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TAX DODGERS - NO HIDING PLACE Comments by the Celtic League about the use of off-shore financial institutions for the evasion of tax are to be considered by the Public Accounts Committee of the Dail (Irish parliament). The League had written to PAC Chairman, Jim Mitchell TD, following a number of high profile cases linking financial institutions in the Isle of Man with tax evasion and other illegal activities in Ireland. The move coincides with the news that one British bank has written to all customers who hold accounts in its off-shore branches telling them it is to begin reporting income they earn from savings to the Inland Revenue in Britain. The moves are prompted by the introduction of a new Finance Act in Britain. However, the move will not impact on Irish investors because the Irish Revenue Commissioners would not have automatic access en bloc to nformation held by the UK Inland Revenue on accounts held offshore about which they are notified. Ireland's Revenue Commissioners can seek information on a case by case basis but until reciprocal agreements are entered into by the UK and Ireland no comprehensive exchange of information can take place. It does however seem inevitable that greater exchange of information between Britain and Ireland will be formalised. Bernard Moffatt 01/04/01 
RACISM COMES IN MANY FORMS Irish community groups have reminded the Commission for Racial Equality that racial discrimination is not simply based on colour prejudice. CARA, the Irish Housing Association, spoke out following a high-profile advertising campaign that featured TV commercials with celebrities whose skin changes from black to white during the course of the advert. CARA spokesperson John Brennan said " One only has to look to the Holocaust and the Balkans, not to mention Anglo-Irish relationships over centuries to see that millions of white people have perished due to racism". There is no doubt that the Asian and Black communities in Britain, despite years of supposedly positive anti-discrimination legislation, face extreme discrimination and prejudice still. However, the basis of racism is more deep seated than colour prejudice. In a parallel to the CARA statement Labour MP Kevin McNamara, who campaigns vigorously for the rights of the Irish community in Britain, reminded the Commission for Racial equality that two years after an investigation found evidence of discrimination against Irish people nothing has been done to address the situation. Bernard Moffatt 31/03/01
'BUREAU' DUBLIN OFFICE TO CLOSE? The Celtic League understand that the Dublin Office of the European Bureau for Lesser Used Languages (EBLUL) is to be closed. A language organisation with Offices in Brussels and Dublin, EBLUL, promotes "linguistic diversity, ensure linguistic rights and support communities and organisations that are coping with these matters". The work includes "lobbying, facilitating an exchange of information and experiences, and rendering practical assistance on the ground to linguistic communities". The Dublin Office, according to the Bureaus web-site "established in 1984, plays a major role in the field of publishing and promoting linguistic diversity". Certainly, those active in the language movements in the Celtic countries will be well aware of the positive nature and extent of its work. The Celtic League are currently investigating the reports of the impending closure of the Dublin Office and we will, of course, be doing all that we can to reverse the decision. Bernard Moffatt 31/03/01 Query to Secretary General EBLUL below: Tom Moring Dear Mr. Moring, The Celtic League are disturbed to hear that the Bureaus Dublin Office may be closed. The Dublin Office establish in 1984, according to your Bureaus own web-site " plays a major role in the field of publishing and promoting linguistic diversity". Certainly, those active in the language movements in the Celtic countries are well aware of the positive nature and extent of its work and we are extremely concerned to hear it may be closed. Could you advise on the current position and if any final decision on the future of the Dublin Office has been taken. Yours Sincerely 01/04/01
SOCIAL MARGINALISATION OF TRAVELLING PEOPLE - STUDY A £200,000 study is to be undertaken into problems faced by the Irish travelling community in Britain, funded with monies from the National lottery. The project will "investigate the extent and consequences of the criminalisation, social marginalisation and ethnic disqualification of the Irish travelling community in Britain. In 1995, as part of our paper "Human Rights on the Celtic Fringe", we highlighted what the Celtic League described as "open manifestations of rights abuse". We focused on the travelling community whom we said were subjected to "special treatment" by both central and local authorities in Ireland and Britain. A year before we spoke out the Criminal Justice Act, introduced in the United Kingdom in 1994, had virtually criminalised the way of life of the travelling people. However, the introduction of new Human Rights legislation, based on the European Convention of Human rights, gives new hope that repression of this small community of people can be ended. Fundamental to understanding the extent of the problem is properly funded research and this project should fulfil this. Bernard Moffatt 31/03/01
PRESSURE ON BRETON PRISONERS Celtic League to call for International action to investigate the shameful conditions of political prisoners in the Jails of France. The Celtic League are investigating reports that Alain Solé, a Breton political prisoner, tried to commit suicide, last Saturday 24 of March, in Villepinte prison. Alain is one of a number of prisoners whose plight we highlighted several months ago. At the time we wrote to the French prison authorities and also European prisoners rights bodies highlighting the extreme pressure being applied to both Bretons and other political prisoners in French jails. Our pleas went unheeded by the French authorities and it seems that a tragedy has only just been averted. The situation, once again, highlights the need for the medical requirements and psychological welfare of political prisoners held by France to be properly monitored. The Celtic League will again be contacting the French authorities and also pressing International human rights groups to investigate the scandal of the treatment of political prisoners in France. Bernard Moffatt 31/03/01 Correspondece to French Justice Minister & CPT below: Mrs. Marylise Lebranchu Dear Minister, I wrote to you in November last year raising concerning about a number of Bretons detained in prisons in the Paris area (a copy of the correspondence is enclosed). You will see that we alleged that the French authorities were not applying best practice under European Regulations governing the treatment of detainees. The Celtic League now have reports that one of those detained, Alain Solé, a Breton political prisoner, tried to commit suicide, last Saturday 24 of March, in Villepinte prison. The situation highlights the fact that the medical requirements and psychological welfare of political prisoners held by France needs to be properly monitored. The Celtic League will be pressing International human rights groups to investigate the treatment of political prisoners in France. Yours sincerely J B Moffatt 01/04/01 The Secretary European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Dear Sir, We wrote to you in November last year enclosing correspondence to the French Justice Minister raising concerning about a number of Bretons detained in prisons in the Paris area. We alleged that the French authorities were not applying best practice under European Regulations (Model Prison Rules) governing the treatment of detainees. The Celtic League now have reports that one of those detained, Alain Solé, a Breton political prisoner, tried to commit suicide, last Saturday 24 of March, in Villepinte prison. The situation, in our view, highlights the fact that the medical requirements and psychological welfare of political prisoners held by France needs to be properly monitored. We request as a matter of urgency that you investigate the treatment and physical well being of all political detainees in French Jails. Yours sincerely J B Moffatt 01/04/01 NAVY TESTED DU IN NW IRISH SEA The MOD confirm testing of depleted uranium weapons at the West Freugh complex, adjacent to Belfast Lough. However, ranges off the Isle of Man and at Pembrey in Wales are DU free. The MOD have reiterated their contention that depleted uranium (DU) munition testing in the N. Irish poses no health risk. The assurance comes in a detailed response to the Celtic League, who addressed a wide ranging query about possible DU testing in the N. Irish sea and also at a range in Wales. The MOD confirm that firing was undertaken at ranges in Cumbria and into the Solway Firth off Kirkcudbright, Scotland. They also confirm that the West Freugh facility in Galloway was used for testing of the naval Close in Weapons System (CIWS) Phalanx. These tests took place from 1988-90 and involved the firing of several hundred rounds. The West Freugh facility, immediately north of the Isle of Man, includes a firing range in Luce Bay and also an exercise area off the Galloway close near the entrance to Belfast Lough. The Celtic League had not been aware of testing in this area and the MOD have not indicated if it was simply confined to the navy CIWS system. However the MOD also give an assurance that A-10 tank-buster aircraft, which use DU rounds operationally, have not expended any on training ranges around the British Isles. The League had asked about the (now disused) range at Jurby, off the Isle of Man, and a range at Pembrey in S. Wales. The Ministry of Defence say the only recorded air crash involving one of the A-10 aircraft, at Capel-Y-Fin, Powys, Wales did not result in DU pollution. They say the aircraft was only carrying 'training projectiles.' Bernard Moffatt 31/03/01
CAIRNGORMS DOUBLE CRASH ONE OF A SERIES Close flying tactics which over training areas in the Highlands, south-west Scotland and mid Wales create a risk to the rural community. The crash last week in the Scottish Highlands, of a USAF F-15 fighter-bomber was the latest in a series of dual accidents involving the type. In Jan. 1999 two F-15s crashed after colliding over the Gulf of Mexico and six month later another two aircraft crashed after a collision near Nellis Air Force base in the United States. While the Cairngorms incident occurred in a remote area, it seems that the close-flying tactics which the pairs of aircraft carry out extensively over training grounds in the Highlands, south-west Scotland and mid Wales carry with them an inherent risk. It is past time that these low level operations which are claiming a grim toll of both RAF and US aircrew, were restricted. If action is not taken it seems inevitable that a major tragedy, involving the civilian population of the rural areas over which they exercise, will occur. In January we warned that many RAF aircraft were approaching obsolescence and it was increasingly difficult, from a maintenance point of view, to keep them airborne. The MOD rejected this at the time but figures recently released indicate that our contention about serviceability was correct. In the United States similar concerns have been raised about older aircraft types such as the F-15 which first entered service over twenty-five years ago. An F-15 from the same wing as those that crashed in the Cairngorms crashed five months ago whilst on a training mission in the US. The Celtic League has been
calling for
years for height restrictions Bernard Moffatt 01/04/01
SELLAFIELD SEEKS GOVERNMENT BAIL OUT Britain's nuclear albatross, BNFL, is reportedly in debt, and will be looking to the British government to underwrite some of its liabilities ahead of the much touted privatisation. Last year it was revealed that workers had falsified safety data for one of the companies prime customers Japan. This led to a crisis of confidence amongst customers and management changes at the plant. Now balance sheets are in the red. The Magnox reactor division, which includes the troubled Wylfa nuclear station, reportedly had losses of approximately £100 million last year. Continued uncertainty about the future of Wylfa can only compound matters The Company has taken the decision to axe its Magnox operation over the coming decade and is hoping that the British government will underwrite liabilities and also give approval for the operation of its Mox plant. However, most communities around the Irish sea hope, that the British government will take a much more realistic economic decision about BNFL and stop its re-processing activities permanently! Bernard Moffatt 01/04/01
OFFENCES AGAINST STATE ACT With the cease-fire in N. Ireland and moves to enshrine Human Rights provisions domestically many had hoped that the Offences Against the State Act (OASA) would be scrapped and there would be a return to the ordinary rule of law. However, instead of reforming OASA the Irish government have strengthened its provisions. Many people in Ireland (North or South) and England will be delighted that the Irish government appears to be taking a firm stand against those allegedly involved with paramilitary groups not on cease-fire. The arrests of several persons in Ireland last week and their questioning over involvement with the Real IRA has resulted in one of those detained, Michael McKevitt, being charged with 'directing the activities of an illegal organisation'. If convicted McKevitt could face life imprisonment. The Irish government have been under pressure to act following a series of actions by the Real IRA and because of growing frustration over the failure to bring anyone to justice for the Omagh bombing. A well-orchestrated media campaign has targeted those ostensibly connected with the Omagh outrage and other RIRA incidents. However, many believe that this media focus ultimately will be demeaning to the judicial process because if or when actual charges are brought individuals already exposed in the media will argue, justifiably, that their right to a fair trial has been prejudiced. In the case of Michael McKevitt it is also somewhat disturbing that the only mechanism that the Irish government has been able to use to effect charges against him is the Offences Against the State Act (OASA). Ireland is a State, which like others across Europe, is embracing the principle of incorporation of International Human Rights protections into domestic law. Given this OASA is something of a paradox. Its provisions, and the Special Criminal Court which give them effect, have been criticised by the United Nations. With the cease-fire in N. Ireland and moves to enshrine Human Rights provisions domestically many had hoped that OASA would be scrapped and there would be a return to the ordinary rule of law. However, instead of reforming OASA the Irish government have strengthened its provisions. This is all well and good until challenges on the basis of Human Rights violations are made. If there is one lesson that both the Irish and British government should have learned over the past thirty years it is that the application of unsound law leads to unsound convictions. Bernard Moffatt 01/04/01
BASQUE-CELTIC CONNECTION REINFORCES TIES New research has indicated that there are genetic connections between the Basque and Celtic peoples. Research involving a sample group of males from both Wales and Ireland has shown what described as a "strikingly similar" genetic pattern. The work carried out by University College London, Oxford University and the University of California said that the Basque, Welsh and Irish sample formed a "Y-chromosome, community with members more closely related to one another than they were to the other European populations". This is the first clear genetic evidence linking the Basque and Celtic people although ties, even in recent years, have been strong. The Bretons, in particular, have developed close links with the Basque people and provided support and in some instances asylum to the Basques as they fight for independence. The Celtic League has also been vociferous in its support. This new evidence of a 'link' will harden our support for our Basque "cousins". Bernard Moffatt 05/04/01
WHERE ARE BRITAIN'S NUCLEAR WEAPONS? Why are no nuclear weapons stored in England? Nationalists in Scotland are being urged to pose the question to candidates at forthcoming elections. The current issue of the Scots Independent reveals that the United Kingdoms 200 nuclear weapons are all stored in Scotland with the focus for this weaponry being the nuclear weapons complex on the Clyde. The paper reveals that from 28th May to June 4th the base will pay host to a doomsday gathering of submarines from the NATO powers and erstwhile NATO adversary Russia. However, columnist Margery Dougan says that whilst "Trident is the obvious totem with most protesters, there are 200 nuclear weapons spread about" Scotland. News-group users and League
members can
subscribe to the Scots Independent - the paper for those who want
Independent
news about Scotland can THE SCOTS INDEPENDENT
Bernard Moffatt 05/04/01
BRITAIN IN THE DOCK ON LAWYER MURDERS UN special rapporteur on the Independence of Lawyers and Judges, Param Cumaraswamy, will deliver a damning indictment of the British security services and their alleged involvement in the murder of two leading lawyers in Ulster to the United Nations Human Rights Commission today. For many years controversy has raged over the killing of Belfast Lawyer Pat Finucane and the failure of the British government to adequately investigate the crime and bring to justice the killers. It has long believed that the British security forces were involved in the murder. There is also controversy surrounding the death of Rosemary Nelson, another prominent solicitor, who like Finucane had gone on record to say that threats and intimidation were directed at her by the security services. Now Param Cumaraswamy who has has carried out a painstaking investigation into the killings is likely to criticise the British governments failure to cooperate with his enquiries. He will also question the impartiality of any police investigation. He is expected to call for a full judicial public enquiry. Many campaigning groups, including the Celtic League, believe that the RUC is too tainted by its involvement with the security services to adequately investigate collusion by those same organisations in the killings. Bernard Moffatt 05/04/01
FINANCIAL SUPERVISION 'WAFFLE' The Financial Supervision Commission has responded to a series of questions from the Celtic League concerning high-profile scandals linking Manx banks and financial institutions with illegal activities in other jurisdictions. The FSC seem to want to evade any
criticism
by claiming that the events The FSC cite, for example, the case of Irish gangster Thomas Meehan who was convicted of money laundering offences in May 2000. FSC Chief Executive, John Aspden, says: "The reports of which I am aware indicated that the offences occurred in 1995 and 1996." He goes on "As you are aware, the legislation and the detailed requirements in relation to anti-money laundering and 'Know your Customer' (KYC) systems and procedures for financial institutions did not come into effect until 1 December 1998". However, strangely in 1991, seven years prior to Mr. Aspden's assertion about KYC, the Chief Secretary's office wrote to the Celtic League, who at that time were investigating alleged money laundering through the Isle of Man by paramilitary gangs in Ulster. Tim Craine, for the Chief Secretary told us: " I think we all share the wish that no dirty money should be handled by the Isle of Man" he went on "with the above in mind the FSC has adopted a Know Your Customer policy which it expects all banking institutions to adhere to. Clearly this policy, put in place over a decade ago, did not frustrate Meehans attempts to use Manx banks to salt away his illicits funds and it calls into question whether things have improved. It also proves that Aspden and the FSC should do their homework before coming out with pompous assertions that don't stand up. Moreover there is an even greater indictment of the FSC. Thomas Meehan is known to have been associated with the gang members charged in connection with the slaying of Dublin journalist Veronica Guerin. In 1996, when Meehan was utilising 'banking services' here the Celtic League wrote to the FSC pointing out that there were strong rumours that persons suspected in connection to the death of the journalist were using accounts here. We called for an Isle of Man investigation. We are not aware if any follow up action was pursued, although the FSC did tell us in October 1996 that if any licence holders (banks) were involved: "the FSC will take a serious view of the matter". Apparently not serious enough to warrant a prosecution! Bernard Moffatt 05/04/01
BLAIR LASHED OVER LANGUAGE INSULT The Celtic League has attacked the British government over its failure to include the Cornish language when ratifying the European Charter for Regional and Minority Languages. The ratification, which comes into effect in the summer, will confer status and support on a number of languages in the United Kingdom, including several of the Celtic languages. However, the Cornish language has been omitted from the list and the move continues a policy of the present British government of failing to give parity of esteem to the Cornish people. The British government has pointedly ignored the status of Cornwall and the Cornish people when advancing policies on devolution for other Celtic areas. This latest move by the Blair government compounds that stance. It is in the view of the Celtic League, an insult to the Cornish people. The League have written to the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, which is the organisation responsible for the treaty, asking that he use his 'good offices' with the British government to reverse its decision. Bernard Moffatt 08/04/01 Correspondence to Tony Blair and the Council of Europe below: The United Kingdom Prime Minister
Dear Prime Minister, I write to express our concern and dismay that the United Kingdom government has failed to include the Cornish language when agreeing to ratify the European Charter for Regional and Minority Languages. We understand that the Charter will come into effect on July 1 this year and will commit the British government to protecting and supporting the status of minority languages in the United Kingdom including Irish Gaelic, Welsh, Scots and Ulster Scots. The Celtic League obviously welcome any steps which your government takes which recognise and stimulate the Celtic languages. However we cannot accept a situation whereby the Cornish language is excluded. The British government seems unfortunately to have set itself against conferring on the Cornish people the same elements of self-determination recently granted to the other Celtic peoples. This latest insult to the status of the Cornish language is unpardonable and we urge that the British government reconsider the matter and accord what is one of the oldest tongues used in these islands the status it deserves. Yours sincerely, J B Moffatt 8/4/01 Secretary General of the Council
of Europe Dear Sir, I write with reference to the ratification of the European Charter for Minority languages by the United Kingdom. We understand that this comes into effect on the 1st July but that the United Kingdom has not included Cornish amongst those languages covered by the terms of its Treaty ratification. Quite frankly this is totally unacceptable and you will see from the attached correspondence that the Celtic League have protested this omission most forcefully to the British government. We trust that you will use your good offices with the United Kingdom government to urge a rethink on their current stance. Yours sincerely, J B Moffatt 8/4/01
THIS EVIL WEAPON "arguments about the relative 'attributes' of the old or new baton round should not obscure the facts about this evil weapon" The use of Plastic baton rounds, and their equally lethal predecessor the rubber bullet, by the security forces in N. Ireland has been an unmitigated disaster. So called guidelines covering the use of the weapons have been repeatedly flouted. In addition to a staggering 17 people killed (8 children), by this supposedly safer method of riot control, many scores of people, many of them children, have suffered horrendous injuries. Against this background the British governments decision to introduce an upgraded version of the plastic bullet which is according to leaked reports, even more lethal, must be deplored. However, arguments about the relative 'attributes' of the old or new baton round should not obscure the facts about this evil weapon The United States Congress, reporting on human rights in 1993, concluded that "Scientists, doctors and munitions experts consider the plastic bullets to be the most dangerous crowd control weapon in use world-wide". It also pointed out that despite the carnage wreaked by the weapons in the hands on Britain's security forces "neither soldier nor policeman has been convicted for murder, maiming or misuse of a weapon - it appears the security forces are unofficially granted immunity from prosecution". The US congress are not the only body to have criticised these weapons and their use (or more accurately misuse). The European Parliament has called for a ban and the UN Committee Against Torture has criticized their use. In 1997, following a particularly horrendous incident in which a plastic bullet was fired into the face of a child (Gavin McKenna of Lurgan), we wrote to the British government and the United Nations condemning the incident and the continued use of these weapons. The UN Committee on the rights of the Child considered the complaint and re-iterated concerns it had expressed two years earlier to the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom however, via the Northern Ireland Office, simply repeated its assertion that the plastic bullet was not used against children. This failure by the British government to recognise the strong opposition, both inside N. Ireland and in the International Community, to their use of this weapon and also their failure to own up to the abuse inflicted on young people by this weapon augurs ill for the future. More deaths and more maiming seem inevitable if this weapon is not withdrawn from use. Bernard Moffatt 08/04/01
GAA - 'OLD GUARD' GET IT RIGHT The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA)have decided, by a narrow margin, to retain the exclusivity of its grounds for National Games. There had been pressure in Ireland for it to 'modify' its rules and allow the use of its grounds and stadium for other sporting activities. Not surprisingly the decision has led to some criticism and in one instance (the Irish edition of the Observer newspaper) the GAA 'Old Guard' are referred to as dinosaurs. The article patronisingly extolled the 'fine qualities and many fine members" of the organisation before going on to attempt a hatchet job on its governing board for putting Gaelic Sport first. For good measure the Irish government were also attacked for announcing a £60 million funding package for the GAA for its participation in the new proposed national stadium. The argument appears to be that had Ahern held off the funding package the GAA may have been induced to accept the rules amendment in order to earn much needed cash. The Celtic League are delighted that the Irish government has not fallen into the trap of allowing sports funding to become a weapon to apply leverage to the GAA or any other sporting body. The decision taken by the GAA is the correct one. When it was established Irish National Sport was in decline (almost extinct). That position has, over the past century, been dramatically reversed and the focus and control of that revival has been in no small part due to the adherence of the GAA governing body over the years to strict principles. The advent of mass media and the commercialisation of International Sport, such as soccer, and also the rising impact in Europe of US sourced sporting activities make retaining the distinct nature of Gaelic Sport a greater imperative. The real dinosaurs are not what the Observer patronisingly referred to as the 'Old Guard' of the GAA but those who attack its success. The GAA have been criticised for missing the chance "to join the rest of modern Ireland in the twenty-first century. However, the Celtic Tiger and modern Ireland may have as much longevity as concepts as Blair's 'Cool Britannia'. Why should the GAA have risked a century of success on such a shallow premise. Bernard Moffatt 08/04/01
SCOTTISH ENVOY TO UNITED STATES The decision of Scottish First Minister, Henry McLeish, to send an envoy to Washington to represent Scottish interests is to be applauded. The move is likely to lead to some mild ribbing from the Scottish National Party, which has long supported the principle of representation of Scotland's interests directly overseas. It will also seem to run counter to the previously stated Labour Party position on such issues. However, it is to be hoped that all political interests in Scotland will recognise it for the positive first step it is in ensuring that Scotland's interests are promoted directly overseas. Based within the British Embassy the new post holder - effectively Scotland's unofficial consul in the US - will be an Executive official working on trade and technology links. The role could, depending on who
is selected
and the latitude allowed, stimulate both an enhanced and effective
focus
for factors economically Where Scotland leads today other Celtic countries will follow. We feel sure the proposal will be keenly evaluated - not least in Wales. The Celtic countries, who came under the Westminster orbit, have started to realise what the national movements and the Celtic league have said for years. London's self-interest is invariably pre-eminent when it comes to the Celtic countries. Even the tiny Manx government, who have previously deferred to Westminster to represent their interest internationally, have increasingly taken to representing their own case to bodies such as the UN and OECD. All these developments show an increased awareness and self-confidence by the devolved governments and they are therefore healthy politically for the British Isles as a whole. Bernard Moffatt 08/04/01
MUNITIONS MENACE Calls for action go unheeded as deadly debris poses danger to fishermen and the civil population of the Isle of Man, Antrim and Scottish coasts. The incident last week off the north west coast of the Isle of Man in which a fishing vessel dredged up a potentially lethal parachute mine once again highlights the hazards posed by discarded munitions. Since the closure of the Jurby sea bombing range, ten years ago, there have been repeated calls by the Celtic League for a clean-up of the sea bed in the area. The situation off the north west coast is compounded by other explosive debris which leaches out of the explosives dump ten miles to the north in the Beaufort Dyke. Debris from this area periodically washes ashore in the Isle of Man, South West Scotland and on the Antrim coast of Northern Ireland exposing fishermen and civilians to danger. Repeated calls for action go unheeded. In the case of the Isle of Man the government continue to pay millions of pounds annually for defence and common services while the United Kingdom resist calls for a clean up of the area polluted primarily by the Royal Air Force and the United States Air Force. Last weeks incident indicates that the hazard posed to these coasts is not restricted to small incendiary devices, deadly lethal as they are, such as those which have come ashore here and on the Antrim coast. Devices like this latest 5-6 feet long parachute mine and others netted in recent years can contain up to 1000lb of expolsives. Motor Fishing Vessels from both N. Ireland and the Isle of Man have over the years have snagged similar dangerous munitions. As the skipper in this latest incident said, "If something happens god forbid". Action on this issue is required. The next incident has the potential for real tragedy! Bernard Moffatt 11/04/01
MILITARY MASTS OPT-OUT UNBALANCED The Celtic League has said that any environmental consideration about the implications for health of radiation emissions from phone masts etc. which excludes military installations in N. Ireland would be unbalanced. The League have written to N. Ireland Assembly Environment Minister, Sam Foster, welcoming the report of the Assembly's environment committee into the implications of radio communication (phone) masts and the potential health hazard posed. The League say that installations, such as the military installations constructed in border areas of N. Ireland which have grown up on an ad hoc basis, must pose similar questions about safety to those posed by potentially less powerful civil mobile phone masts. The League point out that it recognises the issue is an emotive one and that question-marks surrounding the military installations are not helped by a culture of secrecy which has seen the MOD reject verification and assessment by its the British governments own emissions watchdog the National Radiological Protection Board. The Celtic League campaigns on a
broad
range of issues and has previously supported campaigns on environmental
grounds against military ommunications Bernard Moffatt 11/04/01 Correspondence Minister of the Environment, N. Ireland below: Mr. S Foster 11/4/01 Dear Minister, I write with reference to the statement issued recently by the Northern Ireland Assembly Environment Committee on the subject of radio communication (phone) masts and the potential health hazard posed by emissions. I believe the Committee's conclusions are well balanced given the uncertainties that surround this sensitive issue. The question of these installations is of great concern throughout the United Kingdom and indeed the British Isles generally. The Celtic League have expressed reservations about the potential hazard posed by radiation emitted by civil, and particularly, military installations. We have also tried where possible to work with community groups that share a concern about the issue. I attach a copy of the submission that we made, in 1999, to the Independent Expert Group on Mobile Phones in which we urged EU sponsored International action to try and bring together the disparate range of research carried out to date. We also highlighted our concerns about the lack of regulation of military facilities and specifically cited those installations which have grown up on an ad hoc basis in areas of N. Ireland. In this regard we are bitterly disappointed that the Ministry of Defence, two years ago, turned down our suggestion that these facilities, and other military installations in the United Kingdom, should be subject to the independent verification of a reputable body such as the United Kingdom's National radiological Protection Board. The Ministry of Defence in relation to its various installations in Northern Ireland, Britain and overseas has said that it: "strives to be good neighbour at home and abroad" MOD ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY STATEMENT M Portillo 1995 MOD policy, as further amended, also sets out that it will ensure as far as is reasonably practicable, a healthy and safe environment is to be achieved: "through the identification of potential hazards; their assessment and control with reference to appropriate health and safety standards and the best current practices" And that it will pursue: "the monitoring, measurement and evaluation of performance against these standards" HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE MOD A Policy Statement by the Sec. of State for Defence 1997 The MOD have told us that their equipment is assessed and deployed to the UK guidelines issued by the NRPB but they consistently refuse to allow any independent monitoring. As indicated we welcome very much
the conclusions
of The Assembly "To acknowledge the significant gap in scientific knowledge on the non-thermal health impacts of radio frequency emissions from masts, the Department of Environment should actively support rigorous precautionary measures within the planning legislation, pending the outcome of the Stewart Body investigating these emissions." We hope that their sensible and conservative approach to this issue will be supported in other areas. We also trust that the Department of the Environment (NI), which has to consider the issue in its totality, will not ignore the significance of the non regulation and verification of safety standards within the military sector. Any overall environmental strategy relating to non-ionising radiation which ignores the military installations issue will obviously be unbalanced. Yours sincerely J B Moffatt
BASQUE / CELT LINKS - GENETICISTS 100 YEARS LATE! The media in Wales and Scotland recently reported new research that indicates genetic links between the Celts and the Basque peoples. The Basques are one of Europe's oldest races with their own distinctive language and culture and although there have been strong contacts for many years between the two peoples this was cited as the first evidence of a definite link. However, Celtic scholars were advancing a link over 100 years ago which whilst not founded an the science of modern day genetics was fairly compelling. Indeed it suggests that the Basque link with these Islands and what we now term the Celtic areas of Western Europe may be of even longer standing. In his "History of the Isle of Man", published in 1900 by A W Moore, MA, the Basque connection is briefly touched on. Moore says: "But, however these matters of detail may be answered, there can be little doubt that neolithic men inhabited the Isle of Man for a very long period, and they appear to have left in the present population of the island distinct traces of their physical characteristics which are said to have been small stature, long heads, dark complexions and black hair and eyes. They are supposed by some authorities to belong to the same non-Aryan section of mankind as the Basques, while it has been ably maintained by Professor Rhys that they were also identical with the people known in history as the Picts or Cruithni;" Bernard Moffatt 11/04/01
CORNISH LANGUAGE LEADER RETIRES -NOT QUITE! After over twenty years as the general secretary of the the Cornish Language Board (CLB) Wella Brown has retired. At the organisations AGM, held recently, he stood down. The new Secretary is Maureen Pierce and Graham Sandercock was re-elected as Chairman. The CLB has enjoyed considerable success in recent years in promoting the language and last year received County Council funding to support its work. A measure of the current strength of interest in the language is illustrated by the fact that the 1,000 copy Cornish Language dictionary published, in 1998, has sold out. A new dictionary, complied by Dr. Ken George, with a print run of 3,000 is being published. It is too early however to wish Wella Brown a pleasant retirement as for the present he moves sideways in the organisation, taking on the role of Treasurer. Bernard Moffatt 11/04/01
MILITARY HELICOPTER SAFETY - WATCH THIS SPACE! Restricted training / regular accidents / bits fall off / operating with defective parts - The Ministry of Defence is indifferent to the safety is with its own personnel but does it have the right to put others at risk? This weeks helicopter crash in the Balkans (two died) once again highlights the obsolescence of British military helicopters. The type involved in the latest accident, the Puma, is like its smaller equally obsolete cousin the Lynx, well past its sell by date. Twelve months ago the Celtic League criticised the continued operation by the British Ministry of Defence of obsolete helicopter types. We said they posed a risk to both their aircrew and the civil population in the areas over which they operated. The types are deployed in Ulster and also operate over rural training areas of Scotland and mid Wales. We particularly highlighted the daily shuttle operations which lumber in and out of bases in the N. Ireland border area. Within days of our comments the MOD had to ground one of the types used for these missions, the Lynx, following a number of serious crashes. They admitted that the machines were being operated with a known defect. In April of last year eighteen men were injured when a Puma helicopter crashed near RAF Leeming in England. More recently a large section of the engine cowling of one of these machines fell off near RAF Benson, the base for helicopters deployed to N. Ireland. Community groups, such as the South Armagh Farmers & Residents Committee, have consistently reported incidents and accidents with these flying junk-heaps which ferry not only troops but under-slung loads over the farmsteads and villages of the County. It seems inevitable that a serious accident is waiting to occur. Both the Puma and the Lynx are now over thirty years old and as indicated above have in some cases been allowed to continue operations despite known defects. As if this situation were not bad enough a report in the Daily Telegraph (not normally noted for its criticisms of the military) in October last year reported that Puma pilots were having their flying training restricted - watch this space! Bernard Moffatt
LANGUAGE BUREAU - MANX BRANCH ATTACK CLOSURE The Celtic League Manx branch has added its voice to concerns expressed over the proposed closure of the Dublin Office of the European Bureau of Lesser Used Languages. In a strongly worded protest to Bureau Secretary Tom Mayer the Manx branch Secretary Crislt Jerry says: "The Mannin Branch of the Celtic League is very concerned to learn that the Dublin Office of your organisation is to close. This points to a complete lack of concern for minority languages within Europe, many of which are struggling against all odds for survival. We believe this a seriously retrograde step and suggests a cynical disregard to all those language groups making such great efforts to restore their languages, without which Europe will be the poorer." Early this month the Celtic League Secretary General contacted all League branches asking them to alert National language organisations to the impending closure. He stressed the major role in the field of publishing and promoting linguistic diversity played by the Bureau's Dublin facility and expressed concern to hear that was to be closed. Bernard Moffatt 13/04/01
GREEN LIGHT FOR SCOTLAND'S NATIONAL PARK Scotland's first National Park has moved a step closer with the publication of a report into the issue and costs involved. The ninety page document from Scottish National Heritage together with supporting reports will now go to the Scottish Executive. The Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park will occupy a massive 1675 square kilometre area to the North of Glasgow. The predominant area of the park is in Stirling with an eastern tip stretching into Perth & Kinross. In the west a large portion extends into Argyll and Bute almost to Loch Fyne. The Celtic League supported the
creation
of this first National Park for Scotland, submitting at the
consultation
stage It will provide valuable public safeguards to an important area
of
north-central Scotland. The new park will be comparable in size
(slightly
larger) to the N. Costs associated with its operation are mooted to be around £5.3 to £5.8 million. It is vitally important that steps to protect the environment, via the creation of publicly administered Parklands, are supported for all the Celtic countries. Bernard Moffatt 13/04/01
SELLAFIELD - THE 'NEIGHBOUR FROM HELL' It has been announced that a shipment of waste from two reactors in southern Germany is to be transported to Sellafield. The Celtic League have written to the EU Environment Commissioners addressing some pertinent points and expressing concern at the laissez-faire attitude shown by her Office to the legitimate concerns of the governments and people around the Irish sea. The decision that the German
government
is to resume shipments of nuclear waste to the Sellafield nuclear
reprocessing
plant is not unexpected. Last December the Dutch government resumed
shipments
despite the fact that the plants appalling safety record over the years
was Falsification of safety documents led to several dismissals of comparatively 'small fish' amongst the work-force whilst some senior management were waved goodbye with golden handshake. The German and Dutch governments show a real contempt for the legitimate concerns of people around the Irish sea who have to live with this NEIGHBOUR FROM HELL, BNFL. Perhaps more disquieting however is the total inertia of the European Union which pays and staffs an Environmental Commissioners Office. This purportedly has a role to protect and respect not just the environment of the EU countries but globally. As BNFL and their German and Dutch friends play nuclear chess with casks full of toxic waste the EU maintains a stoney silence. Bernard Moffatt 13/04/01 Correspondence to EU Environment Commissioner below: Margot Wallström Dear Commissioner Wallstrom, I write to express the concern of our organisation at plans by the German government to resume shipments of nuclear waste from that country to the re-processing facility at Sellafield in the United Kingdom. The German shipments follow transportations of waste from the Netherlands four months ago. You will be aware that several EU member States have concerns about the operation of the Sellafield facility, whose safety record over many years has been little short of scandalous. An objective of your Office is to ensure that there is effective environmental protection policy in place throughout the EU. This extends to the protection of the civil population against radiation pollution. The Office of the EU Environment Commissioner would seem to have an ambivalent attitude to the threat posed to coastal communities in the area of the Sellafield plant by the continued transports, storage and reprocessing of nuclear waste at the facility. Can we ask what, if any, role that your Office has had in monitoring the negotiations that have led to the resumption of these shipments? Are you aware of the safety shortcomings of the Sellafield plant and the dismissals and compulsory retirements of senior managers that occurred following falsification scandals last year? Has anyone from the Directorate of the Environment Commission verified British assurances that safety standards at the plant have been improved? Is the Commission aware that in the past sea transports have been used that were of a totally unsuitable ro-ro type? What steps, if any, are you aware of to ensure safe transportation? Finally, how does the Office of the Environment Commissioner square commerce of this type between two nuclear operators (the United Kingdom & Germany) with the well documented opposition of countries in the area of the Sellafield plant such as the Irish and Manx who are vehemently opposed to the plants continued operation? I believe that community groups and environmental campaigners are disgusted by the indifferent attitude shown by both the German and Netherlands governments to their legitimate fears about the operation of the Sellafield plant. The attitude of both governments towards the expressed opposition of the Irish and Manx parliaments also shows unbelievable arrogance to EU partners. However, I believe many people who had some faith in the principles of 'the new Europe' in which affairs between States would be more fairly regulated will also be concerned by the laissez-faire attitude of your Office in this matter. Yours sincerely Bernard Moffatt 13/04/01
MANX GAELIC MEDIUM UNIT CONFIRMED Moves to continue the promotion of Manx Gaelic continue apace. In the latest move a language unit is to be created, with the backing of the Department of Education. The new unit will allow for the teaching of initially 12 primary age children (later up to 25) exclusively via the medium of the language. The new project will be housed in its own facility at St. Johns, in the west of the Island (due for completion in 2002). Until the premises are completed, and so as not to delay the project, the unit will first open, in September 2001, at an existing school in the Douglas area. The group behind the new
initiative, Sheshaght
ny Paarantyn, (parents for Gaelic Medium Education), say that the new
unit,
" will enjoy a certain amount of independence" but "will be within the
mainstream education system ensuring the children enjoy facilities and
activities They point out that, " Research
carried
out in the Gaelic units in Scotland has shown that children adapt well
to an additional language at this stage, listening to and absorbing the
language first, as with newborns, not questioning points of grammar,
simply
accepting them The latest move follows an expansion in the availability of Manx preschool places provided by Mooinjer Veggey (Reported in CARN 112 - the Celtic League journal). The move would appear to confirm the commitment of the Manx government to the Manx language. Education Minister, Steve Rodan MHK, said, "I am very pleased that we are in a position to bring forward these plans for primary teaching through the medium of the Manx language". An ambitious Manx language programme is now well underway at various levels of the Education system and the main impediment to future progress is likely to be the ready availability of teaching and support staff with Gaelic language skills Bernard Moffatt 13/04/01 PRISONERS COMMITTEE CONSIDER SOLÉ CASE The European Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) will consider the case of Breton prisoner, Alain Solé. Alain attempted to commit suicide in Villepinte prison in March because of stress caused by his detention which was aggravated by a lack of proper medical treatment. Earlier this month the Celtic League wrote to the CPT highlighting his case and pointing out that it had previously warned about the circumstances surrounding the detention of Bretons, Basques and other political detainees. A letter from CPT Deputy Executive Secretary, Geneviève Mayer, replying to the League confirms that our concern will be looked into. She says: "Thank you for your letter of 1 April 2001, concerning the situation of Breton prisoners in France and, more particularly, of Mr. Alain Solé at Villepinte Prison. "Your concern about the quality of medical care and psychological support for prisoners will in due course be brought to the attention of the members of the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT)." Alain Solé is one of a number of Breton prisoners who went on hunger strike last year to draw attention to the situation of political detainees in the jails of France. To date, a parallel protest sent to French Prison Minister, Marylise Lebranchu, has not received a reply. Bernard Moffatt 13/04/01
HUMBOLDT - 'DISAPPOINTING' SCOTTISH DECISION WILL NOT DERAIL PROJECT The Scottish Executive has turned down a request for funding to support the continuation of Celtic Studies at the Humboldt University, Berlin. The decision is an astonishing reversal of the support shown some years ago when the Celtic facility first came under threat. At that time it was the interest and commitment shown by both Scottish First Minister, the late Donald Dewar and Irish Premier Bertie Ahern that encouraged the Celtic League to join the campaign by those at the University fighting to save Celtic Studies. Since that time financial support from Ireland, and a commitment from the Manx government, have forced a rethink at the University. A decision has been taken, in principle, to continue Celtic Studies. Obviously the decision of the Scottish Executive is a disappointment but will not derail the project. The Celtic League will be contacting opposition parties in Scotland to see if they can prompt a rethink by the Labour government. In the meantime other initiatives, including possible commercial sponsorship, to raise the balance of funds needed are in hand. Bernard Moffatt 13/04/01
CANCEL TT CALL BY NATIONALISTS The Manx Nationalist Party has launched a swingeing attack on the Manx government for failing to reach a decision to cancel the TT motor cycle raced on the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man is currently totally clear of the foot & mouth disease which is sweeping Britain and is also now confirmed in Ireland. The TT races (a fortnight at the end of May / June) is a major International sporting event which attracts ten of thousands of spectators into the Island. It is held on a circuit which spans the Island and involves spectators using farmland around the course for good vantage points. Despite the governments public position that no decision has yet been reached on whether or not to go ahead there is a scarcely concealed battle going on behind the scenes between Tourism and agriculture interests. The Nationalists say that the TT can be cancelled without causing it irreparable damage however, for the Island to loose its Foot & Mouth free status, and have its livestock herds built up over decades destroyed, will do irreparable damage. The TT does provide a useful fillip to the Islands ailing tourism industry by kick-starting the season. In recent years though, economically, it has become less important as the island has developed off-shore banking and insurance interests together with a large shipping register. The Nationalists say the Islands economic buoyancy should be used to assist those in Tourism who would suffer if the event is cancelled - but cancelled it should be. Bernard Moffatt 14/04/01 The statement from Mec Vannin Chairman Mark Kermode is set out below. Mec Vannin - The Manx Nationalist Party Isle of Man TT Races - Lack of decision by IoM government deplorable. The continued prevarication by the Council of Ministers in relation to the holding of the TT shows the true quality of our government when faced with the need to make clear decisions. No-one could pretend that this is an easy decision but that's what government is there for. The real value of the Ministerial system of government once again shows itself to be lacking as the conflict of interest between agriculture and tourism holds the situation in deadlock. In such a situation, the responsibility for the matter falls fairly and squarely upon the shoulders of the Chief Minister. An early decision was correctly called for by Onchan MHK Geoff Cannell. Once it became clear, a fortnight ago, that the UK's Foot and Mouth epidemic was not being contained as predicted, the TT should have been cancelled. The pattern of outbreaks in the UK shows that the disease is spread by direct rather than indirect contact and that the fears of airborne and bird-carried infection, whilst not unfounded, do not appear to have any significant bearing upon the epidemic. In view of this, we are NOT in the hands of fate. Without shutting down the Island entirely, we cannot be selective about who comes and who doesn't and many people may still arrive during TT week for pre-booked holidays, but there will be significantly fewer, thus reducing the absolute risk and giving point-of-entry authorities better chance to deal with the incoming visitors. More importantly, the lack of the races themselves will remove a very strong incentive for the public to use agricultural land for either spectating or movement during road closure. It is abundantly clear that, at this late stage, the infection will not be sufficiently contained and all clear period elapsed before Practice Week. What the DAFF has failed to make sufficiently clear in its pronouncements on the foot and mouth situation is our special derogation in relation to European Trade that is a result of our foot and mouth free status over the past 50 years. The real issue is not its containment should it get here, for the UK's experience indicates this to be all but impossible in our limited environment, but stopping it coming here in the first place and, to that end, even more stringent measures at all points of entry are justified. The TT can be run next year, but the loss of live-stock to farmers is very likely to be a death-blow for that industry, thus destroying a way of life, a stable, earning element of our already insufficiently diverse economy and leaving huge areas of our best and most scenic land up for grabs as potential building sites. Those who claim that the farmers will be compensated do not appreciate the work involved in establishing herds. Equally, though the government cannot be held absolutely responsible for a decision forced upon it by an emergency situation, our current economic bouyancy means that those who can demonstrate dependency upon the TT for their livelihood should be considered for compensation. At the same time, the DAFF should introduce measures to put an end to what makes the public's overwhelming co-operation with the emergency measure look futile: The trails of mud leading in and out of farmers' fields onto main roads. If this means spending money on disinfectant spray apparatus for farmers or closing certain entrances, that's what must be done. It is clear that by doing nothing, as ever, the Council of Ministers are hoping that this situation will just go away of its own accord. IT WON'T! Mark Kermode 14-04-01
ANTI-WELSH COMMENTS REFERRED TO WCAR Anti Welsh comments, twice broadcast by the BBC, have been referred to the World Conference Against Racism (WCAR). The United Nations has selected this year to highlight the need for opposition to racism and intolerance and a major conference is to be held in the Autumn in Durban, South Africa. In correspondence to the UN High Commissioner for Human rights reference to anti-Welsh comments broadcast earlier this year by the BBC on the comedy show Room 101 is cited. The Celtic League ask that the forthcoming WCAR should consider the special role that national broadcasters have in ensuring that what may be construed as racist attacks or expressions of intolerance are not broadcast. In separate correspondence to the European Union the Celtic League also highlight the issue. Four months ago the Nice Summit approved a fundamental Charter of Rights aimed at promoting anti-discrimination and respect for cultural diversity. The League say, given this fact, it finds it "extremely offensive that a National broadcaster of an EU signatory can allow broadcasts which stretch the boundaries of respect for racial and cultural diversity on not one but two occasions". Bernard Moffatt 17/04/01 (Attached correspondence UNHCHR & EU) United Nations Commissioner for
Human Rights 17/04/01 Dear Commissioner, Re: International Year for Mobilization against Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance - World Conference Against Racism. I refer to the decision of the United Nations to designate this year to exposing and opposing all forms of racism. I draw your attention to the attached correspondence which relates to the offence caused by remarks made on a BBC entertainment programme, broadcast in March this year, in which Welsh people and their language were ridiculed in a allegedly racist attack. The comments caused considerable offence both within Wales and the attachments enclosed with this correspondence list a wide range of sources, political figures, pressure groups and even employees of the BBC itself who registered concern. The legitimate concerns which were raised are given an added resonance by the fact that the BBC, a organisation of International repute, allowed the offending comments to be twice broadcast. This despite the condemnation of the initial broadcast. The specific nature of the comments also gives considerable cause for concern. Speaking in the context of people using their native language the broadcaster identified this as a reason to "dislike" Welsh people. The comments being given added emphasis (see attached). The broadcast by the BBC of an attack on one of the Celtic languages is particularly disturbing. Although in recent years the respect for and promotion of these languages has become accepted, within living memory acts of discrimination were practicised against them by the British government. Other more disturbing comments were also made. The British Broadcasting Complaints Commission has apparently accepted that the comments made were deliberately destined to be provocative but have astonishingly failed to acknowledge the allegedly racist nature of them Sadly, it is almost impossible to proscribe intolerance or bigotry by individuals but I trust you will agree that broadcasting organisations should not facilitate such attacks. This is the main purpose in our correspondence to you. I would request that the World Conference Against Racism (WCAR) will consider the role of broadcasters and the special responsibility that they have in combating Racism and Intolerance. I would be grateful if the comments of the Celtic League could be passed to the WCAR secretariat. I trust you will raise the specific issue of this broadcast with the British government. Yours sincerely J B Moffatt cc Mr. Romano Prodi 17/04/01 Dear Mr. Prodi, I draw your attention to the attached correspondence forwarded today to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. I understand that the European Union recently adopted a 'Charter Fundamental Rights' and I refer specifically to articles 21 and 22 of that Charter which address issues of non discrimination and respect for cultural diversity. Quite frankly I find it extremely offensive that a National broadcaster of an EU signatory can allow broadcasts which stretch the boundaries of respect for racial and cultural diversity on not one but two occasions. I trust the Commission will raise the issue with the British government. Yours sincerely J B Moffatt cc. Antonio Vitorino
Commissioners for
Justice and Home Affairs.
NEW IMPETUS IN SHUT SELLAFIELD CAMPAIGN The arrival, in the Irish sea, of a Norwegian pressure group , the Neptun Foundation, heralds a new dawn in the campaign against Sellafield. Yesterday the groups vessel anchored off the Sellafield plant and divers from the vessels gathered samples of the contaminants emitted by the nuclear re-processing facility. They had carried out similar operations on their journey from Norway at locations in the North Sea and around N. Scotland. Later today, in Douglas Isle of Man, the Secretary General of the Celtic League visited the crew of the Neptun Foundation vessel and pledged support in any joint campaign to shut the nuclear complex. The Norwegian voyage to the Irish sea gives a useful fillip to the anti-Sellafield movement at a time when the BNFL facility and the overall company operation have been attracting widespread condemnation throughout Europe. It highlights to campaigners in the Irish sea area that opposition to the plant is more widespread than simply the coastal communities of the Irish sea. The Neptun Foundations Irish sea campaigners told the Celtic League Secretary that they hoped to build a co-ordinated campaign to stop polluting discharges from Sellafield and they hoped that a wide range of groups would join the effort. They also indicated that the Isle of Man was an ideal location to base the operation against the Sellafield plant. The Celtic League have long believed that the Isle of Man could play a pivotal role, given its location, in forcing the closure of Sellafield's reprocessing operation. We hope that all campaign groups will support the Neptun Foundation initiative. We also trust that both the Manx and Irish governments will welcome the campaigners and build their own political links with governments such as those in Scandinavia concerned about Sellafields operations. Bernard Moffatt 18/4/01 Details of the Neptun Foundation web site are set out below together with a sample press release issued by the organisation to mark the commencement of their campaign. http://www.stopsellafield.com/english/news.htm (This is an extract of a telefax sent by Katrine Kristiansen, pressspokeswoman of the Neptun Foundation, Norway, to the office of the UK Prime Minister Tony Blair early this morning. "A group from the Neptun Foundation anchored today - at 06:00 UTC - right next to the nuclear waste pipes coming from Sellafield. They do this in an attempt to stop the radioactive Technetium-99 from being pumped out into the sea. This is a non-violent action. The fact that the British Government allows the discharge of wastewater containing Technetium-99 from Sellafield is totally unacceptable. Technetium-99 is contaminating all oceans in the northern hemisphere. We expect the British Government and Tony Blair to promote immediate actions that will lead to the closure of Sellafield. As you allready know, there is a substantial international resistance to the continued discharges of Technetium-99 from Sellafield.The Neptun foundation will make use of all legal approaches - among them, non-violent actions - to make sure that the radioactive Technetium-99 contamination is permanently stopped. The Neptun foundation is a Non
Government
Organisation. It receives its financial support from the Norwegian
people.")
REMEMBER LANGUAGE CENSUS CALL Manx language campaigners have issued their own call (see below) to language supporters to ensure that the strength of the language is adequately reflected in Census returns. There statement echoes concerns issued in other Celtic countries about the degree of thought reflected through the Census process to the needs of the Celtic Languages. Bernard Moffatt 18/4/01 Statement below from Phil Gawne
Manx Language
Development Officer, Don't Forget the Manx Language on Census Night! Manx Language Development Officer, Phil Gawne, is urging parents of children who have attended lessons as part of the Department of Education's Manx Language teaching programme to record their child's ability in the language. He is also asking parents of children who have been to Mooinjer Veggey , the Manx playgroups, to remember that their children are likely to be Manx speakers. Mr Gawne pointed out that "many parents are unaware of their children's ability in Manx. Children who may speak Manx to their teacher or playgroup leader are unlikely to speak Manx to their parents (especially as the majority of parents don't speak Manx). However, the teaching of Manx has made significant progress since the subject was introduced into the schools in 1992." "Most children who have been to Manx lessons at school will be able to read and speak a good deal more than the few words and phrases of Manx which the census form asks for. Children who have attended Mooinjer Veggey groups are also very likely to speak more than a few words or phrases of Manx - indeed most of them are singing Manx rhymes and songs after only a few weeks at play group." Estimating the number of children who could now be eligible to record some degree of fluency in Manx Mr Gawne was fairly optimistic. "There have been over 100 children registered with Mooinjer Veggey since it was formed 4 years ago and almost all of these have a good knowledge of spoken Manx. In the 1991 census only 13 children under 5 were recorded as having a knowledge of Manx; in this year's census that figure could well be 4 or 5 times higher, if all eligible children are recorded." "The numbers in schools are even more encouraging. In 1991 134 children aged between 5 and 19 were recorded as having a knowledge of Manx. Even using the most conservative figures there have been more than 20 times that number of children attending Department of Education Manx lessons, and again the overwhelming majority of these will have sufficientknowledge of Manx to record themselves as speakers and readers of Manx." Phil Gawne is also asking adults to register their linguistic knowledge. "Manx speakers and learners who consider themselves to be able to speak, read or write more than a few words or phrases of Manx are urged to register this fact on the 2001 Census. Clearly the numbers of Manx Gaelic users recorded in the census may well have an impact on the level of Government support for the language in the future." "A recent survey of Manx speakers and learners indicated that the number of adults with a good knowledge of Manx is set to rise, following the trend of census results since 1961. It is always risky to predict the outcome of such things as the coming census, however, providing parents don't forget their children's abilities when filling in the census form the number of people with a good knowledge of Manx in 2001 looks set to be substantially higher than that number in 1991. The census has also been in the minds of Gaelic speakers in Scotland. The lack of a Scottish Gaelic census form has caused a great deal of disappointment and anger amongst the Scottish Gaelic community. Language supporters felt that it is irrelevant that Scottish Gaelic speakers are bilingual and fully competent in English. They pointed out that all Welsh speakers, like Gaelic speakers, are also fluent English speakers but no one in Wales would ever make the argument that services shouldn't be made available for Welsh speakers in Welsh on the grounds that they can speak English too. They pointed out that the census information leaflet for Northern Ireland is available in Irish despite the fact that there are far fewer fluent Irish speakers in Northern Ireland than there are Gaelic speakers in Scotland. There are no calls currently from Manx language organisations for census forms and/or information leaflets to be provided in Manx, but who can tell what the new breed of Manx speakers coming through our schools might demand in the future? Phil Gawne
WYLFA - £150 MILLION LOSS As BNFL faces the threat of a new co-ordinated and more wide-ranging campaign of opposition at its Sellafield plant at the other end of the Irish sea things are also looking bleak. The company's troubled Wylfa nuclear power station, on the Island of Anglesey, is reported to have clocked up a staggering £150 million loss since its shut down last April. Tiny flaws (the company insist they are not cracks) in the piping to a reactor led to first the shut down of one reactor and then the other on site. This latest protracted interruption to supply is the longest in over thirty unscheduled shutdowns at the facility which we Celtic League publicised last year. Losses are now running so high that it would be less costly for BNFL to flush £50 notes down the waste out-fall from the plant. The losses are also leading to serious lobbying by the nuclear industry for the resumption of operations at the plant. Wylfa has not often been out of the news in recent years. Six years ago a serious event at the plant led to the most dangerous incident that the British nuclear industry has faced since the 1950s Sellafield fire. The operation of these old Magnox stations is under constant attack by environmental groups around the Irish sea and on Anglesey. The Irish government also oppose the operation of Wylfa which is just 55 miles from Dublin. This station and others around the Irish sea pose a constant threat. Bernard Moffatt 18/04/01
FOOT & MOUTH - Continued Army patrol activity - borders on the reckless The Celtic League have written to the British armed forces in N. Ireland expressing concern that operations, by foot patrols and military helicopters, have continued during the recent foot & mouth emergency. We have also asked about the transit of contaminated Army helicopters from the UK and the measures taken to sterilise same. Britain's NATO partner Norway recently banned British Army helicopters destined for a military exercise in that country The League have also pointed to procedures circulated by the US Army some years ago. These covered extensive decontamination of the external and internal surfaces of Army helicopters & aircraft that found themselves operating in areas contaminated with foot and mouth. We do not believe that similar procedures are in place in N. Ireland and have asked for clarification We have also stressed to the GOC N. Ireland that the US Army instructions highlighted that the first option should be to avoid a scenario involving operation into suspect areas. In the circumstances the decision by the British army to continue its normal pattern of patrol activity and instate limited decontamination procedures which are not properly vetted in our view borders on the reckless. Bernard Moffatt 19/04/01 (See below) The General Officer Commanding
19 April 2001 Dear Sir, Ref: Foot & Mouth Emergency I understand that during the ongoing foot and mouth emergency operations by British army foot patrols and military helicopters have continued into affected areas and also areas where cases were suspected in Northern Ireland. Can you advise if your Command carries out regular decontamination of helicopters and troops involved in these operations and would it be possible for a copy of the procedures used to be supplied to us? Are you aware that approx. four years ago the US Army Aviation Command issued comprehensive instructions to cover the operation of aircraft and helicopters in contaminated environments involving foot and mouth. Those procedures provided instruction not just covering the spraying of skids and wheels but also internal and external decontamination of Army helicopters / aircraft. The comprehensive procedures, I should stress, were issued to ensure that safety was not compromised by decontamination procedures and a section of the order specifically highlighted that where possible operations into contaminated or suspect areas should be avoided. Is comprehensive decontamination of both the internal and external area of British Army helicopters involved in the transport of troops involved in patrol activity carried out. Finally, the operation in N. Ireland necessarily involves the passage to and from the United Kingdom of military helicopters which may have been in suspect (or contaminated areas). Could you advise if civil airfields that they transit through are notified of necessary decontamination procedures which should be followed and do you as a matter of course advise civil authorities of any possible risk. I would conclude by saying that notwithstanding the decontamination methods followed we find the decision by British Forces N. Ireland and the MOD to continue operations into suspect and contaminated areas border on the reckless. Yours sincerely, J B Moffatt
CHILDREN'S RIGHTS CONCERN The Celtic League have expressed concern to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child about child care provision in the Isle of Man. The League believe the transfer of children taken into care in the Isle of Man to the United Kingdom (England) is potentially a breach of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Such transfers are infrequent but this does not excuse any possible breach. Bernard Moffatt 21/04/01 (see below) High Commissioner for Human Rights
For the Attention : The Secretary Dear Sir, I write to express our concern that, in some instances, children taken into care in the Isle of Man are transferred to the United Kingdom (England). I an aware that when the United Kingdom - Isle of Man supplied a report to your committee in 1998 (CRC/C/11/Add19) it highlighted (para 58) that: " In a very few cases, usually where a child is placed in the care of the Department by a court following conviction of a criminal offence, the child's needs cannot be met in the Island, and with the leave of the court he will be placed in a specialist unit in England". We accept that in recent years the Isle of Man has developed better domestic facilities to address the needs of those convicted of juvenile crime. There are however another much more vulnerable group. The United Kingdom - Isle of Man authorities did not highlight to the CRC at the last report stage that where very young children are taken into care because of perceived family protection problems these children can also be transferred or considered for transfer to the United Kingdom (England). These children, in some instances, have a distinct Manx identity and it is therefore unacceptable that forced transfer, whatever the domestic circumstances, should take place. I have studied carefully the Convention on the Rights of the Child and I believe that by effecting transfers of children to the United Kingdom (England) because of child protection concerns based on domestic circumstances there is a possible breach of the spirit of the Convention. In effect the domestic circumstances surrounding the family life, and the difficulties inherent in same, are being resolved by putting distance between the natural family and the child. I would particularly draw the attention of the Committee to Article 19 (2) and Article 20 (3) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. I hope that the Committee will ask for a clarification from the United Kingdom - Isle of Man when the next report on the application of the Convention to the Isle of Man is considered. Yours sincerely, J B Moffatt 21/04/01
NEW BATON ROUND - A PROVOCATION Irish leader, Bertie Ahern, has expressed “grave reservations” following confirmation that the British Army and RUC are to use a new plastic baton round in Northern Ireland. The Celtic League welcome the fact that the Taoiseach has recognised that this action by the British is a deliberate provocation at a sensitive time in the peace process. Earlier this month the Celtic
League condemned
British governments plans to utilise the new weapon. We cited the
appalling
record, operationally, of both the British Army and RUC in their use of
the older baton rounds. These weapons, often discharged randomly at
demonstraters,
have over the years caused a series of deaths and horrendous injuries.
There is also strong evidence that despite so called guidelines aimed
at
strictly controlling their operational use the weapons have been
discharged
at close range, often towards the head, with a view to causing the
Several of those killed have been children and because of the random nature of the weapon's use scores of children have also been injured. Both the US government and the United Nations have criticised their usage. It remains to been seen if the condemnation by the Taoiseach will translate into firm action by the Irish government. The introduction of the new weapon flies in the face of agreements over demilitarisation and normalisation included as part of the Good Friday settlement. It is therefore a deliberate provocation which the Irish government will ignore at its peril. According to test information, restricted by the British government, the new weapons are potentially more life threatening than those they are designed to replace. Bernard Moffatt 27/04/01
CLEAN UP RANGE CHALLENGE TO MOD Half way round the world the indigenous tribes people of Kenya are taking on the MOD. Meanwhile the Manx government is sitting on its thumbs over the munitions pollution issue. The British Ministry of Defence is likely to find itself 'in the Dock' shortly for failing to clean up the debris from military ranges. The Masai and Samburu tribes people of Kenya, who have suffered terribly because of the failure of the MOD to clean up ranges used by the British Army, are initiating legal action for redress. The British military have used ranges in the tribes peoples homeland for almost fifty years. The MOD say they take "a great deal of trouble to ensure ranges are clear of munitions or ordnance". This statement will come as news to Manx fishermen, told last week by the Manx government to steer clear of potentially rich fishing grounds off the Island north west coast because of a similar munitions pollution problem. Perhaps the Isle of Man government and its Chief Minister should contact the Masai and Samburu people. The example of these poor indigenous people's reaction to the arrogance of the British Ministry of Defence might give the Isle of Man government, which is infinitely better resourced financially to take on the MOD, some ideas - or backbone! Bernard Moffatt 27/04/01
PANA & THE NICE TREATY Delegates from various Celtic countries, meeting in the Isle of Man over Easter, heard reports from Irish branch representatives on concerns in Ireland about the Nice treaty. The Irish branch has thrown its support behind PANA (the Peace and Neutrality Alliance) which is campaigning with others for a No vote in the referendum to be held in Ireland over acceptance or rejection of the treaty. The Peace & Neutrality Alliance was established in 1996 to advocate an Independent Irish Foreign policy, maintain Irish Neutrality, and promote the United Nations and the OSCE as the institutions through which Ireland should pursue its security concerns. PANA represents a wide range of NGO's peace groups, political parties and individuals that support its objectives. They have submitted a detailed case outlining their concerns about the Treaty to Dail Eireann, the Irish Parliament. PANA see the campaign against the militarisation of the European Union, which is the implicit objective of the Nice treaty, as part of the overall international struggle against militarisation. They say a yes vote will be a victory not only for PANA but for the international peace movement. The Celtic League has endorsed this view and practical effect to our support will be given by Conradh Ceilteach, the Irish branch of the League. There is no doubt that PANA will
face fierce
opposition from the government and the military establishment who
strongly
support Nice and the inherent military linkage via the EU to NATO.
However,
there is a strong grass roots feeling in Ireland in support of the
countries
traditional neutrality. Ireland has a reputation second to none for its
work with the United Far from being a force for peace the new European Army will be structured for offensive operations and the Celtic League, as part of our commitment to the campaign by PANA, will be researching some of the hidden facets of the treaty implications already becoming apparent. League members and subscribers to this news site can get information about PANA and regular updates on its campaign by contacting them direct. Outside Ireland please contact the PANA International Secretary with queries or support: Main Address Te. 353 1 2806878 Bernard Moffatt 27/04/01
ARMY SENSITIVITY THE MOD ARE SENSITIVE ABOUT DRUGS POLICY& PETTY CRIMINAL RECRUITMENT - BUT CONVICTED MURDERERS ARE OK! The British Ministry of Defence is planning to relax its rules on drug taking to ease a shortage of recruits, but is progressing the issue sensitively. Over recent months we have highlighted a number of expulsions from the Armed Forces when troops have tested positive in random checks. Numbers of troops testing positive have grown in recent years In the first ten months of last year 580 were discharged whilst in 1999 the total was 485. This year multiple discharges have occurred in a number of key regiments. Eighteen soldiers from the Kings Regt. were kicked out in February and Fifteen members of the Light Dragoons went in the previous month. More lenient treatment is meted out to Officers with a second lieutenant in the RAMC allowed to "resign his commission". The possible change of policy on drugs, revealed last month, coincides with a relaxation of rules on convicted criminals. Last November it was announced that the Army was to send recruiting officers into jails in an attempt to enlist recruits to meet its intake targets. The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported that the Army were keen to introduce the scheme "on a low key basis" to avoid criticism. However, the MOD's sensitivity over both the drugs and prison issue is strangely at odds with its continued insensitivity over the retention in the service of convicted murders like the two Scots Guardsmen Fisher and Wright, who murdered Belfast man Peter McBride. Bernard Moffatt 27/04/01
DATA PROTECTION CRITICS FINED One would have to be overly sensitive to ascribe anything sinister to the fact that Internet news agency provider Bee Media and associated companies have been fined for failing to register for Data Protection purposes. The Court summons initiating action against Bee Media occurred shortly after their new agency Bee Manx had carried a series of items critical of the Data Protection Office (ODPR) and the timing is therefore unfortunate. The company will pay £2,250 plus costs and it has its own legal fees to cover - quite a hefty sanction. There seems to be a general acceptance by both the government and the ODPR that the regulations under which the agency currently functions are obsolete. It also has to be more than a point of speculation as to whether the legislative programme of the Manx government will be able to keep pace with the evolving electronic data scene even when they get their act together and amend the law. The Internet and the world of e-commerce have about as much in common with current ODPR regs. as the medieval Roman Catholic Church had with the reforming sciences of the Middle Ages. (Fortunately the principals of Bee Media won't be burnt at the stake - a fine will suffice!). News-groups subscribers outside Mann might not appreciate the significance of this issue but any suggestion of interference, however legitimate, with a service, such as Bee Media, which provides independent news is a cause for concern. It also seems somewhat draconian that the Courts in the Isle of Man should apply all their weight to a comparatively minor infraction of regulations. A useful parallel would be to enquire when the last penalty was imposed for breach of Manx Control of Employment legislation or when serious action was taken over Health and Safety infringements? After all, Bee Media were not putting anyone at risk and they were not doing anyone out of a job. Was this penalty really justified? Bernard Moffatt 27/04/01
COMBAT HELICOPTERS & A NEUTRAL STATE The appointment of Finnish General, Gustav Haggland, to the presidency of the EU Military Committee has caused controversy. We ask why the Defence Forces of his neutral State suddenly strive for offensive weapons? The apparently innocuous appointment of a senior Finnish military figure to head the new EU military committee has caused concern in several EU member States. Most bizarrely however it is suggested that Ireland's government and military establishment have actively supported and campaigned for the appointment. It is also suggested that behind the scenes activity by sections of the French, German and Irish governments clinched the deal for the Finnish contender. There are obvious attractions, for those keen to make the new European military order all inclusive, in having a military figure from such a key neutral State as titular head of the new structure. It is also of immense propaganda significance for those seeking to embroil Ireland in the new European army. Paradoxically however Finland also provides a useful pointer to those in Ireland campaigning against involvement in Europe's new all-embracing military structures. We can reveal that Finland, whose arms forces have to date had a strictly limited none offensive role, are expanding their strategic objectives. The Finnish Defence Forces say that they will require combat helicopters to complement new transport 'choppers' on a joint-Nordic shopping list. These 'fighter' helicopters have a number of applications in addition to the transport protection role. They can be used independently for surveillance, fire support and anti-tank missions. A clear example of the application of this type of hardware is that provided by US machines in Kosovo. They are in effect an interventionist weapon. The procurement of these weapons in itself can also cause further Defence Forces proliferation. Required wisdom from services such as the US Armed forces, which routinely operate transport & combat helicopter formations. is that they require further combat air support. The cost of such weaponry is staggering. Combat helicopters of this type cost $35/40 million each. If anything this illustrates the pitfalls for neutral States such as Ireland and Finland if they commit their forces to European Defence Strategies hammered out in Nice. We can be assured that those in Ireland, who may exploit the appointment of this Finnish General as a benign facet of the new EU military strategy, will not highlight the fiscal cost of his countries military ambitions. Bernard Moffatt 27/04/01
CHILDREN REMOVED FROM "CULTURE & BACKGROUND" The Manx government have responded to concerns by the Celtic League about child care in the Isle of Man. The League had written to the United nations Committee on the Rights of the Child asking if it would investigate situations whereby children of indigenous Manx parents were placed, fostered or adopted off the Island. We specifically asked if this was a breach of the UN Convention on the Rights of The Child. In their response the Islands DHSS Children's section have dismissed any concerns. However, they do seem to accept some inconsistencies. A spokesperson told the local media: "I have to admit there is a cultural issue; we are removing them from their culture and background" He went on to clarify that the placements are handled in such a way as to ensure that, "they do not forget where they come from". Paradoxically, in "dismissing" the Leagues concerns the government spokesperson has highlighted the crux of the issue which is that children should not be divorced from their "cultural" environment. In effect no amount of sensitivity in the handling of such cases can offset the trauma associated with this. The spokesperson also presented the argument that the paramount issue was the interest and welfare of the children. However, this argument was advanced during the last century to support regimes of child care subsequently found to be flawed. The Isle of Man government should meet its child care responsibilities towards children of indigenous Manx people domestically. We will be reinforcing our concerns to the UNCRC and citing the governments own acceptance that it is removing these children from "their culture and background". Bernard Moffatt 27/04/01
NATIONALISTS AFFIRM HARD LINE ON FINANCE SECTOR The Manx Nationalist Party (Mec Vannin) has held its annual general meeting. The Party was founded almost forty years ago and has campaigned ceaselessly for Manx independence. About twenty years ago it adopted a republican strategy and since that time it has campaigned for a complete severing of any link with both the United Kingdom and the Crown. (The Island is at present a self governing dependency of the Crown). Over the years Mec Vannin has not fought shy of promoting a non-populist agenda on an Island whose government seems to embrace growth at all costs. The Party has vigorously opposed development associated with the Islands burgeoning financial services sector and this years AGM re-iterated that theme. Mec Vannin has a web site which can be accessed via the Manxman domain at: http://www.manxman.co.im/mecvan/index.html A statement issued by the Party, following the AGM, is set out below. Bernard Moffatt 28/04/01 Mec Vannin held its AGM on Wednesday, 25th April. Officers were elected as follows: Chairman - Mark Kermode The following resolutions were passed: 1. This AGM: b) urges the government and the Department of Education to implelment contracts similar to Scotland's "New Deal," in consultation with the teachers' unions. 2. This AGM: b) calls upon the Government to actively investigate all reasonable methods to restrict further growth of the finance sector. A subject that saw particular discussion was the ongoing, if not increasing use of this country for less than savoury business dealings in the form of money laundering, sanctions breaking, fraudulent dealing etc. Mec Vannin directly raised its concern over the obvious abuse of company formation in Mannin whilst he was still Treasury Minister. The Edwards Review endorsed our concerns. Nonetheless, the economically attractive business of company formation which permits crooks to profit and launder their proceeds using our country as part of an international chain, continues to be positively encouraged by the government. Just as with the flawed reaction to foot and mouth, we may have been black-listed by the OECD and criticised by the UK "Edwards Review" but the message is still, "We are open for business." Mark Kermode Statement ends.
CONRADH CEILTEACH - ACTIVE MEETING The NICE Treaty and British government handling of Foot & Mouth in the 'firing line' at Irish branch meeting. Conradh Ceilteach - the Irish branch of the Celtic League held its annual general meeting in Dublin this week. The meeting recieved a report from the Convenor of the Celtic League on general league issues including the recent meeting of General Council Officers in the Isle of Man. After the consideration of formal business the branch agreed resolutions on several key areas. These are to be progressed with both immediate effect and also at the full AGM of the Celtic League organisation in Cymru later this year. Two areas in particular were identified requiring immediate action. The branch re-emphasised its support for the campaign of opposition to the NICE treaty which it sees as a step which will not only "further weaken the independence of Ireland" but also "reduce democracy in the European Union". The branch also expressed its concern about the British governments handling of the Foot & Mouth outbreak. The full text of all adopted motions are set out below with subject headers: NICE TREATY The Celtic League opposes the NICE treaty as it will further weaken the independence of Ireland and reduce democracy in the EU. The influence of the smaller nations will be lessened through the weighted voting system. Ireland will lose the right to nominate a Commissioner in the future and the foundations are being laid for a two tier Europe. The treaty is opposed particularly as it will put an end to Ireland's military neutrality and create the basis of a new European army. FOOT & MOUTH OUTBREAK - BRITISH GOVERNMENT NEGLIGENCE This AGM condemns the negligence of the English Government in allowing the foot and mouth epidemic to develop and spread. We call on the Ministers of Agriculture in both parts of Ireland, Wales and Scotland to make a joint demand for compensation to the London government for the damage caused to the Irish, Welsh and Scottish economies. IRISH LANGUAGE BILL This AGM of the Celtic League is gravely concerned at the long delay in the introduction of an Irish Language Rights Bill in Dáil Éireann. Rumour, well founded, has it that the permanent Civil Service is strong in its opposition to the very concept of the Bill. We call on the Irish Government to expedite the publication of the Bill and to ensure that it contains the provisions endorsed over the years by the League and the Irish Language organisations. GAA - USE OF CROKE PARK This AGM supports the right of the GAA to make its own decisions with regard to the use of its national headquarters stadium, Croke Park, in Dublin without outside or Government interference. If it ever so chooses to facilitate other sports it should be allowed to do so on its own terms. A VOTE FOR ALL IRISH CITIZENS The Celtic League calls on the Irish Government to introduce electoral reform to allow Irish citizens in the North and citizens overseas the right to exercise their franchise in Referenda, Presidential and National elections. In addition to the above the branch meeting also considered other general business. There was a discussion on the implications of the planned closure of the European Bureau for Lesser Used Languages. Relations and contacts with other
branches
were considered. It was noted that the Inter Celtic forums, organised
with
Trinity College Celtic Students group, continued to be successful. It
was
hoped these would continue and that other pan-Celtic initiatives and
further
political, Bernard Moffatt 28/04/01
FOOT & MOUTH - ARMY REPLY The British Army in Northern Ireland has said that it "is taking all steps to prevent the proliferation of Foot and Mouth to, from or within Northern Ireland". The Celtic League had written querying the transit arrangements for helicopters within the Province and we had also requested information about decontamination procedures. The MOD say that "all military personnel and equipment that has been in contact with agricultural land are decontaminated in accordance with DARD (Department of Agriculture and Rural development) recognised procedures. However, we had specifically asked if the MOD/ Army were aware and using US Army procedures circulated some years ago. These covered extensive decontamination of the external and internal surfaces of Army helicopters & aircraft that found themselves operating in areas contaminated with foot and mouth. We did not believe that similar procedures were in place in N. Ireland and this would seem to be the case. Last month Britain's NATO partner Norway banned British Army helicopters from a military exercise in their country. The Army also reject are assertion that their continuation of foot patrols, when the extent of the Foot & Mouth problem became apparent, borders on the reckless. They refer to "elements of the community who remain intent on conducting acts of terrorism" and say these groups "have shown no respect for the combined efforts of the whole community who are involved in containing and preventing the spread of this terrible disease". They say the Army patrols are necessary to provide support to the Police in their attempts to stop illegal movement of livestock. However, the main focus of continued security force activity is in the agricultural border areas and the assertion, which seems aimed at deflecting attention from military inertia over contamination concerns in the early stages of the Foot & Mouth crisis, seems fatuous. Bernard Moffatt 30/04/01
LEUKAEMIA RISK - CONSPIRACY OF SILENCE The new research, by Dr. Chris Busby which reinforces his earlier identification of increased leukaemia risk associated with radiation pollution is cause for extreme concerns. The circumstances of so called leukaemia clusters at Seascale, near the Sellafield plant, remains undetermined and Busby new identification of a similar problem near Oldbury power station on the River Severn must focus us on the potential impact on public health these installations cause. It is certainly not good enough for BNFL (ironically the operators of both Sellafield and Oldbury) to dismiss Dr. Busby's research. Organisations, like the Celtic League, are well aware that in the past efforts have been made to rubbish his research and particularly his findings that the incidence of cancers around Irish sea coasts was higher than the norm. On that occasion his work based on information originally held by the Welsh Cancer Registry was called into question when the body which took over that data base (the Wales Cancer Intelligence & Surveillance Unit) inexplicably removed 3.500 cases from the original sample base. It is perhaps to strong an assertion to say that official statics were gerrymandered to frustrate the impact of Busby's research but the issue of the missing statistics is still unresolved. In addition BNFLs attempts to cry foul this time sound increasingly empty when one considers the recently litany of deceit exposed within the Company over safety issues. There is no doubt that many communities around the Irish sea have a serious concern about the incidence of cancers caused which may be attributable to pollution from Sellafield. Given this fact it is an appalling indictment of the British government that it has failed to coordinate statistical data adequately to clarify those concerns. Indeed, various Departments have if anything conspired to ensure as little release of UK data as possible. Additionally there has been no attempt to correlate all data with that which should be held in both the Republic of Ireland and the Isle of Man. A conspiracy of silence indeed! Bernard Moffatt 30/04/01
LUDLOW - GOVT URGED TO HEED ENQUIRY CALL The Celtic league has re-iterated its support for calls by the family of a Co. Louth man murdered 25 years for a public enquiry into the circumstances of his killing Seamus Ludlow was a 47-year-old forestry worker from Thistlecross, Mountpleasant, near Dundalk who was murdered on the 2nd of May 1976. It is believed his killing was a case of mistaken identity and that his killers were a loyalist murder gang, at that time operating in the Armagh border area of N. Ireland. There is also a strong suspicion of complicity in the killing by the British security forces, who it is alleged were using murder gangs in the north at the time. The use of such irregular forces was based on a counter insurgency theory developed by Frank Kitson an intelligence officer with the British Army. In January the Minister for Justice, John O'Donoghue, indicated in correspondence to the Celtic League that he was considering ways of meeting the Ludlow families concerns. The Irish government had proposed a private enquiry headed by a senior judicial figure. This was rejected by the Ludlow family. In correspondence (attached) to government Minister Dermot Ahern, who is also a Louth TD, the League urge a rethink. Bernard Moffatt 30/04/01 The Minister for Social,
Community &
Family Affairs 30/04/01 Dear Minister, We write with reference to the unresolved murder of Seamus Ludlow. The Celtic League have supported the call of the Ludlow family for an independent public enquiry into this matter and indeed we wrote to An Taoiseach, the Minister for Justice and the Secretary of State for N. Ireland on this issue recently (encl.). The League understand that recently a demonstration to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the murder was held by family and friends and that prior to this you reiterated the governments unwillingness to establish such an enquiry. It was disappointing to hear this. In January the Minister for Justice did seem to indicate, in correspondence to us (encl.), that a formula acceptable to the Ludlow family would be found. One of the most positive aspects of the British-Irish peace process is the willingness amongst all sections of the community to confront uncomfortable truths. I do not believe that the British Security Services, however much they might wish it, are immune from that process. There have for many years been suspicions about the operation of clandestine military units and their utilisation of loyalist paramilitary groups. Indeed there is currently a furore in the media in the north of Ireland because of attempts by UTV to highlight the activities of such groups. It is only a full independent enquiry, such as the Ludlow family are seeking, which can expose the truth. I do hope that the Irish government will reconsider its stance. Yours sincerely, J B Moffatt
MANX CRIME FIGURES PLUMMET Recorded crime on the Isle of Man has fallen to its lowest level for 10 years. A report from the Islands Chief Constable indicates overall crime rates down by over 18% but what is particularly significant is that figures for more serious crimes show a even more dramatic decline with violent crime down 39% and burglary down by almost 23%. Even allowing for any slight distortion in the collation methodology these are commendable figures. The police put the dramatic decreases down to a change in operational policing methods introduced since a new Chief Constable took office 18 months ago and it seems likely the results may well be scrutinised by other police services in the British Isles servicing essentially rural environments for useful pointers. There is no doubt that there has been an expansion of police resources in recent years and the success may also be a culmination of several factors. There was a suggestion in one part of the Manx media that a previous policy of urging victims to report crime was not followed up last year. However, it seems barely credible that the police success is down to unrecorded crime in a society which has a generally positive police-public relationship. It may well be the media are reacting to criticisms of them voiced when the new Chief Constable delivered his report and attacked 'horror stories' in the media for distorting peoples views on 'quality of life issues'. The Islands senior policeman also took a side swipe at some - unnamed - political figures. He alluded to possible criticisms of a 32% fall in crime detection figures. The Isle of Man faces a general election in the Autumn and it remains to be seen if law and order which is generally sharply in focus, as politicians compete for votes, will have its usual high profile. Bernard Moffatt 30/04/01 Back to News Menu |