I
like to think I am interesting, fit and a decent sorta bloke with a
kind and caring side underneath a confident exterior.
I like sport, especially, in order of preference, road running, cardio
at the gym (cross trainer) and cycling. I live in
Bangor, Northern Ireland.
This web site probably gives you a more formal insight into myself.
You may therefore also wish to view my Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and
Flickr sites.
politics and community work
I gain satisfaction from undertaking voluntary work with an array of
community organisations and political parties.
I don't intend to write too much about the research but one thing stands
out clearly. According to the research the public in Northern Ireland
have become more intolerant of minorities.
In 2005 when the research was first carried out 38% of people surveyed
stated that they would mind if a friend or relative entered into a
relationship with a traveller. In 2008 this has risen to 51%.
Similarly, in 2005 29% of people surveyed stated that they would mind if
a relative or friend entered into a relationship with a lesbian, gay or
bisexual person. In 2008 this has risen to 35%.
We can debate at length why Northern Ireland has become more intolerant
but it's clear to me that a lot of blame can be apportioned to the two
dominant parties within Northern Ireland's Executive, namely the DUP and
Sinn Fein.
The DUP and Sinn Fein have failed to take any decisive pro-active action
in government to promote diversity and tackle intolerance. We are still
waiting for a new Shared Future strategy after previously being told it
would be published by Halloween 2008. The Executive seems to be
seriously riven with divisions. As a result no meaningful decisions are
being made nor is any decisive leadership being shown that is required
to create a new Northern Ireland which is more tolerant of all
people, including travellers and gay people.
In this vacuum it is not surprising that public are becoming more
intolerant of minorities with people such as the First Minister's Wife
Iris Robinson MP MLA fanning the flames of hate after using the words "disgusting,
loathed, physical disgust, nauseous, shamefully wicked, vile, an
abomination" to
refer to homosexuality in 2008.
24 June 2009
Run
Andrew Run
Some people many have noticed that I have recently taken up road running
and have been competing in 10k runs since March 2009 when I took part in
the
Between the Bridges 10k run along the Westlink in Belfast.
Before
Between the Bridges I didn't really like running. I found it to be a
painful and uncomfortable experience. When I achieved a respectable time
of 47mins 49secs at Between the Bridges I guessed that I had found a
sport I was actually good at. Since Between the Bridges I bought decent
running shoes (Asics GT-2140) and have competed in six runs, mainly 10k
apart from one 5k in Ballysillan. The new running shoes immediately
eliminated the pain I had previously experienced. I joined
North Down
Athletics Club in late April 09 and have benefited from many useful
training tips which have made running a really pleasant experience,
other than when I am pushing myself to the limit over the finishing
line! Membership of
North Down AC
is also providing me with the opportunity to share my running passion
with other likeminded people.
As the weeks progressed it was apparent that I was completing 10k runs
in about 42 minutes. I therefore set myself a target to run 10k in under
40 minutes by the end of the year, ideally at
Bangor 10k on 26 September 09. Never in my wildest thoughts did I
feel that I would achieve this target so quickly when I completed a 10k
run in 39mins 46secs at the
Lisburn 10k on Wednesday 17 June 09.
I readily admit that running is fast becoming a big part of my life. I
still feel a sense of elation days later after breaking the 40 minute
barrier on Wednesday at the Lisburn 10k.
No sooner have I completed a 10k run am I eagerly looking forward to my
next competition, running five times a week in preparation. Some people
may feel that this is an unhealthy bizarre obsession but I disagree.
I deal with injuries when they arise and have managed to maintain a
decent social life plus my range of voluntary commitments with community
groups and The Alliance Party.
I find that running is good for my mind and body whilst also relatively
cheap and less time consuming as many other sports. It is also providing
me with a great sense of confidence. Every good running time is an
amazing achievement for me. Running through the finishing line makes
gives me a real sense of pride in myself and also
North Down AC.
When attending school I was often told by many people that I was useless
at sport, defined often as football and rugby. I now feel that I have
found a sport that I truly enjoy and am pretty decent at. I am really
enjoying meeting the many great people within the world of running and
love coming home with a real sense of personal achievement.
Hopefully as each race passes I will stop boring you with my running
stories. In the meantime please bear with me. Hopefully this blog
explains why I am now in love with running.
21 June 2009
North Down Alliance Insight
May 2009:
North Down Alliance prepare for series of Summer events
The Executive Committee for the North Down Association of the Alliance
Party met on Monday 18 May 2009 in Bangor and discussed a wide range of
issues.
The Association finalised details of a number of exciting fundraising
events to take place during the Summer including a Barbeque and Summer
Fair.
Whilst most of the meeting focused on the forthcoming European
Parliamentary Elections time was spent addressing other matters.
Alderman Marsden Fitzsimmons updated those present on the Castle Park
Walled Garden with a great turnout at the recent official opening.
The new plans for Queens Parade were given a generally positive
reception with an update provided in relation to the Department for
Social Development’s ongoing work to devise a Master plan for Bangor.
The recent renewable energy grant for the new leisure centre was warmly
welcomed.
North Down Alliance MLA Stephen Farry also updated members on current
developments at Stormont with all in agreement that the Executive should
be taking more decisive action on important matters such as post primary
transfer.
3 June 2009
Auschwitz On
Wednesday 20 May 2009 I visited Auschwitz as part of my trip to Krakow,
Poland. I have always wanted to visit Auschwitz since learning about the
Holocaust in an effort to better understand the genocide which occurred
during the 1930s and 1940s.
I was profoundly effected by the visit and found it difficult to absorb
what I saw and learnt for many days.
Some things were simply appalling, including seeing vast amounts of
human hair and some of the cloth they made using the hair which was cut
off prisoners prior to gassing. It was also shocking to learn that when
prisoners were gassed and cremated they then used their ashes within the
foundations of roads.
I will forever remember what I saw, including the living conditions for
prisoners, torture methods used and how millions of people were executed
in such a methodical manner with gas chambers operating like production
lines.
A few days after my visit one thing is clear. The battle to safeguard
Human Rights must continue. People continue to be denied basic Human
Rights, over 64 years after the liberation of Auschwitz.
As Martin Luther King stated “our lives begin to end the day we become
silent about things that matter”.
Propelled by what I saw and learnt at Auschwitz I will continue to speak
out and work with the variety of organisations I am involved with,
advocating for lesbian and gay equality and fundamental Human Rights for
everyone through organisations such as Amnesty International.
Whilst it can sometimes be difficult to speak out, the words of Martin
Niemöller, Pastor (held in Dachau) are particularly relevant;
When the Nazis came for the communists,
I remained silent;
I was not a communist.
Then they locked up the social democrats,
I remained silent;
I was not a social democrat.
Then they came for the trade unionists,
I did not protest;
I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews,
I did not speak out;
I was not a Jew.
When they came for me,
there was no one left to speak out for me
Sunday 31 May 2009
North Down Alliance Insight
April 2009:
North Down Alliance looking forward to European Elections
The
Executive Committee for the North Down Association of the Alliance Party
met on Monday 20 April 2009 in Bangor and discussed a wide range of
issues.
High on the agenda was the forthcoming European Parliamentary Elections
due to take place on Thursday 4 June 2009.
The Committee discussed the extensive efforts in place to promote the
Alliance Party’s candidate for the elections, Councillor Ian Parsley.
It was generally felt that the Election provided the opportunity for the
Alliance Party to conduct a campaign which, in the words of Ian Parsley,
replaces “the politics of fear with the politics of hope”.
Following the discussion on the European elections local MLA Stephen
Farry provided an update on the current situation at the NI Assembly.
General dismay was expressed in relation to the dogmatic approach being
adopted by the Minister for Education in relation to the 11 plus with a
number of people expressing the opinion that the Alliance Party’s
position in relation to post primary transfer was correct and practical.
The meeting also discussed the recent matters concerning Policing and
Justice. It was felt that big changes were ahead with both the Chief
Constable and Deputy Chief Constable soon due to leave but all were in
agreement that the recent attacks by dissident republican terrorists
should not be allowed to bring Northern Ireland back to the dark days of
the past.
The Association meeting also discussed future fundraising events
including a Coffee morning to take place during April 2009 and joint
quiz with the Alliance Party’s Strangford Association scheduled for May
2009. Members were also reminded that to prepare for the Annual Summer
barbeque in June and Summer Fair, due to take place in August 2009.
26 April 2009
Iris
Robinson avoids prosecution following anti gay comments
On Friday 20 March 2009 I was informed by the Police Service of NI that
"After reviewing the advice of the PPS and the material gathered during
the investigation there are no reasonable grounds to believe that Mrs
Robinson has committed an offence. What is at issue here is what was
said, rather than by whom it was said. It is the police view that Mrs
Robinson’s comments did not breach the legislation; as such she has not
been interviewed regarding this matter. This investigation is now
closed.".
As the first complainant against
Iris Robinson MP MLA I made the complaint to test the processes, the
legislation and ensure the media and the general public were aware how
seriously lesbian and gay people viewed her initial comments made on
Friday 6 June 2008 during The Stephen Nolan Show on BBC Radio Ulster.
Her initial comments referred to homosexuality as “Disgusting,
loathsome, physical disgust, nauseous, shamefully wicked, vile, an
abomination”. She also stated that "I have a very lovely psychiatrist
who works with me in my offices and his Christian background is that he
tries to help homosexuals - trying to turn away from what they are
engaged in I'm happy to put any homosexual in touch with this gentleman
and I have met people who have turned around and become heterosexuals."
I, along with others, again made another complaint following the Belfast
Telegraph’s report which was printed after Iris Robinson made comments
in a House of Commons Committee on 18 June 2008 when she stated that she
felt that homosexuality was on a par with child abuse. Speaking to the
Belfast Telegraph, Iris Robinson stated “I cannot think of anything more
sickening than a child being abused. It is comparable to the act of
homosexuality. I think they are all comparable. I feel totally repulsed
by both”.
In the intervening period she had also stated on The Stephen Nolan Show
on Thursday 17 July 2008 that “the government has the responsibility to
uphold god’s law’s morally”.
Whilst I am disappointed that the Public Prosecution Service has decided
not to proceed and has marked the case as closed the situation with
regards to Iris Robinson proves yet again that The Public Prosecution
Service urgently need to more open and accountable, especially when you
consider the failure of high profile court cases such as the Northern
Bank and Omagh Bombing Trials.
It also highlights the need for a more wide ranging review concerning
the relationship between the legal system, the police and politicians
following the numerous police investigations in Great Britain concerning
MP expenses, political fundraising etc. The review should be initiated
to clarify the role of the police versus politicians and whether
legislation needs to be updated to deal with the matters recently
raised.
For example, the first and only successful prosecution under the
legislation that would have been used against Iris Robinson was in 1984
when the late
George Searight stated that Catholics who objected to the flying of
the Union flag "'are just fenian scum who have been indoctrinated by the
Catholic church. Taxpayers money would be better spent on an incinerator
and burning the lot of them. Their priests should be thrown in and burnt
as well". He was fined £100 and given a six month custodial sentence,
suspended for three years.
The legislation used for the "Cash
for Honours" police investigation dated back to 1889 and included
the Honours (Prevention of Abuses) Act 1925 and the Public Bodies
Corrupt Practices Act 1889[26].
A valid case could possibly be made to the Police Ombudsman concerning
the investigation (or lack thereof) but we should remember that as a
result of Iris Robinson’s disgraceful remarks a lot more people have
came forward to support lesbian, gay and bisexual people, most notably
Ulster Unionist MLAs Basil McCrea and John McCallister who attended
Belfast Pride last year for the first time, a real silver lining in the
Iris Robinson cloud that came over Northern Ireland during June and July
2008.
Sunday 22 March 2009
North Down Alliance Insight
February 2009:
North Down Alliance meet to discuss ongoing political developments
The Executive Committee for the North Down Association of the Alliance
Party met on Monday 16 February 2009 in Bangor and discussed a wide
range of issues.
A future programme of fundraising events was agreed with outline
arrangements made for the next event which will be a joint quiz with the
Alliance Party’s Strangford Association. It was also agreed to again
run popular events such as the coffee morning, barbeque and Summer Fair.
A number of issues of political concern were discussed including the
recent comments by Environment Minister Sammy Wilson concerning Climate
Change, the Eames Bradley report on the past, the 11 plus, Belfast City
Airport’s application to extend their runway and the forthcoming
European Parliamentary Elections.
The Association was unanimous in its condemnation of Sammy Wilson’s
recent comments concerning Climate Change and actions concerning the
television advertisement which encourages people to make their
contribution to tackling Climate Change by turning off appliances rather
than leaving them in standby mode.
It was generally felt that the Eames Bradley
Consultative
Group on the Past had a lot of merit except for the
recommendation concerning £12,000 payment to all victims which was
considered to be ill judged.
Local Alliance MLA Dr Stephen Farry briefed members on the Alliance
Party’s stance concerning the ongoing saga with regards to the 11 plus
and academic selection. Following an extensive debate it was agreed that
the Alliance Party stance supporting a selection test formally organised
by government was preferable as an interim option for the next two years
compared to the unregulated situation which may develop later in 2009.
The Association backed requests for an Public Inquiry into Belfast City
Airport’s application to extend their runway and expressed their
continuing support for the Alliance Party’s Councillors on North Down
Borough Council in their efforts to deliver quality services whilst
keeping costs down and promoting North Down as a good place to work,
live and visit.
Association Executive Committee Chairperson Neil Dickey closed the
meeting thanking everyone for their attendance and reminding those
present that the Alliance Party AGM would take place on Saturday 28
February 2009.
26 February 2009
North Down Alliance Insight
January 2009: New team elected to lead Alliance Party in North Down during 2009
The
Alliance Party in North Down recently held their Annual General Meeting
in Bangor on Wednesday 28 January 2009.
Outgoing office bearers were given an opportunity to address the meeting
before the election of a new Executive Committee. The meeting was then
concluded by Eileen Bell CBE who provided an interesting insight into
her time as Speaker of the Transitional NI Assembly.
North Down Association Executive Chairperson Neil Dickey addressed the
party members present, reviewing the previous year and outlining his
hopes for the future. Commenting, Neil remarked that, in many aspects,
2008 had been an unremarkable year with devolution relatively stable and
the Alliance Party continuing to play a constructive role in the NI
Assembly. Concluding, Neil stated that he hoped that Northern Ireland
continued to experience the relative political stability experienced
during 2008 for the forthcoming months whilst Northern Ireland
experiences the effects of the global economic downturn.
Executive Secretary Michael Watts contrasted his remarks to the
charismatic words used by US President Barack Obama during his recent
Inauguration speech. Michael commented that 2008 had been a relatively
successful year for the Alliance Party in North Down with many valuable
fundraising events and a growing membership base. Looking ahead into
2009, Michael expressed confidence that we would be able to overcome the
obstacles faced as a result of the “credit crunch”.
Outgoing Executive Treasurer Emma Bell reported a healthy state of
finances and was thanked by all present for her service as Treasurer.
The North Down Association then elected it’s Executive Committee members
with Jean Green re-elected as President, Neil Dickey as Chairperson and
Michael Watts as Secretary.
A number of new faces were also elected with Andrew Muir elected as Vice
Chairperson and Media Officer, Chris Mackey as Treasurer and Bryan
Ardill as Membership Secretary.
Following the election of the Executive Committee and office bearers,
Mrs Eileen Bell CBE addressed the meeting.
Eileen provided a remarkable account of her time as Speaker, recalling
some of the highs and lows, ranging from lunch with The Queen to the
events at Parliament Buildings on 24 November 2006 involving Michael
Stone and Devolution Day on 8 May 2007 when Dr Ian Paisley MP MLA was
elected as First Minister and Martin McGuinness MP MLA as deputy First
Minister.
Eileen detailed the nature of her current commitments including acting
as Legislative Advisor for Autism NI and serving as Chairperson of Women
into Politics.
People were then given an opportunity to view her CBE medal and a number
of relevant questions were posed.
The meeting then concluded at approximately 9.30pm with all in agreement
that it had been an interesting meeting touching upon relevant topics of
particular interest.
9 February 2009
Holocaust
Memorial Day – time for a change?
Last night I attended Northern Ireland’s Holocaust Memorial Day
Event at the Braid Centre in Ballymena, County Antrim.
Bruce Robinson, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service and Secretary
to the NI Executive was in attendance along with Maurice Mills, Mayor of
Ballymena and others, including, for example, Sir Reg Empey, Minister
for Employment and Learning, Alliance Party Leader David Ford MLA,
Alliance Party MLA Trevor Lunn, Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay plus SDLP MLA
and Ballymena Deputy Mayor Declan O’Loan MLA.
The stories provided were moving and the opportunity for reflection was
worthwhile and emotive.
I did however leave with a feeling that the Northern Ireland Executive
is failing the people and that lesbian, gay and bisexual people remain
second class citizens, still sidelined in Northern Ireland when we are
meant to be welcoming everyone previously affected by the Holocaust.
No Minister from OFMDFM bothered to turn up, not even a Junior Minister.
It fell instead to a Civil Servant to appear. On a day when the issues
of division and intolerance were again highlighted in the NI Assembly
neither Peter Robinson nor Martin McGuinness nor Gerry Kelly nor Jeffrey
Donaldson bothered to travel to Ballymena.
For those who are not aware, the Holocaust affected many people
including Jews, people from Poland, Asia, Eastern Europe, Soviet Union
and Africa, members of the travelling community, people with
disabilities, lesbian, gay and bisexual people, transsexual people,
political opponents and religious dissidents such as communists, trade
unionists plus Jehovah's Witnesses.
I was therefore incredulous when Maurice
Mills opened the event considering the fact that he
had previously remarked;
"The recent
Hurricane Katrina descended on New Orleans and took many people suddenly
into eternity. However, the media failed to report that the hurricane
occurred just two days prior to the annual homosexual event called the
Southern Decadence Festival which the previous year had attracted an
estimated 125,000 people. Surely this is a warning to nations where such
wickedness is increasingly promoted and practised."
As if this wasn’t
enough, I was then astounded to hear Bruce Robinson substituting sexual
orientation with the word lifestyle when listing the people affected by
the Holocaust.
For those who are unaware, lesbian, gay and bisexual people don’t choose
their sexuality like choosing what clothes to wear. Any implication that
sexuality is a lifestyle choice
is extremely offensive since it implies that it is something that can be
changed, giving credibility to blatantly homophobic opinions adopted by
people such as Iris Robinson.
After visiting tonight’s event it is increasingly obvious to me that
some people involved in the government and politics of Northern Ireland
often preach tolerance and acceptance only to then add a BUT when it
comes to some minorities such as lesbian, gay and bisexual people.
Since the return of devolution I am now increasingly of the opinion that
we need a fresh approach from the Community and Voluntary Sector to
deliver a new Northern Ireland which accepts everyone.
I am currently pondering the exact nature of this new approach and
whether it should be of a gradual or more radical nature.
I have however already formed an opinion in relation to two matters,
namely that people like Maurice Mills shouldn’t be welcomed to preside
over such ceremonies without withdrawing their prejudicial comments nor should
the Head of Civil Service be allowed to go unchallenged after stating
that being lesbian, gay or bisexual is a lifestyle choice.
28 January 2009
Realisation
of a dream?
On the eve of Barack Obama's Inauguration as President of the United
States of America and, coincidentally, on Martin Luther King Jnr Day I
have reviewed the words of MLK and cannot find any more relevant words
to summarise how momentous Obama's Inauguration is.
Tuesday 20 January 2009 will go down in history as a defining moment in
American history when a new era commenced and old chapters were closed.
Whilst a lot of work still needs to be done to fully realise MLK's
dream, the Inauguration of Obama proves to me that some dreams do
partially come true when you recall Martin Luther King's comment that;
"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up
and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be
self-evident, that all men are created equal.'
The battle ahead is to ensure that
everyone enjoys true equality including minorities such as lesbian,
gay and bisexual people who still experience marginalisation and blatant
discrimination across the USA in 2009, 45 years after MLK's "I have a
dream" speech
Monday 19 January 2009
North Down Alliance Insight
This month I provide another insight into The Alliance Party in North
Down.
December 2008: North Down Alliance prepare for 2009
With Christmas fast approaching The Alliance Party’s North Down
Association Executive Committee met on Monday 8 December 2008 to plan
future activity during 2009.
A wide ranging list of possible fundraising events for 2009 were
discussed with agreement that a definitive programme of events should be
finalised at the Association AGM in January 2009.
Those present at the recent Party Council meeting in Newtownards
expressed the opinion that the meeting had been extremely positive
focusing on the real issues facing the people of Northern Ireland.
Local elected representatives provided an update on recent issues such
as the problems currently being experienced at the new recycling
facilities provided by North Down Borough Council.
The economic downturn was also discussed with a general feeling that NI
Executive has failed to react promptly and effectively by, for example,
bringing forward many capital projects to help the construction sector.
The meeting concluded with a brief discussion concerning plans for the
Association AGM in January 2009.
15 December 2008
A
nation of lonely hearts
The BBC yesterday published a report entitled “Changing UK” focusing on
Community Spirit across Great Britain.
The report and associated video coverage can be viewed by
clicking here.
Whilst I have a few concerns about the accuracy of some statistics I
strongly agree with the overall message that “UK is a nation of lonely
hearts, with traditional community life fading away”
The breakdown of community life is, I believe, one the biggest problems
currently facing society. It is affecting many aspects of everyday life
and inhibiting the development of a safe, inclusive and sustainable
society.
Individualistic concerns often mean that people are now more
concerned with their own selfish concerns rather than the greater good
e.g. burning fossil fuels and continuing to contribute to Global Warming
via driving Chelsea Tractors whilst the threat of Climate Change
increases.
Many different approaches have been advocated to deal with the breakdown
in community life and its effects e.g. gated communities to prevent
crime, return to moral values of the 1950s to tackle the rise in
divorces.
I, not surprisingly, advocate a different approach which encourages
people to focus more on well being rather than purely on wealth. This
can be achieved through an array of means ranging from hard to soft
options such as financially incentivising collaborative action and
softer options were people are "nudged" to choose better options.
Whilst I intend to outline possible solutions to address the problem at
a later date the BBC report serves as a timely reminder that the
breakdown of community life is a significant and important issue that
needs to be addressed.
2 December 2008
The Boyne Bridge
Below is a copy of the letter I today sent to the Editor of The County
Down Spectator
Dear Editor
I write in relation to the ongoing saga concerning The Boyne Bridge.
In times of economic hardship I am amazed that Cllr Easton feels that
spending money erecting signage bearing useless information is a
priority.
I do not dispute that the bridge over the railway line on the Brunswick
Road is, according to Ordnance Survey, named as The Boyne Bridge.
I do however dispute the reasons why Cllr Easton is pursuing his
campaign for the Roads Service to erect signage on the bridge denoting
its name.
It has been contended that the attempt to erect signage on The Boyne
Bridge is a simple technical matter devoid of any political motivation.
Many bridges exist across North Down which don’t have signage denoting
their name. I therefore contend that Cllr Easton has focused on The
Boyne Bridge merely because of its name and all that The Battle of Boyne
means.
To state that the focus on The Boyne Bridge is innocent and purely
co-incidental insults the intelligence of most people.
The Battle of the Boyne was fought in 1690. 318 years later I suggest
that Cllr Easton and his colleagues focus on the real issues facing
North Down residents rather than shamefully appealing to jingoistic
concerns.
Cllr Easton should stop fighting ancient battles and instead focus on
building bridges with all sections of the community across North Down.
2 December 2008
North Down Alliance Insight This month I provide another insight
into The Alliance Party in North Down. November 2008:
November proves to be a busy month for North Down Alliance
The Alliance Party’s North Down Association Executive Committee has
experienced an extremely busy month during November.
The month started with celebrations following the election of Barack Obama
as US President elect on 5 November 2008. Commenting shortly after his
election, North Down Alliance MLA Dr Stephen Farry remarked “His victory is
a paradigm shift in US politics, and opens up new opportunities on the
international stage. This has been a remarkable election, with two
outstanding yet contrasting candidates. The election of a man with a
multi-racial background, with a non-traditional name is a transformational
moment.”
The Association then held its regular monthly meeting on Monday 10 November
2008. A wide range of topics were discussed at the meeting which was well
attended as per usual. The North Down Treasurer again reported a healthy
financial state of affairs with the Membership Officer yet again reporting
the arrival of new members.
Local Alliance Councillors updated the meeting on work currently underway to
determine Council’s budgets for 2009/10 with all in agreement that the
current method of calculating rates was unfair. The Alliance Party’s
position that rates should be replaced by a Local Income Tax was again
agreed as the best alternative to the current system which plays little
regard to the ability to pay.
North Down Alliance Alderman Marsden Fitzsimmons provided a valuable update
on current activities at North Down Borough Council. Many of those in
attendance were interested in the ongoing work to promote Christian Heritage
within the Borough.
A general discussion occurred concerning the recent Home Coming Parade for
troops who had served in Iraq and Afghanistan with all in agreement that it
was right for the parade to go ahead, echoing a comment made by Dr Farry in
July 2008 when he stated "irrespective of people's opinions regarding the
merits of the interventions in Iraq and Afghanistan, our troops deserve much
credit for their bravery in the line of duty”.
Following the meeting many North Down Alliance members then met again on
Thursday 20 November 2008 for a “Question Time” style debate chaired by
North Down Alliance Association Executive Chairperson Neil Dickey with Dr
Stephen Farry MLA, Councillor Ian Parsley and Councillor David Alderdice
serving as panel members.
A range of topics were discussed during the debate ranging from education,
rural planning and sectarianism.
A general consensus emerged that whilst the recent proposals from the Church
leaders had merit the Alliance Party’s overarching approach to education is
to ensure all pupils can avail of the integrated approach if desired.
The meeting also reaffirmed the Party’s position that sectarianism and
division should be tackled in order to enable sustainable long term economic
development.
25 November 2008
Lies,
damned lies, and statistics
Benjamin Disraeli's quote "Lies, damned lies, and statistics" immediately
came to mind today when I heard about Lisburn City Council's current survey
which asks the public "Do you support the new planning application which
will bring the first John Lewis to Northern Ireland?"
The online survey can be viewed by
clicking here but, incredibly, only offers respondents to choose "Yes".
People cannot choose "No", never mind "Don't know".
Whilst I support the latest John Lewis Planning Application, Lisburn City
Council's online survey only serves to discredit their campaign for the
application to be approved. It also provides yet further proof that the
Council is both arrogant and unwilling to listen to different views.
19 November 2008
Change
can happen
Like many others, I stayed up until dawn to witness the
election of Barack Obama as President elect of the United States of America.
The magnitude of the event was probably best summarised by Wendy Austin on
BBC Radio Ulster this morning when she recalled that someone had told her
that the person elected could have been the slave of the first sixteen US
Presidents.
Whilst I remain elated and amazed that the USA has managed to realise true
racial equality after legislating for it in the 1960s I am also euphoric
that politics has been shown in a positive light.
Far too often politics is characterised by negativity, lacking in courage,
with politicians often seen as being less than honest and radical change
next to impossible.
Obama's charismatic and frank messages of hope and promises of change have
inspired millions of people across the World, re-igniting many peoples
interest in politics.
With the electoral battle now won a bigger challenge now arises for Obama to
maintain the electorates newly found faith in politics. I am confident he
will meet this challenge and eagerly await his inauguration speech on 20
January 2009.
Whilst Obama's victory may be rather frustrating in Northern Ireland since
we are stuck with politics dominated by the old norms I am however
determined to continue the fight to prove that change can happen. To those
who ask if Northern Ireland can have the politics of Obama I say, Yes we
can!
5 November 2008
North Down Alliance Insight In a new departure I now intend to provide a monthly insight into The
Alliance Party in North Down.
October 2008: North
Down Alliance reflect on successful Party Conference
A few weeks after The Alliance Party held it’s Annual Conference in Bangor
the party’s North Down Association Executive Committee met on Monday 13
October 2008 with all in agreement that the Conference had been a resounding
success.
Many members of the Committee expressed their delight that former Party
Leader and MEP John Cushnahan had attended and delivered such an interesting
speech.
It was generally felt that the mood had been extremely positive and that the
Leader David Ford MLA had delivered a strong and clear speech especially
when he remarked “We will play a constructive part in any way we can. But we
will not be used to apply a sticking plaster over a serious fault line
within the Executive. There must be fundamental reforms. I care too deeply
about the future of this society to prop up a failing sectarian and
sectional Executive.”
During the meeting the Executive Committee also made preparations for a
number of future fundraising events including the opportunity to hear a
speech in late November 2008.
Members were delighted to learn from Association Chairperson Neil Dickey
that party membership had increased with Committee Treasurer reporting that
finances are in an extremely healthy state.
The meeting received a briefing from local Alliance MLA Dr Stephen Farry who
informed those present that the party was continuing to work in a
constructive manner to break the ongoing deadlock at Stormont.
Concerns were expressed at the possible loss of 700 nurses which were seen
as a direct consequence of Peter Robinson’s budget.
Members also received an update from Alliance Alderman Marsden Fitzsimmons
who briefed the meeting on successful efforts by North Down Borough Council
to promote Christian Heritage within the Borough and ongoing work by the
Council to foster good relations amongst people of different race, religion
and political opinion.
A brief discussion took place with regards to the proposed Boundary Changes
to enable merger between North Down and Ards Borough Councils with agreement
that the party should recommend that a number of proposed boundaries be
amended.
The recently arrived circus in Bangor prompted discussion on the use of
animals in circuses and the meeting concluded with agreement that the
Association was opposed such abuse of wild animals.
22 October 2008
Another
fine PPS mess
Today’s news has been dominated by the story that the case against the only
person charged in relation to the Northern Bank Robbery has collapsed after
the prosecution decided not to provide any further evidence.
This revelation provides yet more evidence that the Public Prosecution
Service isn’t fit for purpose.
Shambolic events such as the trial which collapsed today only serve to
further erode public confidence in the criminal justice system whilst those
who perpetrated the robbery and subjected the McMullan family to disgraceful
personal trauma continue to walk the streets freely.
As has been proven in recent months and years, the PPS seem to be incapable
of carrying out their main duty to develop coherent cases and then
professionally conduct prosecutions.
Whilst it’s important that the PPS is able to independently make decisions
whether to prosecute without political interference it’s about time they
were subjected to a greater degree of scrutiny.
They could start by adding accountability and transparency to their list of
organisational values which currently omit such important values.
Representatives from the PPS could also start by appearing on the media and
publicly answering the questions that many people now want answered.
Thursday 9 October 2008
'Go
on then, jump'
Whilst listening to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Saturday morning I
heard the story of Shaun Dykes who was goaded by onlookers to jump off a
multi story car park in Derby. You can listen to The Today Programme’s
article about Shaun by
clicking here and read about the story by
clicking here.
Since listening to the story on Saturday I have been trying to work out how
such an incident occurred.
Whilst it is clear that the police should have moved the onlookers away the
fact that people goaded a man to take his life shines a light on the serious
problems that now exist within society.
During the years of economic success I feel we have developed a society were
people and politicians are “seriously relaxed about people becoming filthy
rich” to the extent that many people have become concerned with themselves
alone without any regard for others.
The general economic slowdown now being experienced across the world will
hopefully encourage a move away from greed and an individualistic society
towards one which is about inclusive communities and supporting each other,
including those facing difficulties in their life such as Shaun.
Deputy Leader Naomi Long MLA stated “The sad reality is that as Sinn
Fein and the DUP continue to battle daily with each other, the biggest
losers in those battles have been the people of Northern Ireland and the
biggest casualty has been public confidence in politics”
Dr Stephen Farry MLA remarked “In another sense, there is growing
evidence that those societies that are able to attract and sustain a mixed
population tend to be more successful in that talented people are nourished.
This truism illustrates the folly of the homophobia from the Iris Robinson's
of this world”
Following the conference I managed to watch part of the match between
Northern Ireland’s gay friendly rugby team The Ulster Titans and Bangor RFC
thirds at Uprichard Park, Bangor. It was a great end to the conference which
was about making the case for a Shared Future where everyone is valued and
allowed to reach their full potential regardless of religion, race, sexual
orientation etc.
During the morning session of the Conference I was given the opportunity to
speak on a motion calling for publication of the Cohesion, Sharing and
Integration Strategy. Below is the speech I delivered.
Conference, it gives me great pleasure to speak to you in support of this
motion at what is my first Alliance Party Conference.
Everywhere I go in Northern Ireland I hear the same message. We want change.
The people of Northern Ireland are fed up with bickering and bigotry and
want a government with ambition that dares to hope.
We live in a region where only 3% of people would object to having a person
of the opposite religion as a neighbour. A region where over 70% of people
wouldn’t mind if a relative or friend was in a relationship with a gay
person.
But yet we have an Executive with Ministers and a First Lady preaching
intolerance and prejudice.
People want a change. People want a political system which reflects the new
Northern Ireland.
At the heart of the New Northern Ireland must be a society which embraces
and celebrates diversity.
Government can help deliver this by providing leadership and a strategy for
a Shared Future.
When devolution returned last year we were promised a new bigger and better
strategy for a Shared Future but we are still waiting. It’s no where to be
found.
Maybe CSI should be put onto the case to find the Cohesion, Sharing and
Integration Strategy because it seems to be unlawfully at large.
Whilst the Executive dithers and delays The Alliance Party need to continue
making the case for diversity.
We need to outline not merely the costs of segregation but rather the
opportunities of diversity.
Recent research has proven that cities, towns and regions which embrace and
celebrate diversity attract high value knowledge based industries. We need
to continually remind people and other political parties that intolerant and
prejudicial attitudes don’t just harm minorities but also the economy we all
thrive off.
We need to end the poverty of aspiration where people fail to hope beyond
today, neglect to look to tomorrow and forget that bigotry and division not
only damages lives but deters investment and consumes public expenditure.
We must continue spreading the Alliance message of hope and aspiration at
every opportunity, whether it be in Council chambers, at the Assembly or
maybe at the Executive table.
The people of Northern Ireland are increasingly looking for leadership, hope
and change.
Day after day they ask the Executive parties whether they can deliver and
the answer is a resounding no.
The only future the Executive parties offer is a mirror image of the past.
To those who ask whether Alliance can deliver my answer to you today is Yes
we can.
Saturday 20 September 2008
An
eye for an eye leaves everyone blind
Yesterday I visited a number of historic
buildings as part of the European Heritage Open Days. I visited Crumlin Road
Gaol (HMP Belfast),
Freemason’s Hall in Arthur Square, Cornmarket Belfast and then
Stranmillis House and grounds.
Part of the tour of Crumlin Road Gaol involved viewing the condemned man’s
cell, the execution chamber and the graves of the people executed at the
prison.
I found these parts of the tour particularly disturbing. Human life is, I
believe, sacred. For the State to take a citizens life is, I believe,
fundamentally wrong.
Some argue that execution for murder is necessary in order to ensure
appropriate punishment is enacted. The words of Martin Luther King
adequately summarise why such an approach is flawed when he stated that “an
eye for an eye leaves everyone blind”.
Sunday 14 September 2008
XL have excelled in causing misery and chaos
Early on Friday 12 September 2008 morning at
about quarter past midnight a friend who works at Belfast International
Airport sent me a text message informing me that another airline had went
bust, this time XL.
I quickly realised this was the company who my mum and step dad were on
holiday with. They had left over a week earlier for a Caribbean Cruise and
were due to dock in Florida on Saturday 13 September to then spend a week in
Florida before returning home on Friday 19 September 2008.
I quickly tried to research whether they would have somewhere to stay in
Florida and be able to fly back but was confronted with loads of mixed
messages.
Whilst getting ready for work on Friday morning I sent an exasperated text
message to BBC Radio Ulster’s Good Morning Ulster programme commenting
“Looks like XL have excelled in causing misery and chaos My mum & dad are
stranded in the USA What an awful end to a holiday Andrew Bangor”. Within
twenty minutes I was on air talking about the situation.
I also spoke on Citybeat and appeared in the Newsletter concerning my
parents predicament.
As an update I can inform people that the hotel has allowed them to remain
in Florida for the remaining week of their holiday and the Civil Aviation
Authority are organising their return flight to the UK later this week. Some
of their tickets to Theme Parks purchased via XL haven’t however been
accepted.
As I stated on the radio people go on holiday to relax and enjoy a hassle
free break not to worry about how to get home.
With more airlines and holiday companies likely to go bankrupt in the next
few months it’s about time government reviewed the arrangements that are in
place if companies go into administration. Arrangements should be simplified
so that everyone is given the same support, regardless as to whether they
booked with a credit or debit card or through ABTA bonded companies.
Sunday 14 September 2008
Helping
charities at the press of a button
On
Monday evening I listened to an interesting article on BBC Radio Ulster’s
Evening Extra programme where people withdrawing money from cash machines in
Columbia are given the opportunity to donate 30p, 60p or 90p to charity at
the press of a button.
Matthew Parris spoke about the scheme which allows people to press a button
before finishing the transaction. A small amount of money is then
transferred from your Bank Account to a nominated charity e.g. a Children’s
Charity.
As Matthew stated, it’s a simple idea which could result in an awful lot of
money for needy causes with many people often not refusing to make such a
small donation.
Maybe something banks in Northern Ireland and the UK should consider
introducing?
10 September 2008
Time for an end to the circus
I have just realised that I haven’t blogged for a while so here
goes.
Over the last week a few issues have caught my attention.
John McCain’s surprise choice of Sarah Palin as his running mate for Vice
President is amazing. As Mark Devenport notes on his
blog entitled “Sarah Palin MLA” her views seem to be very well aligned
to DUP politicians such as Iris Robinson and Jim Shannon.
Sarah Palin’s views are so extreme that Obama might now be seen as “the
establishment”.
Talking about Obama, his recent pledge to end US reliance on oil from the
Middle East is refreshing but bizarre. Most nations are looking to reduce
their carbon emissions to address the fear of global warming whilst, for the
USA, their move to reduce carbon emissions is being driven by pure self
interest rather than for global good.
On the subject of the DUP, their position with regards to the IRA Army
Council now appears to be completely farcical. What do they want? Army
Council to meet in order to agree not to meet? It’s about time they stopped
looking over their shoulders to the TUV and arranged for the devolution of
all local issues including Policing and Justice by the end of 2008.
Whilst we are discussing local politicians it seems apt to mention my
concerns relating to a circus in Dundonald, home of the NI Assembly. The
circus in question isn’t the NI Assembly but rather the “Australian Super
Circus” which opens on 10 September 2008 on Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast.
I am not aware whether local politicians will be appearing as the clowns but
regardless as to whether they will appear I am strongly opposed to this
circus.
The “Super Circus” will feature elephants, kangaroos, emus, horses, dogs and
ostrich.
Animals used in circuses are captives who are forced to perform confusing,
uncomfortable, repetitious, and often-painful acts.
They often endure cruel training methods, suffer cramped confinement,
unacceptable travel conditions and poor treatment.
I therefore call on the public to boycott this circus when it comes to town.
Friday
5 September 2008
Worst
floods in 50 years?
I went to visit my grandparents yesterday in
Newcastle, County Down with my mum and step dad. Luckily he was driving the
new BMW Estate Car rather than my Getz!
We had a lovely dinner and stayed until 5pm. When we left it was still
raining. Tried to travel to Belfast via Newcastle but Shimna river had burst
it's banks and road was impassable. Tried to get to Dundrum via Bryansford
but road was also blocked with lots and lots of water. Then tried to get to
Belfast via Newry but Hilltown was impassable as river had burst it's banks.
Then went to Rathfriland and onwards to Banbridge. One mile from Banbridge
road was impassable with river all over the road. Turned back and tried
another route via Dromore and, thankfully, we managed to get onto A1.
Some really close shaves with water over bonnet, roads washed away etc.
Eventually got to Belfast but then struggled to get through water in Dunmurry.
If we hadn’t a good geographical knowledge of South Down we would have been
stranded.
Got home at 9.30pm when usually get home at about 6pm! Mum and I needed to
use a toilet and had to ask some lady living near Hilltown whether we could
use her toilet and she obliged. The generosity of people is amazing, with
some out trying to clear water when they could have easily sat back and not
offered assistance.
My mum is 50 and says she has never seen floods like what we experienced
yesterday.
It was, however, the first time I have seen how chelsea tractors can be
useful!
When I got home I was able to view scenes of floods across Northern Ireland
via BBC News, Flickr and YouTube.
The scenes at Broadway underpass are simply breath taking.
As
Wesley Johnston states in an extensive explanation of the Broadway
disaster “It could be that this is not the first time we see the Broadway
underpass submerged in water and the ensuing chaos”
The ongoing scandal of homes and roads repeatedly flooding
must stop with Bangor’s Gransha Road again closed yesterday due to river
bursting its banks.
I don’t however hold out much hope with the Environment Minister a self
confessed climate change denier who feels these are one off events.
Sunday 17 August 2008
Omagh, ten
years on
Ten years since the Omagh bombing my heart is full of sadness, love for
those affected and anger towards those who killed twenty nine people, two
unborn children and the physical and mental suffering endured by many
others.
Two quotes seem to summarise how I feel today;
We must concentrate not merely on the negative expulsion of war but the
positive affirmation of peace.
At the centre of non-violence stands the principle of love.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Friday 15 August 2008
Leave Derry for London?
The Conservatives’ favoured think tank,
Policy Exchange,
today recommended “There is no realistic prospect that our regeneration
towns and cities can converge with London and the South East. There is,
however, a very real prospect of encouraging significant numbers of people
to move from those towns to London and the
South East.” The regeneration towns in question are, for example, Liverpool
and Sunderland.
Whilst the report has generated lots of headlines with
David Cameron describing it as “insane” it has had one positive impact
by triggering a discussion on regional development and urban regeneration.
In Northern Ireland towns West of the Bann and Derry / Londonderry have
historically been ignored in favour of Belfast.
Recommending people from Derry move to London is plainly daft with society
moving towards a knowledge based digital economy.
Now is the time to develop all of Northern Ireland and stop the
environmental consequences arising from the daily commute done by many
people from Omagh, Bangor, Enniskillen, Lisburn and Derry to Belfast.
The NI Executive can take a lead and start decentralising government from
Belfast to other areas across Northern Ireland.
Wednesday 13 August 2008
Countdown
to China Olympics
In a few hours the 2008 Olympics will commence at Beijing, China.
China’s appalling Human Rights abuses are well documented and often
publicised by organisations such as
Amnesty
International. I’ll therefore spare readers with the disgraceful details
of the abuses committed such as their
sale of organs taken from executed prisoners.
Some argue that countries should not send their athletes to the games
because of the abuses but I disagree. Taking such an approach deprives
athletes of a chance to participate and has proven ineffectual when you
consider
previous precedent e.g. Moscow Olympics in 1980 which were boycotted by
62 nations led by USA.
Presidents and Prime Ministers from participating countries can however show
their opposition to China’s Human Rights abuses by refusing to attend the
ceremonies and supporting peaceful non violent protests.
It was therefore with great regret that I watched President Bush arriving in
China last night to attend the opening ceremony. His mere attendance was
stomach churning, compounded by his smiles and waves to the awaiting public
as he left Air Force One.
I look forward to watching the games over the next number of days in awe at
the sporting excellence of the participants and the courage of those who
will use the event as an opportunity to highlight the Human Rights abuses
inflicted by the Communist Government on its citizens.
Now is the time to pile on the pressure for change before the Olympics are
over and the spotlight dims.
Now is the time for an end to executions, fair trials for all, respect for
human rights defenders and freedom from censorship.
Friday 8 August 2008
History
made at Belfast Pride 2008
Yesterday’s Pride
Parade was the culmination of the week long Belfast Pride Festival.
As Northern Ireland develops it seems that Pride gets bigger and bigger
year after year.
I was fortunate enough to have been able to attend a number of really
good events. These ranged from the Queerspace Underexposed photographic
exhibition on Thursday 24 July, Festival launch on Saturday 26 July, Peter
Tatchell Amnesty International Lecture on Monday 28 July and Queerspace Life
after Queens Play on Wednesday 30 July.
All were fantastic, especially when Baroness Blood spoke at
Underexposed. Her determination and sheer zeal for achieving gender equality
was truly inspiring.
By participating in yesterday’s Parade I feel I have made a small
contribution to creating a better society where diversity is celebrated and
difference accepted not just tolerated.
Research conducted by the Equality Commission in 2006 stated that 29% of
Northern Irish people would mind if a relative or friend was in a
relationship with a lesbian, gay or bisexual person.
A Scottish Government survey in the same year discovered that people who
don’t know a gay person are twice as likely to say that same sex
relationships are wrong.
I am therefore quietly confident that yesterday’s parade chipped
something off the 29% with many spectators afforded the opportunity to
celebrate diversity and come into contact with lesbian and gay people.
As noted by Patrick Corrigan on
Amnesty International’s Belfast and Beyond blog the attendance of so
many politicians was fantastic. It clearly demonstrates that Northern
Ireland is evolving, especially with the attendance of two Ulster Unionist
MLAs and the leader of the Alliance Party. Basil McCrea and John McCallister
should be congratulated for attending yesterday and taking the lead in
redefining Unionism.
Sinn Fein Lord Mayor Tom Hartley also made history by attending the parade
and sending out a message that Belfast is a city for everyone, including
lesbian and gay people.
It is regrettable that some chose to protest against the parade citing
religious objections. The extent of the opposition should however not be
over emphasised. A YouGov survey in 2006 finding that 84% of people
identified as religious disagreed with statement ‘homosexuality is morally
unacceptable in all circumstances’ (YouGov 2006).
A day after the parade and a number of weeks after the Iris Robinson
controversies August 2008 should be used to reflect, take a breath and for
government and the LGB sector to continue delivering quality services for the
lesbian and gay community.
Looking forward to Pride 2009 already.
Sunday 3 August 2008
Iris
Robinson faces second police complaint
The controversy
concerning Iris Robinson’s intolerant attitudes of lesbian and gay people
continued today when I made another formal statement to Police concerning
her most recent comments made to the Belfast Telegraph when she stated “I
cannot think of anything more sickening than a child being abused. It is
comparable to the act of homosexuality. I think they are all comparable. I
feel totally repulsed by both”.
I allege Iris Robinson, wife of Northern Ireland’s First Minister, has
contravened the Article 9 of the Public Order (NI) Order 1987 by using
threatening, abusive or insulting words which have the likelihood to stir up
hatred and arouse fear.
It is with great regret that I have felt it necessary to make another
police statement concerning the MP for Strangford. Freedom of speech is
important but people must respect rather than abuse this Human Right. I feel
threatened, abused, insulted and fearful because Mrs Robinson compared
homosexuality to child abuse which is illegal and, I believe, grossly
offensive and fundamentally wrong.
Whilst Mrs Robinson has subsequently moved to distance herself from
comments attributed to the Strangford MP at a House of Commons Committee on
18 June 2008 she hasn’t sought to clarify or disown those made directly to
the Belfast Telegraph. I have therefore deemed it necessary to make yet
another police complaint. History is littered with examples of how people
accused of child abuse have been treated by others. Only recently was an
Edinburgh resident kicked unconscious because his attackers wrongly thought
he was a paedophile. The father-of-two lost two pints of blood after a
brutal attack by a gang of thugs. To align homosexuality with child abuse is
both reprehensible and extremely dangerous.
I call for Mrs Robinson to unconditionally withdraw and apologise for
her comments made over the last few weeks where she has aligned
homosexuality with child abuse and described homosexuality as disgusting,
nauseous and something people can rightly have a physical disgust towards.
I am shocked that Iris Robinson still remains Chairperson of the
Assembly’s Health Committee. Such intolerant and homophobic views are
clearly incompatible with such an important post. The fact that she hasn’t
resigned as Health Committee Chair nor been removed merely provides that
homophobia is the last acceptable prejudice”.
Thursday 31 July 2008
Newtownards
to be twinned with Tehran?
Cllr Iris Robinson MP MLA again appeared on BBC Radio Ulster Nolan Show this
morning and stated;
“the government has
the responsibility to uphold god’s law’s morally”. Asked to clarify her
comments by Stephen Nolan, Iris stated “the government are there to
represent the morals of the scriptures”.
If Northern Ireland is going to be subject to "god's law" then Iris should
reflect on the serious consequences that would result. For example, Exodus
35:2 clearly states that people working on the Sabbath should be put to
death.
Genesis 2:18 states "The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be
alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."
Surely Iris should resign and withdraw from politics with immediate effect
if she really means what she says and dedicate herself to helping Peter?
If Iris really means what she says maybe she should also call for Ards
Borough Council to twin Newtownards with Tehran?
Iran has lots of experience of ensuring religion dictates government policy
and actions with disgraceful results.
It is however very unlikely that Iris will resign or call for Newtownards to
be twinned with Tehran because she is a hypocrite.
She picks bits from the Bible which suit her in her crusade against
difference and diversity.
It's about time she reflected on the ridiculous and offensive nature of her
crusade and take a vow of silence rather than continuing to prove that
homophobia is the last acceptable prejudice within the DUP.
Thursday 17 July 2008
Same sex parenting
Yesterday I appeared on BBC Newsline 6.30 to discuss the issue of same sex
parenting.
The key issue in relation to same sex parenting is, of course, what's best for the
child.
Instead of saying that gay people aren't good parents the focus should be on
addressing the homophobia in society that dissuades many good gay people from
bringing up children.
Gay parents are just as good as straight parents.
Barnados do not exclude adopters on grounds of race, gender, age or sexual
orientation.
Barnardo's policy for some years has been to assess all potential adopters
or foster carers exclusively on their ability to provide a loving, stable
and secure childhood for a child, or children, who are often disadvantaged
and sometimes have had an inadequate upbringing.
American Psychological Association stated in 2004;
“there is no scientific evidence that parenting effectiveness is related to
parental sexual orientation: lesbian and gay parents are as likely as
heterosexual parents to provide supportive and healthy environments for
their children".
Wednesday 16 July 2008
No spin
please
On Saturday Twelfth of July I visited Belfast City Centre to watch the
annual Orange Order parade at Shaftesbury Square.
Whilst I was impressed by the colourful nature of the parade and the
accompanying music I was startled to see many people openly consuming
alcohol in front of police officers. I was even more startled when I noticed
that this was occurring in front of the Chief Constable, Sir Hugh Orde.
If this occurred on any other day of the year the police wouldn’t flinch
from taking swift action to enforce Council bye-laws which expressly
prohibit consumption of alcohol in Shaftesbury Square.
We were informed by Assistant Chief Constable Duncan McCausland that
on-street drinkers met with a "robust approach" on the Twelfth. If being
allowed to drink in front of the Chief Constable is “robust” I dread to
think what “softly softly” looks like.
Whilst I welcome the lack of violence and confrontation experienced and
congratulate the police and community workers for making this possible it’s
about time to the police stopped spinning and injected a degree of sincerity
into the issue of on street drinking.
If the new “normalised” policing arrangements don’t cater for mass on street
drinking on one day a year please tell us. Then we will be able to adjust
our lives to the fact that enforcement of the bye-laws is temporarily
suspended on the Twelfth.
Monday 14 July 2008
Disgusting,
loathed, physical disgust, nauseous, shamefully wicked, vile, an abomination
These are the words used to described
homosexuality by Cllr Iris Robinson MP MLA on Friday 6 June 2008.
The wife of Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Councillor for Castlereagh
Council, MP, MLA for Strangford and Chairperson of the NI Assembly’s Health,
Social Services and Public Safety Committee also used the
Stephen Nolan Show to state;
"I have a very lovely psychiatrist who works with me in my offices and his
Christian background is that he tries to help homosexuals - trying to turn
away from what they are engaged in I'm happy to put any homosexual in touch
with this gentleman and I have met people who have turned around and become
heterosexuals."
This is despite the fact that the American Psychiatric Association
declassified homosexuality as a mental disorder in 1973 with the Royal
College of Psychiatrists immediately clarifying that homosexuality is not a
psychiatric disorder.
In
their statement the Royal College remarked “The Royal College of
Psychiatrists holds the view that lesbian, gay and bisexual people should be
regarded as valued members of society who have exactly similar rights and
responsibilities as all other citizens.”
During the interview Mrs Robinson made the following statements which I
found extremely disturbing;
Stephen Nolan: Do you think for example that homosexuality is disgusting?
Iris Robinson: Absolutely
Stephen Nolan: Do you think that homosexuality should be loathed?
Iris Robinson: Absolutely
Stephen Nolan: Do you think it is right for people to have a physical
disgust towards homosexuality?
Iris Robinson: Absolutely
Stephen Nolan: Does it make you nauseous?
Iris Robinson: Yes
Stephen Nolan: Do you think that it is something that is shamefully wicked
and vile?
Iris Robinson: Yes, of course it is, it’s an abomination.
As a consequence I visited Bangor Police Station on Friday 6 June 2008
evening and made a statement alleging that the comments stir up hatred and
arouse fear, as per Article 9 of the Public Order (NI) Order 1987, as
reported by UTV, Irish News, Newsletter and Sunday Times.
Article 9 of the Public Order (NI) Order 1987,provides:-
"9.—(1) A person who uses threatening, abusive or insulting words or
behaviour, or displays any written material which is threatening, abusive or
insulting, is guilty of an offence if—
(a) he
intends thereby to stir up hatred or arouse fear; or
(b) having
regard to all the circumstances hatred is likely to be stirred up or fear is
likely to be aroused thereby."
Article 8, as amended by Article 3 of
the Criminal Justice (No 2)(NI) Order 2004, provides:-
8. "In this part— "fear" means fear
of a group of persons in Northern Ireland defined by reference to religious
belief, sexual orientation, disability, colour, race, nationality (including
citizenship) or ethnic or national origins;
I await notification from the police
on the outcome of my complaint.
Sunday 8 June 2008
Homophobia
in sport
On Tuesday 19 February
2008 Northern Ireland’s DUP Sports Minister accused the Ulster Titan’s
Gay Rugby team of attempting to “develop an apartheid in sport”.
Mr Poots stated that “it would be unacceptable to produce an all-black
rugby team or an all-white team or an all-Chinese team. To me it's
equally unacceptable to produce an all-homosexual rugby team and I
find it remarkable that people who talk so much about inclusivity and
about having an equal role in society would then go down the route of
exclusion."
During the next few months The Rainbow Project undertook research
concerning Homophobia in Sport which as released last weekend.
The research findings are startling but not surprising.
Three-quarters of respondents
stated that they thought there was homophobia in sport,
in particular in team sports, in NI that might stop gay or bi-sexual
people from taking part and only four per cent said there was not.
Over three-quarter of the respondents who played team sports were
not out to any or only out to some of their team mates.
Half of the respondents
stated they had wanted to play a sport but had decided not as they
were afraid they would not
be accepted because of their sexual orientation.
Forty-one per cent had
stopped playing a sport because they had experienced homophobia
directed towards them or found the general attitude to be homophobic.
As Mark, one of the men who took part in the research stated: “I love
watching and playing football and support Rangers. I am a member of a
Rangers Supporters’ Club but only a few people know I am gay and if
someone makes an anti-gay comment I just laugh and pretend it doesn’t
matter. I did play for a (football) team in the past, but left when
someone found out I was gay and I started to get bullied. Maybe I
should wait for someone to set up a gay football team instead!”.
In the current climate in NI the need to have clubs where people who
are gay or bi-sexual can get involved in sport without having to hide
a large part of their identity or be fearful of homophobic comments is
clear.
It also has to be noted that this research did not investigate the
homophobia that exist in professional sports where homophobic chanting
from the terraces is quite common, very few fans are openly gay and
where in the mid-nineties the only openly gay professional footballer,
Justin Fashanu, committed suicide after being subjected to ongoing and
vicious homophobic abuse from fans and team mates.
As Jim Crawford, Physical Health Development Officer for The Rainbow
Project states:
“Mr Poots was wrong when he made those comments; it is not the people
who set up sports clubs for those who are gay or bi-sexual who create
apartheid in sport. Our research has clearly shown that apartheid in
mainstream sports is already alive and kicking and the ball, so to
speak, is now firmly in Mr. Poots’ court. As Minister for Sport in NI
he should take responsibility for commissioning further research and
initiating actions to address this apartheid in sport in NI which is
responsible for the exclusion of a substantial part of our society.”
Wednesday 28 May 2008
Inefficient
efficiency savings
Like some others, I woke this morning to hear the Irish News story
concerning Belfast Health Trust’s plan to cut almost 3,000 jobs.
Included within this total are much needed Nurses! These cuts are
being sought under the guise of the Gerson efficiency savings demanded
by the Department for Finance and Personnel of all governments
departments, Agencies and Non Departmental Public Bodies.
Whilst I accept that efficiency savings can be made within the public
sector I am increasingly worried how they are being effected.
Instead of facing up to hard decisions and making the cuts where they
should be made it’s increasingly obvious that Senior Management and
Ministers are taking the easy option and letting the axe fall on front
line services.
Instead of taking such an approach I would urge them to follow the
approach adopted by Michael Heseltine when Secretary of State for the
Environment in the 1980’s by personally carrying out a detailed review
of their departments and letting the axe fall in the right direction.
Monday 19 May 2008
The
Secret Garden and the bubble car
Yesterday I was given the opportunity to see work underway to restore
the Walled Garden in Castle Park, Bangor.
I was extremely impressed at the work being carried out by North Down
Borough Council to open up what was previously a very Secret Garden.
On my way to the garden I was amazed to see a bubble car, resembling
the image above. After attending the Irish Transport Trust Bus Rally
at Cultra the day was truly special. It seems that the car was
manufactured by
Peel Engineering.
27 April 2008
Shared
communities are sustainable communities
"Shared communities are sustainable communities". Not my words but the
words of Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Chairman
Gerry Millar.
As reported in today's Irish News, the RICS have launched their three
year manifesto.
Commenting, Gerry Millar confirmed my belief that a Shared Society is
the only way forward to deliver a successful economy with a
sustainable environment when he stated “Addressing division is without
doubt one of the biggest and most pressing challenges facing Northern
Ireland today”.
“Massive expense is incurred by paying for duplicate facilities to
serve our divided community and division causes inefficiencies and
waste that increase Northern Ireland’s ecological footprint and are
impeding the economy’s ability to reach it’s potential”
“It has been recognised that social inclusion is the bedrock of
civilisation and shared communities are sustainable communities”.
“This means greater efficiency and cost savings, enhanced quality of
life and healthier local and global environment”.
Wednesday 16 April 2008.
Martin Luther
King forty years on
Today marks the fortieth Anniversary of the death of Martin Luther
King Jnr.
Since my childhood I have considered MLK to be my idol.
MLK passionately believed in human rights and equality and was able to
convey this passion to the public in a clear motivational manner.
Despite the challenges he remained opposed to violence, choosing
dialogue and non violence protest instead of the cowardly and
fundamentally wrong option of bombs and bullets.
Whilst I believe in a secular society where no one religion is imposed
on others MLK was right to be driven by his Christian beliefs.
Christianity can have an enormously positive impact when properly
interpreted. God put us on earth to love not hate.
Forty years after his murder many people continue to distort gods
message in order to justify discrimination and intolerant attitudes.
On this day I urge everyone to review Martin Luther King’s correct
interpretation of Christianity and follow the example set by MLK, best
described when he stated “Love is the only force capable of
transforming an enemy into a friend”.
Friday 4 April 2008.
Launch
of GLAD
Earlier this week I had the
pleasure to attend the launch of
Gay and Lesbian
across Down (GLAD) on Monday 10 March 2008 at Betty Blacks.
I am really proud to have worked with others to establish North Down
and Ards LGBT group in January 2007.
Over a year later it was amazing to celebrate our First Birthday and
launch a re-branded group now known as GLAD with a new name, wider
remit and enhanced range of services.
Monday night was one of the proudest moments in my life, for the
reason I detailed on the night.
“Back in 1996 when I came out as a gay man I was living Bangor. It was
a completely different place than today. I felt excluded, isolated and
alone. Today in 2008 I am now again living in Bangor. I feel valued in
a part of Northern Ireland which embraces diversity and provides hope
of the future.
I am truly impressed to have so many local Councillors and MLAs
present here tonight. Your support for us is greatly appreciated.”
To have Mayor of North Down Councillor Doctor Stephen Farry MLA, North
Down Ulster Unionist MLA Alan McFarland, Ulster Unionist Councillor
James McKerrow and Chief Superintendent Graham Shields present meant
the world to me.
To receive endorsement from such a wide range of people sent a strong
message to me and other lesbian, gay and bisexual people that being
gay is okay.
It was also great for Betty Blacks to openly welcome us to their
premises.
I look forward to the future with lots of hope and tons of enthusiasm.
Wednesday 12 March 2008
Victoria
Square, a celebration and challenge
I decided to visit the Victoria Square Shopping Centre in Belfast
yesterday. Two words immediately came to my mind when I viewed the
new centre. Celebration and challenge.
Victoria Square is a fantastic celebration of the economic success
Northern Ireland has enjoyed post ceasefires.
Victoria Square is also a massive challenge. A challenge to society to
reach out and include those who have been left behind by the economic progress that has occurred. Those who continue to live in
poverty and those excluded due to the intolerance and ignorance of
others.
The opening of Victoria Square should provide the impetus to everyone across
Northern Ireland to work together to create an inclusive shared
society.
Saturday 8 March 2008
First Alliance Party event
Attend my first official Alliance Party event today in South Belfast.
Annual General Meeting and quarterly Council meeting.
A warm welcome was again extended and already feel at home with
friends.
Got the opportunity to speak and was warmly received. It's clear now
that The Alliance Party are the only vehicle for a Shared Society.
Delivered the following speech:
Alliance Party Council 1 March 2008, Andrew Muir speech
Council, fellow Alliance Party members, some of your may be aware that
I recently left the SDLP to join Alliance.
The reasons why I left the SDLP have been well reported.
Today I want to talk about why I joined Alliance.
I want to talk about the future, not the past.
My decision to join Alliance was, like most people, driven by my heart
and my head.
In my heart I dream of a Shared Society.
In my head I know that without a Shared Society we cannot have the
strong economy and sustainable environment that Northern Ireland
urgently needs.
But why do I dream of a Shared Society.
The answer is simple.
“Separate but equal is not an option. Parallel living and the
provision of parallel services are unsustainable both morally and
economically”
Not my words but the words of “A Shared Future”.
No wonder Sinn Fein and the DUP want to get rid of it.
Without parallel living their own future as political parties is in
doubt.
We all know the economic costs of division. Spending £1.5billion each
year on segregation cannot continue. A strong economy and sustainable
environment cannot be built whilst we waste 20% of our budget every
single year.
The lack of a Shared Society frustrates me intensely.
Day after day I see, feel and taste division and discrimination.
I see an economy struggling to compete on the world stage.
I feel my own pain when I recall the lives lost of friends through
suicide, caused because of the intolerance of others.
I taste it when my own stomach churns after I recall the worlds of a
former Junior Minister who described me a repulsive, offensive and
obnoxious simply because I am gay.
For Northern Ireland to have a truly Shared Society political parties
such as the DUP and Sinn Fein need to contemplate their own demise.
Until they make that decision it’s up to Alliance to help them along.
Thus far I think we have been doing a very good job.
But what does that Shared Society look like?
In some ways its uncomfortable reading, even for me.
In the New Northern Ireland diversity is embraced.
That means that everyone, yes everyone, is treated as equal citizens.
Members of the travelling community, people with disabilities, lesbian
and gay people, foreign nationals, transsexual people, even Ian
Paisley Junior are welcomed and embraced.
For the last number of years Alliance has shown that they are the only
political party capable of delivering that New Northern Ireland.
It is for that very reason that I joined Alliance.
Alliance have the courage to dream beyond today.
It’s time for a strong economy
It’s time for a sustainable environment
It’s time for a Shared Society
It’s time for Alliance
Saturday 1 March 2008
My
first blog
The
past week has been a momentous one for me.
I announced my decision to leave the SDLP and join Alliance on Monday
11 February 2008.
BBC Stormont Live accidentally promoted me to MLA on Monday, as per
photo!
When the SDLP were made aware of my decision to move to the Alliance
Party they condemned me for having ambition.I am not ashamed to admit
that I do indeed have ambition.
Ambition for a Shared Society.
Ambition for a strong economy.
Ambition for a sustainable environment.
Ambition for the Alliance Party.
Ambition for Northern Ireland.
Friday 15 February 2008.
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Wednesday, 24 June 2009 22:35:07