gair rhydd | freeword Cardiff ’s student weekly Issue 1061 gair rhyddy Monday 19th October 2015 Also in this issue

Advice: Coming out at uni P10>>

Comment: £12m Assange police Students under fi re: Talybont presence needed? P12>> Court residents criticised for slow evacuation despite genuine risk t
Situation brought to attention after kitchen fi re in University halls of residence t
University highlights “very poor” student reaction to alarm t
Students who fail to evacuate in future could face disciplinary action

raised by the University over the now be subject to a fire drill test. EXCLUSIVE slow evacuation times of students. Those who are slow to evacutate Pictured: Politics: Republican nominations: Karla Pequenino Students were sceptical and slow could face action under the Univer- House two to evacuate due to persistent nui- sity’s disciplinary policy. of Talybont Sanders v Clinton P19>> irst-year students have come sance alarms. Firefighters arrived Most students thought it was yet Court, the under criticism from the Uni- quickly and no injuries were re- another false alarm as they are ap- scene of the fi re Fversity after residents at Taly- ported, but many students were still parently common in the building. (Photographer: bont Court failed to evacuate the inside the building while the profes- According a resident, more than Anna Lewis) building at the time of a real fire. sionals extinguished the flames. once a week and often during the Residents at University accom- A Cardiff University spokesperson early morning hours residents are modation have been ignoring the elaborated: “The fire alarm sounded forced out of bed by a beeping siren, fire warnings after constant alarms but some in the block were slow to only to discover there is no fire at all. since the start of the academic year, evacuate.” Innocent mistakes such as burned but now University Security have As a result of the incident, resi- toast, unconscious behaviour by warned that those who snub the dents received letters reminding drunken youths, consecutive fire alarm or tamper the safety material them of the “importance of reacting drills or tasteless pranks are appar- could be fined in future. to the alarm immediately.” ently the most frequent culprits. University officials confirmed that The letter described the evacu- Security Officers were baffled a pan fire broke out in House Two ation on Friday as “very poor”. Stu- by student’s sluggish reaction dur- of Talybont Court on Friday October dents were also reminded that “each ing Friday’s fire, feeling the need to 9th. time an alarm is activated residents scold the slow tenants: “As soon as Although the event was quickly are required to evacuate the building you hear the alarm sound, you have Science: The evolutionary science dealt with by students, security staff immediately.” to evacuate in three minutes,” cau- Continued on and the fire service, concerns were University halls of residence will tioned an officer who preferred not page 4 behind hipster beards P25>> 2 EDITORIAL

Gair Rhydd Coordinator Elaine Morgan Editor Joseph Atkinson Deputy Editor the free word Shanna Hamilton News Anna Lewis Th e importance of student Shanna Hamilton Advice Gwen Williams politics (and getting involved) Comment Em Gates That doesn’t mean you have to in student politics before getting in- the Students’ Union as “detatched” Charley Griffiths Joseph Atkinson campaign to be an elected officer; volved in Gair Rhydd. A large part of from the student body and generally David Williams you can engage with course reps me groans when astudent campaign- unrepresentative as a whole. From tudent elections are often de- and tell them what you want to see ing for election comes into a lecture the outside of the SU bubble it may Columnist rided by a great proportion of improved on your course, or just with a terrible gimmick and unreal- seem that the system is self-serving Helena Hanson Sthe student body as being un- simply exercise your right to vote. I istic policies that they would (try to) and not reaching out to the wider important, and student politics seen feel as though it’s forgetten what the implement upon election. student body. Politics as ineffectual and mlore of a popu- Student’s Union actually is - a un- But ultimately, the peop0le we The Students’ Union does ex- Carwyn Williams lariy contest than a political process. ion for students. The Union should elect represent all students at the ist, inevitably, in a Park Place bub- Luke Brett With the first round of student always represent the interests of its University on issues that matter to ble where everything is centered on Sam Patterson elections having just passed us by, members, szo if you feel that they them, so seeing beyond the some- the main campus. For students who and the Studnt’s Union offering each don’t do that, then the only way to times-superficial nature of election rarely visit the SU, student politics Science voting individual 20p in printer cred- provoke change is to get involved week and student politics in gen- will seem very distant and un-engag- Maria Mellor its (that wlould have been well over at some leve. If you sit idly by while eral is important. The reason people ing, and this is one of the problems Lizzie Harrett £5,000 if the whole student body vot- feeling that the SU does nothing for dress up is so that it’s (supposedly) the Union faces. The opening of the ed, by the way), there is a very clear you, then you haven’t really got a leg more engaging to students. The vast Heath Campus SU Hub has attempt- Societies message from the SU that they want to stand on - it’s a two-way process majority of the Student’s Union cam- ed to address this issue, but there Aletheia Nutt to engage with as many studesnts as - what are you doing for the SU an d paigns are aimed at getting more stu- will always remain issues of engage- possible and be truly representative other students? dents politically active. ment by the nature of the moment. Taf-Od of the student body. Spending time talking to sabbati- Political engagement among Existing relatively close to the Un- Carwyn Williams Indeed, engaging is important, cal officers of the Union, you can younger people is one of the hot ion and engaging with it frequently now so more than ever. Students at tell that they definitely care about topics every time an election comes as part of the newspaper, I can say Park Life the moment are being charged the the issues that affect studesnts and around; our generation is derided for that the intentions of the SU are Vacant most they ever have been in tuition haven’t just campaigned for elec- not taking enough of an interest. In positive in getting more students fees, and will be paying back those tion to prove thei popularity or get many ways, this is true, but there are involved and trying to improve the Sport loan debts (and the interest on them) a nicdely paid job. It takes a brave of course reasons for this. Politics lives of students in general. While Jim Harris for decades to come. It is of para- and driven person to campaign for has become less accessible and more they do make mistakes and elections James Lloyd mount importance that we as stu- election while dressing up in a silly abour hurling abuse rather than en- are difficult to engage with every- Jason Roberts dents get the best value for the con- costume and handing out industrial gaging in real debate. one, student politics is ultimately an Jamie Smith siderable money we are paying, and quantities of sweets to often disin- Students critical of the student essential part of university life, and getting involved in student politics is terested students. I’d class myself as political process have told me that getting involved is key if you’d like Social Media Editor one way you can do that. someone who just wasn’t interested they see the sabbatical officers of your life as a student to be better. Jack Boyce Thank you To all the proofreaders who helped with this issue! THIS WEEK IN HISTORY: GAIR RHYDD 905 Want to be an editor? We have editorial 19/10/2009 vacancies in News and Park Life Email editor@gairrhydd. his week in history we go back six years to geographical ineptitude has to be applauded. com if you’re interested. the last time October 19th fell on a Mon- Th ere’s also a small piece in World News simply Tday. Photographs scattered throughout entitled “Nazi Knome invasion”. Get involved the paper of David Cameron and Barack Obama Th e Features section looks at how Cardiff has Editorial conferences are reveal that time has not been kind to the respec- changed over the years. A photo of the current each Monday at 5pm. tive leaders of the Uk and US. site of Walkabout in 1891 is captioned, “Walka- Proofreading takes place at Th e front-page story concerns comments bout was shit back then,” while a picture of the 6pm on Thursdays in the media made by former Cardiff University Catholic modern club declares, “Walkabout isn’t much office during print weeks. Chaplain, Father John Owen, and his subsequent better”. resignation. Fr. John made his comments live Features also attempts to salvage the student Write us a letter on BBC One, claiming that most of the sexual lifestyle, asking whether alcohol is actually good [email protected] assault cases against young boys in the Catholic for you. Th ere is also a feature on the eff ects Tweet us Church were “committed by homosexuals”. Th e of so-called ‘study-drugs’ which were making @gairrhydd University were also criticised for their handling headlines at the time. Some of the said drugs are of the situation and their apparent lack of action profi led in comparison to the “most used student in the wake of what Fr. John said. staple,” Red Bull. At Gair Rhydd we take seriously our Elsewhere, we hear that the Conservatives Th e ever-entertaining Listings page advertises responsibility to maintain the highest possible were promising that “graduates in England a Proclaimers gig at St. David’s Hall, while on the standards. Sometimes, because of deadline pressures, we may make some mistakes. If you would be off ered a 10 per cent discount on early Sunday both Chase and Status and Biff y Clyro believe we have fallen below the standards we repayments of their student loans” if they were were to perform at the SU. seek to uphold, please email editor@gairrhydd. elected. Th ey were indeed elected, though there In Sport, a whole page is dedicated to the com. You can view our Ethical Policy is no sign of the proposed discount - surprise coming weekend’s Premier League fi xture be- Statement and Complaints Procedure at cardiffstudentmedia.co.uk/complaints surprise. tween Liverpool and Manchester United. Th ree In World News, the headline “Head start for of the four Sport Editors went for a United win, Opinions expressed in editorials are not Aff rica” in confusedly attatched to an article but ultimately Liverpool came out on top with reflective of Cardiff Student Media, who act as about a 16-year-old boy in West Bengal (India, goals from Fernando Torres and perhaps less- the publisher of Gair Rhydd in legal terms, and should not be considered official communica- Asia) who was teaching underpriviledged chil- well remembered French forward David N’Gog. tions or the organisation’s stance. Gair Rhydd dren from his own back yard. Such spectacular -Joseph Atkinson is a Post Office registered newspaper. EDITORIAL 3 Campus in Brief

report produced by London Economics has Pictured: Jack Boyce found that Cardiff University contributes National International Oscar Pistorius A £2.7 billion to the UK economy annually, will be released which equates to £6 for every £1 the university Players of the card game Bridge have failed in their German automotive watchdog KBA has ordered from prison this spends. Th is comes shortly after another report attempt to recognise the game as a sport. Th e Eng- Volkswagen to recall 2.4 million cars in Germany week found that the University and its’ students expen- lish Bridge Union (EBU) had challenged Sport after the diesel emissions scandal. Volkswagen has ditures during their studies amount to almost £1bn England, after it made the decision that the game admitted that it had installed software in its diesel per year. Th is newer report from London Econom- was not a sport as no physical activity is involved. vehicles to deceive U.S regulators about the true lev- ics takes into account the expenditures, but also Bridge is a card game played by four players, with el of their vehicles emissions. Th e recall is set to start examines the wider social impact of the University. two partnerships formed. It utilises a standard 52- at the beginning of 2016, and complete fi xes on their Vice Chancellor Professor Colin Riordan stated card pack, and involves betting on the number of vehicles by the end of 2016. Volkswagen had initially that, “Th e role of universities in underpinning ‘tricks’ each side will win. Th e EBU was looking told KBA that Volkswagen vehicle owners would economic growth through higher-level skills and to reclassify the game, as it would have made it bring their cars back if they wanted to, but this was ground-breaking research could not be clearer.” eligible for government and lottery funding. Alex rejected in favour of a forcible recall. Volkswagen are Scientists from Cardiff University and University Peebles, an EBU representative, said, “We are very under pressure to identify those who are responsi- of Cambridge have released studies claiming that disappointed and feel that we put forward a strong ble for tampering with emissions level fi gures that they may know why some people are prone to hal- case.” could aff ect up to 11 million cars worldwide. Around lucinations. Th eir work centred around the idea SNP Leader Nicola Sturgeon has said that even £4.8bn has been set aside by Volkswagen to cover “The that brain has a predictive nature, meaning that a ‘thumping win’ by the SNP in next year’s Scottish the costs of the scandal, but this fi gure is said to rise it interprets the world using prior knowledge and Elections may still not be enough to push for a sec- by the end. Metropolitan predictions. Cardiff University’s Dr Christoph Tue- ond referendum. Sturgeon also called on those who Olympic and Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius, “German fel explained that “Vision is a constructive process voted for “No” in the vote for independence to con- who was sentenced to fi ve years in prison last year Police has – in other words, our brain makes up the world that sider voting for the SNP. Sturgeon, on the subject for manslaughter after killing his girlfriend Reeva automotive confirmed we ‘see’.” 18 people who suff ered from early signs of of the possibility of a referendum, stated, “It will Steenkamp, is to be released to house arrest this watchdog KBA psychosis were compared to 16 healthy volunteers. be down to whether we judge, I judge, that people week. Prosecution has appealed the verdict of man- that Wikileaks Th e study used black and white images to see if vol- who voted ‘No’ last year have changed their minds.” slaughter, saying he should be convicted of murder has ordered founder Julian unteers could make out the image, and then gave Th e Metropolitan Police has confi rmed that instead, with the case to be heard on 3rd November. them the full colour image to see if they could now Wikileaks founder Julian Assange will be arrested Pistorius has only spent 12 months in jail, with the Volkswagen Assange will see what the black and white image was. if he leaves the Ecuador embassy in London. Ec- rest of his sentence under “correctional supervision”. to recall 2.4 Cardiff nightclub Clwb Ifor Bach has been called uador’s foreign minister Ricardo Patiño has called Th e former president of Benin, Mathieu Kerekou, be arrested irresponsible for tweeting “come and be ham- for Assange to have safe passage to a hospital for a died at the age of 82. Kerekou, hailed as the man who million cars if he leaves mered” in Welsh. Th e Advertising Standards Au- MRI scan to diagnose a pain in his shoulder. As- ushered in multi-party democracy to Benin, and in Germany thority complained that the tweet would be in- sange is subject to an arrest warrant for an allega- many other African countries. Kerekou fi rst come the Ecuador terpreted as inviting excessive drinking. Th e club tion of rape in Sweden, but sought political asylum into power under a Marxist regime in 1972, and after the diesel embassy in bosses said that it was a weekly feature for Clwb in 2012 to avoid extradition to Sweden. Assange’s spent nearly 30 years as President before stepping Ifor Bach’s Twitter page to promote Welsh language lawyer Carey Shenkman has accused Britain of down after a democratic vote in 1991 after renounc- emissions London events, but accepted that the wording was misin- forcing Assange to “choose between the human ing Marxism in 1989. Current Benin President scandal terpreted and that it would be more careful how it right to asylum and the human right to medical Th omas Boni Yayi, writing on Facebook, described ” advertised these features in the future. treatment.” Kerekou as a “great man”. ” 4 NEWS

Editor: Anna Lewis Shanna Hamilton @GairRhyddNews [email protected] news gairrhydd.com/news Cont’d: Students under fi re to be named when questioned later. latest fi re alarm was set-off on early Anastacia, who is completing an done to urge students to evacuate “If it is a real fi re, we are not going Sunday Morning due to a “prank”. archaeology MA program, says the quicker, the response from Security If this to risk our lives to go inside and save Once more, many students were slow constant alarms leave her exhaust- Residence was: “We might imple- “ you. You have to be adults and act re- exiting the building. ed: “Th e alarms keep disrupting my ment stricter fi re drills to ensure that happens Continued sponsibly”. As a result of the ongoing issue, sleep. It is very annoying. Th is never every student knows how to react in from front Members of Security warned that some have stated that they want to happens in the other houses.” the event of a genuine fi re.” again, I am page students who ignore the alarm next transfer from Taylbont court, al- “Why is it always before dawn?” Such events have shown that asking to time will be fi ned, just like anyone though no requests have been sent to and “I am sleeping through it next awareness should be raised: ignoring who is discovered to misuse the fi re the offi ces yet. time” are reportedly other common the fi re alarm drill can have serious move extinguisher. “If this happens again, I am asking sentences heard amongst the freez- consequences. Students are remind- Although Friday’s incident was the to move to another house”, claims Ni- ing tenants during morning fi re ed that fi re alarms are still a signal International most dangerous so far, the fi re alarm shad, an international student from alarms. warning that the building must be student at House 2 continues to go off . Th e India. When asked about what could be evacuated immediately. ” Sports ban introduced for misbehaviour in SU Teams could face loss of players if they violate ‘anti-lad’ policy

ports members could be pre- our AU members are positive role ster Unionist flags outside popular to initiations, Parsons insists that he James Lloyd vented from participating in models for the wider student com- student haunt Koko Gorillaz. trusts his committee members: “Our Ssports fixtures if they misbe- munity and therefore we are looking Parsons defended the call to in- policy on initiations if found in our We feel we have at Union events in new rules at that this process to ensure that troduce the new policy by suggest- the activities laws. “ released by Cardiff Students’ Union. they are these positive role models.” ing that the decision has not come We send that out to all the com- need to take The AU Social and Behaviour Pol- “We will make the process as fair in the wake of any of the above in- mittees - our number one prior- a stronger icy refers to behaviour both “off and as possible, as equitable as possible cidents. “There’s a lot going on at ity is student welfare. I understand on the field of play.” and as balanced as possible. We want the moment with the anti lad culture that initiations are big team building stance on how It comes in the wake of a clamp- to work with clubs and work with policies that have come down from events - call them what you want: down on ‘lad culture’ by the National those individuals and not against NUS. We are one of the pilot unions ‘welcome drinks’, ‘initiations’, what- behaviour in Union of Students. AU President, them. We want a positive message to to be doing that this year.” ever, they are team building events, the nightclub Sam Parsons spoke to Gair Rhydd come out of our sport.” It is important to note that the AU but student safety and student wel- about the new policy. He said: “This A number of high-profile inci- isn’t going to ban people from play- fare are at the heart of that activity and licensed has been bubbling under the surface dents involving Cardiff sports clubs ing for minor incidents. and if that’s up kept during the whole premises need for a long time and we feel we need last year have given new impetus to “We’re not going to stop people time of that activity going on then to take a stronger stance on how be- the AU to attempt to draw a line un- from playing in BUCS if they are just that is our stance as an AU.” to be acted haviour in the nightclub and licensed der poor behaviour. Such incidents stupid on a night out.” Parsons add- It’s when that line gets crossed that premises needs to be acted upon.” include a Medic Rugby player pub- ed: “There’s a connection between intervention will take place. I have upon Parsons criticised the current policy licly urinating onboard a ferry, hock- how you behave on the field and off the utmost trust in our committees; AU President by suggesting that the modern rules ey players running naked through it, we’re not trying to use it as an im- I’ve met the committees now and I “weren’t very effective.” the Julian Hodge library, and mem- posing measure.” have a lot of trust in them, with safe- Sam Parsons “We want to make sure our clubs, bers of the Cricket Club hanging Ul- Quizzed about the policies’ link ty being the paramount importance.” Right of response: Dean of Medicine responds to MEDIC Forward claims ”

he Dean of Medicine, John with this information the article makes accordance with employment law and sweeping statements around staff mo- Joseph Bligh, has requested the right signifi cant allegations to the contrary. under Statute XV of the University’s rale based on a few carefully selected Atkinson Tto respond to last week’s front Furthermore, allegations of discrim- Statutes we were required to place responses. Again we provided results page story regarding the MEDIC For- ination are also linked to potential all employees aligned to areas of pro- specifi c to the School of Medicine to ward scheme. Th e following is attrib- funding issues and grant loss based on posed disinvestment provisionally at Gair Rhydd which were not used in uted to Professor Bligh. Athena SWAN accreditation. We an- risk of redundancy. the article. Dear Editor, ticipate grant money increasing long We strongly deny any suggestion MEDIC Forward continues to de- On Monday 12th October Gair term as a result of Medic Forward. that this process has been used to liver transformational change to the Rhydd printed a front-page story on Athena SWAN accreditation is a to- force staff into a particular course of School of Medicine. It has enabled us the MEDIC Forward project. tally separate issue and we are working action. We believe that undertaking to investigate new ways of working, We believe your readers were pre- hard to maintain this accreditation. such a comprehensive consultation embrace positive change that delivers sented with an inaccurate and mis- Th e article also gives the false im- exercise has allowed us to consider real impact, build on the success that leading story which failed to report pression that MEDIC Forward is all possible options and to realign a already exists throughout the School the issues in a balanced and fair way. something students need to be con- signifi cant number of academic col- and focus our resources and activities We were particularly concerned by cerned about based on the views of leagues into the new structure. on the areas where we can realistically the allegations of gender discrimina- two anonymous students. Th e reduction in the numbers of aspire to be world leading. tion. It is disappointing that a one-sided people being placed at risk of redun- Although change can be an unset- As part of the project a comprehen- argument is presented to readers de- dancy is clear evidence of a robust tling time for colleagues we remain sive Equality Impact Assessment was spite a statement from the University and meaningful consultation process focused on creating a Medical School conducted for both the consultation that was made available to Gair Rhydd where the views of all parties have that is known for world leading re- and re-structuring elements of the confi rming that students would not be been considered. search and teaching excellence. MEDIC Forward process. impacted by the changes. We also feel that the cherry picking We do not wish to stifl e debate and Th is data was presented to trade We must also make clear that plac- of results from the 2015 staff survey we would encourage Gair Rhydd to union colleagues. It indicated no un- ing members of staff provisionally ‘at again paints a misleading picture. continue to follow the story, but we lawful discrimination against any pro- risk’ is not a tactic to force individu- Th e survey contains 69 questions simply request that future publication tected group. Despite being presented als into taking Voluntary Severance. In and it is simply not possible to make is done in a balanced and fair way. NEWS 5 People and Planet protest outside Students’ Union                

tudent group People and Planet Lodge is as far as unauthorised per- ness towards the use of computers ers made by students as young as 15, Anna Lewis have taken to protest outside sons are able to go. Mail can be ac- within University made by Chinese forced to labour, in China. Sthe Students’ Union, in order cepted via the Lodge, and the letter students as young as 15. “Students are calling on universi- to lobby the University to join work- from People and Planet was accepted On October 5th, a report writ- ties should use their contracts to ers’ rights organisation Electronic in this way,” they explained. ten by Electronics Watch and Dan insist that suppliers improve condi- Watch. People and Planet now wish to Watch stated that students at Chi- tions by joining Electronics Watch, a Cardiff People and Planet society, organise a formal meeting with the nese schools and colleges are being workers rights monitoring organisa- which is part of a national student- procurement department in order to made to work 12 hour days by their tions set up by NGOs for this pur- led movement, congregated outside persuade the University in person to teachers for periods as long as fi ve pose.” the Student’s Union on October 7th join Electronic Watch. months to make computers and serv- Th is latest protest forms part of a carrying banners and signs. Dressed Th e meeting will form part of an ers for some European universities. larger series of criticisms that Peo- in biohazard suits and wearing sur- ongoing relationship between Peo- Th is is in violation of both Chinese ple and Planet have voiced against gical masks, the group voiced their ple and Planet and the University, and International Organisation Con- the University. Last year the society anger against forced student labour in which “several meetings’ have al- ventions. revealed that in 2014 Cardiff Uni- used in European university supply ready taken place.” Jim Cranshaw, a campaigner from versity invested £2.5 million in fos- chains. Electronic Watch is an independ- People & Planet said, “It’s truly sil fuwels and non-renewable energy However when the group at- ent workers’ rights monitoring body shocking that students here in the though fi gures obtained by a Free- tempted to give a letter to University for the public sector. Th e group con- UK are using computers and serv- dom of Information request. management, the People and Planet sists of universities and other organi- Dressed in representative was refused entrance sations using their contracts with “ to the building due to security pre- suppliers to demand better condi- Pictured: biohazard suits cautions undertaken within the tions for workers in the supply chain. People and building. In response to the group’s calls, Planet lobby and wearing According to People and Planet the University have stated that the University surgical masks, treasurer Jack Pickering the group much of the institute’s electronics to join planned to enter the management are purchased through “purchasing Electronics the group building “either as a group or by frameworks” such as the London Watch sending in a representative to meet Universities Purchasing Consortium voiced their someone from the procurement de- (LUPC) which is already a member anger against partment to deliver a letter.” of Electronics watch and “other HE “Our representative was denied procurement consortia.” forced student entry to the building by security.” A spokesperson continued: “Th e labour used Th is was later explained by a Uni- University believes that the improve- versity spokesperson who clarifi ed ments to worker’s rights that People in European that the McKenzie House which the & Planet and Electronics Watch are group wished to enter is not a public campaigning for, are best achieved at University building. a consortia level.” supply chains “For the safety of those working Th e group’s protest coincided with in the building, access is controlled the UN International Day of Decent ” by access cards. As such, the Porters Work and was held to raise aware- Monday nights collapse at Union for second time

tudents’ Union club night ple in but everyone had gone on to lished club nights, including ‘Bump Flux, which have “continued to grow Anna Lewis Shake has closed due to low at- other places by 12.30 and it didn’t n Grind’ and Tiger Mondays’. in popularity and have sold out eve- S tendance, only weeks after its even take long to clear up and the In spite of the news, the Union ry night since Freshers’ Week with launch. end because we barely sold any emphasised the continued success increasing profits going back into Cardiff University Students’ Un- drinks.” of its other club nights YOLO and developing student services.” ion have confirmed that Monday The night was described on the night event Shake, held by an ex- Students’ Union website as “your ternal promoter has been cancelled, Monday music mash up: playing Pictured: after it failed to “attract a sufficient anything WE want, and everything Y Plas will now following to make it viable long YOU want. It’s the best way to ruin stand empty on term.” your week.” Monday nights The club night was launched only This is not the first time that a (photographer: a month ago during Freshers’ week, Union club night has collapsed due Anna Lewis) where it initially attracted 2,000 to a lack of attendance. students. Last year alternative night Vinyl “Shake failed However, according to an or- was also launched by the Union on to attract ganisational spokesperson, despite a Monday night. a “busy Freshers’ period and being Despite initial feedback suggest- a sufficient well received by those who attended ing that the event would be wel- following to it”, it failed to maintain its popular- comed by students, the night failed ity. to attract “the supports of students make it viable “As a result, the promoter decided in any substantial number”. to withdraw the event on an ongo- The night failed to gain the sup- long term ing basis”. port of students in any substantial Organisational One bar member working at number and was withdrawn based Shake reported that she returned on limited attendance. Spokesperson from her shift at only 1.30am due to The failure of two consecutive a lack of students. Monday night events could be at- ” “They let in a fair amount of peo- tributed to a number of well-estab- 6 NEWS Student offi cers clash over criticism against Welsh language provision Welsh Language Offi cer continues fi ght to get full-time role created after First Minister of Wales weighs in tudents’ Union President Claire ate” for the appointment of a full-time that the allocation of the £2.6 million its creation was postponed due to the Anna Lewis Blakeway has rejected claims Welsh Language Offi cer to be decided is decided by factors including the An- Welsh Language Offi cer referendum. Scriticising the representation of via majority vote. Th e referendum nual General Election and the Student Its fi rst meeting took place in July. Welsh language students, in response caused substantial concern amongst Senate. Th e Students’ Union President also to a statement released by Welsh Lan- Welsh language speakers last year, af- Furthermore, although a full-time drew attention to the Welsh language guage Offi cer Steff an Bryn. ter it was suggested that those wishing Welsh Language Offi cer has not been and culture day ‘Shwmae Sumae Day’ In a press release sent to Gair Rhydd to infl uence people to vote against a implemented by the Students’ Union, that took place last week and ongoing last week, the current part-time offi cer full-time offi cer used ‘scaremogering’ its president has been eager to dem- eff orts to improve the Union’s ongoing “The described the representation of Welsh tactics to threaten students. onstrate that representation of Welsh bilingual approach to its communica- representation language students as “insuffi cient”. Now, the Welsh Language Offi cer language students has continued to tions. In response to Union’s plans to em- has announced that he will appeal to improve. Talking to Gair Rhydd, the Welsh currently on ploy a full-time translator, Bryn also the University directly to help improve “Th e Union has a long term com- Language offi cer responded that in commented that the idea “will not ad- Welsh language representation and mitment to the advancement of the addition to these eff orts, he hopes that offer to Welsh dress the needs of the Welsh language support: Welsh language and Welsh culture a Welsh Language executive board langauge and its speaker, in the University nor “I appeal directly to Vice-Chancellor within the Union, as clearly stated can be established to allow the heads the Union.” Colin Riordan to meet with Welsh lan- within our strategic plan 2014-17. of the many existing Welsh language students is However, the Students’ Union Pres- guage representatives, in light of the Th e Students’ Union has vastly im- groups together in one group. Th is insufficient ident has reacted strongly against such First Minister’s comments, to discuss proved its Welsh language provisions includes members of Welsh language claims, refuting the Welsh Offi cer’s how the University will take action in in the past few months and it is part society ‘Y Gym Gym’, those from the Steffan Bryn, criticisms: “I reject these comments this area.” of a longer term plan to improve them Coleg Cymraeg (Cardiff ’s branch of in their entirety and I’m disappointed Normally the Students’ Union and further” Blakeway said to Gair Rhydd. the National Welsh College) and those Pictured: Welsh that the Students’ Union has again not the University is responsible for In order to improve its support from the new Welsh language society Welsh Language been unfairly criticised for its Welsh ensuring that the needs of students to students, the Union has created a at the Heath campus ‘Clwb y Mynydd Language language provision. are addressed. consultation committee named Welsh Bychan’. students Officer Blakeway continued: “Over the past In his statement he added: “If the Language Steering group, compromis- Th e Welsh Language Offi cer stated confronting few months the Union has devoted University Authorities are not willing ing of members of the Students’ Un- that he would be willing to work with last year’s unprecedented levels of support to the to listen to their students, I hope that ion, Coleg Cymraeg and student body. both the Students’ Union and Blake- offi cers over ” Welsh language, including a commit- they will be more prepared to listen Th e group was initially planned to way to achieve this and will continue the disputed ment to a comprehensive bilingualism to the First Minister of Wales and the start in group in January 2014, but was to co-operate. referendum policy, signing up to the NUS Wales’ Minister with responsibility for the Welsh Language Charter and the re- Welsh language in the Welsh Govern- I reject these cruitment of a full time Welsh Lan- ment.” “ guage Coordinator.” Bryn suggested that “the University comments in Th e initial comments made by Bryn could easily directly fi nance a sabbati- followed Gair Rhydd’s interview with cal offi cer”, making reference to the their entirety First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones, £2.6 million sum awarded annually to and I’m who said it was “unfortunate” that a the Students’ Union by the University full time Welsh Language Offi cer was under the 1993 Welsh Language Act. dissapointed not appointed within the SU following Th e possibility of University inter- a referendum held in the last academic vention within however been put into that the SU year. doubt by a University spokesperson, has again been In addition, the First Minister ques- who explained that the appointment tioned the use of a student-wise ref- of a full-time Welsh Language Offi cer unfairly erendum to decide the matter: “Why remains a “matter for Cardiff Univer- criticised was there a referendum on that? I used sity Students’ Union”. to be involved in student politics, and Th e spokesperson reiterated that, Claire never even thought about having a ref- “while we work very closely with the erendum on that, seems a bit bizarre Students’ Union”, the Union does in Blakeway to have had that in the fi rst place if you fact remain a separate organisation SU President ask me”. working with its own elected offi cials. Backing Jones’ comments, Bryn In reference to University funds ” then agreed that it was not “appropri- given to the Union, it was also stated University contributes billions to economy

ardiff University contributes on the national economy. together with student expenditure to- further 5,900 positions indirectly. Anna Lewis £2.7billion to the UK economy, However, the highly criticised in- talled nearly £1bn per year. In addition, the social impact on Caccording to a report by Lon- crease in tuition fees also featured However, the new report by Lon- the University on the UK was also “£609 million don Economics. prominently in the results of the re- don Economics also conducted re- emphasized by the substantial num- In the report produced for the port, as it was stated that £135mil- search on the University’s wider bers of volunteers within Cardiff . was attributed University it was announced that the lion was generated from overseas social and economic impact on the In 2012-13 over 1,200 people vol- to economic University produces £6 for every £1 students. whole of Wales. unteered in both short term and long that it spends. Of the £135 million, £123million It is hoped that the University’s term projects, with students contrib- benefit According to the report, in 2012/13 came from non-EU international stu- contribution to the economy will uting 50,000 hours of work. of the £2.7billion generated, £609mil- dents. continue to rise, with the current Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin associated lion was attributed to economic ben- Th ese fi gures come amidst a larger construction of its £300million ‘in- Riordan said: “Th is report looks at the with the efi t associated with the University’s study investigating the wider eco- novation’ campus. According to the full picture estimating, for the fi rst research activities. nomic and social impact of Cardiff University, the new campus will “turn time, our overall economic and social University’s Th e money created through gradu- University. ideas into products, technologies and impact on the UK economy. research ate earnings and taxation receipts Earlier this year an economic im- new businesses”. “We all know that going to univer- totalled £967million, suggesting that pact report suggested that the eco- Th e University currently employs sity has a transformative eff ect on activities students create a signifi cant impact nomic contribution of the University 5,500 people directly, supporting a people’s lives, careers and families.” ” )'1" 15'2)%(1'(&! (#'&"4$1#1#"'012!"&1 $&02)& "()'3$!")

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Editor: Gwen Williams @GairRhyddAdv [email protected] advice gairrhydd.com/advice Homesickness: I’m sick of the stigma!

Pictured: Stick the kettle on, I’m on my way home. (Photographer: Essie)

Homesickness“ is nothing to be ashamed of. It’s a completely normal phenomenon to experience, even if you love university

ou’ve been living in Cardiff ashamed of. It’s a completely normal years are over. When I was in my fi rst It’s great fun! If you are on a course ” Gwen for about a month now and phenomenon to experience, even year, I was teased by other people for that involves a lot of reading, try and Williams Ythings are beginning to settle if you love university and most stu- going home ‘too often’ but this is how encourage your friends to study to- down into a routine. Th en it hits you. dents will feel this way at some point. I initially coped with university life. gether at the library. Even if you’re Homesickness. You long for comfort Even second and third years hanker You have to do what is right for you not talking, you have company and and familiarity because, lets face it, for home and there are several rea- and if that means going home every people to motivate you to work. Th e learning to be an adult can be tough sons for this. Firstly, it’s a place where weekend then do it. Don’t make more things you have planned, the stuff . If you’re a fi rst year, you may we can forget the stresses of student yourself miserable over the insensi- less time you have to think about be a bit surprised that these feel- life and switch off for a couple of tive opinions and pressures of oth- home. ings have suddenly cropped up from days. Some people have a closer rela- ers. As I have said before, if they can’t Just because you are not at home, nowhere. You hadn’t really thought tionship with their family than their accept you for who you are, why are it doesn’t mean that you can’t keep in much about home since you arrived friends at uni so it makes sense for they worth your time? regular contact with your family and in halls. Why? Because up until now, them to be around those that they If you’re a bit embarrassed about friends at home. I have regular chats you’ve been preoccupied with other are most comfortable with. Others it (although you shouldn’t be) go and with my mum on the phone and soft- things. Freshers week was full of fun simply fi nd uni life too distracting talk to someone you trust. Call up a ware such as Skype and FaceTime and excitement and then you spent and go home to concentrate on their family member and talk it through enables you to see people as well as the fi rst couple of weeks getting used work better. Also, there are students or speak to one of your close uni hear them. It’s almost as good as hav- to a new way of living and learning who have weekend jobs at home friends about how you’re feeling. Th e ing a conversation face to face. My independently. who prefer to travel back and forth chances are, your friend has felt the grandmother on the other hand has Last week, the online publication every weekend rather than applying same way at some point and will be no idea how to use technology, but “‘The Tab’ known as ‘Th e Tab’ published an arti- for a closer job. Finally, some people someone who you can relate to. If I keep in contact with her through cle expressing a distasteful and harsh don’t get on with their housemates, you want to talk to someone who has letter writing. Call me old fashioned, published viewpoint on students who strug- so knowing that they can go home experience advising students, go and but I really enjoy writing to her and “In between gle with homesickness. Th e writer on weekends makes them feel better see your personal tutor for a chat. receiving something in the post eve- an article wrongly accuses those who regularly about having to live with in a tense Th ey have probably seen it all before ry week. Plus it gives me something home visits, expressing go home of “running away when it environment during the week. several times over and know exactly to do one evening when I get home I find that gets too much” and pompously states I will be the fi rst to admit that I how to help. Sometimes just talking from university. a distasteful that they “have no place in halls.” He have had frequent bouts of home- about issues can help a lot because Remember, if you are homesick, the best way and harsh also belittles a homesick student’s sickness over the last couple of years. the issue is no longer bottled up and you have every right to feel that way. ability to be academic by ignorantly It can be horrible at times, but I am getting you down. Try and remind yourself that you to tackle viewpoint on claiming that “it might have been now in my third year and haven’t let In between home visits, I fi nd worked hard for your place at univer- homesickness easier to do an empty degree with it stop me from doing my best in my that the best way to tackle home- sity and it is an important transition students who the Open University.” Quite frankly, degree. Th is idea that people who ex- sickness is to keep as busy as pos- to get to where you need to be. Just is to keep struggle with this self-righteous individual needs perience homesickness are weak is sible. If you’re having a diffi cult day, because you miss home, it doesn’t as busy as to get off his high horse and go back completely ridiculous. In fact, if you why not call up a friend and make mean that you are not cut out for homesickness to commenting on something that he stick it out despite feeling this way, plans? If you haven’t already, join a university and it doesn’t mean you possible actually has a valid viewpoint on. you are resilient and will get a great couple of societies that will get you won’t succeed. It just means that you ” Homesickness is nothing to be sense of achievement when the three out of the house a few nights a week. need to make university life suit you. ” ADVICE 9 What I did when I graduated...

Pictured: A Chemistry classroom (Photographer: TLSuda)

haron Magill is the Head of large companies targeted the uni- of people ranging from those who nine, my form class arrive for regis- Gwen Chemistry at a secondary versity and showed exciting career worked in the factories to the CEOs tration. On average I teach four les- Williams Sschool in South Wales. She talks possibilities, with large salaries to of companies. As a result, I have sons per day, alongside a number of about her drastic change in career match. I was interested in research good communication skills that are lunchtime and after school classes, and how it’s never too late to become and development so an industry transferable across any career. I have as exam time get closer for my GCSE a teacher. based career felt like the best choice become a very organised person be- and A level students. I also help out for me. cause i had to juggle a number of with netball club after school. On av- Please explain what your role en- I got a job working in the fi eld of projects at the same time. Although erage, I probably spend three to four tails as Head of Chemistry. polymer science because I enjoyed my career had not necessarily used hours per night marking books, then “At the time, I am responsible for organising the this aspect of my degree. I found that all the knowledge I gained when planning and preparing lessons for schemes of work for all year groups, I liked roles which were challeng- completing my degree, the skills I the next day. It is defi nitely not your I was unsure including Key Stage three, GCSE and ing, yet provided something diff er- learnt are still useful twenty years on! average nine to fi ve job. of what I A Level. I teach science as a general ent on a day to day basis. I worked in During my time in industry, I liked subject to years seven to nine and industry for 15 years and had seven the variety of roles that were avail- Do you have any tips for students wanted to do, chemistry at GCSE and A Level. I diff erent roles, from production to able to me. However, I felt that these aspiring to become secondary also analyse exam results to ensure customer technical support. My fi rst roles were purely based on saving school teachers? so I organised a continual improvement of grades job was with British Stella, but then money. I had reached a point where Teaching is a really, really reward- a summer and overall standards. My role also after a merger, became what is cur- there was no job fulfi lment or sat- ing career. However, it’s a lot of hard includes raising the profi le of the de- rently known as Tata Steel. isfaction. As a result, I retrained to work. You have to be very organised placement partment through the organisation I think I was very lucky, working become a chemistry teacher, taking and truly passionate about the sub- of enrichment activities, clubs and in industry. I had a range of diff er- the traditional route of completing a ject that you teach, as this is very events. For example, I encourage stu- ent positions that enabled me to try PGCE to do so. transparent in the way that you de- dents to form a team and participate diff erent skills including research liver your lessons. But at the end of “Teaching is a ” in annual chemistry quizzes. and development, problem solving What is it about teaching that you the day, I can’t stress enough how I also have a registration class that and learning to be innovative within like? enjoyable my work is. really, really I am responsible for. It is important a time frame. Working as a techni- I really enjoy passing my knowledge rewarding to have the welfare of the pupils in cal advisor within the commercial and love of chemistry onto students. More and more teachers have spo- mind at all times. As a form tutor department was particularly enjoy- On the whole, I love using my knowl- ken out negatively about how the career. you are the main steadfast person in able as I was working closely with edge of the subject to explain why education system has changed their everyday lives. Th ey know they customers to use steel in their new many everyday phenomena occur. I over the last few years. As a result, However, it’s will see you fi rst thing every morn- applications. A great perk of this job really like interacting with pupils, es- it may have made students think a lot of hard ing. You need to be approachable to was travelling around visiting lots of pecially GCSE and A Level students, twice about whether they want to make sure they can talk to you about customers and seeing their manufac- as they learn about many challenging become a teacher. What is your re- work. You potential academic and home issues. turing sites. concepts. sponse to this? have to be Your job is to guide them through My next role was within manu- Th is becomes more enjoyable when For me, teaching has been a very ful- their school life. Th is includes teach- facturing as a process specialist on it’s clear that they are passionate fi lling career, there is no doubt about very organised ing them how to revise and be or- a production line. Th is involved about the subject. It’s really reward- that. However before you enter the ganised etc. It’s great when I get the ‘through process analysis’ to try and ing to work with them to achieve profession, you need to know that and truly same form class from year seven to ensure that the line was running their required grades. Teachers are you are doing it for the love of the passionate eleven because you get to know them profi tably, as well as working with there to provide a stepping stone for job. Th e pay is good after a few years, and their parents well, so you can suppliers to maintain current supply students to get to university and then but the work level is incredible. Ex- about the give them more accurate and helpful and develop future products. Part of onto their chosen career path. When pect to complete a 60 hour week as subject that advice. this job entailed looking at complaint they get good grades the feeling of a norm, with the perceived fantas- material, which customers couldn’t pride is immense! tic holidays being spent catching up you teach “I think I was Take me through your career path. use. I particularly enjoyed the prob- with work or marking. it is a brilliant very lucky, How did you get to where you are lem solving aspect of this. Is there anything about your job career but it’s important that you en- currently? As a result I became a customer that you dislike? ter it with your eyes open. working in I studied a BSc HONS degree in technical engineer, where I went to At times it can be diffi cult to teach ” chemistry at Queens University of customer’s factories to look at prob- pupils who fi nd chemistry challeng- What advice would you give your industry. I Belfast and followed on with a mas- lem material and to work out ways, ing or who aren’t interested in sci- student self with hindsight? had a range ters in polymer science and engi- to try and use this material. Initially, ence as a subject. As a result, extra I should have conducted a wider neering. At the time, I was unsure of I found that I loved travelling around work is required to try to engage pu- search into possible careers, as well of different what I wanted to do, so I organised the UK, Europe and the US meet- pils in the subject and to relate les- as being more introspective and re- positions that a summer placement at Delft Uni- ing new people and seeing diff erent sons to everyday life. alistic about what I enjoyed in life. I versity of Technology in the Neth- manufacturing sites. However it was like variety, as I get bored easily so enabled me to erlands to explore other options. It diffi cult after a while as I was never Describe a typical work day for working with people and the feel- also gave me something extra to add home, making it a solitary lifestyle you? ing that I have achieved something try different to my CV to make me stand out as a that I didn’t enjoy. My day starts at about eight o’clock. worthwhile is important to me. skills good candidate for employment. On the whole, my 15 years in in- I look over the lessons that I have Working in industry did not tick all Initially, I only considered careers dustry were very benefi cial to me. planned for the day ahead while these boxes for me. Teaching defi - ” in industry. Th is was mainly because I travelled the world meeting lots grabbing a quick cup of coff ee. At nitely does! 10 ADVICE Student perspectives: Coming out at university Getting involved with CU Pride and LGBT+

he autumn term is well un- about themselves by coming out, go through are the same. I realised make positive changes at uni, for Marcus derway. I’m sure you all had a possibly for the first time. I was Bi when I was 16 and came yourself and future students with the Connolly Twonderful and wild first few We’re lucky enough to have two out to friends when I was 18. When association. Learn more about the weeks celebrating student life. Car- LGBT+ groups for students within I came to uni, I was looking for the student movement and NUS (Na- “Coming out diff is a brilliant place with so much Cardiff University, the society CU LGBT+ society. Some people realise tional Union of Students) LGBT+. to do and see, plus a load of new Pride and the LGBT+ association. they’re LGBT+ before uni and some After two years at Cardiff, through is something people to meet. However it’s true My advice to you is go and explore work it out during their time here. events like Student Pride and NUS universal, the that people take time to come out LGBT+ Cardiff. Come and see what I’ve met people who are afraid of Conferences, I’ve met people I con- of their shells when they find them- we do. Come and meet some inter- coming out because they’re worried sider friends for life, from all over place and selves in a new place trying to be an esting people who’ve been where about reactions from their friends. the country. ‘adult’ for the first time. you’ve been. They can help you make However, coming out doesn’t change So just throw yourself into univer- people might It’s with this new found freedom the most out of university in terms of you as a person, but feel free to start sity life! Thanks to the society and be different, that coming to university is a great your non academic life. When I was being loud and proud if you want to association I’ve had interesting ex- thing and for a lot of people it can a fresher the first person I met, one though. periences at uni. Most of my friends but the be the first time they can truly be of the welcome crew, was LGBT+. You’ve got the chance to become a would say the same. Being out at uni feelings we themselves. Someone you’ve met That helped me a lot as I instantly part of a community that organises opens yourself up to meeting new over the past few weeks at uni could saw that you can be out and proud at brilliant events and can support and people and offers you chances to do can go through be LGBT+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, our lovely university. help you through any hard times you many different things. In the word’s Ace, Arrow, Genderqueer, Non-Bi- Coming out is something univer- may face. If you have the chance, go of RuPaul: ‘If you can’t love yourself, are the same nary,) and being here has given them sal, the place and people might be to Pride Cymru (in Cardiff) and Na- how in the hell are you gonna love the chance to be open and honest different, but the feelings we can tional Student Pride in London. Help somebody else?’ ” Your sexuality doesn’t defi ne you 5 ways efore coming to Cardiff, I was Some people find it difficult to be That’s not to say it isn’t a great soci- students can save David Jones only ‘out’ to a couple of friends. open about their sexuality to guys. ety to be part of. Being proud of who BStarting university was the There is a general misconception you are as a whole is important. money during their first time I thought to myself: “I’m that straight guys don’t want to be Over the last couple of years, I’ve going to be open about my sexual- seen associating themselves with gay come to realise that although your university life ity to all the new people I meet.” It guys. However this is not true at all. sexuality is a big deal, it’s one small doesn’t mean you have to say to eve- Some of my best friends at university part of you and people should see ry person you meet “Hi, I’m gay”. I are straight guys, and they treat me that and accept it. Your personality have never said anything along those no differently to how they treat each and character is what will develop 1. Buy a student railcard lines to anyone. Why? Because your other. On the other hand there are your friendships. You can be proud sexuality does not define you. the girls. Girls just love gay guys. of who you are without being an ac- If you plan on making more than one “Everyone has All of my university friends ei- Having gay friends is also impor- tive member of the society, though trip home during the year, you will ther found out in casual conversa- tant and you can meet lots of new I would recommend you sign up to make your money back quickly and been really tion, or saw me talking with guys on people through them. It also makes show your support. save a third on all journeys. nights out or at a gay bar. For me, it you realise you’re not alone. Cardiff’s Even now, I’m not yet ‘out’ to my supportive and was easy as I didn’t have to have any gay bars are great fun. The music is family. But I’m happy. I’m more com- completely awkward conversations with anyone. great, drinks are cheap, what more fortable in myself than I’ve ever been 2. Student discount in shops Remember, everyone is scared about can you want? A lot of my straight and it has been a massive step being fine with it. how people will react and a fear of friends love gay clubbing even more open about my sexuality. Don’t feel Find out which shops have student Surprised? You rejection is natural. than I do! pressured to ‘come out’, it’s about be- discount as this will especially come However not one single person The Cardiff University LGBT+ ing comfortable and doing it in your in handy when you are buying Christ- shouldn’t be has judged me. Everyone has been society has never really been some- own time. When the time feels right mas gifts later on this year. really supportive and completely fine thing I was involved with due to I will come out to my family, but for with it. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. being committed to other things. now I’m in a very good place. ” 3. Cook house meals Cooking for four can sometimes work Pictured: out cheaper than cooking for one. If LGBT+ fl ag this is not possible due to diff erent (Photographer: schedules, cook multiple portions and Ted Eytan) freeze what you don’t eat.

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Editors: Em Gates Charley Griffiths David Williams @GairRhyddCom [email protected] comment gairrhydd.com/comment

Julian Assange: three years and £12.6 million later ulian Assange has been taking ref- allegation of sexual molestation and ing are constantly in the headlines. Th ere was speculation over leaked David uge at Th e Ecuadorian Embassy in one of unlawful coercion. He is still Th e amount of money spent on the documents in early September which Pictured: Williams JLondon for three years since Ec- wanted in accusation of a rape off ence guard is evidently extortionate. Th e suggested smuggling him out in dis- Julian Assange uador granted him political asylum. but strongly denies these allegations. If decision by the Met to end it is bet- guise, or in a bag, then into a car. But outside the Th is week the Met Police has fi nally Assange goes to Sweden for question- ter late than never. I fully acknowledge this was quickly dismissed because Ecuadorian decided to end the 24 hour guard out- ing he fears he will then be extradited that the rape accusations are a seri- the embassy shares the building, and Embassy in side. Th e Met have estimated that it to the US. Opportunities for Sweden ous issue and need to be looked into, therefore police had been patrolling London has cost around £12.6 million and now to interview Assange at the embassy but on the side of espionage I believe inside, making it diffi cult to get to (Source: Th e believe it is “no longer proportionate”. were talked about but never came Assange should be protected and not a car. Now that the police guard has Independant) The Met Th ey have said they will use both overt about, raising the question: do Sweden extradited. As a Journalism student been removed could this be his chance “ and covert measures to catch Assange. just want to get hold of him to extra- I feel very strongly about freedom of to fl ee? Ecuador has also previously Police has He is arguably one of the most famous dite him? speech and transparency in the media. considered appointing Assange as and controversial whistleblowers of In the current economic climate, Without whistleblowers like Assange, their representative at the UN, giving finally decided our time and is wanted by both Swe- £12.6 million of tax payer’s money is many issues would be unknown to him diplomatic immunity before the to end the 24 den and the US. defi nitely a big deal. Th is money has the public. After all, most of the in- UN could reject the the appointment. As“ a journalism In the US the WikiLeaks founder is been squandered on a police guard formation made public by WikiLeaks But this also never materialised. student, I feel hour guard wanted for espionage, the US govern- outside the embassy when the money has arguably been in the public inter- Britain is a country that is supposed outside, which ment have an ongoing sealed grand would be much better spent in health- est. I believe the fear created around to pride itself on human rights which very strongly jury investigation into WikiLeaks. As- care or education. London Mayor Bo- whistleblowing is a form of censorship includes freedom of speech, expres- has cost sange is considered a terrorist by many ris Johnson has also voiced concern in itself, fully backing initiatives such sion and information deemed in the about freedom senior fi gures and has been severely saying that the money should be spent as the Icelandic Modern Media Ini- public interest. We should be support- of speech and £12.6million criminalised for his actions. on frontline policing. Why has it taken tiative (IMMI) which aims to protect ing whistleblowers not trying to stitch of taxpayer’s He is wanted in Sweden under so long for the police guard of the em- journalism and freedom of speech, them up. Yes, Julian Assange needs to transparency investigation for several off ences, bassy to end? Th ere are much more encouraging investigative journalism. be questioned over the rape allegation, in the media money though in August investigators ran pressing matters for the police to be Little is known about Assange’s but he should also be granted political ” out of time to question him over one dealing with day to day. Cuts to polic- plans to reach the safety of Ecuador. asylum in the UK. ” Why are England angry over 5p carrier bags? epending on your national- due to the fact that this law has been a leased prior to the #Bagocalypse, nearly grudgingly handing the cashier a fi ve Mared ity and/or current place of resi- perfectly normal part of everyday life a whopping 8 billion plastic carrier bags pence coin, but some have taken re- Jones Ddence, it is likely you spent the since 2011. For the average Welshman, were distributed by major supermar- bellion to a whole new level. Bags and beginning of October in one of two a bag for life is as necessary as a debit kets in just England alone last year - a trolleys have been stolen nationwide very diff erent ways: you either lived card and a trip to Lidl bakery. Mean- fi gure which has been steadily creeping and - in one case reported by Th e Sun your life exactly as you have always while, from furious tweets to fi sticuff s up despite our increased environmen- - arguing with staff until they got them- As a result of done, or you stole a Morrisons trolley at self-service checkouts, it’s safe to tal awareness as a society. In stark com- selves banned from Asda for good. “We “ and rioted in the car park. Th is appar- say that England has handled this new parison, the use of plastic bags in Wales don’t take the decision to ban custom- this dramatic ent apocalypse is due to the fact that, as law as calmly as Luke Skywalker when has decreased over 79 per cent since the ers from our stores lightly,” a spokes- of October 5th 2015, all major English he found out that Darth Vader was his introduction of the charge, and tens of person gravely announced, perfectly change, supermarkets must now charge fi ve father. millions of pounds have gone to chari- depicting how seriously the plastic bag England pence to their customers for all single- Th ough the plastic bag charge might ties and other good causes as a result of chaos has aff ected English sanity. use plastic carrier bags. As a direct re- be irritating for those who aren’t used those extra few pennies. Th is law is here to stay, folks. Don’t appears to sult of this dramatic change in social to keeping fi ve thousand spare bags in Of course, these statistics aren’t fancy getting yourself banned from all structure, England appears to have lost their glove compartment, there is no enough to convince the whole of the major supermarkets or being jailed for have lost its its collective shit. denying that this new law is a necessary English public. Fortunately, the vast stealing a Tesco trolley? Get yourself a collective shit On the other side of the border, change in terms of consumer behaviour. majority of England’s population sim- bag for life, because a bag for life is a however, the Welsh are as calm as ever According to a government report re- ply grumble under their breath before friend for life. ” COMMENT 13 Transgender EastEnders

Pictured: BBC soap makes history as the fi rst Riley Carter Millington to hire a transgender actor to play a on the set of EastEnders transgender character in a positive (Source: Th e Independant) move towards media equality

his week, the BBC announced people will assume. To suggest that Charley the casting of 21 year old Riley this casting choice is an act of token- Griffiths TCarter Millington as ‘Kyle’ in ism or political correctness is com- popular soap ‘EastEnders’. Th is is the pletely ridiculous. Th is is more than fi rst time a transgender actor has been just a trend, where TV shows all jump cast in a transgender role in a UK soap. on the bandwagon. A talented ac- Usually, if I am scrolling down my tor should always deserve a part, re- Facebook feed and see something with gardless of their background. Soaps, EastEnders in, I would continue scroll- while overly dramatised, aim to depict ing. But this story really grabbed my all aspects of life, whether happy or Collins added how Riley is both a of Dylan Royle was openly a cross- attention. I admired the soap’s posi- sad, funny or serious. Th e transgen- talented actor and “an inspirational dresser, so this takes it a step further. tive step towards equality and diver- der community are rightly receiving young man.” Hopefully, viewers can BBC has also given another main sity in the media, and the casting of more acknowledgement and becom- watch TV and see someone they can role to a transgender actor, Rebecca transgender actors in British TV has ing more known and accepted in so- identify with. Root, in comedy ‘Boy Meets Girl’ at been long overdue. ciety, so our TV programmes should Many have been quick to com- the beginning of September. Root, in EastEnders has always triumphed in defi nitely refl ect this change. It is re- pare this breakthrough with the ever an interview for the BBC, highlighted “To suggest that showing a range challenging storylines freshing to see such a character being popular show ‘Orange is the New how the show “will demystify [the addressing the social issues of the day. represented in an authentic way, and Black’, where transgender woman transgender] community” by increas- this casting Storylines have ranged from domes- not some embarrassing or off ensive Laverne Cox is part of the large and ing “the visibility of the trans popula- choice is an tic violence, rape, stillborn children, parody that is often seen in so-called diverse cast. (And is one of my fa- tion.” disabilities, teen pregnancy, HIV, the ‘comedies’. vourite characters, I might add). Cox And in the celebrity world, Caitlyn act of tokenism fi rst gay character in the 80s, the fi rst But Eastenders is not the only soap is a great public speaker and LGBT Jenner’s very public transition helped gay kiss, to name a few. Th e soap’s ex- taking on diverse representations. advocate, and often considered the raise awareness and gain support for or political ecutive producer Dominic Treadwell- Coronation Street has also previously ‘face’ of the American transgen- the transgender community. In the correctness is Collins said that the soap has “always tackled a transgender storyline, with der movement. She was the first modelling industry, we are seeing led the way in changing audience’s actress Julie Hesmondhalgh brilliantly transgender actor to be nominated more and more transgender mod- ridiculous. A perceptions about diff erence.” So it playing Haley Cropper. While her act- for a Primetime Emmy award, and els on the catwalk and in magazines. talented actor comes as no surprise that Paris Lees, ing and character were great, the step the first openly transgender person Everybody is happy to accept and cel- “Everybody writing for the Guardian, cited this forward from Eastenders is to have a to feature on the cover of Time mag- ebrate the transgender community. It should always casting choice as a “cultural landmark”, transgender character being played by azine. Pretty impressive stuff. So is it is fantastic to see that members of the is happy to and I agree. We live in such a diverse someone who is also transgender off any wonder more and more shows community have plenty of people to accept and deserve a part, culture, and while I am not a fan of screen - as is the case here with Ri- want to promote equality by hiring relate themselves to. Overall, it sends regardless the show, I greatly admire Eastenders’ ley Carter Millington playing the part transgender actors? out a positive message of respect and celebrate the progressive attitude, and so should we of Kyle. Th is progressive move will It has also been reported that Hol- recognition. And in the near future, I transgender of their all. hopefully act as an inspiration for the lyoaks will follow suit by introduc- hope that the hiring of a transgender background Treadwell-Collins was quick to transgender community, where their ing a transgender character, played actor will no longer be news, and more community stress how this move “isn’t about to- issues are receiving attention and ac- by Annie Wallace, also transgender. of a norm. But for now, let’s hope the ” kenism”, which unfortunately, some ceptance from the media. Treadwell- Previously in the soap, the character movie industry will pick up on it. ” Do you even lift? With the popularity of social media, gym selfi es are on the rise. But are people going to the gym purely for the likes?

ost of us have scrolled down tening bicep tagged “shredded” reads Th e pervasiveness of social media in Saxon our feeds and seen: #ripped more like a threat of violence against today’s world proves more than any- Pictured: Norgard M#gainz #transformation- those who fail to ‘like’ it than a search thing, that this need for social recog- Posing with tuesday #fi tspiration. If you are still for motivation. With Facebook, Insta- nition is still a major infl uence on our weights or reading, then, like millions of social gram and Twitter accounts devoted day-to-day decision making – it’s just actually using media users around the world, you solely to toned human mass popping that now, our interactions are broad- them? have become de-sensitised to the up in alarming numbers, one could cast to nearly every corner of the (Source: Lower phenomenon that is the gym selfi e. be led to conclude that the gym has planet. In years gone by, one might Columbia Th at, or you are hoping that this ar- become a source of social recogni- work tirelessly in the gym for months College/ Flickr) The need ticle might instruct you on the best tion rather than a temple for genuine on end only to reveal their sculpted “ hashtags for your next upload (hint: it ‘gains’. physique to a few hundred at the for social won’t, but there are plenty of websites Maybe I have become cynical in beach during summer months. Now, that will). my less than glorious physical shape, you can upload a photo that will reach recognition is We all know that there is nothing merely jealous of the heavily fi ltered thousands if not millions of viewers in still a major like a bit of motivation from your muscles bulging out of my screen. the blink of an eye, receiving instant peers to help you achieve your goals. Perhaps if I were to post images of my gratifi cation via likes, shares and fol- influence on Th e need to succeed becomes more emaciated frame onto @GainzCen- lows. our day to visceral when others are invested tral, I would get the kick needed to Th is is not to say that people go to in your success – particularly when add on bulk like the rest. the gym merely for the selfi e. Rather, day decision failure involves posting a photo on We seek social acceptance as a mat- one might conclude that social media Facebook of your beer gut with the ter of instinct, shaped by years of evo- motivates people to go to the gym in making description “Ab Challenge Week 5”. lution in which those who banded to- the fi rst place, and to strive for the ” But there is a point at which the glis- gether faced greater odds of survival. body that will get the likes. 14 COMMENT Educating Cardiff : How education should be done he latest part of Channel 4 teachers would consider teaching in Lucy Hegarty school reality series, ‘Educat- a challenging school such as Willows. Ting Cardiff ’, has received fan- Th is highlights a huge problem with tastic reviews, as it shines a spotlight education in the UK, as diffi culty to on the modern teaching profession. attract teachers to these areas creates Th e TV show gives its viewers an a huge gap in the educational stand- insight into the reality of the role of ards of these schools, and schools teachers. Th e focus is not upon OF- where the average household income STED reports and academic targets, of the family of each child is higher. but instead allows viewers to see the It is this lack of strong teaching in important relationships of teachers challenging schools, and other fac- with their pupils, and the vital role tors, which contribute to the wide- aim for. Jessica, for example, is made no matter where your career takes teachers play in supporting and de- spanning problem that is educational editor of a new school newspaper you afterwards. Teach First believe Pictured: veloping the most challenging stu- inequality in the UK. It is a sad, but to help her improve her social skills that, alongside the classroom, educa- Th e stars of dents. Th e programme reminds us true, fact that the income of a child’s with the other children. Although tional inequality should be targeted Educating just how fragile and impressionable household determines the chances nervous at fi rst, we can see her glow- from all angles of society. Cardiff teenagers are, and that the infl u- that child has in terms of educa- ing when the newspaper sells out Teach First’s Undergraduate Pro- (Source: ence of one teacher can change the tion. 21 per cent of children eligible entirely in the school cafeteria. It is grammes Offi cer, Victor Bamigboye, Evening course of a child’s future – for better for free school meals make it to uni- small actions like this for each indi- is a shining example of the power- Standard) or worse. versity, compared to 85 per cent of vidual, which has allowed Mrs. Bal- ful, positive impact that a Teach First Teaching as a profession has been children from independent schools. lard to drag Willows High School participant can have on the life of an reported to be in trouble in the UK, With this in mind, the determination up from the bottom – from one of individual. Previously, Victor’s am- with many teachers noting the in- of the staff at Willows in ensuring the worst schools in Cardiff , to one bition was to work in Foot Locker. troduction Michael Gove as educa- that the children at their school get which is almost unrecognisable. Now, he is successful and driven and tion minister as the catalyst. Th e the best chance they can to defy this It is clear from watching ‘Educating works for Teach First to help other “The Independent reported in April 2015 statistic. Cardiff ’, that educational inequality teenagers in Sixth Forms and Col- that the number of teachers enter- It is teachers like Headmistress of can be targeted by injecting schools leges to know what opportunities are development ing the profession is in decline. It is Willows High School, Mrs. Ballard, with strong and passionate leaders, out there for them. therefore refreshing to see the pas- who are leading the way for change in like Mrs. Ballard. Teach First is an ini- Teach First have started their Lead- of certain sion driving the teachers at Willows education. She recognises the prob- tiative in England and Wales working ership Development Programme in pupils on the High School in ‘Educating Cardiff .’ At lem and says herself that she “doesn’t to confront this problem in this way. Wales in recent years, and will be schools such as Willows, the job is think it’s fair that your postcode can Teach First is a charity which trains driving up standards in schools like show is a considered even more diffi cult due to determine your life chances.” ‘Edu- the UK’s top graduates through their Willows High School all across the “Teaching as a direct result the challenging circumstances which cating Cardiff ’ shows Mrs. Ballard’s unique leadership development pro- country. And while ‘Educating Car- the teachers work in. Th e low social- talent as a leader, as she treats each gramme - a two-year commitment diff ’ shows its viewers that teaching profession has of the head’s economic status of the school and pupil and teacher as an individual. combining teacher training and a ful- is not just about academia, it’s gen- been reported the surrounding area mean that the Th e development of certain pupils ly-funded PGCE qualifi cation with eral message of seeing each child as refusal to write children are at an economic disad- on the show is a direct result of her one-to-one leadership coaching and an individual and knowing that some to be in trouble any child off vantage from the beginning of their refusal to write any child off ; tailor- skills development. Participants de- of them just need someone to believe in the UK school career. Th e Teach First char- ing opportunities to ensure all pupils velop leadership qualities that can be in them is integral to the experience ” ity have published that only one in 10 at Willows are given something to applied to any working environment, of being a student. ” Crackdown on revenge porn

evenge porn is the sharing or in the early 2000s. Th e act of taking these photos on social media, for Aislinn posting online of nude and ex- explicit photos of yourself or your their friends. McDonagh Rplicit images of a partner with- partner is not new, and telling people Social media revenge porn may out their consent. Since being crimi- to simply not take them is at best un- be seen as ‘revenge porn lite’ by its nalised in February, its profi le has helpful, and at worst, slut-shaming. perpetrators. Th ey aren’t the sickos died down a little in the media, but Th e major thing that has changed uploading it to porn websites for it is still a major issue in the UK, with through the years is just the ease of weirdos to see, they’re just showing the government’s dedicated helpline which one can share these images in their mates why ‘Gemma wasn’t even receiving 1,800 calls in its fi rst six revenge. that fi t anyway’. But this is a serious months, and a suspected 200 victims If, in the 1980s, you wanted to off ence and by no means acceptable. in England and Wales. show your friends a nude photo of In my opinion, the best way to tackle Despite being a criminal act, there your ex, you would have to go to their revenge porn, is to tackle the percep- are many who would consider explicit house with a physical copy of a photo tion that social media revenge porn is The major images being put online as the fault your partner. And I’m sure people ‘not really that bad’. Th e fi rst woman “ of the victim. Th is is particularly true did. Even the ‘old’ revenge porn which to be convicted for revenge porn was thing that of nude ‘selfi es’, or photos sent by the initially came to the media’s attention sentenced last month for upload- victim, with a ‘if you don’t send them, was (mostly) men uploading explicit ing photos of her ex to Facebook for has changed you can’t lose them’ attitude. Much images of (mostly) women onto nor- half an hour after a row. In schools, ness campaigns such as we have seen through the of the media attention is also focused mal porn websites, or even more initiatives are being put in place to try for sexual assault and domestic abuse, (Photographer: on young people, and “why do young sickeningly, sites set up specifi cally and reduce revenge porn with minors challenging potential aggressors to Martin years is just people take so many nudes?” Both of to revel in this sexual humiliation. (doubly illegal) on Whatsapp (yes think about their actions might see a Gommel) these can be addressed quite simply. However, most of these sites have Whatsapp counts). drop in the worryingly high statistics. the ease of Everyone takes nude photos. Or at either been taken down or have put I don’t think most of these types of Th ere will always be people doing it which one can least, lots of people do. And our gen- in place measures to report revenge perpetrators fully understand either deliberately and calculatedly to hu- eration is not the fi rst to do it – I’m porn (such as pornhub’s new policy). the legal aspect to what they’re do- miliate, hurt and betray their victim. share these sure people took naked photos on It seems that people who wish to hu- ing, or, more importantly, the serious, For those people, legal punishment polaroid’s in the 70’s, on fi lm in the miliate their ex’s are being told ‘you long-term eff ect it can have on their may be the only deterrent. But for images 90’s and on chunky DSLR’s when they are not welcome’ everywhere online. victims. I am not suggesting a ‘hug-a- others, maybe a little empathy coach- ” went through their ‘alternative’ phase So, increasingly, people are posting revenge-porner’ attitude, but aware- ing would help. COMMENT 15 A welcome disturbance at the Suff ragette premiere

Pictured: Th e London Film Festival (Photographer: spiritquest/ fl ickr)

n the 12th of October, the chanting ‘dead women can’t vote’ and ceptance of women in the workplace of education and it also conveys that Kate Elswood fi lm ‘Suff ragette’ was released lying on the red carpet. Th ough having and in educational institutions, and women have the desire and the op- Oin the UK. Th e fi lm tells the successfully gained publicity for their also the opening of Britain’s fi rst birth portunity to access higher level profes- “Although story of women who dedicated their movement, it also brought their con- control clinic by Marie Stopes in sions. Slowly but surely, all of the hard lives to obtaining female suff rage. cerns of current women’s issues into 1921, which gave women more con- work is paying off . much has For those women, gaining the vote the spotlight. Th ey also gained sup- trol over their bodies. It seems odd Although much has changed since changed since was the key to improving women’s port from stars on the red carpet, such for all these legislations and move- women gained suff rage, the values of rights. Less than a hundred years as Lauren Lavern, who used Twitter to ment to come into fruition and still feminism that the women who cam- women gained “For those later, many of the things that those show her support, stating that she will have almost 4,000 women die every paigned for female suff rage created suffrage, women dreamed of are now a real- “always support those speaking out year due to domestic violence. are still relevant. Th e vision that the women, ity. Carey Mulligan, Meryl Streep and against domestic violence.” But the progress over the past one suff ragettes had is still a dream for the values gaining the Helena Bonham Carter all champion After women fi rst obtained the hundred years is undeniable and should the women represented by groups the women they portray in the fi lm, vote in 1918, progress seemed slower not be forgotten. Despite the problems like Sisters Uncut. Women and men of feminism vote was as strong activists who began a move- than expected, with women not gain- that still exist, the majority of the west- who suff er as a result of domestic created by the key to ment still going strong today. ing equal suff rage with men until ten ern world is much closer to obtaining violence depend on the continuing During the premiere of the fi lm in years later. Th eir place in the home gender equality. In the UK, women support of groups of activists who campaigners improving London, activists from Sisters Uncut and their domestic ‘duties’ still re- now hold a vital role in the world of can speak out on the behalf of vul- are still used the red carpet as a stage to pro- mained a large part of many women’s education and work, with 55 per cent of nerable people, and it’s thanks to women’s rights test about cuts to government funding lives. However, with regards to wom- undergraduates being women in 2014, activists like the suff ragettes and Sis- relevant for victims of domestic violence. Th ey en’s rights, important improvements according to UCAS. Th is suggests that ters Uncut that these issues are being ” caught the attention of the media by were made, such as the increasing ac- women are able to achieve a high level tackled more and more. ” Are we wrong to criticise Facebook over tax? Tax-avoidance is legal, but is the system to blame? he US social media giant Fa- going to be loopholes that will be as “Double Irish”. Profi ts are shifted hypocritical. Jack Williams cebook is in hot water after it found and used accordingly. Which from higher tax countries, to lower It’s like blasting Facebook for their Twas revealed that it paid only then makes us ask who exactly is to be ones. Th erefore one could argue it is tax choices while drinking a Pumpkin £4,327 in corporation tax last year in blamed if someone wants to complain the fault of the EU. Yet another rea- Spiced Latte from fellow tactical-tax- Britain. Yes, that seems suspicious – the company? Th e people running son to want out. Th e EU openly pro- ers Starbucks, on a smartphone with but it is not illegal. In fact, Facebook the company? Or the law system? motes tactical taxing. Vodafone as your phone network and were completely within the law. Possibly the people running the In March, Chancellor George Os- the Facebook app open. Change your Firstly, we must distinguish just company by manipulating the law? borne announced his diverted profi t lifestyle habits if you have a problem what exactly ‘corporate Facebook’ is, But they are still well within their tax on companies who moved profi ts with tactical taxing and want to send because it is actually made up of mul- rights to do it and are only expected overseas. Th is charges a 25 per cent a message to these companies. It will tiple ‘Facebook’ international offi ces. to stop because it doesn’t fi t with the tax on profi ts that are shifted out of be near impossible believe me. Here, we are talking about Facebook public’s moral compass. Technically Britain. Th ere will however never be Most people will fi nd this practice UK and Facebook Ireland. they are doing their job, so in my a central European solution because morally wrong. But it is completely Facebook UK only provides sales, book they can carry on as they wish. countries such as Ireland and the legal. Th at is the most important Most people “It isn’t so marketing and engineering support It is the system that needs to change. Netherlands would lose out. thing to ascertain from this story. Un- “ much the to Facebook Ireland. Th ey deal with Th ey are simply taking advantage of a It is important to discern the diff er- til a big corporation breaks the law, will find this the fi nalising and completion of the pre-existing, broken system. ence between tax-avoidance, and tax they are well within their rights to do fault of these sales. Hence the low tax in the fi rst It is the system that should be evasion. Tax evasion is wholly illegal, what they can to minimise what they practice place. It is Facebook Ireland who blamed, not the corporations. Proba- whereas tax avoidance simply seeks pay. Besides, certain companies do a morally ‘corporations’ should be under scrutiny. But even bly not a popular opinion. Th e EU al- to minimise the bill without breaking lot worse that you don’t hear about. – more of the they are within EU law. lows corporations to decide in which the law. And that is what Facebook Be honest with yourself, and ask wrong. But it It isn’t so much the fault of these member states they pay tax. Hence did, and what many other companies yourself the question: would you do is completely system itself ‘corporations’ – more of the system why Facebook uses this to their ad- in the UK and around the world do. the same, and protect your hard- itself. Th e inconsistencies in UK law vantage in the UK and Ireland. Th is is In that sense it is pointless to be earned money if there was a legal way legal ” and EU law means there are always all legal and part of a strategy known angry with Facebook. 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Photo: Giuseppe Milo THE GAIR RHYDD COLUMN 17 I’m an Insta-fan but I’m not proud of it

If you made a salad and you didn’t upload a photo to Instagram, did you really make a salad? ocial media site Instagram paints an idealised view, perhaps, of livelihoods, and generating a lot of ing food baby. Perhaps, on reflection, Helena has had its fifth birthday this what we wish our reality was like. money, from showcasing their bod- it was a sense of freedom, being sep- Pictured: Hanson Smonth. It’s perplexing to con- One could assume, looking at my ies, make up skills, clothing, photog- arated from the social pressures to Instragram has sider that for five whole years we Instagram, I eat beautifully poached raphy and so on. be picture-perfect all the time. That become one of have rejoiced photographs of exqui- eggs and avocado on toast every With this popularity comes a said, I’d be lying if I said Instagram the most widely sitely arranged salads, cherished Kim morning, before taking a selfie in my whole culture of Instagram. You was far from my mind the whole used social Kardashian’s selfies and neurotically spotless new Nike gym-wear, and must learn the unwritten rules of In- time I was away. I couldn’t help but media apps monitored fitness inspiration blogs then spending the evening sipping stagram in order to maximise usage imagine the glory of each photo with in the world that remind us how fat and unhappy exquisite cocktails in a bar with my potential. For example, it is obliga- an Instagram filter, and separate my (Photographer: we all really are. beautiful friends and their perfectly tory that if your best friend uploads photographs between Facebook and Jason Howie) Instagram has now overtaken manicured nails and fresh blow dry’s. a selfie, you comment the love heart Insta-worthy. Twitter in terms of the amount of The reality however, goes more eyes emoji, the princess emoji, or the Ultimately I try not to worry too active users, with over 300 million like this; OMG! For the first time in burning fire emoji. If they do not yet much that Kendal Jenner, who is monthly active users, of which more three weeks of trying my breakfast have eleven likes, you better like that younger than myself, had the most than 75 million use the app daily. As doesn’t look like a cat has just thrown photo, it is your duty. If you buy a liked photo on Instagram of all time much as it makes me wince to admit, it up - I’ll Instagram it. OMG! My coffee, or cook a steak, one must up- (over 3.1 million likes), and that my I am one of those 75 million. Insta- new Nike leggings are so comfort- load a photo, otherwise it didn’t hap- pictures get twelve likes on a good gram is as necessary to my circadian able I think I’ll sit in bed all day and pen. People don’t like it if you put day. I know that I can rest assured routine as my cup of tea before lec- appreciate their stretchiness, but it #stunning on your own photo and knowing that if I #girl, SexyDarren37 tures and my afternoon nap. looks like I’m going to the gym - I’ll you must always, ALWAYS be extra from Bolton will like all selfies I’ve I slump in bed in the morning and Instagram them. OMG! I have a free vigilant with navigation when you ever taken. Instagram is probe through whose boyfriend has drink voucher for that posh place in are 78 weeks deep in your ex-girl- It also shouldn’t matter that Taylor “ bought them a new Michael Kors town lets go there! Then I proceed friend’s or new boyfriend’s pictures. Swift probably has more followers as necessary handbag this week (always captioned to photograph my drink before sub- Only recently, when travelling than breaths I will take in my entire ‘the boy did good’) and discover that sequently colliding with the table of America did I begin to recognise the life because ultimately, it doesn’t re- to my another boy from high school has cocktails as I try to remove the toilet true depths of my Instagram obses- ally mean anything. We need to stop circadian become a self-proclaimed fitness in- paper stuck to my Primark heel. This sion. Living in the jungle with no ac- searching for clarity in an emoji or a structor and is offering me advice on is what I love: you will only ever see cess to social media, I found myself follow or a like, because we are all so routine as how to enhance my biceps by four what I want you to see. comfortable and relaxed in my own much more than our 180 Instagram my cup of inches in 24 hours, and I love it. Ins- Instagram has impacted modern skin. My own particular Instagram posts. tagram is perhaps so popular because society in ways I don’t think we can weakness is female fitness pages. I Nobody looks like their twice edit- “This is what I tea before it allows us to showcase ourselves in yet comprehend. ‘Insta-famous’ is a trawl through hundreds and hun- ed Instagram photograph in real life, a way that we have never before been culturally recognised adjective and dreds of spectacular muscular bod- and nobody’s figure looks as good in love, you will lectures and able to do. It encompasses the innate it’s becoming a career opportunity ies, flawless feminine six-packs, reality as it does with a Valencia tint. only ever see my afternoon human yearning to show-off. too. Millions of people, businesses toned legs and peachy arses. I gawp Although a picture may be worth a There is no better way to show and brands around the world use and curse myself silently as I shovel thousand words, I don’t really think what I want nap everyone how much better your life Instagram as their primary advertis- more pizza into my mouth and glare one selfie can ever truly be worth 3.1 you to see ” is than theirs than via Instagram. It ing source. Users are constructing through my tears at my rapidly grow- million likes. ” 18 POLITICS

Editors: Carwyn Williams Luke Brett Sam Patterson @GairRhyddPol [email protected] politics gairrhydd.com/politics USA questions ISIS’ use of Toyotas

he Toyota Hilux has become the delivery list included 43 Toyota means, and that a signifi cant pro- which fell disastrously short of its tar- Sam a fi xture of ISIS propaganda. trucks.” portion of the Toyotas came to be in get, training only 60 of the intended Patterson TWhen ISIS took control of “Hiluxes were on the Free Syrian Syria through US funding of moder- 5,400. Th e US’s questions to Toyota Raqqa in 2013, two thirds of the vehi- Army’s wish list. Oubai Shahbander, ate rebels. reveal either a certain negligence on cles shown in their propaganda were a Washington-based advisor to the Th e Obama administration’s re- the part of the Terror Financing Unit, white Toyota Hiluxes, while numer- Syrian National Coalition, is a fan of cord in Syria has come under criti- or a bad attempt by the US to distract able other images and videos pro- the truck.” cism; the US recently ended its $500 attention from their role in funding duced by the group show large num- Military aid for Syrian rebels is not million program to train Syrian rebels militant groups in Syria. bers of Toyotas. Th e Terror Financing the only way the vehicles get into Unit of the US Treasury asked Toyota Syria; militant groups acquire ve- if they knew how ISIS were acquiring hicles legally and illegally. Vehicles Pictured: so many of their vehicles, and if they like these are stolen disproportion- A Toyota in would support an inquiry to fi nd out ately often. In Australia, vehicle theft Aleppo, Syria how, this is despite the fact that there has dropped by almost 300 per cent (Photographer: is nothing to substantiate any culpa- since 2001. Despite this, the number Evgeni Zotov). bility of Toyota’s part. of Hiluxes being stolen is rising and ISIS are not the only militant group some experts on terrorism think this, to have used Toyota pickup trucks in among many others, could be a pos- large numbers; they are manoeuvra- sible source for militants. “A significant ble, durable, and it’s possible to have Toyota responded to the US’s ques- a gun mounted on the back. Th e Hi- tions, stating that they have all the proportion of lux and the Tacoma (its American proper protocol in place to prevent counterpart) have been used by mili- militant groups from acquiring their the Toyotas tant groups in Somalia, Sudan, Paki- vehicles, and said that they would came to be in stan, Nicaragua, Ethiopia, Rwanda, support an inquiry. It’s extremely un- Liberia, the Democratic Republic likely that Toyota are acting any dif- Syria through of the Congo, Lebanon, Yemen and ferently to other automobile manu- US funding Iraq, while they are also used by US factures, nor is it the case that if they special forces. stopped selling Hiluxes, ISIS would of moderate In 2014, American public radio be at a loss for 4x4s. Th e much more PRI reported: “Recently, when the likely scenario is that ISIS, similarly rebels US State Department resumed send- to other militant groups, acquire ” ing non-lethal aid to Syrian rebels, their vehicles through a variety of Green Belt to suff er due to housing demand n 1955, Duncan Sandys’ Green Th e recently announced landmark upon. Th ey will no doubt remember emissions. Adam Belt policy was enacted in order Housing and Planning Bill states that his election pledge back in March, Th e issue is complex with many Muspratt Ito control urban growth, marking local councils will have to produce in which he stated that he was a solutions, but with no clear answers. a realization of the need to protect plans for new homes to be built in “countryman” and would protect the Should we produce more high-rise our countryside from urban intru- their respective areas by 2017. New Green Belt at all costs. and dense fl ats? Should we curtail sion. Th e policy gave way to 14 belts powers will also be given to the gov- Th ere is good reason why around immigration to reduce the need for of countryside that encircle highly- ernment to overrule any council re- two thirds of the public are against housing? Or should we move housing populated areas, covering an esti- luctant to build new homes. building upon Green Belts. Th e development away from the south? mated 13 per cent of the UK. Th is, under David Cameron’s self- woodland that comprises much of What does remain clear is that the Th ese buff ers between our urban expressed, “national crusade to get the Green Belt is ancient and has Green Belt is at risk, and has been for sprawls not only provide astonishing homes built,” the crux of which will stood there for centuries. It has very the last few years. Th e National Trust landscapes to frolic in and partake in result in one million homes being much become apart of England’s recently published a report with outdoor activities, but they also al- built by 2017. Th e policy also en- identity and heritage. worrying fi ndings; it was revealed low agriculture, forestry, and nature sured that 200,000 starter homes will However, there are some econom- that “areas of outstanding beauty” to thrive. However, recent housing be built, and that red tape will be cut ic downsides to the continued use of were not being protected from hous- proposals put forth by the govern- to increase house building. Green Belts. Critics often point out ing developers who had been given ment put the belts at risk of being Th e policy may receive fl ak from that the policy forces up housing substantial leeway. Th e Campaign to cemented over in a bid to accommo- his countryside supporters if the prices substantially by constricting Protect Rural England showed simi- date the need for housing. Green Belt is further encroached the fl ow of supply and demand. Th e lar fi ndings: they claim that housing results of which can be seen in plac- developments on Green Belts has es like London and Cambridge that increased “fi ve fold” since 2010, and have exuberantly expensive houses. over 219,000 houses are in the plan- Th e policy can also come across as ning stages to be built within Green too restrictive and out-of-date with Belt land. the current problems faced by city Th e true importance of Green planners. Belts remains a contentious issue. “Critics often Th e Adam Smith Institute (ASI) However, when considering the po- estimates that if 3.7 per cent of Lon- tential positives and negatives, it is point out that don’s green belt was liberated, up to important to remember that at their the policy a million homes could be built. In a very core they serve to form bounda- report, ‘the Green Noose’, the ASI ries and stop towns from coalescing forces up claims the protection of the Green in what would become indistinguish- Belt is environmentally negative, as able urban sprawls. Th eir restrictions housing prices it leads to more land being devoted also incentivize the use of Brownfi eld substantially to transport infrastructure, and to sites within cities, ensuring every more pollution and greenhouse gas space is economically used. ” POLITICS 19 USA: Eyes on Clinton and Sanders after fi rst Democrat debate

Pictured: Democratic candidates Clinton and Sanders (Photographers: Marc Nozell & Paul Morigi).

he race to succeed Barack contributors are Citigroup Inc, Gold- gun manufacturers immunity from story. According to a poll conducted Rhys Thomas Obama as Democratic leader man-Sachs, JP Morgan, Time Warner lawsuits by the victims of shootings by ‘US News and World Report’ on & Sam Tand President of the United (CNN owners), Lehman Brothers, and - one of the few points on which she Facebook, 82 per cent of viewers said “All the con- Patterson States hotted up last week as the FOX. Sanders on the other hand re- is more in tune with the progressive that Sanders won the debate, whilst Democrats held their fi rst debate of ceives over 80 per cent of his funding movement than Sanders. only 11 per cent chose Clinton. Even tenders were the 2016 electoral cycle, hosted by from small donations of under $200. Another key area of confl ict was polls on the websites of the major CNN in Las Vegas, Nevada. Th e past few weeks have been tricky Wall Street and regulations on the news outlets such as CNN and Time polite and Th e Republicans have already for Clinton, with Republican attacks banking sector - Sanders was predict- showed Sanders to be the debate calm, in stark steamed ahead and had two debates, centring on the death of the US Am- ably strong on this issue and has wide- winner, with upwards of 80 per cent whilst the Democratic National Com- bassador in Benghazi during her ten- spread support in liberal circles. He of those surveyed picking Sanders. contrast to mittee has come under fi re for how ure as Secretary of State, as well as the attacked Clinton for not having taken Focus groups selected by CNN from the heated few debates they have pencilled in - improper use of a personal email ad- concrete steps to stop the excesses of right-leaning states such as Florida the DNC apparently wishing to limit dress for Government business hurt- the banks, whilst he himself called for and Nevada chose Sanders as the fa- and frankly the chance of the non-Clinton partici- ing her standing in the polls and not a “political revolution” - this is argu- vourite, and even a FOX news poll pants. helped her reputation for being un- ably the biggest point of diff erence favoured Sanders’ performance in the childish Th e contenders are frontrunner trustworthy. Clinton has also had to between the two main candidates and debate. Polls were promptly removed Republican Hillary Clinton - former First Lady, contend with the rising star of Bernie is very much an ‘establishment’ versus from websites such as CNN - it’s no Senator and Secretary of State; Bernie Sanders, aged 74 and the only Inde- ‘outsider’ battle. coincidence that Time Warner, the debates Sanders - current Vermont Senator, pendent member of the Senate. His Despite the intense debate there owner of CNN, is one of Clintons top self-described “Democratic Socialist” brand of left-wing, anti-Wall Street was one clear moment of agreement, campaign contributors. Th is, along and the man who’s setting the agenda politics has struck a chord with many Senator Sanders defending Clinton with the initial reluctance of the Dem- ” on the left; Martin O’Malley - former progressive Americans, especially the when asked about the email scandal ocratic Party to hold a debate, shows Mayor of Baltimore and Governor of young. His rise is very much like Jer- and ensuing Republican witch hunt, a clear orchestrated eff ort by both the Maryland; Jim Webb - former Virgin- emy Corbyn’s in the United Kingdom, saying: “people are sick and tired of Democratic Party, and the American ia senator and Secretary of the Navy; or even Syriza in Greece. Whilst Clin- hearing about your damn emails” to media establishment, to downplay the and fi nally Lincoln Chafee - former ton is still the fi rm favourite, some of which Clinton responded: “Me too!” popularity of Sanders, and to exagger- Republican Governor of Rhode Island. the polling numbers are certainly a and then proceeded to thank the Sen- ate the popularity of Clinton. Th e latter three candidates have a very shock with Sanders ahead in some ator. Th is totally contrasts the current Th e debate did much to publicise slim chance of overtaking Sanders, let Iowa and New Hampshire polls - Republican culture of attacks, and Sanders, to educate Americans on alone Clinton. those two being the all important fi rst Sanders has on multiple occasions re- his positions. Following the debate, Clinton and Sanders fundamentally two states in the primary season that fused to attack Clinton. Google searches of ‘Sanders’ and ‘so- “Clinton and disagree on a whole host of important can make or break candidates. Th e most interesting development, cialism’ skyrocketed, and post-debate “Even a FOX issues. Clinton voted in favour of the All the contenders were polite and rather than the debate itself, has argu- Internet polling seemed to reveal that Sanders invasion of Iraq, the Wall Street bail- calm, in stark contrast to the heated ably been the discrepancy between Clinton’s hesitancy to have a debate news poll fundamentally outs, the ‘Patriot Act’, the death pen- and frankly childish Republican de- the conclusions of offi cial pundits, was justifi ed. Th e debate revealed favoured alty, the Trans-Pacifi c Partnership, the bates dominated by the big person- and of regular viewers, as to who ac- much about the candidates, and so- disagree on Keystone pipeline, all of which Sand- ality of Donald Trump. Th ere were tually won the debate. Major outlets lidifi ed the view that O’Malley, Webb, Sanders’ ers voted against. Th e sources from several points of contention in the such as CNN, Time, Th e Guardian, and Chafee have slim chances of win- a whole host which they receive their funding also debate. Gun control was one, and this Vox, Th e Boston Globe, chose Clinton ning the election. Th e reaction of the performance of important diff er immensely. Whilst Sanders re- was an area where Clinton scored big as the victor, with headlines such as major American news outlets to the in the debate jects all campaign contributions from over Sanders. She attacked him on his “Clinton’s Confi dent Sweep” - CNN, debate however, perhaps revealed issues corporations, Clinton receives tens of perceived laxness towards gun control and “Clinton in Control” - Time. Th e more about the election race than the millions from Super PACs, her largest and his Senate vote in 2005 to give Internet polls however, tell a diff erent debate did itself. ” ” Polling before the debate Who won the debate? 50 100 Left: Polling before the de- 40 bate is a poll- 80 ing average by realclearpoli- 30 60 tics.com

20 Right: Polling 40 instantly after the debate is 10 20 from USuncut. com Webb Biden Webb Chafee Clinton Clinton Chafee Sanders O’Malley Sanders O’Malley 20 POLITICS Th e not so Right Honourable Jeremy Corbyn Leader of the Opposition declines invitation to Privy Council veryone’s favourite controver- the invitation to the monthly oppor- Conor sial and outspoken leftist Jer- tunity to do so. Holohan Eemy Corbyn has hit the head- Th e Queen of the Privy Council, lines yet again. Th e Home Offi ce who are a group of advisors who car- have confi rmed the Labour leader ry out the Queen’s wishes, stripped has been stripped of his Right Hon- the Labour leader of his title. Th is ourable title (Rt Hon), for not attend- was only really in a digital sense, as it ing the fi rst Privy Council meeting was only removed from his name on since his recent leadership election the Commons website. Th e Queen victory. does not appear to be impressed. Corbyn, it seems, stood the Queen Corbyn cannot join the Council up. He was photographed in Nevis, now until next month. He will have Scotland on what has been called a to send someone from his Shadow ‘holiday’ while Parliament was in re- Cabinet who is already a member cess. to be briefed on important security In defence, he explained that he matters in his place. had “long standing private arrange- Something which has been rightly ments” and “needed relaxation time,” pointed out is that David Cameron and was compelled to decline the in- did not attend a Privy Council meet- vitation. But, what even is the Privy ing until three months into his lead- Council, and what does it do? ership. However, Corbyn’s failure to Her Majesty’s Privy Council con- be sworn into the Council could be sists of over 600 councillors, consist- more concerning for him than it was ing of MPs, Bishops, Judges - and, for the PM. A vote on military action Corbyn should have made his pro- cil in general, this would raise some of course, the Queen. Th e Council in Syria could well take place before test smaller and less media-friendly. more concerning questions. Specifi - Pictured: rarely ever meet as a whole. Th e ma- he can become a member - so the I try to avoid pessimism and say cally about the relationship between Jeremy Corbyn; jority of the members do not attend Leader of the Opposition will be un- that whilst he will continue to make elected offi cials and unelected enti- it’s getting most meetings, and they are only re- able to voice his obvious qualms with protests against the monarch, as he ties in our governing system. diffi cult to fi nd quired to meet in their entirety upon military intervention to the sover- certainly reserves the right to do so, Should elected offi cials have their an image that the death of a monarch, or their an- eign. he should consider that the position demands approved to alter tradition- hasn’t been nouncement of engagements. Th e Labour leader’s offi ce con- of Leader of the Opposition is, to be al procedures with Her Majesty in a overly used “David Cam- Th ose who are made members of fi rmed that he would be demanding crude, bigger than he is. moment of international signifi cance by the media the council are members for life, and to be made a member of the Coun- As out of date as the action of exer- such as a potential vote on Syria? (Photographer: eron did not they meet wherever the monarch cil so that he can receive intelligence cising these traditions with the mon- Of course they should! Especially if Bob Peters) attend a Privy is staying to secure her approval to briefi ngs about any pressing secu- arch is, he should remember that the elected offi cial in question is the pass laws and make governmental rity issues over the next month. Th is they are merely traditions. Important Leader of the Opposition! It would Council meet- appointments. Th ey are also given indicates his eagerness to join the though these meetings are in passing be a scandal if Corbyn was denied ing until three the Rt Hon title to use before their Council, disproving allegations that laws, the Queen would not dare to membership in this instance, a slap names. he missed the meeting out of being uphold the will of Parliament, nor of in the face for democracy. Especially months into In reality, Jeremy Corbyn hasn’t ac- adverse to the idea of kneeling before a government with a clear majority. because of his well-known pacifi sm, tually been stripped of his Rt Hon ti- the Queen. Regardless, if there is a vote on which is sentiment strongly shared his leadership tle, as he was never off ered it. Th e ti- I hope this is the case. Th ough a intervention in Syria and Corbyn is among many inside and, more so, tle is given to a member once they’ve republican sentiment is popular, and denied membership of the Council outside the walls of Westminster ” been sworn in, and Corbyn declined is shared by people across all parties, by the Queen’s advisors or the Coun- Palace. Petition forces Parliament to debate drug decriminalisation ollowing 224,000 people signing Flynn described cannabis as the However, the possibility of the fore were in no position to imprison Luke Brett a petition, decriminalising can- oldest medicine in the world before government amending drug laws is thousands of young people who also Fnabis was assigned three hours comparing Britain’s approach to can- highly unlikely. Th eresa May has al- use the substance. to be debated in Parliament on 12th nabis to the United States’ approach ready drawn up plans to crack down In October last year, only 21 out of October. to gun control, “we’re getting near to on legal highs such as laughing gas, 650 were in attendance in a debate 100,000 signatures are needed on a position where we look at the Unit- indicating the maintaining of a tough over drug policy, following a Home a petition on the Parliament website ed States with incredulity because line on drugs. Offi ce report suggesting no pattern in order to debate a particular issue. they don’t accept the evidence on the Th e government responded to the between stringent drug laws and a “The petition Remarkably, the petition hit this fi g- possession of guns”. petition: “Th ere are no plans to legal- declining in drug usage. argued that ure within four days as far back as Th e parliamentarian for Newport ise cannabis as it would not address Successive governments’ fi rm and August. West used Portugal as an example of the harm to individuals and commu- strict drug policy seems increasingly legalising Th e petition argued that legalising successful decriminalisation, as crime nities”. ideological, this was most notable cannabis cannabis could bring around £900m rates have fallen since reforms. Since “Legalisation of cannabis would when Professor David Nutt was fi red in tax revenue per annum, while also Colorado legalised cannabis adult not eliminate the crime committed in 2009 after calling for the legalisa- could bring saving £400 million in associated po- drug usage has largely stayed the by the illicit trade, nor would it ad- tion of cannabis and to classify the lice costs and creating over 10,000 same and in fact dropped amongst dress the harms associated with drug drug as Class C. around new jobs. young people. dependence and the misery that this Th e petition brought attention to a £900m in tax Labour MP Paul Flynn brought for- Conservative minister Peter Lilley can cause to families”. divisive issue, though a swift rejection ward the debate alongside sole Green was open to the use of cannabis for Norman Lamb accused the gov- by the government of the petition’s revenue per MP Caroline Lucas and Norman medical reasons, citing Queen Vic- ernment of being hypocritical. He proposal watered down the mass annum Lamb, Liberal Democrats Health toria as someone who had used can- claimed around half the government support it had gained, showing a step spokesman. nabis to relieve menstrual pain. had tried cannabis themselves, there- back for progressive drug policy. ” POLITICS 21 Modern slavery on the rise in Britain But who are the victims? odern slavery continues numbers of people referred to au- In November last year, Doran was the issue of slavery in the UK with Daniel to be not only an interna- thorities are only a tip of the iceberg. jailed for four-and-a-half years after setting up the so-called National Heard Mtional crime, but a blight The government’s own most re- pleading guilty to forcing an individ- Referral Mechanism (NRM), to that affects an estimated 29.8 million cent estimates put the number of ual to perform compulsory labour. which potential victims of traffick- people around the world. Although people in slavery in the UK at 13,000. Police investigating the Simester ing can be referred to and have their slavery is illegal in every country in Poverty, limited opportunities at case say a pattern is emerging across cases assessed, officially recognised the modern world, it still exists, and home, lack of education, unstable the UK involving criminals exploit- as victims of trafficking, and sup- even on the narrowest definition of social and political conditions, eco- ing vulnerable adults for their own port services provided. Going one slavery it’s likely that there are far nomic imbalances and war are some benefit. Although modern slavery step further, in June 2014, the draft more slaves now than there were of the key drivers that contribute to increasingly gets more attention, Modern Slavery Bill was introduced victims of the Atlantic slave trade. It trafficking of victims. What’s more, the response by the authorities still in Parliament, signalling a renewed can include victims that have been victims can often face more than one largely fails many victims. The gov- push to tackle modern-day slavery brought from overseas, with these type of abuse and slavery, for exam- ernment has begun to respond to in Britain. vulnerable people being forced to ple if they are sold to another traf- illegally work against their will in ficker and then forced into another many different sectors, including form of exploitation. It is a global Pictured: brothels, cannabis farms, and in ag- problem that transcends age, gen- Logo of “The riculture. der and ethnicities, including here antislavery. Victims found in Britain come in Wales. One of the most infamous org, which government’s from many different countries, in- and recent cases of this atrocity hap- campaigns in own most cluding Romania, Albania, Nigeria, pened far too close to home. the UK and Vietnam and the UK itself. In 2013, Darrell Simester went missing af- abroad. recent 90 alone were UK nationals, a figure ter going on a trip to Porthcawl back estimates put hard to believe or even comprehend in 2000. A member of the notorious in today’s society. Trafficking for Doran family, led by David Dan- the number the purpose of domestic servitude iel Doran, had picked him up from was the main reason women and the side of a dual carriageway and of people in girls (other than sexual exploita- taken him to Cariad Farm in Peter- slavery in the tion) were trafficked, higher in the stone, near Newport. For the next UK than anywhere else. For men, the 13 years, Simester was then made to UK at 13,000 main reason was for the purpose of work for up to 16 hours a day, dur- labour exploitation. Although most ing this time only ever having two associate trafficking with forced sex- days off. He lived in appalling condi- ual exploitation, the most common tions, first in a rat-infested shed then ” purpose of trafficking is for forced a cold, squalid caravan, with only a labour. horse trough to wash in, without Two years ago, over 1,746 referral soap or a toothbrush. After his fam- reports of potential victims of traf- ily finally tracked him down last year ficking were investigated. This was following a social media campaign, a 47 per cent increase on the num- they hardly recognised him, describ- ber received in 2012. Yet the official ing him as being a “broken man”.

A week in the Senedd with Carwyn Williams

Board, she also said that the charity sector has even off ered to pay for new Cardiff AM Rathbone sacked machines, but the health board might Jenny Rathbone has recently criticised not provide the staff to man them. In the Welsh Government for spending what was a standard response, Jones millions of pounds on research and said he would encourage the health consultation on the proposed new board to look into and consider this, M4 relief road in Newport. but off ered no real solution to the She was also the chairman of the problem himself. All Wales European Programme Th e Tories and Labour parties fell Monitoring Committee, which over- out into an argument over who is age- sees the use of EU funds. But, after ist in the session. Andrew RT Davies speaking out against the Govern- said plans for adult education were ment, she has been fi red from her failing, and 90,000 fewer adults in role. Th e First Minister said the chair- part-time education, pointing spe- man of the committee needs to act in First Minister’s Questions route would mean more disruption cifi cally to cuts in Further Education. the spirit of collective responsibility. It was a busy FMQs in the Siambr last to residential homes and signifi cantly Th e First Minister however admitted In response to this news, Plaid week, with discussions on the pro- greater impact on commercial prop- that some awful decisions had to be Cymru’s Simon Th omas said, “When posed M4 relief road, health, educa- erties. made, due to cuts coming from the I compared your managerial style tion and devolution. Lindsay Whittle Th ere was confusion on the mat- Conservative party in Westminster. to Sepp Blatter the other day I was of Plaid Cymru suggested that up to ter from the Conservatives; William Davies said that the older you are in clearly wrong. I underestimated your £52 million has been spent on devel- Graham said his party supported the Wales, the less chance you’ll get to ruthlessness.” oping plans and consultation on the process, whereas moments later Nick educate and re-train yourself, where- M4 project. Ramsey went totally against this call- as Jones said the Tories were con- £8 million for mental health “The Tories and Whittle added that £4.2 million ing on the government to consider ducting a war on young people. Th e Welsh Government has an- was spent in 2014/15, £19.8 million in the other options again. Leanne Wood had devolution on nounced a big boost to adult mental Labour parties 2015/16, £12 million on buying prop- Th e Lib Dem’s Kirsty Williams her mind, announcing worries that health services in Wales, with over erties and £20 million on consulta- stood up to the minister on health, the current draft bill doesn’t go far half the cash set for helping dementia fell out into an tion fees, urging the Minister to drop quoting a worrying fact that in North enough. She also called on Labour patients. Health Minister Mark Drak- argument over the plans as it was a bad decision. Wales only 60 per cent receive ur- to vote against any Wales Bill that eford also said that mental health is Carwyn Jones responded saying that gent radiotherapy treatment within restricts the Assembly’s powers in the single biggest area of NHS ex- who is most the government has looked at other 14 days, whereas the same fi gure in any way, to wait until after the Welsh penditure, and it’s £587 million budg- ageist options, and the fees are necessary to South Wales is almost 100 per cent. General Election so a new govern- et will be ring-fenced. inform the decision making process. Showing what seems to be another ment can take devolution to the next ” He also explained that the alternative failure by Betsi Cadwaladr Health step. 22 SCIENCE

Editors: Maria Mellor Lizzie Harrett @GairRhyddSci [email protected] science gairrhydd.com/science Migraines are caused deep in the brain A protein embedded in the brain has been found to be the trigger

ood news for those who suf- proteins widen blood vessels, a pro- Lisa Carr fer from migraines (and no, cess that was wrongfully thought to Pictured: Ghangover headaches don’t be significant in the development of A headache count). Scientists have taken another a migraine. that leaves step closer to pinpointing the exact PACAP in particular was shown to you unable cause of the debilitating headaches have substantial eff ects on the cluster to function and the new discovery could help of neurones in the head that are known normally develop therapies to treat sufferers. to trigger a headache. When admin- (Photographer: There are many superficial theo- istered on rats in an experiment, the Shaun Murphy) ries surrounding the causes of mi- blood vessels in the rats’ brain showed graines, from lack of food and stress, increased activity, establishing that to sleep deprivation and hormonal this protein is very much responsible changes. Yet no study has ever cor- for inducing a migraine. However, rectly isolated the exact physiologi- Akermand and Goadsby found in cal cause of the nauseating head- their experiments that the widening aches, that can leave a person bed of blood vessels did not happen at the bound with paracetamol not even same time as the over activity of the “When injected scratching the surface of pain relief. neurones, therefore proving that the However, researchers have recent- dilation of blood vessels doesn’t lead directly into ly found that a protein embedded to migraines as previously thought. deep in the brain can trigger a mi- Th e eff ect of PACAP on neurones the brain, graine by stimulating the neurones can be blocked using specifi c mol- the neurones “No study has that control facial sensations. Simon ecules that block the protein receptors ever correctly Akerman of New York University that PACAP binds to. When injected responsible and Peter Goadsby of Kings College directly into the brain, the neurones isolated the London studied two specific neuro- responsible for headache pain stopped for headache peptides released by neurones. surging with activity. A cure for mi- for migraines, Triptans, are designed them and those also suffering from pain stopped exact cause of These two molecules, VIP and graines could be on the cards using to shrink blood vessels in the brain cardiovascular disorders can’t use the nauseating PACAP, were previously considered these receptor-blocking molecules, based on the previous theory that them. The reason for the ineffective- surging with to play a role in migraines as they and a new therapeutic target for mi- migraines were caused by blood ves- ness of the existing Triptan therapy headaches were found to be elevated in the graines can be developed from these sel dilation, therefore they are not is now known, it was simply not fully activity blood of people who were suffering experiments. particularly effective. They don’t understood how migraines really oc- ” from migraine attacks. Both of these Th e existing drugs currently used work for many of the people who use curred. ” Smoking and drinking cause premature ageing

ew research presented at the along their genome. This figure was Hannah American Society of Human then compared to the participant’s Pictured: Elliott NGenetics’ annual meeting actual age and viewed alongside data Th e vices that this month shows exactly how exces- about their exposure to cigarette aff ect ageing sive alcohol consumption can cause smoke and alcohol, allowing the link (Photographer: changes to our DNA that may result between premature ageing and these Matthias Ripp) in premature ageing. The discovery, environmental factors to be ana- made at the University of Iowa by lysed. Robert A. Philibert and his team, The research shows that premature used a technique called DNA meth- ageing is closely linked with expo- ylation to examine how regularly sure to cigarette smoke, as well as smoking and drinking alcohol can both extremely low and high alcohol affect gene expression. intake. Surprisingly, regular but not DNA methylation involves modify- excessive drinking was linked to the ing DNA by the addition of a methyl least accelarated aging. group to the DNA chain in order to This isn’t the first piece of pub- fix genes in an ‘off’ position, pre- lished research that suggests mod- venting their expression – these add- erate alcohol consumption may be “Premature ed groups are then copied onto new beneficial to our health; information strands of DNA during replication. published by the Harvard School of aging is It has been used in previous studies Public Health lists a number of stud- closely linked that show how levels of this modified ies that have previously shown the DNA change as people typically age. correlation between having one or to cigerette Consequently, it has also been used two drinks a day and a lower risk of smoke and to explore how the levels are affected cardiovascular diseases such as heart by cigarette smoke and alcohol at attacks and strokes. extremely specific points along the human ge- The team now plan to continue nome. their research in order to establish meantime, their research enables us of these toxins. A final benefit of the low and high The new study used data obtained how methylation levels change over to educate the public on how these study serves to remind students that alcohol intake from the Gene Expression Omnibus a person’s life span and if they are common lifestyle choices affect our going to the pub after a long day of to calculate biological age by meas- affected should the person chooses bodies, as well as provide a quanti- lectures may not be the worst idea ” uring a person’s methylation levels to quit smoking or drinking. In the tative measure of the adverse effects after all! SCIENCE 23

Th e medical mystery of anaesthesia Why do people wake up during surgery?

he last time I had an anaesthet- ing they were about to die, terrifi ed of brain are linked to the midbrain, a issue of anaesthetic awareness, even if Shanna ic was for a fairly ‘minor’ opera- not being able to move. According to portion of the central nervous sys- we can’t answer the unknown when Pictured: Hamilton Ttion on my foot, (12 weeks in Jaideep Pandit of Oxford University, tem. Others believe in the ‘Cartesian it comes to consciousness. A de- Th e operating bed wasn’t minor for me, thank you). the consultant who led the study: “Pa- theater model’, that suggests there is a vice has been created by scientists at room I was given something called ‘IV seda- ralysis is terrifying and has never been single spot in the brain responsible for Swinburne University of Technology (Photographer: tion’, which involved being rolled on experienced by most people.” Around everything, ‘where it all comes togeth- that can detect if someone is com- Phalinn Ooi) to my front, and a small dose of the half of those displaying ‘anaesthetic er’. It appears ultimately, that when it ing out of anaesthesia by monitoring drug Propafol pushed slowly into the awareness’ later went on to develop comes to the brain and consciousness, changes in brain activity. According IV butterfl y catheter in my hand. Th e long-term psychological problems, we are clueless. to David Liley who worked on the idea was to send me into a mild sleep, such as post-traumatic stress disorder It is no surprise then that the action device, “Measuring how unconscious so I was unaware of the procedure go- and insomnia. of anaesthetic drugs is poorly under- a patient is while they are under an- ing ahead. Unfortunately, I appeared Talking to CNN about the study, stood either. How can a drug knock aesthetic is particularly important, more tolerant than usual and I vividly Carol Weiner discussed her experi- us out leaving us with no memory of because if a patient is not completely remember grimacing and asking for ences of awareness during eye sur- pain? According to Stuart Hameroff , unconscious they will remember the more as a large needle went into the gery: “I was awake but paralysed. I an anaesthesiologist from the Uni- surgery, which can be quite a trau- back of my thigh to block the nerve could hear the surgeon telling the versity of Arizona, the answer lies in matic experience.” supplying my lower leg. trainee to ‘cut deeper into the eye’. I consciousness. “Anaesthetics are fairly Th is device, aptly named Brain An- Eventually however, I must have was screaming, but no one could hear selective, erasing consciousness while aesthesia Response (BAR), uses three dropped off . My next memory was me. I felt no pain, just a tugging sensa- sparing non-conscious brain activ- sensors placed on the forehead and staring blankly at a face I defi nitely tion… I thought I was dying.” ity. So the precise mechanism of an- behind the ears to detect electrical could not recognise (only my own It appeared from the research that aesthetic action should point to the activity. Th is means that doctors will mother, woops) and unconsciously awareness during operations was mechanism for consciousness.” be able to adjust drug-delivery if it ap- eating rich tea biscuits. Although I much more common in patients who A particularly confusing property pears a patient is rousing, eliminating didn’t undergo a full general anaes- also received a paralytic drug, some- of anaesthetic chemicals is that they the chances of surgery awareness and thetic and was free to leave the hos- thing to block nerves, as part of their are extremely diverse. A drug usually pain during a procedure. pital shortly after the procedure, I procedure. Weiner would have re- works by binding to a specifi c recep- “Th e BAR Monitor has the poten- have absolutely no memory of the op- ceived such a drug to paralyse her eye tor, like a key in a lock. Th e key needs tial to reduce the risks associated with eration (thank god), even when I was and face. to be a certain shape to fi t properly surgical procedures, increase levels of apparently mumbling during it. My Our lack of understanding of how and induce a response. Anaesthetics patient care, optimise the use of an- surgery was transformed from what such terrifying experiences can occur however, can range from huge and aesthetic agents, lower costs through could have been a horrifi c ordeal, to stems back to the fact that actually, complex molecules such as steroids, reduced drug usage and in turn create a gentle, if confusing nap, with sweet we don’t quite know how anaesthet- to mere atoms, such as the gas xenon. a faster bed turnaround in the theatre treats to fi nish. ics work either. While doctors can While it has been concluded that and post-operative recovery rooms,” It appears, however, that anaes- monitor whether our physical body certain receptors are aff ected in the Liley added. “I was awake thetic doesn’t always work completely is ‘under’, there is no way to know process of rendering someone un- Undergoing general anaesthesia re- and some people do remember parts whether a patient is aware of what is conscious, such as the GABA recep- mains one of the most common surgi- but paralysed, of surgery, while a rare occurrence, going on. Th is all boils down to one of tor found on nerve cells, we still have cal procedures around the world, even I could hear with serious psychological conse- the biggest problems in science – un- no idea how binding such nerve cells though, perhaps frighteningly, we “Some people quences. A survey of three million pa- derstanding consciousness. We don’t leads to ‘knocking someone out’. Nick have little understanding of how it ac- the surgeon tients across the UK and Ireland last know an awful lot when it comes to Franks of Imperial College, who has tually works. While I was fortunate to do remember year found that around one in 20,000 the brain, and the part that makes us tackled this problem for decades, remain memory-free of being worked telling the people had woken up during surgery. unique, our consciousness, is a huge points out how very diff erently-struc- on by surgeons, even if I do remember parts of trainee to cut However, in procedures that required part of that. It allows us to self-refl ect, tured drugs appear to work in the that giant needle and the bruise after- surgery a ‘lighter’ anaesthetic, such as a Cae- have private thoughts, feelings and same way. “If you look at the brain un- wards, some patients are not. Waking ‘deeper into sarean section to deliver a baby, this opinions, yet neuroscientists simply der both xenon and propofol anaes- up during surgery must be a terrify- with serious the eye’ risk rose dramatically to one in 670. cannot explain how we can conjure thesia, there are striking similarities. ing experience, and perhaps devices psychological A wide range of sensations was de- up mental images, or translate signals Th ey must be triggering some com- like the BAR monitor may stop these Carol Weiner scribed by these aff ected patients, in- into noise or colour. mon neuronal change and that’s the events from occurring, while we con- consequences cluding pain, choking, hallucinations Some scientists think it may be big mystery.” tinue on the diffi cult quest to under- ” and paralysis. Many reported the feel- down to how sensory parts of the Th ere may now be an answer to the stand the human brain. ” 24 SCIENCE Science attempts to determine our sexuality Th e search continues for the ‘gay gene’, but should it?

Pictured: Gay Pride balloons in Toulouse (Photographer: Guillaume Paumier)

“It has been noted that lions, chimpanzees, bison and dolphins, as well as 130 species of birds, have been spotted in same sex pairings

cience has in the past tried to ex- activity without changing the DNA ongoing and long-lasting. Popular give the whole picture. ” Maria Mellor plain in biological and sociologi- sequence. With identical twins, they culture likes to believe that mother or Sexuality is a diffi cult matter to Scal terms the reasons for homo- will have the same genetic sequence, father fi gures in early life can infl u- discuss due to its extremely per- sexuality. It has long been recognised but may have epigenetic diff erences. ence sexuality in later life. Some sci- sonal nature. Despite the matter be- that sexuality is not a choice, both by Researchers looked at methylation entists like to think that there’s some ing scientifi cally interesting, fi nding scientists and LGBT rights activists, of the DNA, a process that has been kind of genetic pattern to be found. a true reason behind sexuality could but the root cause of it is a mystery. compared to a switch in the DNA Even with the new evidence found by be bad news for society. Th ere are In evolutionary terms, the sur- making the eff ect of it stronger or the University of California, there is prejudiced individuals out there who vival of the species depends on male/ weaker. Distinct patterns were found still no defi nitive answer. might want to use the ‘DNA test’ for female pairings to create off spring. that seemed to be linked to sexuality. In the 1990s, a study by American negative purposes. History is littered Aside from certain asexual creatures Dr Tuck Ngun, a member of the geneticist Dean Hamer had people with horrifi c acts committed with that can reproduce without a partner, research team, said: “sexual attrac- convinced that homosexuality was homophobic intentions to ‘cure’ ho- you’d think that nature would only tion is such a fundamental part of genetic and was passed down by mosexuality, and if an actual test for need heterosexual reproductive cou- life, but it’s not something we know a a certain ‘gay gene’. Th is study has homosexuality fell into the wrong ples, however it has been noted that lot about at the genetic and molecu- since tried to be replicated by diff er- hands it could be catastrophic. What lions, chimpanzees, bison and dol- lar level.” ent sources with hardly any luck in if parents wanted to test their chil- phins, as well as 130 species of birds, Th ere are, however, some things fi nding the same results. Research dren? Or worse, what if they wanted have been spotted in same sex pair- to note about this experiment before never seems to take into account that to test their unborn children to see if ings. You may have heard stories in making any real conclusions. Th e sexuality isn’t just a binary of gay or they have the markers. “Sexual the news in recent years of same-sex study was very small - too small to straight, and I doubt they’d be able It’s only been around 40 years since attraction penguin partners in Kent Zoo adopt- be reliable on its own. Th e research to apply any such fi ndings to explain homosexuality was removed from the ing a chick that had been abandoned only considered male twins and not bisexuality or asexuality for example. list of recognised mental disorders. is such a by its biological parents. Is it rea- female, and ignores the fact that In 2013, there was a study that Dr Ngun himself is worried about sonable to believe that homosexual sexuality is not divided into just two found that having more older broth- what the fi ndings of the new study fundamental partners are actually valuable to the groups, gay or straight. Despite these ers increases the likelihood of the could bring, so much so that he aban- part of life, survival of the species by acting as facts, popular media has latched on to next male child being gay. Th e study doned his research in the fi eld com- surrogate parents to abandoned or the fi ndings. “DNA test that reveals involved nearly 1,000 participants pletely. He says, “I don’t believe in the but it’s not orphaned babies? if you’re gay” claims Th e Daily Mail, and researchers examined how many censoring of knowledge, but given “If an actual something A recent study has fl ooded the me- when in fact the already very small biological brothers each man had. the potential for misuse of the infor- dia this past week, claiming to have study correctly classifi ed the sexuality Th e theory is that while carrying sons, mation, it just didn’t sit well with me.” test for we know a lot found that homosexuality may be of the individuals only 67 per cent of an immune response is triggered in From a scientifi c perspective, there caused by chemical modifi cations to the time. Other articles take the ‘test’ the mother that increases with each is no ‘cure’, however researchers homosexuality about at the DNA. Researchers from the Univer- element to twist the study how they boy she carries. Th is is probably the still persist to look for a ‘cause’. Julie fell into the genetic and sity of California studied 47 pairs of like. Healthline, a website suppos- most convincing piece of evidence to Bindel, writing for Th e Guardian says identical twins - 37 twin pairs where edly dedicated to health news, call it date to suggest nature over nurture, ‘why is so much eff ort put into locat- wrong hands molecular level they were both gay, and 10 where a ‘real-life gaydar’ as if you’re going to but yet again it ignores homosexual ing a gay gene and not a paedophile it could be Dr Tuck Nagun they diff ered in sexuality. Th ey found make people take a blood test in Live women and sexualities other than gay gene?’. As soon as any research pos- that sexuality may be determined by Lounge before you start fl irting with or straight. If they can’t prove it for sibly indicating that sexuality could catastrophic epigenetic changes to DNA: chemi- them. other sexualities, then as interesting be genetic, it sends the media into a ” cal modifi cations that alter DNA Th e nature vs. nurture debate is as the evidence may be, it still doesn’t frenzy. ” SCIENCE 25 Th e evolutionary advantage of beards Want more Tinder matches? Grow some facial hair

ave you found yourself more this argument, as from 1842 – 1971 Sophie attracted to bearded fellows there were fewer women available Pictured: Young Has of late? Science says you for marriage and during that time Ladies, form an have, and it can also tell you why. the popularity of beards and mous- orderly queue Dr. Cyril Grueter and colleagues taches grew considerably. (Photographer: at the University of Western Aus- Alongside dense populations and Edoardo tralia have recently published an easy travel, the online aspect to dat- Marino) article in the journal Evolution and ing has radically increased the pool Human Behaviour in which they de- from which people can choose a tail their investigation on males re- partner. Men growing elaborate quiring ‘badges’ in order to win the beards and moustaches in order to attention of females in big societies. stand out would fully comply with Experiments with monkeys support the research and observations on this observation. this behaviour. In particular, the Th e evidence suggests that the aesthetic value on which people are more competition within a soci- judged, particularly online, has fast ety, the more grandiose males must become the only means of selection, make their features if their objec- as apps such as Tinder require you to tive is to be sexually attractive to a simply swipe left or right after view- potential mate. Some of these fea- ing a picture for often just a few sec- tures include cheek fl anges in orang- onds. In such situations, personality “The more utans, elongated noses on proboscis may indeed be overrated. competition monkeys, upper-lip warts in golden Th e fashionable nature of beards is snub-nosed monkeys, and beards on taking its toll on male wallets as the “Perhaps the within a human men. undertaking of beard transplants has baby-faced society, Th e experiment was conducted grown substantially over the last ten using 154 species of primate, and a years. Dr. Jeff rey Epstein, an Ameri- male will the more positive correlation was found be- can plastic surgeon, told the New tween the extravagance of badges York Times that a decade ago he enter the grandiose and the extent of competition. Th e performed around fi ve beard trans- spotlight; thus males must need to stand out quickly is strong. plants per year, this has now grown Beards are not the only option, Dr. to approximately one per week. Th e continuing the make their Grueter also suggests that “body procedure costs up to £14,500. cyclical nature features decoration, jewellery, and prestige Will the taste for facial hair desist? items” can work similarly to serve Competition surely won’t. Howev- beards and moustaches are so ter- thus continuing the cyclical nature of fashion this function. er as the point is to stand out, it is ribly common, perhaps the baby- of fashion, with a little bit of reason- ” History also provides support for possible that if the day comes when faced male will enter the spotlight; ing from science. ” Professional procrastinator? It may be in your genes o you prefer reading Buzz- mind-sets’ - categorising pictures crastinate goes hand in hand with limit the influence genetic factors Lizzie Harrett Feed articles to your revi- according to either their colour or poor goal management, we may be are having by setting more effective Dsion notes? Starting a new shape. able to prevent procrastination and and achievable goals. series of Pretty Little Liars instead They determined that a propen- of that long essay due for next week? sity to procrastinate was partly in- If you are serial procrastinator who herited. The variation of procras- Pictured: will do anything to put off complet- tination tendency also overlapped Is time you ing an important task, it may not be with genetic factors associated with enjoy wasting entirely your fault. Researchers have goal failures and executive function wasted time? identified links between genetic ability, although environmental in- (Photographer: traits and procrastination. fluences also explained the variation Lynn Friedman) A study published in the Journal in these results. So while you may of Experimental Psychology studied be partly genetically programmed the behaviour patterns of identical to procrastinate, the environment and non-identical twins to deter- which you put yourself in will also mine why some individuals are so influence whether you reach for easily distracted. They concluded your university folders or the TV that having a procrastination trait remote. was due to both genetic and envi- However, there is some good ronmental factors influencing your news for those who prefer to log-in behaviour. Identical twins have the to Facebook over Learning Central. same genetic makeup and non- Procrastinators tend to be better at “While you identical share on average half of shifting mind-sets, meaning you can their genes. Therefore a higher cor- move more comfortably from one may be partly relation of a particular factor among task to another. Your butterfly mind genetically identical twins compared with non- may prevent you from focusing, but identical twins would indicate a you do have a stronger mental flex- programmed greater role for genetic influence. ibility. to They divided the key qualities of Scientists have not yet been able procrastination into three main sec- to identify the specific genes af- procrastinate, tions. How prone an individual is fecting these behaviours – it is to procrastination and goal-failure likely that there are thousands of your were both tested through both types gene variants involved. However, environment of twins completing questionnaires by helping to pick apart the root about these two factors. The third causes of procrastination, we can will also element they were examined on was develop methods that effectively influence you executive function performance (es- help circumvent distraction. By sentially mental discipline), which demonstrating that at a genetic and ” they tested using game that ‘shifted behavioural level the desire to pro- Go Exploring Online Sign up Only

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Photo: Andrew Bennett SOCIETIES 27

Editor: Aletheia Nutt @GairRhyddSoc [email protected] societies gairrhydd.com/societies Hannah’s note: Societies forums i everyone, this week in Soci- the Committee Training that com- cratic processes of the Union. There’s Hannah eties we are hosting the first mittees received at the beginning of an exciting year ahead and I’m sure Sterritt H Societies Forums of the year the year, where they were informed you’ll hear a lot more about these VP Societies between Monday 19th and Friday of all the goings-on and logistics of roles and how they work for you in 23rd October. This is an opportu- the Activities department of the Stu- the near future. nity for Committee Members to tell dents’ Union and how we are here for One more thing – we’re holding us about how the year is going for the benefit of you as students. More drop in sessions all day on Tuesday them, discussing the Societies Fairs, details are available on the Students’ 20th October in the IV Lounge at the training, and communication among Union website. Heath Park campus. If you’d like any many other issues. This is running In addition, the Students’ Union’s By information about Societies, please four times next week and is a great Elections were held last week and the pop in and say hello! I’m also avail- opportunity for feedback. We’re also results have now been announced able by email at VPSocieties@cardiff. adding in Society Networking so for several different positions: Scru- ac.uk. Hope you all have a great week members of different Society catego- tiny Committee, Student Senate, two and remember, it’s never too late to ries have the opportunity for discus- Part Time Officer positions and NUS join a society - find out more on the sion and collaboration with targeted National and NUS Wales Delegates, Facebook Guild of Societies page: Fa- sessions. The networking builds on all who hold a key role in the demo- cebook.com/GuildofSocieties English Literature Society are running a Charity Creative Writing Competition

re you an avid dabbler in po- tion on the charity and all the events ject of the fi le so we know who has include with your submission what Poppy etry or prone to writing a that they themselves host, then you entered and paid their fees. Names it is that inspires you. What was it Jennings Ashort story or two? What is it can fi nd everything on their website: will then be made anonymous when that sparked the idea you’ve cre- that inspires your creative fl air? What http://www.literacytrust.org.uk they are sent to be judged, we just ated? Whether it comes in the form theme do you often fi nd yourself Th e limit for short story entries is need them on fi le to be able to an- of a photograph or meaningful quote, drawn to? Whatever it is, we want to 1,000 words; the limit for poetry sub- nounce the winner and distribute we’d like you to attach a fi le alongside see what you’re capable of. We want missions is 100 lines. We want you prizes! your literary piece to show us what to know the depth of your inspira- to format your pieces however you Th e winner(s) of this competition encouraged your writing. tion this year for our creative writing choose, and write within any theme will have their submission published It’s perfectly okay though if you “Whether you’re competition. or genre, as long as they don’t exceed in the January edition of Quench don’t want to, we understand that not Th ose of us who run the CU Eng- these limits. You can submit as many Magazine and receive a range of everyone uses outward infl uences to drawn to prose lish Literature Society are trying to pieces as you like but each will have prizes, from book vouchers to theatre inspire them and a lot of work comes raise as much money as we can for the an individual fee of £4. Members of tickets to see Th e Lion, Th e Witch, from within. We just thought it would writing or National Literacy Trust this year, and the English Literature Society will re- And Th e Wardrobe at the Sherman be a nice companion to your crea- poetry - we to do so we’re hosting a creative writ- ceive a £1 discount on this fee. Entries Th eatre. Entries will close at 20:00 on tive writing — something that could ing competition! We’re very excited can be bought from http://www.car- 16th November 2015 so make sure to be published alongside the winning want to see to announce this and encourage eve- diff students.com/events/6515/6227/ pay your fee and send in your literary piece to help readers understand its what you have ryone to get involved, whether you’re (on our society homepage) and each pieces before then! depth. drawn to prose writing or poetry submission must be sent via email to Because we are so curious about We can’t wait to read all the amaz- to offer — we want to see what you have to JenningsP@cardiff .ac.uk with your each individual’s unique inspiration ing entries, and look forward to see- off er. If you’d like any more informa- name and student number as the sub- for their writing, we’re hoping you ing whose winning piece is published! ” Teddy Bear Hospital Cardiff are putting on an Acoustic Night and Bake Sale eddy Bear Hospital Cardiff is 15 visits to various groups, allowing and socials to raise money for the pital Charity is a charity that raised Kathryn a student led society open to over 120 members to take part! Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital enough money to build Wales’ first The aim is Hughes all Medical and Dental stu- Before taking part in visits, all Charity, who they raised £770.17 ever Children’s hospital, they called “ Tdents. Their aim is to reduce chil- members must have completed a for last year! This Wednesday (21st this Phase One of their charity. to reduce dren’s fears of hospitals, doctors and training session and Child Protec- October), the Teddy Bear Hospital Phase Two is to provide equip- dentists through play. tion Training, which the society Society alongside the Paediatric So- ment such as a MRI scanner and a children’s fears They visit children at school or in provides in the autumn term. The ciety are hosting an acoustic night hydrotherapy pool. So, as you can after-school scouting groups such as training session familiarises new and bake sale at Highfields Church see, Teddy Bear Hospital Cardiff of hospitals Rainbows, Cubs and Brownies using members with the equipment they (Monthermer Road). really do raise money for fantastic and doctors the fun medium of teddies and sta- use on visits and offers the chance to This event will raise money for the causes. tions to teach children about basic talk to more experienced members Noah’s Ark Appeal, which is the Ted- Please like their Facebook page to through play anatomy, tooth-brushing, germs and about how the sessions run. dy Bear Hospital Society’s chosen stay up to date with visits and events healthy eating. Last year they had They also hold fundraising events charity. Noah’s Ark Children’s Hos- throughout the year! ” 28 SOCIETIES

Cardiff University Jazz Society host their fi rst Jam Night of the year

night not to be missed! there was a chilled vibe surrounding Jasmine If you love everything about the whole space. It is the ideal envi- Claricoates A jazz then Yard Bar last Th urs- ronment to mingle and discuss music day night was the place to be. Above with like-minded people. Th e inti- the downstairs main bar is the Jam Jar mate setting allowed the audience to Bar that regularly plays host to Cardiff be up close to the performance and University Jazz Society’s ‘Jam Nights’. meant that the musicians were able Here, in this relaxed environment, to interact with the people watching; members of the society have the op- encouraging them to clap and dance If you portunity to get up and perform any along to the music. A wide range of “ piece of music of their choice. Th is repertoire was covered; from the likes love everything night proved to be popular amongst of Coltrane to Snarky Puppy, whatev- not only members of Jazz Society, but er you like, there’s something for you. about jazz, also the people propping up the bar Not only this, but the society comes ryone is encouraged to get involved From my experience as a member then Yard Bar downstairs, who, having heard the armed with a range of music books and perform, it’s good to gain experi- of the society, having been along to sound of music from above, came to for people interested in performing to ence in such an informal atmosphere. many of these sessions I would defi - last Thursday have a look; an hour in and the Jam look at for inspiration. Th e Jazz Society are a friendly crowd, nitely recommend going along to Jar was packed out. Th e best thing about these nights is so for many, performing in front of take a look. Th ey are organized every night was the Yard Bar created the perfect atmos- that you don’t have to be a hardened them can be a great confi dence boost, month, so come and chill with friends place to be phere for a night of jazz, with sofas, performer to go up and play. You all members will cheer you along and new and old at Cardiff ’s hottest Jam modern decor and cocktails fl owing, don’t have to be a music student; eve- give you words of encouragement. Night! ” Law Society: What’s on?

he law society has an outstand- last week we had our fi rst social which journey. sold out in forty minutes! Th is year’s Katherine ing reputation in the Cardiff was held in a local pub in Cathays and Other upcoming events include the law ball offi cer is Megan Chisholm- Pugh TLaw School and is governed then we all headed to a night club af- public speaking series which is run by Jones, and she is hoping that this year’s by a committee of law students. Join- terwards. Th e night was truly fantas- James Williams. Hate speaking in front event will be the best one yet! ing the society greatly enhances your tic as the social secretary arranged a of big crowds? Th en why not go to a Last but not least is the society’s experience at university. Th e society white dress code which meant all law public speaking workshop? Th is is a magazine known as ‘Unprecedented’ helps students on a social and academ- students could identify one another great opportunity to put an end to which is a termly magazine and on- ic level. We organise a variety of socials which gave everyone the opportu- nervousness and to become a confi - line blog. All articles are written by law that help everyone to get to know one nity to mingle and make new friends. dent and collected public speaker. Th e students on any topic, such as travel- another and make new friends. We All members had a great time play- law society holds many public speak- ling or work experience or a subject can also help increase your employ- ing drinking games in the pub as well, ing workshops throughout the year. in law that interests them. Th is is also ability as we hold many careers events which functioned as an icebreaker be- Th ese events are often held by special a marvellous opportunity for soci- alongside many other skill building ac- tween students who didn’t know each guests such as lawyers from a variety of ety members to showcase their work tivities. other. We are currently planning our diff erent fi rms, who speak about how and to make new friends. Joining the Th e law society comprises of twelve next law social so watch out on our so- they demolished their fear of public sub-committee enhances members “The law committee members which were cial media pages for upcoming details! speaking. application forms as the best articles elected after last year’s elections. Th e Th anks to the dedication of Tam- Th e Law Ball is another event held written this year will be published by society for organisation is governed by our presi- sin Best, who is our current vice- by the society. Where do I start de- Lawyer2B on their website! Although dent Chelsea Mitchell, who is con- president, there is an upcoming trip scribing the event? Well fi rstly in my this is a big commitment joining the example is stantly working hard to make this year to Madrid in November! Th is is truly opinion, the Law Ball is the best night sub-committee as a writer, the law so- famously the best of all! She is planning more so- exciting with the tickets selling out in of the year! It is a great chance to glam ciety is there to guide you and help you cials and holding more events that will a mere two days! Madrid is a beautiful up and have an amazing night dancing every step of the way. known for help you to become a successful lawyer city with a rich history and stunning with your friends. Th e ball is usually I think this article clarifi es how their in the future. architecture. Th e law society cannot held in the picturesque location of City amazing being a law society member Th ere are a vast amount of upcom- wait to take Madrid by storm for a to- Hall. It is a themed night with previous is and how it can help you leaps and amazing ing events for law society members. tal of four days! Th is year we will also themes being ‘the great Gatsby’ and ‘a bounds in making friends and having For example, the society is famously be travelling in style as we will be fl ying night at the Oscars’. Last year the ball all those important skills and experi- socials! known for their amazing socials! Just instead of taking a long gruelling bus was so popular that the tickets were ences on your future application forms! ” Society profi le: Krishna Consciousness Society o you want to do something may well be what you should join. ences like meditation; yoga; artwork; Beacons on Saturday 21st November Ellie a bit diff erent alongside We’re a Bronze-tier society trans- drama; traditional music and even, – buy tickets at http://www.cardiff - Philpotts Dyour degree? Th ink about porting spirituality into today’s perhaps most crucially, directly help- students.com/events/11505/6079/ things beyond where you’re going world, through studying topics like ing society such as by feeding and and give it a go! for pre-drinks; the odd reference to ‘what does it mean to be truly suc- getting to know the homeless. You Cardiff ’s Krishna Consciousness is your readings; and maybe ponder- cessful’; ‘why do bad things happen can normally catch KC-Soc on Mon- among 30 of these University socie- ing about what you’ll do when you to good people; and ‘the power of days at 6:30pm in Room G, but some- ties, overall off ering the perfect plat- graduate? sound.’ times socials expand beyond the SU, form to evolve the mind, revamp the If you’re struggling for inspiration If you’re questioning whether or even Cardiff altogether. defi nition of ‘structure’ and bring in- but essentially trying to fi nd ways to you’ll be able to pull your weight Th e fi rst meet of the academic year sight by linking similar-minded stu- engage in the deeper side of life while when such big issues are the topic was in the yurt at Milgi, a unique veg- dents. Self-realisation, new skills and still having fun via typical student of conversation, fear not. KC Soc’s etarian restaurant on City Road, and a happier lifestyle can all be attained experiences of free food and meeting socials go beyond just talking – you you even have the chance to explore by getting involved, so what are you new people, Krishna Consciousness can also try your hand at new experi- the beautiful waterfalls of the Brecon waiting for? Andy C All Night Gabrielle Aplin October/Hydref 27/11/15, £13 ADV 12/02/16, £16.50 ADV

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Treatment Presents: The Story So Far Stiff Little Fingers Halloween Party 01/12/15, £14 ADV 28/02/16, £18.50 ADV 30/10/15, from £16.50 ADV Kodaline Jess Glynne 03/12/15 - SOLD OUT March/Mawrth 31/10/15 - SOLD OUT Scouting For Girls Theory Of A Deadman November/Tachwedd 12/12/15, £22.50 ADV 03/03/16, £15 ADV Ash Machine Head The Staves 14/12/15, £17 ADV 10/03/16, £26 ADV 03/11/15, £15 ADV The Stranglers Everything Everything January/Ionawr 18/03/16, £26 ADV 07/11/15, £17.50 ADV The Temperance Movement Boyce Avenue Foals 26/01/16, £14 ADV 19/03/16, £25 ADV 08/11/15 - SOLD OUT Slaves February/Chwefror April/Ebrill 15/11/15 - SOLD OUT Funeral For A Friend Neck Deep Treatment Presents: 05/02/16, £13.50 ADV 05/04/16- SOLD OUT Annie Mac 20/11/15, from £18.50 ADV Funeral For A Friend KERRANG! Tour 2016 06/04/16- SOLD OUT Public Service Broadcasting ft. Sum 41 & more 11/02/16, £18.50 ADV 26/11/15, £20 ADV

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Golygydd: Carwyn Williams @Taf_od [email protected] taf-od gairrhydd.com/tafod Cymru ar lwyfan y byd: Dyma ein hamser ni i wnaeth popeth weithio al- ac, wrth gwrs, y don o wladgarwch a gwirionedd, i Gymru fel cenedl gyfan. yr wythdeg muned yn Twickenham. Dan Heard lan mewn tebygrwydd fel chefnogaeth y tu ôl iddynt. Gwnaeth Cyprus wneud ff afr enfawr Mae rygbi yn gêm wedi ei adeladu Ngwnaeth Chris Coleman a’i I roi pethau mewn i fath o bersbec- gan guro Israel, yn golygu llwyddiant ar haen o deimladau wahanol, gan “Mae rygbi chwaraewyr ei ddychmygu, ond serch tif, y tro diwethaf y gwnaeth Gymru inni efo gem i fynd, ac yn sicrhau by- gynnwys dioddefaint, ac hefyd yn hynny, fydd y noson yna yn Zenica yn llwyddo i gyrraedd twrnamaint o dden ni’n gorff en o leiaf yn ail yn ein cylchynu eich galon a’ch enaid hefyd. yn gêm wedi cael ei chofnodi yn hanes tîm cened- bwys, Cwpan y Byd ym 1958, roedd grŵp. Roedd dim atal beth yr oedd Gallech chi gael eich cludo’n bell efo laethol Cymru fel y noson gwnaeth Harold Macmillan dal yn Prif Weini- wedi cael ei wneud o fewn ein hanes. enaid, efo enaid fel y mae y cefnogwyr ei adeladu bron chwedeg mlynedd o hunllef a dog, bu Elvis Presley efo’i chan No. 1 Yn ogystal, ar ôl goroesi un o’r grw- ac, eto, y pobol cyff redin Cymraeg ar haen o galaru dod i ben. Mae enw Cymru gyntaf, a Wolverhampton Wanderers piau mwyaf anodd o fewn twrnamain- wedi ei ddangos tro ar ol tro wrth rhoi nawr ymhlith Lloegr, Spaen a’r Al- a Preston North End yn ymladd am tau diweddar, wnaeth tim cenedla- popeth tu ol i’r tim, fel y mae’r bois yn teimladau maen gan wneud ei phererindod at ragoriaeth ar ben yr Uwch Gynghrair. ethol Rygbi Cymru hefyd llwyddo. Er arddangos pob tro y mae nhw’n rhoi y Ffrainc haf nesaf, yn claddu pob atgof Er y chafodd Cymru ei guro am y y llu o niwedion i’w chwarewyr gorau crys goch a rei gyrff . wahanol, ofnadwy o drio llwyddo i gyfaddasu tro gyntaf yn ei grŵp cymhwyso gan gwahanol, gwnaeth y tim fel uned ll- Fe wyddai ar ôl y perff ormiad yn gan gynnwys ar gyfer twrnamaint rhyngwladol yn golli i Bosnia-Herzegovina, o ganlyni- wyddo i gyrraedd y rownd nesaf. erbyn Awstralia fod fwy o manylder sownd yn y gorff ennol. Nawr, gaiff ad dau gol gan Milan Djuric a Vedad Y broblem nesaf oedd gwynebu a mwy o ff ocws ei angen yn ei ff ordd dioddefaint, Gymru’r siawns i ddangos y llwyfan Ibisevic, fe deimlai hyn fel manylion un o’r ochrau gorau rhwngwladol yn o chwarae- ond un beth sydd ddim ei ac hefyd yn Ewropeaidd yn union beth sy’n gallu bach ac efo ddim pwys wrth ystyried y byd; De Aff rig. Mae’r bois, a’r hyf- angen yw rhagor o enaid. Wyddai’r cael ei gwblhau efo waith caled, yr beth y mae’r fuddugoliaeth yn golygu forddwr Warren Gatland yn mynnu ei dau dim fydd colli ar ddydd Sad- cylchynu eich ymdrech yn ystod yr amserau caled, i sut gymaint o gefnogwyr, ac, mewn fod yn barod am unrhyw her o fewn wrn yn golygu diwedd ar ei freud- dwyd Cwpan y Byd am o leiaf ped- galon a’ch air mlynedd, ond gan wybod fydd enaid hefyd ochor Heyneke Meyer yn un hynod “Y tro diwethaf o galed i dorri lawr, wyddai Gymru fod ganddynt y nwyddau perff aith i y gwnaeth sicrhau fuddigoliaeth. Feddwl o dan y Gymru llwyddo bwysau, o dan llygaid fi loedd o che- ” fogwyr yn y stadiwm ac yn wylio ar i gyrraedd draws y wlad, feddwl yn fwy glir o dan y bwysau yma, a feddwl yn fwy glir twrnamaint o eto o dan y pwysau fwyaf dros ben, bwys, Cwpan y hynny sydd angen ei wneud yn erbyn y Springboks. Byd ym 1958 Wn i ddim beth y bydd y dyfodol yn dal am ein dau dîm orau cenedla- ethol. Mae gan y ddau ohonynt gyfl e ardderchog, nid ond i arddangos ar “O leiaf fod un lwyfannau Ewropeaidd a Bydol am ” beth yn union y mae Cymru yn gallu beth yn sicr, gwneud, ond hefyd yn dal calonnau a dw i byth wedi chariad y genedl y tu ôl iddynt efo pob symudiad, pob gôl, pob cais, pob bud- bod mor falch dugoliaeth ar a bant o’r cae. Dyma’n amser ni. Amser Cymru. O leiaf fod o fod yn Gymro un beth yn sicr, dw i byth wedi bod mor falch o fod yn Gymro. ” Hanner canrif ymlaen: Gall Dryweryn arall ddigwydd eto

0 mlynedd yn ôl, boddwyd y nydd Gwladol amddiff yn yr hawl i Carwyn bentref bach yng nghalon Cym- ymyrryd ar unrhyw ddeddfwriaeth Williams 5ru. Aeth Capel Celyn i mewn i’r Gymraeg a “allai cael unrhyw eff aith llyfrau hanes, er mwyn gallu cadw i difrifol ar adnoddau dwr Lloegr, cy- fyny gyda gofynion dŵr Lerpwl. Yr fl enwad dwr Lloegr neu ansawdd y adnoddau naturiol, ond gellir dadlau oedd newid dros nos, ond lewyrchan wythnos diwethaf, gwnaeth Alun dŵr yn Lloegr.” Yn gyfreithlon felly, da ni byth wedi cael digon o fantais bach ar gyfer sicrhau llais gwleidyddol Yn y llun: Cairns, Gweinidog Swyddfa Cymru, allai Tryweryn arall ddigwydd. allan o hyn. Mae’n beth wallgo’ bod go ddifri. Carreg mae Y digwyddiad galw’r hanes fel “pennod gywilyddus Fel enghraiff t ddiweddar, mae’n gwlad arall yn cael rheoli mewn ff ordd Erbyn heddiw, mae’r mwyafrif o bron pob “ yn hanes Cymru.” Ychwanegodd y dadlau bod galw am tua 700-750 lle- ar adnoddau naturiol Cymru. bobl wedi anghofi o achos pentref Cymro yn yn rhan o gweinidog bod y digwyddiad yn rhan fydd carchar yng Ngogledd a Cha- Ond, a yw’r gofynion yma yn dod bach Capel Celyn, heblaw am wers adnabod yn o ddyddiau mwyaf anff odus y Gymru nol Cymru, ac felly mae’r cynlluniau lawr i genedlaetholdeb? Mae nifer o hanes neu raglen gloi ar y teledu efal- syth, yn cofi o ddyddiau fodern. i adeiladu carchar i dros 2,000 yn un haneswyr yn gweld Tryweryn fel rhan lai. Dw i ddim yn dweud mai annib- pentref bach mwyaf Gwnaeth Liz Saville Roberts, Aelod od. Yr unig gyfi awnhad; swyddi. bwysig o dwf cenedlaetholdeb yn y yniaeth yw’r ateb hawdd yn syth, ond Capel Celyn Seneddol newydd Dwyfor Meiriony- Syndod yw clywed bod hwn y gy- 1960au. Daeth protestio ar gyfer yr yn hytrach y peth pwysicaf yw cael (Ffotograff ydd: anffodus y dd, defnyddio’r pen blwydd i roi rhy- fraith gyda datblygiadau sylweddol hunaniaeth Gymraeg o ddifri yn y cy- pobl Cymru i siarad a thrafod eto. Rob Phillips) budd. Mewn trafodaeth a rhoddwyd datganoli, ond mewn gwirionedd fnod, a wnaeth newid safbwynt gwlei- Daeth llais Cymru yn fyw o achos Gymru fodern i farcio’r achlysur, cyfeirydd at y gy- mae’n gwneud synnwyr llwyr…i dyddol y wlad yn raddol, ac arwain Dryweryn, sydd wedi cael ei cholli ” fraith. Mae’n dweud gall yr Ysgrifen- Loegr. Mae Cymru’n gyfoethog ar ran at dwf Plaid Cymru. Wrth gwrs nid erbyn heddiw. %""%"" !"$# "!"$# " % " $% " $

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  0 ( "#$%$$$ )#$%$$$ 32 PARK LIFE

Editor: Vacant @HeathParkCSU [email protected] park life gairrhydd.com/park-life Heath Hub opened Th e Students’ Union now has a presence at the Heath

he Heath Students’ Union was know about how the students use the Neil officially opened by Pro-Vice services. Alexander TChancellor Patricia Price on The two back offices were praised Monday 12 October. Staff from the by Patricia for being bright, inviting Students’ Union were in attend- and appealing. One of the offices was ance to tour the new space in the IV specifically designed for our Student Lounge as well as the 2 new offices. Advice Service that already has drop The SU in the IV Lounge is now in in sessions here on a Monday, to see “The SU in the line with the modern look and feel any Heath student that wants to dis- IV Lounge of the Park Place Union. It contin- cuss issues ranging from academic ues to offer all the same services that to housing. Park Place SU staff will for 15 years she more than under- students and making them a prior- is now in the Park Place Union offers but now also be working from the back office stands the pressure and workload ity rather than an afterthought. She Pictured: line with the has a fabulous new makeover and and seeing students on a one to one the Heath students face. She was in- puts the emphasis on driving things Pro-Vice is open 9am to 5pm on weekdays. basis. strumental in getting the investment forward at the Heath and giving the Chancellor, modern look Each day a service from Park Place The second office space is a meet- needed to refurbish the space for Heath students the best service and Patricia will have a staff member in attend- ing room that will be available for the students and will continue to be experience they can have while they Price, with and feel of the ance to speak to Heath students and students to book for group work or a force for change and inclusion for are here. Katey Beggan Park Place better gage how they can meet their committee meetings. Patricia Price the Heath campus. Please pop into the new Heath (Photographer: needs. Patricia Price commented on again praised the room for being Patricia Price in her official open- Students’ Union to see the refurbish- Cardiff Union the colourful, open and fun feel of current and lively. ing speech was to stress the im- ment, what we can offer you and how Students) ” the new space and was interested to As Patricia was based at the Heath portance of catering for the Heath you can best use the new spaces. My experience of the Moldovan slave trade

lavery. If I’m being honest, I al- ploited in the commercial sex industry sia and Western Europe. When Mol- off er of jobs abroad only to confi scate Camilla ways thought it had ended sever- and as forced labour. Th is summer I dova gained its independence from their documents on arrival and force Selous Sal centuries ago with Wilberforce boarded a fl ight to Moldova to volun- the Soviet Union, the economy col- them into sex work. and Lincoln. When I went to a talk by teer for them and learn more about lapsed and drove almost half the pop- Working with Beginning of Life was a Moldovan charity called ‘Beginning human traffi cking. ulation to leave the country and seek the most challenging but inspiring ex- of Life’, I was shocked beyond belief Moldova is a small country in East- work abroad. Th is created a whole perience of my life so far. One of the to learn about the realities of Mod- ern Europe and a terrifying amount generation of abandoned children in- women I met had been sold into slav- ern Day Slavery. Today, an estimated of its population have been traffi cked, credibly vulnerable to exploitation. ery by a ‘boyfriend’ looking to exploit 27 million people worldwide are ex- primarily into the sex industry in Rus- Traffi ckers lure young girls in with the her for fi nancial gain. She had been completely traumatised but after three years on BOL’s restoration program she had undergone a signifi cant heal- Pictured: ing process and was now training to be Chisinau is a nurse. the capital An important lesson I took away of Moldova was the need to understand each of (Photographer: our own skills and limitations when Pieter van we want to help a cause we are pas- Marion) sionate about. I’m not a lawyer who can prosecute traffi ckers, a social worker who can support survivors or a psychiatrist who can provide therapy, but I do have other skills! Whilst there, I had the opportunity to lead Art, Dance and English workshops on the youth camps BOL use as a platform to educate teenagers about traffi cking. Traffi cking is much closer to home that we’d like to think. Only this July, the police freed 13 slaves in raid of a traveller site outside Cardiff . To learn more, check out ‘the A21 campaign’ or consider watching the award-winning documentary ‘Nefarious Merchant of Souls’. PARK LIFE 33 Katey’s Note: Medics’ Varsity Last year’s inaugural Medics’ Varsity between Cardiff Medics and Bristol Medics was a huge success, with Cardiff whitewashing their rivals at Coombe Dingles in Bristol. In November, the second instalment of the competition comes to Cardiff !

ello! I hope everyone is well. more details nearer the time. me about any issues that may arise Katey We are now well underway In other news we had the Heath over the coming weeks. Beggan Hwith our plans for Medics’ events week last week. Thank you VP Heath Varsity which will held in Cardiff this for everyone who has been involved Park year on Saturday November 21st. with the events from our Quiz night We have all the sports from last year to our Student Parents social. We competing, however we will have a hope to have more social events over debut match from Healthcare bas- the coming months so please look ketball this year. As I am sure many out for these. of you remember from last year, this The University are currently look- is a fun filled day which allows Heath ing into improving security at the students to take the sporting stage Heath Park site. This will hopefully and show off the talent that Heath involve better lighting and the im- “This is a fun students have to offer. plementation of CCTV cameras filled day We are hoping to step up what we with the idea that the current spate have to offer in our package this year of bike thefts will decrease and which allows with lanyards, T-shirts, food and overall security around the Univer- Heath students club night entry all being included sity buildings will improve. This is with the ticket deals. a positive step which will help with to take the Please come along as we hope to student safety at the Heath Campus. make the event bigger and better Enjoy the week ahead! Like I said sporting stage than ever! Have a look out on the last time, my email is vpheathpark@ ” Cardiff Students’ Union website for cardiff.ac.uk. Please feel free to email Medics’ Varsity 2015 schedule Saturday, November 21st Cardiff

9:00 - Mens Hockey

Astroturf

10:00 - Netball New Hall, Talybont Sports Village

10:20 - Womens Hockey Astroturf

11:30 - Basketball New Hall, Talybont Sports Village

11:30 - Mens Squash Fitness and Squash Centre

12:00 - Womens Squash Fitness and Squash Centre

13:30 - Football Blackweir

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H/A Sport Cardiff Team Opposition Result W/L/D

H Badminton Mens 1st Bath 1st 0-8 L

A Badminton Womens 1st Aberystwyth 1st 0-8 W

H Fencing Mens 1st Bristol 1st 113-118 L

H Football Mens 1st Hartpury 2nd 2-1 W

H Football Mens 2nd UWE 1st 2-6 L

H Football Womens 2nd South Wales 1st 1-4 L

H Football Mens 3rd (Medics) UWE 2nd 2-1 W

H Football Mens 4th Cardiff Met 4th 2-1 W

H Rugby Union Mens 1st Bath 1st 7-32 L

A Rugby Union Mens 3rd Cardiff Met 4th 26-35 W

A Golf Mixed 2nd Cardiff Met 2nd 4-2 L

H Squash Mens 1st UWE 2nd 6-12 L

H Squash Womens 1st UWE 1st 12-0 W

H Squash Mens 2nd Swansea 1st 5-14 L

H Squash Womens 2nd Bristol 2nd 0-12 L

H Volleyball Mens 1st Swansea 1st 3-0 W

H Volleyball Womens 1st UWE 1st 3-0 W

A Lacrosse Womens 1st Bournemouth 1st 1-15 W

H Lacrosse Womens 2nd Royal Agricultural Womens 1st 14-1 W

H Lacrosse Mens 1st Bath 1st 3-13 L

A Lacrosse Mens 2nd Swansea 2nd 7-2 L

A Tennis Mens 1st Exeter 2nd 4-8 W

H Tennis Mens 2nd UWE 1st 4-8 L

A Tennis Womens 1st Southampton 1st 3-3 D

A Netball Womens 1st Exeter 1st 35-40 W

H Netball Womens 2nd UWE 1st 36-23 W

A Hockey Mens 1st Cambridge 1st 1-3 W

H Hockey Mens 2nd UWE 2nd 11-1 W

A Hockey Mens 3rd Royal Agriculture 1st 2-2 D

H Hockey Womens 1st Bath 1st 2-3 L

A Hockey Womens 2nd (Medics) Southampton 1st 5-0 L

H Hockey Womens 3rd Bristol 2nd 0-1 L

H Basketball Mens 1st Bristol 1st 59-53 W

H Basketball Mens 2nd South Wales 1st 47-60 L

A Basketball Womens 1st Southampton 1st 63-49 L

A Table Tennis Womens 1st Bath 1st 2-3 W

A Table Tennis Mens 1st South Wales 1st 9-8 L 36 SPORT NFL at Wembley: Is it worth the hassle?

Following the recent instalments of the NFL’s International Series, we ask whether hosting matches in the UK will ever replicate the real deal t’s not everyday that you get to shed load of photos and look around enjoy the game, even as a casual – regular routines as many times as the Jack Boyce watch some of the best NFL play- bewildered. Th is usually only extends when someone gets close to scoring players took the fi eld, and it all felt Pictured: Iers on the planet, especially when to a fairly small section of fans at- or does score then you should cheer like a half-hearted attempt to Ameri- Wembley Way you’re on the opposite side of the tending matches, so the atmosphere or sigh depending on what team canise a crowd which, well, wasn’t on game day Atlantic Ocean. So when the fi xture is not always adversely aff ected. you’re supporting. American Foot- American. (Photographer: list for the ‘NFL International Se- Now, magnify this concept to a ball has a few unspoken rules that It also didn’t help that the NFL mingles27/ ries’ was released earlier this year, I 90,000 seater stadium and then the the Americans are used to, but not so were essentially acting like those of fl ickr) was determined to make it to Lon- overall experience does take a hit. much the British. One of these is that us who were properly invested in the don to watch some good ol’ NFL. I Th e image of some guy wearing a when the quarterback is commu- game had no idea what was happen- ended up getting a ticket to watch Dolphins jersey with ‘Tannehill 17’ nicating to the rest of his team, his ing and that they needed to explain the New York Jets take on the Miami (the most popular Dolphins player) fans should be as quiet as possible so every detail like we were a child. Th e Dolphins, the fi rst game of the series. emblazoned on the back, carrying an there are no possible mix-ups. Again, announcer’s favourite lines included I cannot state how excited I was to £8 hotdog in one hand and a £5 beer this is something that the crowd did such mind-numbing explanation like watch my favourite sport with a load in the other, posing for a photo in not understand. Every time Ryan “Th at was a run play that went for 12 of other people who share the love the middle of the walkway is etched Tannehill was calling plays, the ma- yards and that means that’s another for the sport, instead of in front of a into my brain forever. I thought it jority of Dolphins fans got louder fi rst down” and so on. Th e NFL even TV screen. would be funny to count the amount in an ill-advised attempt to spur on went so far as to air a video in the sta- For those that don’t know, the Jets of times it happened throughout the their team. Th is actually became a dium of a reporter asking fans such and the Dolphins is considered to game, but then I lost track of the detriment to the team, and you could dull questions as “what is the name be a particularly fi erce rivalry, so I number due to the sheer number of see the Dolphins players get frustrat- of the person who throws the ball?” It “It felt that thought I was being realistic in ex- times it occurred. ed at how they were essentially being seemed to target those who had only pecting some of the passion to spill I get that this event is quite unique, dragged down by their own support. ever watched the Superbowl once the majority over to the UK fans. Th is was not the and that you may want to get a photo It wasn’t all on the British public, for that time Beyoncé was the half- “If talks about case. of yourself enjoying the festivities though. Th e USA’s truly awful hab- time entertainment, instead of the of the people In football, ‘plastic fans’ is a term to post on your several social media its came out in full force during the vast amounts of actual NFL fans who there being were there which is thrown around to describe profi les, but when you’re not even down sections of the game. Th ere were excited to watch their favourite a permanent sets of fans that attend the games but paying attention to the game – that were painfully cringe-worthy at- sport in person. to put a post don’t really add much to the atmos- really gets under my skin. It felt tempts to initiate such old favourites If talks about there being a perma- NFL team in on Facebook phere, hence; ‘plastic’, they are there that the majority of the people were such as the ‘kiss cam’ (which was nent NFL team in London are true, but they’re not completely ‘there’. Th is there to put a post on Facebook that only successful twice after many, the plans need to be scrapped imme- London are rather than to term is usually thrown at the biggest they’ve been to the game, rather than many attempts), the ‘fl ex cam’, ‘party diately. Th e NFL and anywhere else true, the plans clubs, such as Manchester United or actually enjoying the event. cam’ and other variations of fi nd- in the world does not mix, at least actually enjoy Real Madrid. Th ey’re teams that at- American Football is also quite ing people in the crowd to do stupid not yet. Maybe give it a few more need to be the event. tract a whole load of tourists from a nuanced sport that doesn’t really shit. Cheerleaders were sent out to years until the UK becomes more scrapped around the world who will go to the translate so well to the British public. ‘pump up’ the crowd by shooting t- versed in the sport and then we can ” game, buy some merchandise, take a In football or rugby it’s quite easy to shirts out of cannons and doing their come back to the debate. ” SPORT 37 Continued: Wales confi rm Euro 2016 berth

record? Bale actually turns up to play Wales would surely only drop one on a regular basis, hence, along with place. Even this would be a conten- other reasons, his superior impact tious decision: Bosnia – who would on the national team. Also, there is take second position in our theo- Continued the fact that Giggs’ world-class sta- retical table – are a side dotted with from back tus is a total myth. Though a qual- talent but who, much akin to Wales page ity player, he was never the consist- themselves, have little strength in ent match-winner that Bale is – but depth. perhaps that is an article for another Had the Welsh indeed fallen just day. short of automatic qualification, Wales are more than just a one- the playoffs would have provided a man team, however. The tag ‘Gareth welcome lifeline. Expansion of the Wales’ is amusing, but unjust. No European Championships from a 16 panded competition format this time changes to the tournament format keeper kept more clean sheets than to a 24 team format means that, for round, the prospect of making the and a favourable group draw both Pictured: Wayne Hennessey during qualifying, the first time, third-placed finishing European Championships in France benefiting the nation? Not at all. Aaron Ramsey whilst Ashley Williams was consist- sides will contest a two-legged tie was something much more realistic. The team played well throughout celebrates his ently impressive as both a player and for a place at next summer’s tourna- When extreme points of view the campaign, and overcame some goal against captain. Hennessey, Williams and ment. come together and clash, reality in- strong sides - notably beating Bel- Andorra right-back Chris Gunter played in Wales were beaten to a place at the variably lies somewhere in-between. gium and finishing above Bosnia, (Photographer: every match of the campaign, giving 2014 World Cup by Croatia and Bel- Has this been a monumental and who were at the 2014 World Cup. In Huw Evans) the defence vital solidity and stabil- gium and for the 2010 tournament, completely unexpected triumph on days gone by, even fourth-placed Is- ity. it was Russia and Germany. Ahead behalf of Chris Coleman and his rael would have been viewed as fairly “Wales are The impact of players such as Bale of the 2012 Euros, Switzerland and men? No. Qualification from the formidable opposition. more than and Williams is undeniable. But the England both finished above The group Wales were in was definitely So can Wales really deliver in qualifying group, the Welsh, found Dragons, so all things considered, achievable, and they have a string of France next summer? Of course just a one- themselves in was far from unnavi- it is perhaps no surprise that Wales quality players now, including one they’ll need Bale to stay fit, and a man team gable. Indeed, if the teams in Group have previously struggled to qualify genuinely world-class star in Bale. good group-stage draw but this is the B were to be ranked according to for these competitions. But with a Does Welsh success owe itself sim- best Welsh side in decades, so who’s ” players’ individual quality, then favourable group draw and an ex- ply, therefore, to pot luck – with to say they won’t go far? How Euro 2016 will work Who’s qualified already? France (as hosts) Group A Group B Group C 1. 1. 1. England 2. 2. 2. Czech Republic 3. 3. 3. Iceland 4. 4. 4. Austria Northern Ireland Group D Group E Group F 1. 1. 1. Portugal 2. 2. 2. Spain 3. 3. 3. Switzerland 4. 4. 4. Italy

ith the long and gruelling teams, but this time spread over six nals and of course, the fi nal, which Belgium Jim Harris qualifi cation period out groups with the top two sides still takes place in Paris on 10th July. Wof the way, many of Eu- automatically qualifying for the next In regards to the group stage draw, Wales rope’s top nations, including Wales, round. UEFA have though, for 2016 this will take place on 12th Decem- can now begin preparations for next and beyond, introduced an addition- ber 2015 in the French capital. Wales Romania summer’s European Champion- al ‘knock-out’ stage, meaning that, will then discover who awaits them ships in France. 2016 will be the fi rst of the 24 competing nations, 16 will in next summer’s major tourna- Albania Championships with 24 competing progress out of the group phase. ment: their fi rst for 58 years. Given nations after UEFA expanded the size With 12 teams set to qualify au- Wales’ poor (lack of) record in recent Germany of the tournament. And so arises the tomatically for the ‘Round of 16’, the competitions, Chris Coleman’s side question – how will the new format four best performing third-place are seeded in Pot Four for the draw Poland work? sides will also make it through to meaning, in a worst case scenario, Formerly, the European Champi- complete the draw. Th ese teams will they could face the challenge of over- Russia onships had 16 teams, shared across be determined by total points ob- turning Poland, Italy and Germany four groups. Th e top two sides from tained primarily, however if this is before the knock-out stages. A match Slovakia each group would qualify for the level between nations, goal diff erence up with England in next summer’s quarterfi nals, before semifi nals and a will decide it, as per normal, ahead Championship is not out of the ques- Croatia fi nal would ensue. With 24 teams in- of goals scored. Like any other major tion either, but fellow home nation volved in 2016, the format and struc- football tournament, the quarterfi - Northern Ireland join Wales in Pot Turkey ture is somewhat more complicated: nals will follow for winners of each Four so there is no chance of a meet- Groups will again consist of four ‘Round of 16’ tie, before the semifi - ing there. 38 SPORT BUCS Rugby: Cardiff fi rst XV beaten by resolute Bath

ardiff University’s Rugby first of the second half to have any chance point win as their open-side flanker fitness was pivotal to their win. He James Lloyd team fell to a disappointing of a comeback. Just two minutes in, crossed over under the posts. The told Gair Rhydd Sport: “They were C32-7 loss to the University of Bath made it 25-0 with a converted conversion was duly converted to a bit rusty, but to be fair to them it’s Bath in their season opener at Llan- try by their left winger. seal victory for Bath. their first game of the season, whilst rumney. Cardiff bossed Bath at the scrum Making his debut as captain, Tom we have had a couple already and Cardiff, who entered the game and it was the only area of the game Wilson praised Bath’s strong defence. haven’t started great. CARDIFF having not lost at “The Fortress” in that they seemed to dominate. After the game he commented: “We “They weren’t a bad side, they 18 months, were hampered by first- Plagued with injuries, the pack had came back and battled as hard as we were probably the better team in half injuries and went down 10-0 to reshuffle with hooker Jack Haines could but fair play to their defence- the second half, so congratulations within the opening fifteen minutes. being shipped to fill in at Number 8. they held strong and we couldn’t to them and I’m sure they’ll do well 7 Cardiff flanker Sam Montieri was Cardiff continued to press and break it today. They came out the this season.” Roberts and scrum half Tries: Tom Boot stretchered off in the 18th minute, their build up was patient and pre- blocks and started very well.” Petrozzi both entered the game hav- Cons: Lewis Molloy delaying the game for half an hour. cise. Some slick passing between Outside centre, Matt Roberts, ing played at the Red Bull European Montieri was taken by ambulance the backs and some strong breaks who, on a number of occasions man- Seven’s Championships. Roberts with a suspected broken left leg. by centre Matt Roberts led to the aged to break through the brick wall said: “We ended up playing at The And Cardiff never seemed to get breakthrough after a battling drive. Bath defence believed early season Rec in front of 15,000 people, so that “Cardiff bossed a grip on the game after the restart, Tom Boot crossed over with 20 min- experience and sharpness was key to was unbelievable.” despite some big scrums. utes remaining and closed the gap to the loss, saying: “It’s our first game Both Wilson and Roberts quickly Bath at the In a quiet first half, Bath scored 18 points. back whilst Bath have had two games turned the focus to Wednesday’s BATH scrum and it on the cusp of half time, with a well A fresh burst of confidence had so far, we were just a bit rusty in the crunch match with Cardiff Met. Wil- worked try. Luca Petrozzi crossed hit Cardiff after their score and their first game.” son added: “It’s massive for us, we was the only over after slick handling work on the rugby became fluid and dynamic. He added: “We have quite a lot to need to be working hard and then fly area of the right flank to make it 18-0. Formerly Bath’s defence, however, was reso- work on but I’m proud of the boys, into Cardiff Met, a derby next, what 32 on the books of Treviso, scrum half lute throughout the entire match as everyone put a good shift in. We had more do you want really? It’s a big Tries: Cam Roberts, game which Petrozzi had a strong game and was Cardiff were pushed further back. a young side out with some freshers game to react to and we can do a job Luca Petrozzi, Will Mon- at the forefront of the majority of After a series of phases, Bath’s de- so it’s important to give them a few I hope.” roe, Pat Jenkinson they seemed Bath attacks. fence held up, much like Australia’s more weeks of experience.” Cons: Zack Henry (2), to dominate. After the interval, Cardiff knew against Wales last week. Bath full back, Cam Roberts, ap- You can watch Cardiff University Will Flinn they had to come out fighting and With the last play of the game, plauded Cardiff’s second-half efforts take on Cardiff Met on Wednes- Pens: Zack Henry (2) ” simply had to score the first points Bath managed to secure a bonus and hinted that early season match day at Cyncoed, 7:00pm kick off. It would be unfair to expect fi reworks at of getting something from. Th e positive boast one of the leakiest defences with a It should be noted that Blues are by Harry Elliott this early stage in Danny Wilson’s tenure is that a 36-31 away loss earned them whopping 72 points conceded already. If no means the worst aff ected with squad as Cardiff Blues’ Head Coach. two bonus points and they now occupy these defensive frailties can be quashed absences but, with Wales having been Cardiff Blues Any new man in charge needs time 7th position in the Pro12 table (as of then the Blues should feel relatively hit so hard by injuries, Blues players have Columnist to implement their style of play and way Gameweek 3). confi dent on their travels. Zebre should enjoyed more game time in the national of thinking - something which is rarely Wilson, who succeeded Mark be a routine win and the Blues will squad– themselves risking injury. ever an overnight fi x. Hammett at the Arms Park, will likely look to test themselves against last With a slow and steady start to Pro12 Perhaps then, it is no surprise that have run defensive drills this past week year’s Pro12 semi-fi nalists Ulster, who life, for Danny Wilson the message is some of the ghosts from last season as his side go into a succession of several will be missing some players on Irish clear – shore up the defensive side of the continue to haunt the Blues, having diffi cult away games, including trips to international duty. game and the wins will come. made a somewhat mediocre start to the Ulster and Italian outfi t Zebre- whom Wilson probably isn’t overly jubilant Th e prolifi c boot of Rhys Patchell and Pro12 season. the Blues’ sole win this season came about the national side’s impressive impressive try-scoring exploits of back A last gasp try for Connacht cost against. World Cup campaign - as far as the rower Josh Turnbull hopefully off er a them two weeks ago: a fi xture that the Whilst the Blues are the league’s top 38-year-old is concerned, the sooner he glimpse of things to come, but progress Blues would certainly have been hopeful scorers after three games, they also gets his key players back the better. must start sooner rather than later. SPORT 39 Sport Spotlight: Dancesport Th is week in Sport Spotlight, Gair Rhydd Sport sent Tom Hall down to the Great Hall to give Dancesport a go. Hear what he had to say as he popped some moves on the dancefl oor.

feel like we should get a few things clear this was no club for elitism – It never came, she just broke into a my shattered reputation. He advised Tom Hall clear before I begin: I am not a they were the defi nition of inclusive wry smile. Alas, she was a class act. me to dance within my gate with I natural or willing dancer, other and displayed all the traits that I then gained some counselling smaller steps. I have always walked I wish I had than the odd eff ort at a decidedly have made them a Gold tier society. from a fellow male dancer, who through gates and could not see one “ wooden and completely humiliating Pleasantries exchanged, it was keenly gave me some tips – this in sight, so decided to ignore him and taken up version of ‘dad dancing’ in a nightclub time for me to dance and the nerves really is a friendly society. Before continue with my lunging steps in the (usually aided by some form of Dutch returned. An exceptionally smartly I could transmit my newly gained hope that my zesty approach to the ballroom courage). So you can imagine my dressed instructor fl ew into the knowledge of dancing to my limbs, routine would change dance forever. dancing aged apprehension when the call came fi rst steps of the ‘Cha Cha’ with his my next partner appeared in front of I aimed to pioneer a new form for me to give Dancesport a go. glamourous assistant. Th ey were me. More sweat. I thanked my earlier of dance that involved wild steps 12 so I could In the hours beforehand I was more fl uid than a river, more in time exuberant deodorant application. and treading on your partner’s feet. have looked excited by the prospect of dancing than a clock and possessed a serenity As we progressed through more However, Yoda put a stop to this by with inevitably beautiful girls. that I could not achieve if I broke into of the Cha Cha, incorporating introducing another dance. Again, some of my However, I knew my skills would not meditation on the spot. My God they spins and ‘New Yorkers’, I began more perspiration. He then singled entice them. It was like going hunting were good. To make matters worse, to feel more and more at home. me out as a case example of someone ‘victims’ in the with a jukebox – plenty to shoot, my fellow dancers began copying the Spending most of my time taking too big steps. His exact words eye, rather but nothing would come near me. steps with an unerring accuracy. Th is laughing at the amount of innuendo were “I was too big”, to which I As the time came for me to head to would be me in a minute. I felt sick. in dancing, we needed to be more instantly replied by remarking how than looking the Great Hall for a showdown with We were instructed to pair up to “fi rm”, one girl saying “you need to girls had never had that problem down at my “In the hours my own lack of coordination, I donned begin with, and before I could feign take control” but also to “relax”. I tried and the room broke into laughter. beforehand I my best Adidas tracksuit, applied illness or run away, a very smiley girl and failed to hide my amusement. Humour though, was no cure feet crashing an elegant amount of deodorant – I fl ew into my arms. I paused to wipe On one spin, we needed to be like a for my appalling dance moves and was excited by knew I was going to sweat; collected the newly formed sweat from my door so that the girl could push off . the fi nal style was too much for my into theirs. the prospect of my friend who had agreed to hands on my trousers and composed Unfortunately I am clearly more of limited skill- crumbling tragically like accompany me and made the walk. myself to display my incompetence. an open plan living kind of guy and the ruins of a once great building. My dancing with Opening the door to the Great Hall Th e fi rst step was a catastrophe, was displaying none of the door- evening was over and I had genuinely I was instantly greeted by the leading my ego carried me through and I like characteristics that my Yoda- enjoyed myself. After thanking some ” the inevitably lights of the society. My nerves managed to giggle my way to the esque instructor was looking for. victims for their patience, it was time to beautiful girls left me - these were normal and end of the dance. I apologised to my During the interlude, I paused to rehydrate in Th e Taf and refl ect upon exceptionally friendly people. Th ere elegant partner for my inadequacy, in speak to the instructor and gain some my misspent youth playing football. were many who had just started the hope she would provide me with tips. I needed to channel my inner I wish I had taken up ballroom and I felt I could easily fi t in. It was a confi dent-boosting compliment. Darcey Bussell if I was to redeem dancing aged 12 so I could have ” looked some of my ‘victims’ in the eye, rather than looking down at Pictured: my feet crashing into theirs. I wish I Members of could have given them a sweat-free Cardiff Uni handshake and accepted the off er of Dancesport another dance. Th at said, there is no (Photogra- time like the present to learn in and pher: Cardiff when I can fi nd the time, such was Uni Dances- my enjoyment, I intend to return. port) Cardiff Dancesport have two separate options if you have been taken in by my experience; a social membership, which is low on commitment and has a selection of available classes, costing a mere £5 and a £35 team membership for those who have read this and thought they are better than me. I would question your judgement if you haven’t! I cannot advocate it enough. Th e team is all-inclusive and anyone can compete, a policy that has not hindered their success having won UK gold last year in Blackpool. To fi nd out more information on Dancesport, you can check their section on the AU website.

Since Cardiff City’s relegation from Tan is seen by many as the main right man for the job. Despite Slade’s ing into Football League ‘wilderness’, Shaun Davey the Premier League in 2014 there factor behind Cardiff’s off-the-field turbulent first year in charge, pro- where previously ‘top’ clubs struggle has always been an air of animos- troubles and fans have subsequently motion is still a realistic target for to return to the top flight. The likes Cardiff City ity lingering around the Cardiff City boycotted the stadium since their Cardiff, who are only a handful of of Blackburn, Bolton and Middles- Columnist Stadium. relegation to the Championship. points shy of the league leaders. brough spring to mind. A mixture of poor performances, But now that the traditional blue Joe Mason’s goals thus far have The Cardiff soap opera has taken together with Vincent Tan’s contro- kit is back, the mistakes of the last been integral to The Bluebirds’ some steps in the right direction, versial ‘identity’ rebrand has created few years need to be learnt from. bright start, but there have also been though, including offering reduced a somewhat disillusioned fan-base. Stability must be restored and only encouraging contributions from Pe- home tickets to Cardiff games for Yet in spite of this, the Bluebirds then can dreams of promotion re- ter Whittingham and on-loan winger students. A policy they need to have made an encouraging start to turn to the South Wales club. Sammy Ameobi. maintain in order to create an influx the 2015/16 campaign and remain in For some, it’s manager Russell The threat is real for Cardiff and of new fans to the club. That said, a touching distance of the top teams. Slade. There is an ever-growing con- the message from the fans is clear; vocal home support, along with suc- So why have recent attendances only sensus around the terraces that the if play-offs are not achieved this cess on the field, will undoubtedly peaked at a mere 13,950? former Leyton Orient boss is not the year, the club faces the risk of fall- lead to some supporters returning. Editors: Jim Harris James Lloyd Jason Roberts Jamie Smith @GairRhyddSport [email protected] sport gairrhydd.com/sport Also this week

Cardiff Uni Rugby slump to season-opening defeat P38>>

Why the NFL won’t work in the UK Wales make history, but P36>> what’s next? Wales have qualifi ed for their fi rst major tournament since 1958 by booking a place at Euro 2016 in France. With star players such as Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, can they deliver on the biggest stage? to progress, and there is plenty of ity to penetrate defences despite the Joe Fletcher preparation required for this Welsh fact he doesn’t always control the Pictured: Complete BUCS results outfit ahead of next summer. game as a player of his calibre might. Wales celebrate ales closed their historic A criticism frequently aimed at the In short, even if he’s playing badly, he after beating P35>> European Champion- Welsh national team is that they are still has a handy knack of putting the Andorra 2-0 to Wship Qualifying campaign far too reliant on Gareth Bale. Could ball in the back of the net; and for kick start the on Tuesday night, finishing with a they cope if, heaven forbid, he were Wales, at all-important times too. party in Cardiff . comfortable victory over Andorra to get injured? The short answer to He’s also committed, and should (Photographer: to confirm second place in Group B. that question is no, probably not. be commended for it. Take the ex- Jon Candy) Fittingly, Gareth Bale had the final Wales have scored 11 goals across ample of Ryan Giggs - also a Welsh word with a goal which wrapped up this European Qualifying campaign: left-footed winger considered to be the match in the 86th minute. And Bale has seven of them - crucial goals world-class in his prime. He is fre- so, the team will be in France next too. The Real Madrid man hit both quently hailed as one of the greatest year – their first appearance at a ma- when Wales scraped past Andorra in Premier League players of all time. jor tournament since 1958. the opening game; two in the home Yet in a 16-year international career, Such a fact will tell you that the win against Cyprus a year ago; and he managed just 64 appearances for campaign has, without doubt, been the only goal in the return leg last his country, whilst Bale – at 26 years a successful one for Chris Coleman’s month; as well as, of course, ‘that’ old – has ten fewer Welsh caps and side. Whilst this latest success will goal in the historic 1-0 victory over already seven more goals. taste sweet, and the team are right Belgium in June. You get the gist. After his first appearance for to celebrate, now is the time to look As with other high-class players - Wales in 1991, Giggs missed 18 forward - to progress. As with any like Wayne Rooney for England and consecutive friendly matches - how Sport Spotlight: We have a go at team in sport, continual assessment Cristiano Ronaldo at Madrid. Bale’s can a player ever expect to lead his Continued on and evaluation is essential if you are most important attribute is his abil- country to success with that sort of a page 37 Dancesport P39>>