we did not succeed. Some Unions such as Cardiff ran a campaign to disaffiliate from the NUS (the fees to be a member are extortionate for each Student Union) but they were faced with a bus load of NUS officers from all over Britain, who had money and resources to ensure that no such disaffiliation campaign was successful.
For fear of undermining the NUS completely, and the people that work in the organisation, I know that a huge amount of effort has been put in to changing the organisation in Wales, and to making it more representative. It still has a long way to go, and I hope the current officers are aware of that- it must consult members much more efficiently, include them in decision-making, and provide a voice for all student groups. Not an easy task, I admit, but one that is underway. Lobbying the Assembly, and campaigning on a Welsh level is an area that is developing, and a much more rigorous scrutiny of Ministers and AMs is needed.
NUS on a national scale is an area that I am less familiar with presently. There are plans for a new executive board, and 'zone committees" of student officers and staff in students' unions which will act as working groups to develop policy. I sincerely hope that these reforms work, but if they are serious about reform they must tackle the dominance of specific groups of students on NUS policy, which is exemplified in its National Conference. It is intimidating for those students who turn up without any affiliation to a certain group- be it the Jewish students group or the Socialist Workers party, and often policy is skewed by the large scale representation of such groups. Reform is of course needed, but it will take some time.
We sought change then, and some of us bolder members tried to push for reform so that the NUS would be a body that would actually be run by students, and not by officers in Cardiff, but we did not succeed. Some Unions such as Cardiff ran a campaign to disaffiliate from the NUS (the fees to be a member are extortionate for each Student Union) but they were faced with a bus load of NUS officers from all over Britain, who had money and resources to ensure that no such disaffiliation campaign was successful.
For fear of undermining the NUS completely, and the people that work in the organisation, I know that a huge amount of effort has been put in to changing the organisation in Wales, and to making it more representative. It still has a long way to go, and I hope the current officers are aware of that- it must consult members much more efficiently, include them in decision-making, and provide a voice for all student groups. Not an easy task, I admit, but one that is underway. Lobbying the Assembly, and campaigning on a Welsh level is an area that is developing, and a much more rigorous scrutiny of Ministers and AMs is needed.
NUS on a national scale is an area that I am less familiar with presently. There are plans for a new executive board, and 'zone committees" of student officers and staff in students' unions which will act as working groups to develop policy. I sincerely hope that these reforms work, but if they are serious about reform they must tackle the dominance of specific groups of students on NUS policy, which is exemplified in its National Conference. It is intimidating for those students who turn up without any affiliation to a certain group- be it the Jewish students group or the Socialist Workers party, and often policy is skewed by the large scale representation of such groups. Reform is of course needed, but it will take some time.
Support the rights of Asylum seekers
Over the Christmas break I have been working on the case of the George family who reside in Swansea who were spared a last minute deportation order to Pakistan. Recently however, we have learnt that the two older sons, Calvin and Christopher are soon to be deported due to errors on their visas. I must admit that I think they should at least be allowed to finish their studies in England, and that this should be assessed alongside their asylum case.
This is of course is an emotive subject, and one which many politicians steer clear of due to the tirade of abuse that we often receive from right wing members of the public who react without thinking, and condemn the fact that such families should be allowed to reside in Wales, and in Britain. I have many friends from countries over the World who rely on their student visas to continue their studies here in Wales, and I do not think that this should be used against the brothers in this particular case.
The London Government's aim is to pander to the right wing red top agenda, which inadvertently confuses the issues surrounding immigration and asylum amongst the public at large. What the Government should be doing is making a genuine effort to raise awareness of the people behind the headlines who must appeal asylum cases, and changing the barbaric culture of lifting families from their homes at dawn with possessions stripped from them, sending them to prison-like detention centres where many families are split up, and where they have no financial backing to either support their families or to file for a judicial review.
Something must be done to ensure the human rights of those who justly seek asylum, and that they are supported as opposed to being viewed as a 'problem' for Britain.
This is of course is an emotive subject, and one which many politicians steer clear of due to the tirade of abuse that we often receive from right wing members of the public who react without thinking, and condemn the fact that such families should be allowed to reside in Wales, and in Britain. I have many friends from countries over the World who rely on their student visas to continue their studies here in Wales, and I do not think that this should be used against the brothers in this particular case.
The London Government's aim is to pander to the right wing red top agenda, which inadvertently confuses the issues surrounding immigration and asylum amongst the public at large. What the Government should be doing is making a genuine effort to raise awareness of the people behind the headlines who must appeal asylum cases, and changing the barbaric culture of lifting families from their homes at dawn with possessions stripped from them, sending them to prison-like detention centres where many families are split up, and where they have no financial backing to either support their families or to file for a judicial review.
Something must be done to ensure the human rights of those who justly seek asylum, and that they are supported as opposed to being viewed as a 'problem' for Britain.
Tuesday 8 January 2008
Welsh Identity
Here is a link to a blog that I have written for OurKingdom with regards Welsh Identity.
2008 US Presidential Candidate matching quiz.....
92% Mike Gravel
92% Dennis Kucinich
77% John Edwards
73% Barack Obama
71% Chris Dodd
70% Hillary Clinton
70% Joe Biden
62% Bill Richardson
28% Ron Paul
27% Rudy Giuliani
22% John McCain
17% Mike Huckabee
16% Mitt Romney
15% Tom Tancredo
5% Fred Thompson
2008 Presidential Candidate Matching Quiz
92% Dennis Kucinich
77% John Edwards
73% Barack Obama
71% Chris Dodd
70% Hillary Clinton
70% Joe Biden
62% Bill Richardson
28% Ron Paul
27% Rudy Giuliani
22% John McCain
17% Mike Huckabee
16% Mitt Romney
15% Tom Tancredo
5% Fred Thompson
2008 Presidential Candidate Matching Quiz
Monday 7 January 2008
Jamie Oliver and the factory farm chicken
I did tell Matt Withers from the Wales on Sunday that I would be reading other newspapers apart from the Independent in future, after his jibe in one of last year's Spin Doctor articles with regards this issue, but unfortunately I succumbed to the temptation, and bought a copy this Sunday...
I read with interest the article about Jamie Oliver, and the attack on him by Animal Welfare campaigners who state that he is a hypocrite for accepting money from Sainsbury's while at the same time criticising the way that most Supermarkets rear their battery farm chickens in awful conditions. This criticism doesn't come from thin air- it is in the context of Jamie Oliver's new programme on the condition of factories rearing chickens to sell to Supermarkets, and the quality of meat from such suppliers.
As a vegetarian I find the practise of placing chickens in contained spaces with little room to move, and with little care for their well being wholly unacceptable, and am saddened that this has been allowed to continue. While I recognise the work that Jamie Oliver has done in promoting healthy food and healthy living, I do sympathise with the animal welfare groups who contest that Oliver should shun his lucrative deal with Sainsbury's if he is serious about making a difference to the way animals are bred. Saying that he is having 'conversations' with Supermarket bosses is not good enough. These companies make billions of pounds worth of profit from us a year, and changing their practises in this field would not be a hindrance to the development of their services.
Like most celebrities these days, Jamie Oliver has seen an opportunity to make money advertising Supermarket produce, and this has seemingly been prioritised over the work that he is doing to promote all things organic and fair. One only has to mention Carol Voredman's name to know that she will promote almost anything- including some questionable loan companies...
People say that politicians must practise what they preach, and this I agree with. In the age of celebrity, this must also be the case for the percentage of the population who need never worry about even going shopping for themselves again, let alone shop in Sainsbury's.
I read with interest the article about Jamie Oliver, and the attack on him by Animal Welfare campaigners who state that he is a hypocrite for accepting money from Sainsbury's while at the same time criticising the way that most Supermarkets rear their battery farm chickens in awful conditions. This criticism doesn't come from thin air- it is in the context of Jamie Oliver's new programme on the condition of factories rearing chickens to sell to Supermarkets, and the quality of meat from such suppliers.
As a vegetarian I find the practise of placing chickens in contained spaces with little room to move, and with little care for their well being wholly unacceptable, and am saddened that this has been allowed to continue. While I recognise the work that Jamie Oliver has done in promoting healthy food and healthy living, I do sympathise with the animal welfare groups who contest that Oliver should shun his lucrative deal with Sainsbury's if he is serious about making a difference to the way animals are bred. Saying that he is having 'conversations' with Supermarket bosses is not good enough. These companies make billions of pounds worth of profit from us a year, and changing their practises in this field would not be a hindrance to the development of their services.
Like most celebrities these days, Jamie Oliver has seen an opportunity to make money advertising Supermarket produce, and this has seemingly been prioritised over the work that he is doing to promote all things organic and fair. One only has to mention Carol Voredman's name to know that she will promote almost anything- including some questionable loan companies...
People say that politicians must practise what they preach, and this I agree with. In the age of celebrity, this must also be the case for the percentage of the population who need never worry about even going shopping for themselves again, let alone shop in Sainsbury's.
Sunday 6 January 2008
Will Jane Davidson blog again?
I'm listening to Jane Davidson talk about blogging on Radio Wales. She blogged during the election, but has since stopped. She started to blog in a bid to reach out to 'younger voters', so now the election is over, I'm assuming that young people just fall off the face of the earth....
Paul Flynn is saying that bloggers in the US are very effective, and that we can raise important issues on our blogs. It seems that the Radio interviewer is suggesting that Paul Flynn MP has more scope to discuss campaigns on his blog as he is not a Government Minister, but I would hasten to disagree. Jane Davidson's musings in her role as Environment Minister would surely be of interest to the Welsh public( if she dared discuss the more controverial issues, and not the ones about visiting Ponty market;-)
The future of politics is on the blogosphere says our Paul, but so many politicians still continue to shun it as a viable form of communication. With the discussion of blogs during the recent Audit committee at the National Assembly, the whole area of politicians blogging is becoming a hot topic. Whereas the American Presidential election is (arguably) reliant on the internet and blogging alike, it seems that here in Wales our cautious streak as a Nation is working overtime, and those seeking to 'police' representations made by AM's are perhaps intending on using blogs as a scape goat for containing discussion on Welsh political issues.
It is true of course that blogging is a threat to the mainstream media at present, but as opposed to viewing it as a threat, I believe that we must accept the inevitable growth of the blogosphere and new ways of communicating, as opposed to trying too hard to appear as if it never existed in the first place.
Perhaps Jane Davidson will take up blogging again when she starts to help Carwyn Jones during the Leadership of the Labour party campaign. In my opinion, the more AM's who blog, the better. Make it a New Year's Resolution all!
Paul Flynn is saying that bloggers in the US are very effective, and that we can raise important issues on our blogs. It seems that the Radio interviewer is suggesting that Paul Flynn MP has more scope to discuss campaigns on his blog as he is not a Government Minister, but I would hasten to disagree. Jane Davidson's musings in her role as Environment Minister would surely be of interest to the Welsh public( if she dared discuss the more controverial issues, and not the ones about visiting Ponty market;-)
The future of politics is on the blogosphere says our Paul, but so many politicians still continue to shun it as a viable form of communication. With the discussion of blogs during the recent Audit committee at the National Assembly, the whole area of politicians blogging is becoming a hot topic. Whereas the American Presidential election is (arguably) reliant on the internet and blogging alike, it seems that here in Wales our cautious streak as a Nation is working overtime, and those seeking to 'police' representations made by AM's are perhaps intending on using blogs as a scape goat for containing discussion on Welsh political issues.
It is true of course that blogging is a threat to the mainstream media at present, but as opposed to viewing it as a threat, I believe that we must accept the inevitable growth of the blogosphere and new ways of communicating, as opposed to trying too hard to appear as if it never existed in the first place.
Perhaps Jane Davidson will take up blogging again when she starts to help Carwyn Jones during the Leadership of the Labour party campaign. In my opinion, the more AM's who blog, the better. Make it a New Year's Resolution all!
Friday 4 January 2008
2008 Predictions for Welsh politics
There will be campaigns starting up for the leadership of all three London based parties in the Assembly. The Tory bet is on Jonathan Morgan ousting Nick Bourne. Jenny Randerson versus Kirsty Williams for the Lib Dems, while Labour candidates are anyone’s guess at the moment. Jane Davidson or Andrew Davies as potential winners?
An early Gordon Brown re-shuffle could usher in a new occupant at the helm of the Welsh Office, while Hain is conveniently sidelined.
I predict that a clear division line between progressive and regressive forces which transcend party political lines will become increasingly prevalent, as the constitutional question develops into the most important political issue of our time. As the Convention on full law making powers begins its work, these tensions will be something to look out for.
On a light-hearted note to end, I foresee that the Kinnocks will lead a breakaway faction of the Labour party to campaign for the absolute assimilation of Wales into England. The name for this new party could well be ‘I can’t believe it’s not Labour…’.
An early Gordon Brown re-shuffle could usher in a new occupant at the helm of the Welsh Office, while Hain is conveniently sidelined.
I predict that a clear division line between progressive and regressive forces which transcend party political lines will become increasingly prevalent, as the constitutional question develops into the most important political issue of our time. As the Convention on full law making powers begins its work, these tensions will be something to look out for.
On a light-hearted note to end, I foresee that the Kinnocks will lead a breakaway faction of the Labour party to campaign for the absolute assimilation of Wales into England. The name for this new party could well be ‘I can’t believe it’s not Labour…’.
Happy New Year!
I'm back! Have you missed me? Best not answer that one... I've had a relaxing Christmas. A few blips to the relaxation here and there- mostly when my 8 year old sister demanded that we play yet another game of Cluedo, but all in all I am stress free- until next week, that is!
I've spent most of my time reading novels- my friend Catrin Dafydd's new book 'Random Deaths and Custard' which I must say was a superb read. I also read Ian McKewan ' The Innocent' which I expected to be more of a spy thriller a la John Le Carre, but it was a somewhat odd murder plot in my opinion. I then read The Kite Runner as I wanted to read the novel before venturing out to watch the film adaptation- another heart-wrenching novel that I recommend you all to read. I then read Rachel Trezise, 'In and Out of the Goldfish Bowl', and I am now on Robert Harris's latest novel, The Ghost. There's nothing better than relaxing with a book on holiday, especially as I don't get time usually.
I was going to tell you that the Wales on Sunday were going to run with predictions for Welsh politics in 2008, which 12 AM's were contributing to but unfortunately the piece has been pulled due to Brunstrom's (again) controversial comments on drugs. I will post my predictions here later on, and see if you agree with me or not.
So much has happened news wise since I last blogged, so I couldn't possibly discuss it all here now. Bhutto's assassination was a big story of course, and the takeover by her 19 year old Oxford student son, and so too was the US Presidential elections yesterday, with Obama taking Iowa's caucus. The credit crunch is always a Christmas/ New Year story, but I think that the situation will intensify this year in the context of an economic downturn.
So much to do this year already. A Happy New Year to you all!
I've spent most of my time reading novels- my friend Catrin Dafydd's new book 'Random Deaths and Custard' which I must say was a superb read. I also read Ian McKewan ' The Innocent' which I expected to be more of a spy thriller a la John Le Carre, but it was a somewhat odd murder plot in my opinion. I then read The Kite Runner as I wanted to read the novel before venturing out to watch the film adaptation- another heart-wrenching novel that I recommend you all to read. I then read Rachel Trezise, 'In and Out of the Goldfish Bowl', and I am now on Robert Harris's latest novel, The Ghost. There's nothing better than relaxing with a book on holiday, especially as I don't get time usually.
I was going to tell you that the Wales on Sunday were going to run with predictions for Welsh politics in 2008, which 12 AM's were contributing to but unfortunately the piece has been pulled due to Brunstrom's (again) controversial comments on drugs. I will post my predictions here later on, and see if you agree with me or not.
So much has happened news wise since I last blogged, so I couldn't possibly discuss it all here now. Bhutto's assassination was a big story of course, and the takeover by her 19 year old Oxford student son, and so too was the US Presidential elections yesterday, with Obama taking Iowa's caucus. The credit crunch is always a Christmas/ New Year story, but I think that the situation will intensify this year in the context of an economic downturn.
So much to do this year already. A Happy New Year to you all!
