Austin Sheridan MSYP, Glasgow Southside

Should English Rioters Lose Council Homes?

2011-08-14T04:15:00.000-07:00

UK Prime Minister David Cameron MP has said that people who have been found rioting will lose the tenancy of council homes if they live in one.

I don't believe that this is the right approach to take. I also disagree with the proposal put forward that they should lose benefits if they have been caught rioting. It will only make matters worse and create more looting. I would rather see them asked to do community service. They should play an active part in re-building the communities that they inflicted great damage to.

This would make the punishment fair. Not all rioters live in council homes and claim benefits so why should some pay more than others just because of their social background? I can understand why people are angry and would like to see people thrown out of council homes and lose benefits over this but we must look at the bigger picture.

Many of the people rioting believe that they have no opportunities open to them. That they have no chance in life. This would only make these feelings stronger which will push them into a position where they will commit more crime to survive.

Rioters have to learn a lesson. The things they did and took part in is completely unacceptable and there is no excuse but, the UK Government also has a lesson to learn. Cut off opportunities, cut back on youth workers and police, cut back on support for the most vulnerable and there may be a bigger price to pay which makes the saving become more expensive.

Now is the opportunity for the UK Government to sit up and listen to the people. I hope they grab the opportunity with both hands and make changes to ensure that the most vulnerable people in society have the best possible support that we can give them.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

English Riots

2011-08-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

I am saddened to see the riots that have broken out in England. The amount of damage it has caused is awful and my heart goes out to all people who have been effected by people causing mayhem. I understand why it started in the first place but it has clearly gotten out of control.

To start from the beginning, it all started with a protest over a man being shot by a police officer. People were angry and held a protest. It seems to have been taken over by, what I can only describe as ,an anarchist mob who are happy to inflict great damage to communities and ordinary people, using it as an opportunity to steal.

It started out in Tottenham in London. It has now spread to other parts of London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Nottingham, Newcastle and other places in England. It is spreading fast and I fear that it is getting more and more out of control as time goes on.

The question I have been asking myself is will it spread to Scotland? I honestly doubt it. I don't think that people are in that kind of mentality in Scotland. Obviously I can't be certan but it just seems unlikely.

What can the UK Government do to get the situation under control? will the army be sent in? Maybe, if it keeps going the way it is I don't think we should rule it out or be surprised if they do become involved over the next couple of days if things don't calm down.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Austin Sheridan MYP welcomes new Govanhill Youth Hub

2011-05-21T08:53:00.000-07:00

Austin Sheridan MYP welcomes the new Govanhill Youth Hub that will be set up by the end of this month. The hub is being provided by Glasgow Life which will be used by a wide range of youth groups in the South East of Glasgow for free. Austin Sheridan's MSYP & MYP offices will be based in the youth hub by July.

Austin Sheridan said "I think this will be a fantastic and well used facility that has been long needed in Govanhill. It is based within an area with more than it's fair share of social problems which have an negative effect on young people. I hope that the new hub will benefit the majority of young people in the area and help break down some of the barriers between different ethnic groups that exist"

If you have any questions please email Austin Sheridan at:

austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MYP

Re-elect Nicola Sturgeon for Glasgow Southside - Alex Salmond for First Minister

2011-04-27T15:52:00.000-07:00

Only 7 days till the people of Scotland go to the polls to decide who will form the Scottish Government for the next 5 years.

I am voting Nicola Sturgeon, the SNP candidate in Glasgow Southside, for my constituency MSP and will be voting Scottish National Party (SNP) 'Alex Salmond for First Minister' for my regional vote.

Out of the 4 party leaders I believe that Alex Salmond is the best person to lead Scotland for the next 5 years. He has a good record, a good team and vision that is good for Scotland.

Nicola Sturgeon is the best person to represent Glasgow Southside in the Scottish Parliament. She has a fantastic record as the constituency MSP for the former Glasgow Govan seat and is well known for her hard work in the communities that she has represented for the past 4 years. Glasgow Southside doesn't need another invisible politician. Glasgow Southside needs a strong representative. Nicola can do just that.

This election is about who will Govern Scotland for the next 5 years. Make sure you re-elect a competent Government that works for you. Vote SNP in both the constituency and regional votes.

On May 5, Be part of better, Vote SNP

Together we can make Scotland better. http://www.snp.org/

Posted by Austin Sheridan.

New Glasgow MSYP-Elect Group Meets For First Time

2011-04-24T13:05:00.000-07:00

The New MSYP-Elects met officially for the first time on Wednesday. Current MSYPs will represent their seats until the 11th of June when the new MSYP-Elects take up their new seats. Current MSYPs Austin Sheridan, Keenan Alexander, Rae Cahill and Craig Whyteside will continue to represent their current seats and will continue on as MSYPs in the new redrawn constituencies that they have been elected to represent. Current MSYPs that did not seek re-election or lost their election will stand down on the 11th of June.

I am pleased that I have been re-elected for a second term. I have done lots in the past two years as the MSYP for Glasgow Govan and I can do a lot more as the MSYP for the new seat which covers 60% of my old constituency, Glasgow Southside, over the next two years.

The Current MSYPs and the MSYP-Elects discussed the idea of a Glasgow Youth Council which I proposed back in 2009 when I was first elected. Over the past two years the current MSYPs worked with Glasgow City Council drawing up plans to implement a Glasgow Youth Council. Now we are in a position to implement it which I hope will be done within the next 6 months.

I have also been spending time getting to know the new areas that I will be taking in for when I become the Glasgow Southside MSYP. It has been very interesting speaking with community groups in the new areas getting an idea of the issues that local people face. It has taken a bit of time as 40% of Glasgow Southside is new to me.

If you have any questions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Are You Using Your Vote?

2011-04-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

The Scottish General Election will be held on May 5. If you are registered to vote this is your opportunity to vote to decide who will be your local MSP (Constituency MSP) and your 7 Regional MSPs. You can register to vote if you are over 16 but can not vote until you are 18. Please follow this link for more information about voter registration. Use your vote, make sure your views are heard! http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/elections/voter-registration If you live in the new Glasgow Southside constituency, your candidates to become your constituency MSP are: Nicola Sturgeon, Scottish National Party (SNP) David Meikle, Conservative Stephen Curran, Labour Kenn Elder, Liberal Democrats Glasgow Regional List (you vote for a political party or independent) Scottish National Party (SNP), Alex Salmond for First Minister All Scotland Pensioners Party Scottish Conservative Party Scottish Labour Party British National Party Scottish Pirate Party Scottish Liberal Deomcrats Scottish Socialist Party Scottish Unionist Party Socialist Labour Scottish Christian Party Scottish Green Party Respect (Scotland) UKIP Scottish Homeland Party Independant (Caroline Johnstone) Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Austin Sheridan MSYP Supports London Protest

2011-03-25T17:50:00.001-07:00

Austin Sheridan MSYP for Glasgow Govan has said that he supports the protests that are taking place in London today. The protest march against the UK Government cuts is expected to attract around 300,000 people.

Austin Sheridan said "Today we will see the REAL big society take action on the streets of London. Even though I can not make it I know that many wish to send their best wishes to the protesters that can't attend, including myself. In my role as an MSYP I have spoken against National Citizens service, the Big Society and the bombshell VAT rise. I have spoken against them and every time a large majority of MSYPs vote against the UK Government's measures with me, now we need to see MPs do the same, in particular the Lib-Dem MPs. If they don't they will, and should, be punished at the ballot box in every upcoming election"

If you have any questions please email Austin Sheridan at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP's Office.

SYP Launch Manifesto 'Change The Picture'

2011-03-17T15:20:00.000-07:00

The Scottish Youth Parliament launched it's manifesto 'Change The Picture' at the Parliament's sitting this weekend which was hosted by Inverclyde Council.

I support most of the 49 Manifesto points that were passed by MSYPs then a massive consultation with 42,804 young people. Well ahead our target of 15,000 young people.

Here I will list the top 10 manifesto points that received the support of over 50% of MSYPs and young people consulted. I will mark in percentage the support the commitments I list received from the 42,804 young people we consulted.

These are in order of priority:

1. 'A referendum should be held on Scotland's constitutional future, with the options of no change, more powers for the Scottish Parliament or full independence.

For: 66%
Against: 14%
Not Sure: 20%

2. 'The Trident nuclear missile system should not be replaced, and no part of the existing or new systems should be located in Scotland or in Scottish waters.'

For: 61%
Against: 18%
Not Sure: 21%

3. 'Tuition should remain free in further and higher education. Top-up fees are not an option for a society which puts ability to learn above ability to pay.'

For: 85%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 9%

4. 'The success of Scotland's students must not be compromised by financial worries. Immediate action needs to be taken to ensure students don't face poverty and hardship in pursuit of their education.'

For: 84%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 10%

5. 'Government has a responsibility to encourage more people to actively participate in politics. It is particularly important that constituency candidates reflect the people they represent, including women and people from minority ethnic backgrounds. Political parties should be encouraged to stand candidates aged 25 and under in winnable seats.'

For: 70%
Against: 12%
Not Sure: 18%

6. 'The minimum age for voting in all elections and referendums should be lowered to 16.'

For: 65%
Against: 25%
Not Sure: 10%

7. 'Scotland's local tax system should be changed so that it is based on household income rather than the value of your home or the area you live in.'

For: 76%
Against: 11%
Not Sure: 13%

8. Corner's inquests, that would allow investigations into death of Scots overseas, should be introduced in Scotland.'

For: 83%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 11%

9. 'Young carers in Scotland should be shown that they are appreciated members of society and should be offered more support inside and outside of education. The Scottish Government should produce a Young Carers strategy to help improve the lives of young people who are young carers for the benefit of every single young person who cares in Scotland.'

For: 88%
Against: 6%
Not Sure: 6%

10. 'The solutions to solving knife crime lie in working with young people to tackle the root causes, not by imposing mandatory sentences on those caught carrying a knife.'

For: 57%
Against: 28%
Not Sure: 15%

Well, these are the top 10 that I personally like. The full 49 Manifesto statements can be found here: www.syp.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

New Glasgow Southside constituency office

2011-03-03T09:58:00.001-08:00

From the 25th of March I will be operating from a new office in the Gorbals area where I will carry out my MSYP duties as the Member for Glasgow Southside after the election on the 25th of March.

My current Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office will close on the 31st of March.

Until the 25th of March please contact me using my Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office.

________________________________

Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency office (closing on the 31st of March)

Austin Sheridan MSYP
Constituency Office
Glasgow Life
Pavilion 2
Rowan Business Park
5 Ardlaw Street
Glasgow
G51 3RR

Glasgow Southside MSYP constituency office (opens on the 25th of March)

Austin Sheridan MSYP
Constituency Office
Glasgow Life
Adelphi Centre
12 Commercial Road
Glasgow
G5 0PQ

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Austin Sheridan for Glasgow Southside, MSYP Manifesto 2011

2011-02-11T13:30:00.000-08:00

Hello,

In March 14-25 you will have the oppertunity to vote for your local Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament. I am standing for the new constituency of Glasgow Southside. In this manifesto you can read what I think are the top priorities for the constituency and nationally.

I believe that what Glasgow Southside needs is a MSYP who takes ideas forward and listens to young people. I do have ideas on what I think will be best for the area and what I would like to take to the SYP’s attention but what’s more important is that your ideas and suggestions get listened to and taken seriously. I am approachable and open minded in my views. I will make a commitment to take popular ideas that you have came up with and would push as hard as I can to see it through the body of the SYP and make a difference to you and all young people of Glasgow Southside.

Local Policy:

If I’m elected to be MSYP for Glasgow Southside I pledge to work with local high schools and colleges so that I can hear as many young people’s views as possible and act on them to the best of my ability. I would do this by having regular contact with student councils and other groups within the schools and colleges. I would also work with local youth groups and feed suggestions into local decision making panels so that I can take more ideas forward at a local level.

I will fight to ensure that local youth services continue operating as well as investment in new facilities where needed.

I want to work with young people across the constituency as more has to be done to help ethnic communities integrate with each other, especially areas in the constituency like Govanhill.

I promise to fight against the Glasgow City Council education cuts to ensure that young people get the best education possible.

I want to make sure that all young people feel safe to walk the streets. I will call for more police officers in areas of the constituency that need them.

National Policy:

All young people in Scotland should be allowed to vote when they are over 16. I will continue to fight for this on behalf of young people if elected.

I will continue to campaign to ensure that higher and further remains free in Scotland so that all young people have the opportunity to go to college and university without worrying about fees. Education should be based on ability not wealth.

I am strongly against Trident (Nuclear weapons). I believe that the 100 billion pounds spent on replacing trident should be halted immediately and the money put into protecting front line services.

If elected I would like to raise awareness about young carers in Scotland. I think that the Scottish Government and UK Government should try and do more for young Scottish carers who do a fantastic but hard and demanding job. If we give young carers in Scotland more help this would give the young person and who they are caring for a better quality of life. It is important that society looks after young carers in Scotland and make sure they get an equal start in life the same as everyone else.

Teenage pregnancies are a problem throughout Scotland. If the Scottish Government offers more help we can try to encourage young parents to stay in education so that they can give themselves and their child a better quality of life. I would like to see free or nominal charge crèches for young people in full and part time education.

I also believe that Scotland should become an independent sovereign nation while maintaining a social union with the rest of the UK. I think the question of Independence should be put forward to the people of Scotland through an independence referendum. I also believe that the voting age for this referendum should be open to all people that are 16 years of age and over.

These are the main things that I believe would benefit the young people in Glasgow Southside and throughout Scotland. If you have any questions or suggestions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

You can also visit my website at: www.austinmsyp.co.nr

Thanks,

Austin Sheridan
SYP Candidate for Glasgow Southside

Austin Sheridan MSYP to lead debate against VAT increase at SYP

2011-01-31T10:36:00.000-08:00

Austin Sheridan MSYP is to lead the debate against the VAT increase, from 17.5% to 20%, at the next sitting of the Scottish Youth Parliament. This will be put forward to MSYPs from across Scotland in March through a members motion tabled by Austin Sheridan.

Austin Sheridan said "In these difficult times the last thing that people and the economy needs is a tax on goods. For the economy to make a recovery we need to encourage spending, for people we need to make sure that they can afford things that they need. It would seem that the UK Government are set on hitting the most vulnerable people in society from cutting child tax credits, proposing National Citizens Service which would see young people forced in to unpaid work for 6 weeks or this tax on consumption which will make the price of fuel even higher which will have a detrimental effect on families and people in rural areas. The attack on the vulnerable has to stop now"

At the March Scottish Youth Parliament sitting members will be asked the following question written and tabled by Austin Sheridan MSYP:

"The SYP does not support the VAT rise from 17.5 percent to 20 percent as it will have a detrimental effect on young people and the poorest people in Scotland."

Agree
Disagree

The March SYP sitting will also see the first leaders debate between Holyrood party leaders for the upcoming Scottish Elections. The Party leaders are: Alex Salmond, First Minister, Leader of the Scottish National Party, Iain Gray, Leader of the Labour MSPs, Annabell Goldie, Leader of the Conservatives MSPs and Tavish Scott, Leader of the Liberal Democrat MSPs.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP's constituency office.

Happy Burns Day

2011-01-24T20:21:00.001-08:00

Fellow Scots and Friends of Scotland.

Today is Burns Day, the day we celebrate one of Scotland's finest minds. I like to use this day to reflect on his work and many other fine Scots. I believe that this is a day I can come together with my family and spend time with them as they are the most important people in my life. This year has been a difficult year for Scotland. We are facing massive cuts from Westminster, difficult weather and so on. I am sure Robert Burns would have had something to say about it if he was around!

This year has also been a difficult year for me so far. The Scottish Youth Parliament elections coming up on March 14-25th which I am standing in hoping to retain my seat which has been redrawn by the Scottish Boundary Commission and renamed Glasgow Southside, There is also the Scottish Parliament elections on May which I am involved in through political campaigning. I have also received sad personal news on Friday that my Gran has cancer which is very difficult for my family and I.

Through these difficult times I will look for guidance from many places. My friends, family, the work of Robert Burns and many other places.

I hope you have a fantastic Burns day. Enjoy his work!

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Gambia Justice Minister Shows True Colours

2011-01-10T09:29:00.000-08:00

Today the Gambia Justice Minister Edward Gomez has threatened Gambians in exile through an article by "The Daily News". “We will wait here for them to come,” he said in an interview Friday, adding that they could be safe as long as they continue to be harbored abroad, but reminded them that they will be prosecuted anytime they come to The Gambia.

This is another example of the Gambian Government threatening citizens with prosecution if they return. Gambia has a very poor human rights record and refuse to hold free and fair elections.

As the Vice Chair of the Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia I can assure people who are reading this blog that the group is fighting for human rights in Gambia for the correct reasons. Journalists and Opposition politicians are at the receiving end of violence and oppression by the current Gambian Government if they publicly speak out against the Government in place.

Edward Gomez, Gambian Justice Minister said, "These are unfortunately evil members of The Gambian society who took refuge abroad putting every nonsensical story on papers and on radios to tarnish the good image of The Gambia government" In my opinion the most evil members of Gambian Society are people who threaten violence and oppression against it's peoples and allows female genital mutilation.

I am pleased that 24 Westminster MPs voted for the early day motion put forward by Anas Sarwar MP. I alongside other politicians and campaign group members will continue to fight for the freedom of every Gambian and ensure that their human rights are enforced.

This article was most likely designed to try and put us off campaigning. It only makes us stronger and more determined.

The Daily News Article: http://dailynews.gm/africa/gambia/article/justice-minister-warns-gambians-abroad-of-backlash-for-denigration

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
________________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr

Scottish Labour Leader Should Apologise

2011-01-04T06:36:00.001-08:00

Scottish Labour Leader Iain Gray MSP has offended the ambassador of Montenegro after he claimed the country took part in ethnic cleansing at First Minister's Questions.

The Ambassador, Marijana Zivkovic, chargé d'affaires at the Montenegro embassy in London, has rebuked him over the comments he made at Holyrood on 23 December. In a letter, she expressed her "deep regret" about the way he depicted the country.

She wrote: "Your statement that Montenegro was involved in 'ethnic cleansing', including your references to 'a war crimes tribunal and a UN peacekeeping mission' is simply incorrect"

This is not the only time Iain Gray MSP has offended other Nations. Mr Gray has criticised and insulted friendly, neighbouring, independent states and, with his former superior, Secretary of State for Scotland, Jim Murphy, was taken to task by the Norwegian ambassador for their criticisms of Norway in the past.

If Iain Gray is serious about becoming First Minister, he needs to get his act together as he is currently an embrassment to Scotland.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Has your MSYP been awesome this year?

2010-12-28T11:00:00.000-08:00

You think they deserve some recognition for their hard work, then why not nominate them for the Annual Scottish Variety Awards ‘Up and Coming Politician of the Year’ award 2011?

We need your nominations in to SYP HQ by hogmany 2010, to francesca.l@syp.org.uk

Just give us a few lines why you think they're great, and why they deserve the award.

Good luck!

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Surge in Support for Independence

2010-12-22T06:06:00.000-08:00

Austin Sheridan MSYP has welcomed a TNS opinion poll showing a surge in support for Scottish Independence.

The poll shows a record 40% of Scots want to see the Scottish Parliament have the powers of Independence. The TNS poll conducted over St Andrews Day shows 40% support the Scottish Parliament having the powers and responsibilities to enable Independence, with only 44% opposed.

The TNS poll follows findings by the Scottish Social Attitudes Survey which shows that support for Scottish Independence rises to almost half (45 per cent) if taxes were to go down by £500 – with 62 per cent also saying that the Scottish Parliament should take the most important decisions about welfare benefits, while 57 per cent say the same about taxes.

Commenting, Austin Sheridan said:

"This poll is a great boost for the Independence movement that is forever growing in Scotland, especially at a time when Westminster has nothing good to offer Scotland in these difficult economic times.

"I hope that the UK Government will take the results from this poll seriously and consider giving Scotland control over it's own economy so that the Scottish Government can grow Scotland's economy and shield Scotland from savage London cuts. Currently the Scotland Bill at Westminster does not contain the powers necessary and is far short of what is really needed to protect Scottish citizens

"This will be a key issue in my election campaign in the bid to become the MSYP for the new constituency of Glasgow Southside as these powers are needed to protect peoples jobs and education. It is time to stand up to Westminster and tell them that the young people of Scotland will not accept their cuts that will have an negative impact on young peoples education and jobs."

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP's Constituency Office.

Contact: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Govan High Autism Unit

2010-12-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

Today (13/12/10) I attended the Govan High Autism Unit's Christmas Fayre. It was a really good opportunity to catch up with the young people that attend the Govan High AU in my constituency. There was home baking that pupils in the unit had made in their home economics department as well as pitching in to decorate the corridors and class rooms for the Christmas season.

While I was there I picked up a few cases such as the lack of grit in the area that the school is situated which makes it difficult for pupils and staff to walk around the School grounds and community due to the ongoing poor weather conditions that Scotland has at the moment. Another thing that has been raised was the fact that the school library has been closed for almost 3 months now due to the librarian resigning. After a phone call to Glasgow City Council I was assured that the library will be open after the Christmas holiday.

The event today was a good opportunity for the AU to raise money so I made sure I was digging deep and managed to pick up a few things. I brought a DVD called Animal Farm which is based on the book that George Orwell wrote who I am a great fan of. I also brought some home baking which was made by the pupils in the AU and also won a few prises on the raffle stall.

It was a fantastic event and I would like to think all AU pupils and staff for making such a cracking effort to make the day the success that it was. I'm already looking forward to next year's Christmas fayre!

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Happy St Andrews Day

2010-11-30T04:19:00.001-08:00

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very happy St Andrews Day.

Today, on Scotland's special day, we can reflect on all things that Scotland has achieved as a Nation that have changed the world. I would also like to extend my best wishes to Scotland's friends across the globe and invite you to visit the country for our Winter Festival Celebrations.

For me, St Andrew's day is about celebrating all things that are great about Scotland and looking back at the remarkable things Scotland has contributed in the past as well as looking and celebrate what we can offer for the future. Things like Science and innovation, literature, as well as the great Scottish discovery of anaesthetics.

Scotland has received praise for all of these things that I have listed above and much more, but more importantly we are recognised as some of the most friendly peoples in the globe and our famous warm welcome to visitors.

We have lots to be proud of, so have a wonderful day and be proud of our Nation.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

London listens to Gambia Campaigners

2010-11-25T04:23:00.000-08:00

In a whirlwind day in London, representatives of the Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia made ‘useful progress’, according to Vice Chair Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Through Westminster MP Anas Sarwar, who has kept his pre-election promise to support the Campaign, Austin Sheridan MSYP and committee members Alieu Ceesay and Grace Franklin met with Parliamentary coordinator for Human Rights, Nicole Piche, Paul Welch who is team leader for the West Africa desk and Agnes Annels from the Foreign Commonwealth Office Human Rights department.

The Campaign updated the officials on their events, past and future, to tell people in Scotland about the increasing number of Gambians ‘disappearing’ in the Gambia, or who are imprisoned and tortured because they say something which offends the President. They include journalists, opposition party leaders and many ordinary citizens.

The Scottish Campaign is backed by the National Union of Journalists and Amnesty International which has published a report on the situation in the West Africa country which is a popular holiday destination.

A further meeting in the offices of Amnesty International enabled the Scottish Campaign to see where their work fitted into the 17 cities around the world which are also active in pressing for Human Rights to be restored in the Gambia. Until recently, Gambia had a Constitution and a Legislature which protected its citizens. But increasingly draconian laws and edicts from the President’s Palace – including the activating of the death penalty this month – have brought fear to the nation. The legal system has been corrupted with mercenary judges from Nigeria hired by the President to impose his will.
Currently the President Yahya Jammeh, is encouraging hereditary Chiefs to campaign for him to be made King of Gambia.
The Scottish Campaign’s next public meeting will be in Edinburgh on Thursday 16 December at the Justice and Peace Centre and hosted by that organisation.

In the Scottish Parliament, Patrick Harvie MSP has put forward a motion condemning the catalogue of human rights abuses in Gambia including the case of the missing journalist Ebrima Manneh and urges government pressure to be put on the Gambian Government in defence of human rights. By Thursday 18 November, fifteen MSPs had signed the motion.

This blog article was adapted using a YAM publication (Local News Glasgow) http://www.localnewsglasgow.co.uk/2010/11/london-listens-to-gambia-campaigners/

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.

Austin Sheridan MSYP Wins Vote Against Big Society and NCS

2010-11-02T08:06:00.001-07:00

The Scottish Youth Parliament this Saturday debated the Big Society and National Citizens Service in the Scottish Parliament.

John Beaton MSYP, Edinburgh West, lead the FOR debate. He said that National Citizens Service was vital for young people across Scotland.

I lead the AGAINST debate saying that "I think that the money that is being put in to this NCS scheme should be spent on things like Education, Apprenticeships and Job Opportunities...things that will actually benefit young people" I went on to say "we can not expect young people to fill the public sector jobs when the UK Government target them. It is unfair to use young people for slave labour. If we targeted woman or an ethnic minority group in the same way NCS targets young people, it would be frowned upon and would most likely be against the Law"

This is how MSYPs voted:

•“Following plans for a Big Society by the UK Government, all young people in Scotland should have to take part in a National Citizen Service, requiring them to work for a voluntary organisation for six months.”

Agree: 9.3%

Disagree: 89.5%

Abstain: 1.2%

This is a fantastic result in my opinion. This sends a clear message to the UK Government that the young people of Scotland do not support these ageist measures that the UK Government have planned for us.

If you have any questions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
_______________________
This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)

SNP Freeze Council Tax Again to Protect Families Income

2010-10-25T16:40:00.000-07:00

The Scottish National Party have said that they will freeze the Council Tax across Scotland again this year to protect the income of Scottish families during these difficult financial times.

This is something that I welcome. At the moment the council tax is unfair as it is never mind putting it up which would hit the poorest in our society. It is clear that this decision has been made to make sure that families with low incomes do not suffer a tax hike in these difficult times, something that Labour do not support. Labour have said that they would like to raise the council tax across Scotland which would plunge families into serious financial difficulties. Until we have a fair Local Income tax which is based on the ability to pay, the council tax hurts the poor even when frozen. The freeze is a temporary measure that the SNP have implemented since 2007 to help everyone in Scotland.

The SNP have also said that Scotland will have free prescriptions by April 2011, another measure that will help everyone in Scotland during these difficult times. Labour never made any effort to abolish the charges in Scotland but did so in Wales. It is clear that only the SNP will stand up for the people of Scotland in these difficult times. The SNP believe that those with the broadest shoulders should bare the biggest burden during these times where things are becoming more expensive and people having to tighten their belts. These policies will help people keep that little bit extra money for everyday living. Labour on the other hand would like the poorest to pay for their mismanagement of the economy. The Tories seem to enjoy cutting public services in England with the Lib-Dems propping them up, including privatisation of NHS services, which Labour started before they left office. The SNP will stop the privatisation of the NHS at the border.

Even in these difficult times, and with limited powers in the Scottish Parliament, the SNP is making a real difference for the people of Scotland. Just imagine what they could do with more powers for the Scottish Parliament and the powers that come with independence. We, together, can make Scotland better. Be Part of Better. www.bepartofbetter.net

Posted by Austin Sheridan.

Truth About Youth

2010-10-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I attended an event in Glasgow's St Mungo's Museum along with Rachael Cahill MSYP, for Glasgow Kelvin, and Keenan Alexander MSYP, for Glasgow Springburn, and other young people from my own constituency and other young people from across the whole of Glasgow. The event was called 'Truth About Youth' and was facilitated by Young Scot and The CO-OP. At the event we learned how the group wants to create more positive stories for the media to report.

At the event we all discussed the best way forward to help change the perception of young people in Glasgow. Many ideas were raised about how young people can engage with the media more. Something that all young people agreed on was that we would not want the media to stop reporting bad stories about young people as people have a right to know what is going on in their society. What we did say is that the media should print more positive stories about young people to help people in Glasgow get a balanced view of young people and show that the minority do not represent the majority.

We decided as a group that the best way for this to actually happen is to create an online bank of positive stories about young people that the media can report on if they wish. The idea is that this would make it easier for the media to find positive stories about young people because like any kind of stories, the bad stuff is more noticeable and tends to overshadow the good things in society.

With this idea we also thought that it would be good for young people to have more contact with journalists from all different kinds of newspapers so that they can work with young people on stories which lets them experience the 'decent side' of the younger generation as well as giving the young person taking part great experience on what it is like to work in the world of media.

I wish this project all the best and I look forward to working with the Truth About Youth team in the future.

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP.
________________________
This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/

Mundell should call a By-Election in Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale

2010-10-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

Scotland's only Tory MP David Mundell should call a by-election in Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale as it has become known that he broke electoral rules and overspent on his campaign. David Mundell MP protests that it was a mistake as he did not look over his election spending properly. David Mundell MP has now been reported to the head of the prosecution service for breaking electoral law. The top punishment for this crime is being fined £5,000 and expulsion from Parliament.

David Mundell MP has claimed that it was "an error" and was an "innocent mistake". Mr Mundell has admitted that he was in the wrong. I am not saying that he should pay the full penalty but there should be a By-Election in the constituency he represents as he had an unfair advantage over all of the other candidates standing in Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale. The only fair way to straighten this out is to re-run the election in this constituency. It wouldn't even bother me if David Mundell MP was the candidate, if there was a by-election, we would know he won or lost the seat fairly. Until this happens Mr Mundell's mandate is questionable.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This Article can be found at http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)

'New' New Labour's new Leader Slaps Unions and Public Sector in the Face

2010-09-29T03:56:00.000-07:00

Ed Miliband MP who is the new leader of 'New' New Labour slapped unions in the face yesterday by telling them not to strike against budget cuts. I believe that he made these comments to try and get rid of his new nick name 'Red Ed'. He said that the Labour party would not back a wave of strikes and the public would not accept a wave of strikes. When Miliband made these comments many union members were shouting "rubbish" and did not welcome the sound bite.

I think this shows what Labour really is and has been since 1997, Tories with red ties. I think Mr Miliband forgets that it was the unions that put him where he is today. If he did not get the backing from the unions David Miliband MP would have became the next leader of the Labour party, not that he would have been any better, the carbon copy of Tony Blair that he is.

So what is next for the Labour party? If they continue like this it looks like Labour will be in opposition for a long time, not that it will make any difference as Labour and the Tories could do just as equally as bad a job...and the Lib-Dems might as well be Tories anyway.

I very much doubt that the people of Scotland will be happy with what Ed Miliband MP has been saying. It is clear that Mr Miliband will not be standing shoulder to shoulder with our public sector workers. The SNP on the other hand will do all they can to protect public sector cuts and stop the prviatisation of our vital public services. Alex Salmond MSP and the SNP are on the side of our public sector and workers in Scotland.

If the unions really want to make a difference in Scotland, they would back the SNP. It is clear that Miliband is a weak leader and will let the ConDem Government at Westminster reduce our services. When the unions are looking for political backing for saving jobs, they can not run to Ed Miliband, as he has made it clear he is NOT on their side.

Shame on you Ed Miliband.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
______________________
This Article can be found at www.austinmsyp.co.nr (Blog Section)

Scotland's Voice for people in The Gambia

2010-09-27T04:15:00.001-07:00

I attended the launch of the Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia on Tuesday (21/09/10). I first got involved when I was contacted by Local News Glasgow to attend a small protest to highlight the mistreatment of Gambian Journalists back in 2009 at Buchanan Street. When I arrived I met Alieu Ceesey who fled the Gambia in fear of his life just because he spoke against the Gambian Government. The Journalists that we were protesting for were not as lucky as Alieu and were unable to escape. They were being punished for doing their job.

I am pleased that a year later we now have an official campaign group set up. At the launch a number of people gave speeches including myself. We had cross party support for the campaign too. Anas Sarwar MP, Labour Glasgow Central, Cllr Danny Alderslow, Green Southside Central Ward and myself from the SNP attended the launch. Anne McLaughlin MSP, SNP Glasgow Regional Member, also sent a statement to show her support for the campaign.

At the launch I said in my speech how important it is for all political parties to work together on issues like this. When peoples lives are at risk there is no room for petty party politics. I also spoke about how I was pleased to be a founding member of the first ever campaign for human rights in the Gambia to be launched in Scotland, and even the UK. I said that this group is the group that will tell the UK Government that the people of Scotland do not want the UK Government propping up corrupt countries.

If you want to get involved in the Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia Please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

_______________________

This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)

Scotland's Voice for people in The Gambia

2010-09-27T04:15:00.000-07:00

I attended the launch of the Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia on Tuesday (21/09/10). I fist got involved when I was contacted by Local News Glasgow to attend a small protest to highlight the mistreatment of Gambian Journalists back in 2009 at Buchanan Street. When I arrived I met Alieu Ceesey who fled the Gambia in fear of his life just because he spoke against the Gambian Government. The Journalists that we were protesting for were not as lucky as Alieu and were unable to escape. They were being punished for doing their job.

I am pleased that a year later we now have an official campaign group set up. At the launch a number of people gave speeches including myself. We had cross party support for the campaign too. Anas Sarwar MP, Labour Glasgow Central, Cllr Danny Alderslow, Green Southside Central Ward and myself from the SNP attended the launch. Anne McLaughlin MSP, SNP Glasgow Regional Member, also sent a statement to show her support for the campaign.

At the launch I said in my speech how important it is for all political parties to work together on issues like this. When peoples lives are at risk there is no room for petty party politics. I also spoke about how I was pleased to be a founding member of the first ever campaign for human rights in the Gambia to be launched in Scotland, and even the UK. I said that this group is the group that will tell the UK Government that the people of Scotland do not want the UK Government propping up corrupt countries.

If you want to get involved in the Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia Please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Austin Sheridan MSYP welcomes face lift of Govan Cross

2010-08-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to see that money has been spend improving the town centre of Govan. For a long time Govan Cross has been neglected by the Labour Council in Glasgow leaving weeds to grow out of the pavements and allowing the general facilities to decay.

I welcome the investment triggered by local residents and elected representatives to improve the Town Centre of Govan. New pavements are being put down to replace the ones with weeds and pot holes. The Bus Station has seen investment making it safer for young children and better bus shelters for winter.

Govan Cross is a place with many historical buildings and holds a lot of history. Govan is older than Glasgow but ended up integrating into the growing economy of Glasgow. It is a shame that we have let our oldest part of Glasgow be abused for so long. I am pleased that local residents and representatives, including myself, have fought the corner for Govan.

Now that Govan Cross has been given a face lift, Govan riverside will now see new riverside houses being built which will boost the local economy.

If you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
________________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Campaign for Glasgow Southside Begins

2010-08-05T17:14:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we will see the start of my campaigning to become the MSYP for the new constituency of Glasgow Southside in March 2011.

I will be spending time with friends who have agreed to help my campaign in Toryglen which is a new area I will cover in the re-drawn boundary and later that afternoon I will spend time in Govanhill, which is also a new area in the re-drawn constituency, doing campaign work.

No doubt it will be a tough election like Govan in 2009 with a wide range of good candidates. I hope that I am able to get it right again next year so that I can represent areas like Govan East, Kinning Park, Pollokshields again for another two years and will hopefully be elected to serve areas like the Gorbals, Toryglen and Govanhill for the first time. I am very disappointed that I will loose Govan Cross and everything to the west of Govan. It has been a privilege to serve them over the past year and a half and will continue to do so with pride until the 2011 SYP election.

I hope that the young people aged between 14-25 choose me to be their strong local voice for them so that I can champion on their behalf on things that really matter to them.

My Manifesto will be published on 25th January 2011.

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
___________________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Change the date Clegg

2010-08-05T06:17:00.000-07:00

Nick Clegg MP, Deputy Prime Minister of the UK plans to hold a referendum on whether the voting system to elect MPs to Westminster should be changed to the Alternative Vote (AV) but wants to do it on the same day as the 2011 Scottish Parliament General Election.

I think that it is unfair to hold both votes on the same day. Changing the voting system is a really big change and is not just a simple Yes/No vote that won't make much of a difference, we are talking about changing UK politics dramatically. I am in favour of a referendum on this issue but it should not be held on the same day as any other elections, especially national elections.

The outcome of the AV referendum will be important. That is why, for the referendum to have a fair chance, should be held on a separate date where people can consider it without having to worry about who is going to Govern their nation for the next 4 years on top of that. The AV Referendum campaign also threatens to overshadow the Scottish General Election as the AV Campaign will be a big one which will, as a result, give the London based parties more media attention putting other parties at a disadvantage.

I hope that Nick Clegg MP takes these things into account, I also hope he will be in constant dialog with the Scottish Government on his AV Referendum plans. If the UK Government had any respect for the people of Scotland, they would not undermine our national elections and have them be overshadowed with a Westminster issue.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Austin Sheridan MSYP Welcomes more help for Young Carers

2010-07-29T17:43:00.000-07:00

I would just like to start of by congratulating the Scottish Government in introducing the very first Young Carers Strategy in the UK. The Scottish Youth Parliament supports more help for young carers as do I, in fact it was in my manifesto and I have done work in my constituency with young carers and have worked with elected members and organisations to make sure that I champion the views of young carers who in my view, are often the unsung heroes of our society.

Many people across Scotland will know someone who is a Young Carer or are one them self. We all know how they can struggle to do simple things that other young people take for granted such as going out to socialise regularly, going to school, being able to go onto further education etc the list goes on. I am sure that Young Carers across Scotland will welcome this.

This also makes you wonder if the UK Government will introduce any Government Strategy for young carers south of the boarder. I think this shows once again that the Scottish Parliament is leading the way and is more in touch with people than Westminster is. It is time that Westminster caught up with the times and got it's act together.

Maybe David Cameron should shadow Alex Salmond for a couple of weeks and see how it's done.

Until then, well done to the Scottish Government!

Scottish Government Young Carers Strategy Link: http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2010/07/23153304/0

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
________________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

New Constituency Office

2010-07-27T09:13:00.001-07:00

My Current Constituency office will close on the 28th July.

The new Constituency office will be moving into a larger office with the new Glasgow Life office (who currently run MSYP constituency offices).

The new Address will be:

Austin Sheridan MSYP
Constituency Office
Glasgow Life
Pavilion 2
Rowan Business Park
5 Ardlaw Street
Glasgow
G51 3RR

This office should be operational by Monday 2nd August.

If you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Busy times

2010-07-27T04:38:00.000-07:00

I have been very busy with a number of events lately. I have been doing lots of constituency work recently by visiting all different kinds of groups in the area ranging from youth clubs to local radio stations and task forces for relating to youth services. I have also had loads of case work on university funding and SAAS grants/loans. It can be surprising the stuff that people come to you for help with but I am always happy to help with anything.

I have also been asked to be part of a task force which is being set up by staff at Local News Glasgow (a local media outlet) which aims to raise awareness of Human Rights, or the lack of it, in The Gambia. The task force will also lobby MPs, MSPs about the current situation in The Gambia. I will keep you updated in future blogs about how the task force is getting on.

I have also been really busy with arranging our visit to Malawi. We are currently in the process of getting the last minute things done and making sure we have everything we need before we go. While we are in Malawi we will be delivering workshops on Youth Participation and Youth Democracy. This will hopefully help the Youth Council of Malawi set up it's own Youth Parliament of Malawi. We will also be visiting Schools, Hospitals and Prisons while we are in the country for 3 weeks. Again, I will keep you updated on our progress, and while I am in Malawi I hope to post a few entries.

If you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Vigil for Florence and Precious Mhango

2010-07-19T14:39:00.001-07:00

Tonight I was in Glasgow City Centre at a vigil for Florence and Precious Mhango. The family, originally from Malawi, have lived in Scotland for the last 7 years. It was a very emotional event with some fantastic speeches from friends of the Mhangos. We heard how the UK Border Agency (UKBA) have intimidated a wheelchair dependant friend, who is the Godmother of 10 year old Precious, and a single mother in front of her child. I think that kind of behavior is an absolute disgrace.

I was pleased with the high turnout as it showed the UK Government that the people of Glasgow do not agree with the decision taken by the Home Office. The Mhangos have been good citizens of Scotland for 7 years now and have fully integrated with Scottish society. To take a child away from what is now her home and away from her friends is unacceptable in my view. The fact that they had to wait 7 years to be told no you can't stay is not good practice. After 7 years they have built a life in Scotland and have stability and are now being told they have to give it up. I hope that the UK Government have a look at the policy regarding this and I hope the bully organisation UK Border Agency are investigated by the police for their disgusting behaviour.

I will be writing to the Home Secretary, Theresa May MP, to express my concerns surrounding this case. If the people of Glasgow have anything to do with it, the Mhangos wouldn't be going anywhere!

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)

Picture The Change

2010-07-18T04:53:00.001-07:00

The Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) have now launched the Manifesto that will shape the way the SYP campaigns over the next two years. The Manifesto is called Picture The Change (www.picturethechange.org) and is split in to 5 sections as you will see on the website. We are aiming to reach 15,000 responses which is an ambitious target but a target we will achieve together if we work hard.

As a Glasgow MSYP, I hope we can get the most responses as we are the most populated local authority and we send the most MSYPs (20, 2 per Scottish Parliamentary constituency).

I think that the manifesto overall is a very good one. The good thing is, after the consultation anything that is unpopular amongst young people will be dropped from the Manifesto. So make sure you have your say on the Manifesto and make sure it represents your views!

So if you are ages 14-25 and you live in Scotland please fill in the 5 surveys at: www.picturethechange.org

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

New Convener of External Affairs Committee

2010-06-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

I have been elected by MSYPs to be the Convener of External Affairs. This weekend was the AGM of the Scottish Youth Parliament where we elected new Trustees and Conveners/Deputy Conveners to lead the organisation for the next year. This is an exciting year for the Scottish Youth Parliament with the launch of our Manifesto for the next two years. I must admit I am happy with most of the stuff that is going into the manifesto like supporting a referendum on Scotland's constitutional future, Minimum Pricing for Alcohol and much more.

The External Affairs Committee deals with the following issues: UK & European Legislation, Relationships with Europe and the rest of the world, Reserved Matters (including defence and constitutional matters) and Issues with a Global impact.

The first meeting of the External Affairs Committee since being elected as Convener took place on Sunday (27/06/10) where we discussed a wide range of issues such as Defence, Scottish Independence, Scotland's relationship with the rest of the UK, and our relationship with Europe. Keenan Alexander MSYP (Glasgow Springburn) was also elected as Deputy Convener of External Affairs.

I look forward to taking this committee forward as I feel that it can do a lot more than it has done in the past. Our committee is the second largest within the SYP in terms of the number of members which is a great improvement from last year.

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Govan Fire Station Open Day Was a Success

2010-06-07T04:53:00.000-07:00

I attended the Govan Fire Station open day yesterday (06/06/10) and I can say it was a fantastic day. Fire Engines were on display and visitors were allowed to sit inside them. They also had Engines from the 1960s and 1970s that visitors were allowed to go inside and see what it was like.

This was arranged as part of the Govan Fair that has been a great success this year (well to be honest it is always a success). People from all over Govan and even people who don't live in Govan come to all the events as it is great fun for everyone.

The Fire Men and Woman decided it would be a good idea to show people what it would be like if you put water on a chip pan that is on fire. Visitors were asked to stand behind the fence for demonstrations as it was dangerous. If you through water over a chip pan that is on fire the fire will become much worse and can kill you. The fire men through half a can of water over the chip pan and the fire went from a small fire in a pot to a fire of well over 3 meters. They also showed us how they cut people out of cars if there is an accident. It looked like a lot of fun as you basically had to take the roof off the car which was done by the fire men/woman.

Amongst the visitors we had the SNP MSP & Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon for Glasgow Govan (same constituency as mine), Labour MP Ian Davidson for Glasgow South West as well as local councillors...ohh and not to forget Kyle Thornton, SYP candidate for Glasgow Shettleston and Chair of YSpeak (youth group in the south west of Glasgow)

YSpeak had it's own stall amongst other organisations that had stalls at the open day. People of all ages were asking Kyle what YSpeak was all about and how to get involved which was very positive. Kyle done a fantastic job of representing YSpeak. Cardonald College also had food demonstrations for visitors which was very interesting and was good for people who wanted new ideas of ways to cook pasta. After each demonstration people were allowed to eat the food that was cooked and people I spoke to that day said it was very enjoyable. There was also a face painting stall there for the kids so that they can get an animal of their choice painted on their face.

I certainly enjoyed myself at the open day and I would like to say a special thanks to all the staff at Govan Fire station that made the day a success.

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog section)

Austin Sheridan MSYP condemns Israel for attacking flotilla

2010-06-02T18:28:00.000-07:00

I was deeply shocked and angered when the flotilla carrying supplies for Gaza was attacked by Israeli troops. 10 people were killed when Israel illegally boarded the Ships carrying supplies and passengers visiting Gaza to offer help and aid. It is clear that this was an act of state terrorism by Israel. They had no right to attack a ship in international waters.

Some people on the flotilla attacked the troops when they landed on the ships. Some people say that they should not have done this as this would provoke attack from Israeli troops however, the troops had no right to be on the ships in the first place so I stand by the fact that they had the right to defend their ships from an illegal attack.

I hope that the Scottish Government and UK Government take action against this act of terrorism from Israel and stop trading with them. We need to send a strong message that makes it clear that Scotland and the UK will not tolerate this kind of behaviour from any country. We also need to send a message to Israel that Palestine has the right to exist and should nor be oppressed by Israel.

Sadly, David Cameron MP, UK Prime Minister did not live up to these expectations from any democratic country. He said he was a Friend of Israel at his first Prime Ministers Questions the day after the horrific attack. That is not the kind of message the UK Government should be sending to the Terrorist state of Israel. We should be telling them that the blockade against Gaza is wrong and we should take the necessary action to demonstrate that. We should not be telling them how friendly we are to them! It sends out the wrong message.

I will be attending a march this Saturday in Edinburgh to make sure that I along side others send a strong message to Israel and the Scottish and UK Governments about the kind of action we want to see.

We want the blockade lifted from Gaza so that we can send the supplies that the region badly needs. We will also be protesting about the treatment of Gaza. The only way this will get sorted is of Israel accept that Hamas has to be able to take part in talks and be accepted as part of the political system. Otherwise, we will not see the change we want and need on Palestine and Israel. We want them to be able to live side by side in piece. Both sides have to work equally as hard to achieve this.

Let's hope our message is heard!

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
________________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog section)

Michael Moore MP is the new Secretary of State for Scotland

2010-05-29T13:15:00.000-07:00

Michael Moore MP is the new Secretary of State for Scotland as Danny Alexander MP takes on the role of Chief Secretary to the Treasury due to the scandal of how David Laws MP spent around £40,000 on keeping his secret homosexual lover in accommodation to keep it a secret from the public. This is a huge blow to the UK Government at such an early stage in a fragile coalition. It is also a huge lose of any confidence anyone had in MPs since it looked like things were getting better after the expenses scandal. It only makes you wonder if there is anyone else been making huge claims like this.

I don't understand what made David Laws MP think it was appropriate to spend public money on keeping his sexuality a secret. He must have known that what he was doing was wrong but that did not stop him. He put himself before the people he is meant to be serving. It is a great shame to see this happen to someone I thought was a 'half decent MP', obviously I was wrong.

If you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
You can find this article at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog section)

UK Government try to control QT?

2010-05-27T15:04:00.000-07:00

The UK Government said that they would not sent a Cabinet Minister on Question Time today (27/05/10) due to Alistair Campbell 'Tony Blair's Former Communications Director' taking part in the show.

I really do not understand why they refuse to put a Minister on QT just because Alistair Campbell is on the panel. I mean all the parties put a frontbench MP on the show when the BNP's Nick Griffin MEP was on the show. I very much doubt that anyone could see Alistair Campbell anymore vile than Nick Griffin MEP.

It was expected that a Cabinet Minister would attend the show as the Queens speech was done this week. David Dimbleby said that BBC Question Time refused to remove Alistair Campbell saying that only the BBC Question Time will choose the panel, not No 10.

I was very pleased that Question Time made a point of telling people why there was no Cabinet Minister on the show. I think that it is wrong that the UK Government tried to control who was on the Question Time panel. I am glad BBC QT did not give into the UK Government's demands to have Alistair Campbell removed from the QT panel.

If you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
You can find this article at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog section)

Glasgow MSYP Group set to change constitution to create a Glasgow Youth Council

2010-05-25T14:13:00.000-07:00

The Glasgow MSYP Group is set to have it's AGM on the 9 June (2010) where it will discuss changing the groups constitution to become a city-wide Youth Council.

I said that this would be a good idea as it will allow more young people in our city to be involved in youth campaigns and will open opportunities to young people that are interested in making a difference. Once the funding and structures are put in place the group will consist of Glasgow MSYPs, Unsuccessful SYP candidates, youth groups from around the city and Schools.

I am particularly pleased that this will give unsuccessful SYP candidates a place on the youth council if this goes ahead. I believe that even though the candidates were not elected, it proves that they are interested in making a difference to their area and young people in other parts of the constituency they stand for.

In the South West part of my constituency I, alongside other young people set up a youth community reference group which is called YSpeak. This group has been very good for the young people in the South West of Glasgow as we now have a much stronger voice and more of a say on youth issues in the area. I am hoping that I can get young people together in the South Central (Southside) part of my constituency to do the same. To give young people a voice in their community. It will be groups like YSpeak that a Youth Council in Glasgow would be made up of.

I also hope that if a Youth Council is set up we will see more young people wanting to run for MSYP. Glasgow Govan was one of the most contested constituencies with 5 people running. The others had 4-3 candidates apart from one. Glasgow Pollok (covers the rest of Glasgow South West) only had 1 candidate which meant that Aamir Riaz MSYP was uncontested. Hopefully a Youth Council will attract more candidates and stop this from happening again.

I will post an update blog on the AGM once it has taken place.

If you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (blog section)

Scottish Youth Parliament prepares for AGM on 26 June

2010-05-21T08:51:00.000-07:00

The Scottish Youth Parliament is going to have it's next sitting this June on the 26th. This will also be the Youth Parliaments AGM where MSYPs will have the opportunity to be elected to the Board of Trustees which Govern the Youth Parliament and make important decisions on the finance of the Scottish Youth Parliament and also covers areas such as which staff to employ etc.

Any MSYP between the age of 16 - 25 will have the opportunity to apply to become a candidate for Trustee Director, Chair and Vice Chair. This is a great example of a properly Youth Lead organisation. No major decision is made by anyone over the age of 25 and all board members must be Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament. No other Youth Parliament in the UK is entirely Youth Led.

You must be over the age of 16 to become a board member due to child protection law. This is why the age range of 14 - 25 benefits the SYP. If we had an age range such as 11-18 we would not be able to have a Youth Lead Parliament.

I have been thinking of standing for a position on the board as I believe that the Scottish Youth Parliament still needs a lot of change to become a model Youth Parliament I believe it can be. There has been lots of changes in the SYP over the past year which have been very beneficial to the day to day running of the Scottish Youth Parliament but we have not gone far enough in my view. I believe that the SYP has not met it's full potential. I believe its about MSYPs working together to make it more accountable and more democratic. It's time for change, it's time to move forward.

What I think the SYPs main goal should be is this, we should try and become a department of the Scottish Parliament. Become an OFFICAL Youth Parliament like the Irish equivalent. This is a goal that we should aim for. The SYP has been leading the way in Europe when it comes to Youth Parliaments, we should continue to lead the way by becoming a Government department which would mean more secure funding.

Another thing I would like to see is reform of the Committee system. It is unworkable in its current state and I am sure that MSYPs will agree that even though we are all members of committee's we do not have committee meetings. If we can reform this I believe that it will close the 'us and them' gap between backbench MSYPs and MSYPs who are Conveners/Deputy Conveners and Trustee Directors. Along side these plans I would like to see all minuets (non-confidential) of the Board meetings published for all MSYPs to read and hopefully the general public would also be able to read them.

We will just have to wait and see what happens at this years AGM to see if we get people who are willing to go for the change we need.

If you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

New UK Government

2010-05-14T16:32:00.000-07:00

So now we have a new UK Government at Westminster. A Government formed in a balanced parliament where no party his a majority of the seats. A Government which is made up of two parties. The Conservatives and The Liberal Democrats have now went into coalition to form a Government. David Cameron MP as UK Prime Minister, and Nick Clegg MP as UK Deputy Prime Minister.

So what exactly does this mean and what is so different about this Government compared to previous Governments?

The difference between this Government and the previous modern Governments is that this Government is made up of two political parties. Two parties that fought each other in the General Election and are now sharing power with one another. This now means that these two parties now have to work together. Many people say that this will not last long due to the differences between the two parties that are now in Government. These people may be right however, the Scottish Parliament since its creation in 1999 has always been a balanced parliament. If it can work in the Scottish Parliament then surly it can work at Westminster?

Some people may ask why it was the Tories and Lib-Dems that share power, this is due to Labour refusing to go into a rainbow progressive alliance against a Tory Government. For some people that may not be a problem however, Scotland only has 1 Tory MP. Labour got the highest vote in Scotland, mainly because the people of Scotland did not want a Tory Government. After the election the SNP proposed a 'rainbow alliance' which would be a Government made up of parties across the UK that oppose a Tory Government. Labour said "we will never work with the SNP". If Labour want to hold that view then that is their choice, but they said "a vote for the SNP would let the Tories in through the back door". That was simply not true. The SNP has done everything it can to prevent a Tory Government but Labour were not willing to co-operate. Labour also ruined their chance with the Lib-Dems for being so demanding.

When it comes to letting the Tories into Government I would say it was Labours fault. Labour said they would stop the Tories getting in through the back door, and they were successful. Why? because Labour choose to let the Tories in through the front door instead.

Now we will have to wait and see what happens next. This will be a very interesting 5 years. This is history in the making.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MYP
_____________________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Labour lie to most vulnerable people in society for votes

2010-04-25T12:14:00.000-07:00

Scottish Labour have been accusing the SNP of trying to cut the concessionary bus pass scheme for OAPs and disabled people. This came about after the Scottish Government said they are going to review the scheme, not to cut it or scrap it, but to improve it. Labour are clearly electioneering by lying to the most vulnerable people in our society. Isn't that a disgrace?

Glasgow East SNP candidate John Mason said it was "utter rubbish" when he heard about Labour telling people the SNP would cut/scrap the concessionary bus pass. I think this shows how desperate Labour are becoming when they feel the need to lie to the electorate. If anyone is putting any services to the elderly, disabled and general public at risk it is Labour by committing to 100 Billion pounds for the renewal of trident, Or the 5 Billion pound 'unnecessary' ID card scheme, or the cost of running the House of Lords where the 'noble' members have a sleep during debates, or even the Scotland Office which is unnecessary and managed to go over its budget by 15%.

Labour are unwilling to cut the things I have listed above. That makes me wonder what they will cut? if they won't cut the things I have listed then the only other things they can cut is the services that matter to the General Public, front line services. If anyone is putting bus passes and front line services at risk it is Labour, they just don't want to be honest about it. They would rather lie to gain electorate success and if they managed to grab another term in Government they would unleash the cuts to our front line services, the cuts that the Labour chancellor said would be "deeper and tougher than those of Margaret Thatcher". Just think about that. A Labour Chancellor saying he wants spending cuts "deeper and tougher than those of Margaret Thatcher". The Tories said that they would implement the same cuts as Labour but faster.

What chance do we have under Labour or the Tories?

It's time to end this nonsense and start standing up for people instead of treating them like idiots. What Scotland needs is local champions, as well as national champions. Vote SNP on May 6th.
_______________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (blog section)

Campaign Tour with SNP/YSI

2010-04-12T10:55:00.000-07:00

Between the 7th and the 11th of April I was on a campaign tour with the Scottish National Party / Young Scots for Independence (YSI is the youth wing of the SNP). Our first stop on the Wednesday was the Glasgow South constituency where we were helping our Glasgow South Candidate Malcolm Fleming deliver supporters letters around the Battlefield area of the constituency which consists mostly of tenement buildings. We must have been campaigning there for around two and a half hours so our legs had taken dome beating, however Malcolm did treat us all to lunch in Beanscene which was most kind of him.

Soon after that we moved on to the Perth and North Perthshire constituency where we were delivering of more supporters letters and leaflets for Pete Wishart who is the candidate and the incumbent MP for the constituency. We were doing our campaign work around the town of Perth which was rather nice. Everyone was friendly and helpful when we found ourselves needing a hand finding streets that we couldn't find on our own. After a good 2-3 hours campaigning we were treated to dinner by the Perth and North Perthshire constituency branch. Then we hit the road to the Gordon constituency.

We arrived in Gordon around 9pm so we stayed the night at Jens house (a member of the SNP & YSI) then went campaigning the next day. We delivered the SNP newspaper 'The Gordon Standard' to newly built houses. The newspapers were a bit of a nightmare to deliver due to the newspaper like material it was printed on. Even though we sometimes found it hard to put the paper through the letter boxes we went on and delivered around 5,000 papers that day.

We then hit the road to head over to the Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey constituency. We campaigned in Inverness for the SNP candidate John Finnie who is currently a Councillor in the Highland Council. During our time in Inverness we done street work which consisted of handing out leaflets to the general public and then later delivered supporters letters to try and get our vote to come out on polling day. After a long day of campaigning Pauline, Alasdair and Cooper the Dog put us all up for the night which was very kind of them and their hospitality was great.

Then after a good nights sleep we made our way over to the Ross, Skye and Lochaber constituency where we delivered leaflets for our candidate Alasdair MacGregor. We could only visit Isle of Skye as we were very pushed for time as the ferry to Na h-Eileanan an Iar (Western Isles) was leaving at 2.00pm. We spent around an hour in Skye before heading over to the ferry port to make our way to Na h-Eileanan an Iar.

Once we arrived in Na h-Eileanan an Iar we went straight to Alasdair Allan's house. Alasdair Allan is the MSP for the Western Isles constituency. At Westminster the constituency is known as its Gaelic name Na h-Eileanan an Iar. Alasdair was very welcoming and told us a lot about the Islands history and culture. I must admit the Western Isles is a wonderful place and somewhere unique. When we were out canvassing we were invited into housed and given tea and cakes. Such a friendly community and a great place in general. Alasdair Allan MSP and the SNP/YSI team spent the whole day campaigning on the Saturday on the Isle of Lewis. We were out Canvassing and was generally a good response from most people we canvassed. Angus Brendan MacNeil is the candidate and the current incumbent MP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar. I wish him and all other SNP candidates every sucess in the election.

If you have any questions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan
_________________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (blog section)

UK General Election, May 6 2010

2010-04-06T08:02:00.000-07:00

Gordon Brown MP, Prime Minister has announced that the UK General Election will take place on May 6. The current UK Parliament will dissolve on April 12 and the new Parliament will convene on May 18.

I shall be on the campaign trail for the SNP this week. I am going to be going all over Scotland between the 7-11 April. Alex Salmond MSP MP, First Minister will also be campaigning over the next few weeks and will be working towards electing local champions all over Scotland.

I am looking forward to meeting with young people all over Scotland and listening to the issues that affect young people. It is clear that the public don't trust politicians and I can honestly understand why. It is a shame that the 'bad MPs' have made all MPs look bad as there are MPs in all political parties that do good work and have not been 'on the fiddle'.

People in this election have the opportunity not just to elect another politician, but to elect a local champion that will stand up for local issues, protect front line services, protect local post offices.

Vote SNP on May 6 and elect a local champion.

Posted by Austin Sheridan
___________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Xscape event went well as I attend an event in my Glasgow Govan (MSYP) constituency

2010-03-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

On Monday night I attended a constituency event in Braehead. The venue we held the event in was the new(ish) built Xscape which I would describe as a huge arcade with everything from snowboarding, rock climbing, laser quest....the list goes on. We invited people from youth clubs in my Glasgow Govan MSYP constituency to ask important questions. The consultations went well which asked a range of questions regarding health, gang crime, youth services and other issues of importance. This was set up by YSpeak which is a new youth forum which I alongside other young people set up after I was elected as an MSYP.

After we got that out of the way we put on a range of activities for the people who came along. This ranges from as I have mentioned above, snow boarding, snow sledging, laser quest, mini golf and many other things. I certainly enjoyed myself and enjoyed meeting more of my constituents who raised some concerns with me about local services and especially the future funding for youth clubs.

I look forward to working with the youth groups, local councillors, MSP and MPs regarding the services under threat that are beneficial to the youth in the constituency. We need to make sure that we have local champions that will stand up for the people of my constituency. I will do my best to make sure that I am a champion for people in my area by having regular contact with local representatives and working with youth groups. I will also be doing a lot of hands on work like attending local protests in the constituency. Lorne Street Community Centre is due to close tomorrow (31st March) so I will be attending a protest at 2pm tomorrow. All are welcome to come along and any support that can be offered will be most helpful.

If you have any questions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP MYP

Fight local cut backs and cuts to front line services!

2010-03-23T05:52:00.000-07:00

I will be meeting with candidates from all the main political parties in Scotland before the Westminster General Election to discuss how we can fight against the cuts to front line services and how they can be good local champions for the areas they represent. In these talks I would like to base then around things that really matter to the general public, such as how much money the two main London parties want to spend a lot of money on things like trident and the ID card scheme
when they are wanting to cut front line public services.

I think that on these important issues we need to work with all political parties to make sure that people in local communities get the best representation possible. I will be fighting to save services that matter to communities with a focus on services that serve young people up to the age of 25.

There are a lot of young people in my constituency that are very worried about their youth clubs and their future. In Glasgow they have been closing down community centres left right and centre. I have been working with the Labour ran council in trying to find other ways to keep these centres open. I have also been working with the SNP who have been opposing the cuts to the community centres and have suggested where the cuts really need to be made are things like trident and the ID card scheme.

Today I am due to meet with the Conservative candidate for Glasgow East Hamira Khan to discuss how the Tories will make cuts to Scotland and how deep they will be.

I shall give an update later.

If you have any questions please e-mail: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MYP MSYP

SNP say "More Nats, Less Cuts" and "Scotland needs champions"

2010-03-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Scottish National Party had their spring conference in Aviemore this weekend. This is the last conference before the General Election expected to be called for May 6 this year. First Minister Alex Salmond MP MSP said that Scotland needs local champions to stand up for Scotland at Westminster to stop the cuts that are due to come from the London Parties. He also spoke about how the Labour and Tory war is the phony war and how SNP MPs can support the Scottish Government in Westminster. He said that when the SNP send MPs, the London parties listen.

The Tories have already started to listen before the election, with a surprise announcement that the Tories would not make any cuts to the 2010/2011 budget that has been passed through the Scottish Parliament. If the Tories are doing this before the election, I can't wait to see how they will be after the people of Scotland send more SNP MPs to Westminster.

The First Minister also slammed the BBC and said that SNP MPs will run a review on the licence fee after the election as it is clear that Scotland is being treated unfairly.

First Minister Alex Salmond MP MSP is due to sit in Westminster for the last time this Wednesday to speak on the budget debate. As far as I am aware this will be his last speech in the HOC. Alex is due to stand down as an MP this election to concentrate on his role as an MSP and First Minister of Scotland.

You can find out more by visiting www.snp.org

Posted by Austin Sheridan

Vote Yes Yes, Alex Salmond MP MSP sets out Scotland's Future

2010-03-16T04:16:00.000-07:00

Alex Salmond MP MSP, First Minister of Scotland has intoduced a new draft referendum to try and get the support of the opposition parties in Holyrood. It is based on the referendum Scotland held in 1998 on devolution.

The referendum will consist of two questions:

THE BALLOT PAPERS

FIRST BALLOT PAPER (VERSION
1: FULL DEVOLUTION)

The Scottish Parliament has decided to
consult people in Scotland on proposals to seek the

transfer of more
powers to the Parliament.

Proposal 1 is on this ballot paper. Proposal 2
is on a separate ballot paper. You can vote

on both proposals.

Background to Proposal 1

The Scottish Government, in the paper
Your Scotland, Your Voice (published on 30

November 2009), set out a
proposal for extending the powers and responsibilities of the

Scottish
Parliament while Scotland remains part of the United Kingdom.

Under this
proposal the Scottish Parliament would, with certain exceptions, be responsible

for all laws, taxes and duties in Scotland. The exceptions, which would
continue to be the

responsibility of the United Kingdom Parliament, are—

defence and foreign affairs,

financial regulation, monetary
policy and the currency.

Proposal 1 – Increased powers and
responsibilities for Scotland

The Scottish Parliament should have its
powers and responsibilities extended as

described above.

Do you
agree with this proposal?

Please put a cross (X) in one box only

YES, I AGREE - X

OR

NO, I DO NOT AGREE -

SECOND BALLOT PAPER (POWER TO ENABLE
INDEPENDENCE)

The Scottish Parliament has decided to consult
people in Scotland on proposals to seek the

transfer of more powers to
the Parliament.

Proposal 2 is on this ballot paper. Proposal 1 is on a
separate ballot paper. You can vote on

both proposals.

Background to Proposal 2

The Scottish Government, in the paper
Your Scotland, Your Voice (published on 30 November

2009), set out its
preference for an independent Scotland which would—

• have the rights
and responsibilities of a normal, sovereign state,

• be a full member of
the European Union,

• maintain a relationship with the remainder of the
United Kingdom where the nations cooperate

on cross-border cultural,
social and policy matters, and

• retain Her Majesty The Queen as Head of
State.

Proposal 2 – Additional power to enable Scotland to become an
independent country

The Scottish Government proposes that, in addition
to the extension of the powers and

responsibilities of the Scottish
Parliament set out in Proposal 1, the Parliament’s

powers should also be
extended to enable independence to be achieved.

Do you agree with this
proposal?

Please put a cross (X) in one box only

YES, I AGREE - X

OR

NO, I DO NOT AGREE -

If this bill gets through
parliament, I strongly recomend a YES YES vote.

If you have any questions please email me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk
and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Lets show support for Andrew Deans MSYP on his 'Mosquito device motion'!

2010-03-03T07:23:00.000-08:00

Andrew Deans MSYP, for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, popped up this week in The Press & Journal paper about putting forth his Members Motion at the up and coming sitting in March. The motion supports a ban of the highly disputed Mosquito device; a device which omits a high pitched noise and can only be heard by young people, designed to stop youngsters congregating in public areas. If his motion is passed it will be presented to the Scottish Government’s petitions committee.

The motion is currently already supported by Liberty; the human rights organisation, and also the Scottish branch of the National Autistic Society, and has recently been debated in The House of Commons at Question Time last week, however it was described as "very helpful" in dispersing groups of young people! Hmm, what do you think? Facebook us please!

(SYP Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/OfficialSYP )

Article: http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1602268?UserKey&UserKey&UserKey=

People who use these devices seem to forget that it does not only effect teenagers but most people under the age of 21 so were talking a age range of 0-21.

When a 30 year old mother who can not hear the noise pops down to her local shop (where a Mosquito devise is being used) with her six month old baby the mother will not hear the noise however, the baby that she brings along with her does.

The Mother while shes at the shops bumps into her best mate Chantelle so they get talking for the next 20min while the baby has to put up with the noise. None of the adults can hear the noise so the mother starts to move the pram back and forward to try and calm the baby down while shes having a chinwag.

The baby is only six months old and can not tell her mother what the problem is.

Or what about the boy with Autism who can not stand the sound of the device?? He can no longer go to his local shop even though he has done nothing wrong.

Why should he be discriminated against?

The main point is that it discriminates the Majority of people under the age of 21 for the Minority amongst the age group.

I urge everyone to get involved and I also call on all MSYPs to vote for the Motion that Andrew is putting forward.

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
________________________
This Article can be found at http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (blog section)

Glasgow SNP MSP Anne McLaughlin Stands up to UK Home Office

2010-02-11T17:55:00.000-08:00

53.8% of children detained in the UK last year were released, indicating that they shouldn't have been detained in the first place as other legal routes would not have been exhausted.

In the year April 2008 to March 2009, 1,116 children entered detention and slightly more departed it-clearly some cases would have overlapped from previous year. Some 539 of those children, slightly fewer than half, were removed, and 629 were released.

BBC News Thursday, 11 February 2010

A woman and her 10-year-old daughter
have won the latest round in their legal fight to avoid deportation.

Florence Mhango and daughter Precious, originally from Malawi, succeeded
in an application to have a full judicial review into their asylum case.

Supporters say they could be separated if returned to Africa, with
Precious at risk of possible genital mutilation.

The pair have spent
most of their seven years in the UK living in the Cranhill area of Glasgow.

Minister appeal

They narrowly avoided deportation last November
after being removed from a flight at Heathrow pending further legal action.

They were returned to Yarls Wood detention centre in Bedfordshire, where
they had been moved from Dungavel detention centre in Lanarkshire, before being
released to return north.

Glasgow SNP MSP Anne McLaughlin, who has
campaigned for the family's release, said: "I am relieved and delighted with the
outcome of this renewal hearing. They will now proceed to a full hearing and I
am confident they can win that.

"However I would now appeal in the
strongest terms to the Home Secretary, Alan Johnson and ask him not to put them
through that."

Posted by Austin Sheridan MYP
__________________________
You can find this article at www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Surprise response to my blog article about the 'right to die'

2010-02-10T06:25:00.000-08:00

I received this surprise e-mail today regarding my Blog Article titled: Margo MacDonald's 'End of Life Assistance (Scotland) Bill'

Dear Austin,

Picked up your blog comments on Margo's End Of Life (Assistance) Scotland Bill and was pleased to see that you generally support the Bill.

I have included a link to the Bill and its accompanying documents which I think may answer some of the points that you raise concern about. For example the referral process. You suggest 3 independent doctors should be involved…our suggestion is that there should be the attending physician (doctor) a psychiatrist to assess the mental condition and competence of the patient and two further witnesses who have and will have nothing to gain from the death of the person ( thus excluding any family member or friend who may be named in a will for example) and this process will have to be done twice… we think that this is a very robust system.

In terms of insurance, this is a reserved matter and we are unable to make any comment on the face of the Bill about this.

Finally I am really not sure about your other point about half the estate of the deceased going to the Government…many people who die do so in circumstances that may indeed be termed 'costly', but this should in no way be factored into their care, or their decision to withhold from treatment (advance directives for example) or decision to end their life if this Bill became law.

But thank you again for picking up this issue…

Yours aye

Peter Warren
Office Manager - Margo MacDonald MSP

I do welcome this response and can confirm full support behind the bill as stated in my previous blog.

At least someone is reading my blog.

Thanks

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
__________________________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Margo MacDonald's 'End of Life Assistance (Scotland) Bill'

2010-02-09T06:11:00.000-08:00

Margo MacDonald MSP who sits as an 'Independent' in the Scottish Parliament is trying to push through a bill that basically allows people the right to end their life if they are ill with no chance of recovery.

I must admit when this was first put forward I thought that it might be a bad idea, I mean how could be be sure people would
not abuse this 'right to die'? Would family members force or suggest that people in their family kill themselves to take the pressure off the family? I hope that this would never be the case but with the world that we live in we have to take this flaw into account.

Margo MacDonald MSP has assured us 'that as a person who is ill' it has the protection that is needed to stop family members forcing people to end their life. Overall I do support the bill however, to make sure that there is no abuse I would like to see some things put in place;

1. If people choose to end their life half of their assets should go to the Scottish Government to help pay for legal aspects of introducing this bill and any other costs that come with maintaining the 'right to die'.

2. Any life insurance policy would not be paid out unless the insurance company allows payments if customer uses their 'right to die'

3. If anyone has been found to have forced someone into using the 'right to die' they would face a murder charge.

4. Three independent Doctors should decide if the person in in question (the person who wants to use their right to die) should go through with the procedure.

The first two of my points are things that I would like to see in the bill, the last two in my view should be necessary. The first two points were made to put anyone off using the 'right to die' for money or any other assets.

In General I do support the bill and I wish Margo MacDonald all the best regarding this bill.
_____________________________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Hand's off Lorne Street Culture and Sport!

2010-01-25T06:02:00.000-08:00

Proposed Closure of Lorne Street Community Centre in Kinning Park (Glasgow Govan constituency)
I object in the strongest terms about Culture & Sport Glasgow’s proposed closure of Lorne Street Community Centre. To deprive a re-emerging community a space to shape and develop ideas and capacity is a cruel and unusual form of punishment for an unknown crime.

I am offended by the stated criteria for closure "With low usage, Lorne Street has minimal internal space which limits the type and amount of activity which can be delivered" This has been based on outdated statistics and incorrect information. Since 08-09:

Lets have increased by 26%

Users have increased by 59%

Or 6,000 more users and 150 more lets in human terms

There are no outstanding repairs to the building so I would appreciate if you could provide me with a more detailed breakdown of the estimated repair bill from GCC Strategic Asset Management Plan. The £98,800 quoted consists of £84,150 of "desirable" repairs. The review is incorrect as well as out of date. Lorne Street Community Centre has a car park and is well served by the subway.

I also note that other facilities in the city, such as Garrowhill and Ruchazie are not recommended for closure, as they are the only community facility in the area. To close Lorne Street would be to lose the only CSG facility locally and with the uncertain future of Kinning Park Community Centre building the community would be left without any facility. I wonder why Kinning Park School’s Out service could not have been transferred to Lorne Street to keep it within the community. Lorne Street Primary School is in a poor state of repair and is cramped with no room to store equipment and materials that I, and other groups use.

I understand that Invercraig Hall will close, as the water damage is too expensive to repair. Kinning Park would welcome Drumoyne to Lorne Street. This would increase users and lets even further. Some users are out with the Glasgow area, never mind Kinning Park and to paraphrase our neighbours, STV "from Kinning Park to the world"

So much of what happens in Lorne Street easily fits within the vibrant theme of the Community Plan. I know that CSG worry that communities do not relate to vibrancy. This happens organically in Kinning Park and there is scope for growth by utilising the pitches. Strathclyde Police has shown interest in using these for diversionary activities, which will also relate to the Safe theme of the Community Plan.

In conclusion I state again that the recommendation for closure cannot be justified by using out of date statistics and to rip out the heart of Kinning Park for a second time would be to repeat the devastation caused by the M8’s construction.

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

This article has been adapted from Kinning Park Community Council standard closure campaign letter

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Austin Sheridan MSYP, MYP chosen as Vice Charman of Malawi '10 Steering Group

2010-01-23T12:45:00.000-08:00

I was elected to take up the role of Vice Chairman the Malawi '10 steering group. There is a trip planned to the African country in Spetember 2010. We have lots of challeneges ahead and I'm looking forward to co-leading the group. The biggest hurdle for the group to overcome will be fundraising. We will be contacting lots of different organisations in the hope that they will donate to our project.

In Malawi we will be working with the Malawian Youth Congress discussing issues from HIV Aids to youth participation. We are also hoping to volunteer in hospitals, schools and orphanages.

If you have any questions then please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan

Lib-Dem leader Nick Clegg to be Grilled by young people

2010-01-14T05:09:00.000-08:00

Nick Clegg the leader of the Liberal Democrats will be questioned by young people on twitter and the UK Youth Parliament online forums! (UKYP thread: http://www.ukypforums.org.uk/showthread.php?p=174777&posted=1#post174777)

This will be the first time that any party leader has taken part in a question time on the UK Youth Parliament forums. He has said he will answer as many questions as possible between 4:30pm and 5:00pm on the 20th January on the forums and twitter and will answer more in a video message which will be posted on the UK Youth Parliament website (www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk)

If you are a young person and you want to take part in the Question Time with Nick Clegg on the UKYP forums then Join the forums and register an account: www.ukypforums.org.uk

Don't forget, the 20th January 2010 4:30 - 5:00pm

See you then!

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
______________________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (blog section)

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-01T12:24:00.001-08:00

I would just like to take this opportunity to wish all of my blog readers a very happy new year and all the best for 2010.

I hope this year brings you fortune, happiness and joy for you and all thoes around.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Christmas Message

2009-12-24T12:54:00.001-08:00

Scotland's First Minister and SNP leader Alex Salmond sends his Christmas wishes to the people of Scotland in his Christmas message:

"It is important at Christmas time to extend our grateful thanks to all those who work year-round to help meet the challenges faced by Scotland and the wider world.

"In tough times, the Year of Homecoming delivered a much-needed boost for Scottish tourism and the wider economy.

"And as environmental issues become ever more pressing, Scotland's Parliament united across the parties to pass a world-leading Climate Change Act.

"As we celebrate Christmas and look to a new year, Scotland must continue to support economic recovery at home and meet our commitments abroad.

"We pay tribute to the dedicated staff of our emergency and armed services, who work tirelessly and serve over the holiday period, as they do the whole year round.

"Christmas is an opportunity to consider the past as well as what the future holds, to spend valuable time with friends and loved ones, and to consider those less fortunate than ourselves.

"On behalf of the Scottish Government, I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas."

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP MYP

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T09:22:00.000-08:00

I would just like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2010.Have a good one,

Austin.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP MYP

Manifesto Progress report

2009-12-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

Manifesto Progress report:

Quote:
I think that what Glasgow Govan needs is more youth facilities for young people to use preferably free entry and if there is a charge I would push for it to be a nominal charge (young Scot cards could be used for discounts).

Delivered, by putting pressure on the CCP and CRG to keep providing funding for more youth facilities.

Quote:
If I’m elected to be MSYP for Glasgow Govan I would make sure I worked with local high schools so that I can hear as many young persons views as possible and act on them to the best of my ability. I would do this by having regular contact with student councils and other groups within the Schools. I would also work with local youth groups and take part in panel groups like Yspeak so that I can take more ideas forward at a local level.

Delivered, however I am well aware that not all Schools are as helpful as others when it comes to this.

Quote:
I would also work towards keeping local bus fares low for local School pupils. If elected I would like to work with local councillors and the local MSP and MP’s to make sure that all young people get the better deal. I would also hope to work towards improving transport services in the local area to create easy accessible and affordable transport.

Delivered, Bus fairs have been capped Glasgow wide for young people under 16 and 1/3rd off has been introduced nationwide for all under 26years old. The 189/289 service saved for the pupils of Govan High School after putting pressure on MSP, Cllrs and SPT to provide the service.

Quote:
I would also take part in the current SYP campaign “Being young is not a crime” so that we can as a nation try and stop the media portraying young people in a negative way. Young people are the future and we need to make sure we have a positive start when entering adult life.

Delivered

Quote:
I would also like to become a member of the UK youth parliament (MYP) so that I can represent Scotland on a UK level. I believe that Scottish MYPs have struggled to level with issues that affect Scotland on the UKYP table. I would like to help work towards representing Scotland and raising Scottish and UK wide issues with UKYP.

Delivered

Quote:
I think that all people under the age of 21 in full time education should have free bus travel and discounted rail and ferry travel so that its easy to access other parts of Scotland.

Part delivered (ongoing), All under 26 get 1/3rd off Bus and train travel and Islanders also get discount of ferry travel. Due to the recession and the 500 Million cut to Scotland's budget by Westminster having it free is unrealistic at this moment in time.

Quote:
I also believe that Scotland should become an Independent sovereign nation while maintaining a social union with the rest of the UK. I think the question of Independence should be put forward to the new MSYPs when elected and a referendum on Scottish Independence for the young people of Scotland.

Part delivered (ongoing)

I have 10 Manifesto commitments and so far 5 commitments have been meet and 2 part delivered that still need work and that leaves a remainder of 3 still to work on, I think thats a record to be proud of in my first 6 months in Office.

If you have any qustions for me please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you in good time,

Regards

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
________________________
This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section

Govan High School Christmas Fair a success!

2009-12-19T09:39:00.000-08:00

I attended the Christmas fair Yesterday (18/12/09) at Govan High School. As the constituency MSYP I was invited for tea and biscuits and able to catch up with some of my constituents.

The School put on a fantastic Christmas show which everyone appeared to enjoy, this was something to enjoy while browsing the many stalls or while having a tea or coffee. The School has many talented pupils and is set to celebrate its centenary on the 12 of February 2010.

The School had invited residents from the local old folks home which I thought was a very nice gesture. The OAPs enjoyed the show and were glad of the company.

I had also donated a Christmas Cake (homemade by one of my Aunts) to raffle off. it raised over £60 for the School and was won by a Teacher who donated it to the old folks home. I would like to thank him for his kindness. I would also like to thank the School for inviting me and I look forward to future events.

If you would like to contact me you can do so using this e-mail address: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you in good time.

Best Regards
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
______________________________
This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)

Smithycroft Secondary School Show

2009-12-18T15:11:00.000-08:00

Tonight (16/12/09), Keenan Alexander MYP for Glasgow North East and I attended the Smithycroft Christmas Show.

We held a raffle in order to raise money for our Glasgow MSYPs Malawi trip. We managed to raise over £300 !! We also auctioned a bottle of malt whisky which raised £65.

It was a fantastic night and thanks to everyone who either donated a prize or bought a ticket.

Regards,

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MYP MSYP
_________________________________

You can find this article at: www.austinmsyp.co.nr in my blog section

Austin Sheridan MSYP Supports Green Movement in Iran

2009-12-12T12:20:00.000-08:00

On the 7th of December it was the Iranian Students day, on this day the students of more than 200 universities in more than 50 cities in Iran took to the streets demanding their rights for free thought, free expression and democratic governance of their country. I Austin Sheridan MSYP have now come out in support of the brave and unwavering students and people of Iran in their call for freedom and democracy.

This was demonstrated by a street protest in Glasgow City Centre to show our support for the people who want to change Iran for the better. It was a great learning experience to meet people from Iran and listen to what appears to be an uphill struggle for something that we take for granted in Scotland. In my view Freedom and Democracy is a basic human right not to be denied.

I joined this protest as I support the following statement:

"By joining us yo will confirm that the internationally recognised Human Rights are the rights of all citizens of the World, and you will show to the people and particularly to the students of Iran that they are not alone in their struggle for freedom and demand for human rights."

I don't think thats too much to ask and I urge all people to please recerch this and show your support. If you need anymore infrmation regarding the Green Movement you can contact the Free Iran Group Glasgow at: freeiranglasgow@googlemail.com

If you have any questions for me please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
______________________________
This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr in the blog section

HOC UKYP Scotland

2009-11-02T13:12:00.000-08:00

On the 30th October 2009 Members of the UK Youth Parliament from across the country meet in the House of Commons, this was the first time the Commons has ever opened its doors to an outside organisation. I was one of the lucky ones who attended the debate however it was point out that Scotland may have got a raw deal.

Only 6 Scottish MYPs were selected to speak out of 109 other MYPs who spoke, other MYPs and the Speaker on some occasions was referring to Scotland as a region not a nation. This was pointed out by point of orders by Scottish MYPs saying that we should have had more of a say in the UK wide issues as the first 3 debates were only relevant to England & Wales.

I was lobbying for the votes at 16 to be voted as the campigan on the grounds that it was UK wide and Scotland would be able to take part. If it was an English & Welsh only issue I warned that Scotland will have to reconsider its involvement with UKYP if it continues to be dominated by English only issues.

Now that the UK Youth Parliament has chosen to work on a UK wide issue this is a huge break through for Scotland within UKYP and I would say a start of a new and fruitful relationship where Scotland can be involved heavily.

The Scottish Youth Parliament voted for votes at 16 in June, this is something that UKYP & SYP can work jointly on and I will be encouraging this.

If you have any questions for me please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Peterhead Sitting

2009-10-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

You can get married, join the army and be taxed when you’re 16, so why can’t you vote? At our September Sitting in Aberdeenshire, MSYPs got to work on our latest national campaign to press the Scottish and UK Governments to lower the voting age.

But before we get to the situation where 16 and 17 year olds can have a say in who represents them in Parliament, there’s work to be done on re-engaging young people in the political process. The amount of young people who take part in elections have fallen over the past few years, so we set about coming up with ideas on how young people can be right at the heart of the civic participation.

In his first full Sitting as SYP Chair, Derek Couper MSYP introduced our interactive discussion on “Participation, Citizenship and the road to Votes at 16”, with some help from Secretary of State for Scotland Jim Murphy via video link! MSYPs armed with cards and Pritt Stik got busy thinking up great ideas on how young people can be encouraged to get involved in their communities and educated about the democratic process.

Groups of MSYPs each came up with a 10-point “Participation Charter” including recommendations such as jargon-free communication and well-resourced youth councils. We’ll be using the results to help the Scottish and UK Governments as well as local authorities make plans to engage young people – by letting them know what young people themselves think should be done!

Our campaign for Votes at 16 itself is hotting up, and in the next few weeks, MSYPs will tell MPs and MSPs why they should be given the vote. The politicians will be presented with a mini-ballot box with a message from an individual MSYP, created with care and passion at the Sitting. Over 120 completed ballot boxes were quite a sight – we’re sure they’ll be the talk of Westminster and Holyrood when they pop out of mailbags! MSYPs also found time to create a banner for the “Gude Cause” march that will be heading through Edinburgh in early October.

MSYPs also had a chance to learn about engagement and rights with help from the SYP’s ground-breaking partnership project Roars not Whispers, as well as sharing the views of young people they represent with Young Scot’s Alcohol Commission.

A sunny Sunday on Scotland’s northern coast saw some hot discussions on a number of issues raised as Members Motions – issues that individual MSYPs care about. Well-informed and well-argued points on both sides of the argument took place on whether “large companies should be obliged to consider the social consequences of factory closures and the devastating effect that these can have on local economies”, proposed by East Ayrshire MSYPs Lesley Baird and Mark Rodger in the wake of the closure of the Johnnie Walker factory in Kilmarnock that will have a huge impact on their hometown. After a fascinating discussion on what big companies should have responsibility for, the motion was defeated with 56% of MSYPs in disagreement.

Individual MSYPs also came to the Sitting seeking the SYP’s supports for campaigns close to their heart, and weren’t disappointed! Austin Sheridan MSYP argued the case for a change in the law to allow the deaths of Scots abroad to be investigated here, in support of his fellow MSYP Kenny Faulds’ high-profile “Colin Love Petition”. An overwhelming 91% of MSYPs voted in favour of lending the support of the Scottish Youth Parliament to the campaign.

Quarriers MSYP Becky Docherty introduced a powerful film that young people from the organisation had put together to highlight the many issues that young people who become homeless face. This issue, which is one close to the heart of many MSYPs, moved one to declare that it was “the best film I’ve seen all year” and it was no surprise that 95% of MSYPs voted to throw the SYP’s weight behind the campaign.

It wasn’t all work and no play however, as MSYPs had the chance to show off their singing, dancing and comedy skills at “SYP’s Got Talent” as part of our Saturday evening entertainment. Chimuka Nyamutale MSYP fought off fierce competition to win, with his impressive breakdancing skills wowing his fellow members. Chimmy wasn’t the only one on the dancefloor, as our “Hedfone Party” got MSYPs up off their chairs later in the evening.

The SYP’s wee trip to the north was memorable, passionate and productive – just what you’d expect from an SYP Sitting! The weekend gave MSYPs the chance to share their views and those of young people from the length and breadth of Scotland in an environment designed to let them do it.

Posted by Scottish Youth Parliament
_________________________
This article can be found at: http://austinactive.yolasite.com/blog.php

91% of SYP support the Colin Love Motion

2009-09-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

91% of the Scottish Youth Parliament support the Colin Love campaign to change Scots Law to allow the Crown Office to launch enquiries into deaths abroad. Dr Kenny Faulds MSYP was meant to take the motion forward to the SYP however he was unable to attend the sitting so I decided to take the motion forward in my name as I felt that this was an extremely important issue.

I would like to thank everyone for their support and also give a big thank you to all the MSYPs who supported the motion.

If you have any questions please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Colin Love website: http://www.colinlove.net/

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
___________________
This article can be found at: http://austinactive.yolasite.com/blog.php

SNP want votes at 16 for Independence Refrendum

2009-09-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

The end of this month the Scottish Youth Parliament are going to be debating on votes at 16 and how we as a youth voice want to take this argument forward, however the SNP Administration in Holyrood have already started the debate by saying that 16 and 17 year olds should be allowed to vote in the Scottish referendum on Independence which has been proposed for 2010.

Read more below

.The Scottish government has announced plans for 16 and 17-year-olds to be able to vote in its planned 2010 independence referendum.

SNP ministers said they wanted to give the widest number of people a say on the nation's constitutional future.

But Labour has dismissed the move as a cynical attempt to keep the independence debate going.

In the longer term, the Scottish government wants to lower the voting age from 18 for all elections.

It is an often-quoted phrase that, at the age of 16, you can get married and join the Army.

This referendum's about Scotland's future - young people are Scotland's future

Linda Fabiani SNP MSP

Lowering the voting age is a long-standing SNP policy, and Nationalist MSP Linda Fabiani told BBC Scotland's Politics Show the referendum would be an ideal opportunity to demonstrate the party's case.

She said: "We have young people in this country who really are in tune with politics, they are entitled to get married, they pay taxes, why can't they vote?

"This referendum's about Scotland's future - these young people are Scotland's future, so, to me, it's perfectly logical, perfectly right they should be asked to vote in this referendum."

'Real business'

But Pauline McNeill, the Labour MSP, said lowering the voting age was an important issue.

But she argued: "The fact that the SNP are proposing it for their referendum, which would account for an additional 3% of those who voted, we believe is a cynical attempt by the SNP to keep this referendum issue going.

"We, once again, call on the SNP to get on with the real business of government."

There is a school of thought that most 16 and 17-year-olds would support independence - but both Ms Fabiani and Ms McNeill moved away from this theory.

"Anyone who tries to make an assumption about what 16 or 17-year-olds will do is downgrading our young people," said Ms Fabiani.

The Scottish government has already lowered the voting age to 16 in its pilot health board elections next year in Dumfries and Galloway and Fife.

But younger teenagers may have to wait a bit longer before getting the chance to vote in an independence referendum - the SNP still lacks enough parliamentary support to hold it.

I have always supported lowering the voting age to 16, I support the Scottish Government on this important issue.

If you have any questions you can e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

___________________
This article can be found at: www.austinactive.yolasite.com/blog.php

Glasgow MSYP Press release 09/09/09

2009-09-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

The Death of Colin Love sparks Glasgow Members of the Scottish Youth Parliament to call for change in Scots Law with Colin’s Family.

Dr Kenneth Faulds MSYP “ “The death of a child is an unbearable sorrow that no parent should ever have to endure.”

“Politics can sometimes divide us, but there is a common human bond that unites us in sympathy and compassion in times of trial and in support for each other, at times of grief”

The above quotes are from Prime Minister- Gordon Brown, following the sad death of David Cameron's son Ivan at the age of six.

Julie Love is a courageous woman; she looked forward to the future, sharing a life with Colin and his family of choice. She cannot imagine, nor did she contemplate, his death at an early age as some mothers have to face.

No mother wants to see the death of their child. Most parents pass away before their child leaving a legacy of Love and Memories, hopefully wisdom, to help that child grow into adulthood and raise their own child/children.

The Colin Love petition fights for something that the ordinary Scottish family deserve. It is not a luxury nor is it a condiment or courtesy but it is a basic human right.

Colin’s petition calls for a change in the law, an anomaly in our robust legal system. When a Scottish person dies abroad and is returned home. We are buried or cremated with no questions asked.

However, we want what English people have and that is for our Crown Office to have the discretion to make one of the two decisions regarding a death abroad:

1. There has been a full robust judicial inquiry in the country of death that I feel has answered every question therefore we will not be holding one here.

2. I believe that there was insufficient answers and there wasn’t a robust judicial inquiry into the death of said person in the country of death and therefore I think it is imperative that we investigate this matter and if need be apply to the sheriff to hold a FAI.

The launch of this petition marks the beginning of an incredible journey, one part of a plethora of things to come in Colin’s name. We know that the petition won’t stop people drowning in Margarita Island and that’s why Julie is setting up a charity in Colin’s name to try and prevent deaths on that beach.”

We have has growing support from people like Alan Carr, Shaun Connery, Billy Connolly, Bill Aiken MSP, Frank McAveety MSP. And the Glasgow MSYP Group who voted unanimously to support the petition .

Austin Sheridan MSYP for Glasgow Govan and Vice Chairman of the Glasgow MSYP Group said “I was very saddened when I heard the story about how Colin Love died, A death of a close family member is tragic but it is worse when you don’t know: why, when, where or how. It is not only frustrating that somewhere, someplace some undeserving person is in possession of these answers but won’t give them up.”

Austin Sheridan MSYP has also contacted First Minister Alex Salmond MSP MP and Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon MSP calling for them to rally behind the campaign that would help so many Scottish families and friends get the answers they deserve when a loved one dies aboard.

By Austin Sheridan MSYP on behalf of the Glasgow MSYP Group

__________________________________________
Background Information.

Section 1 of the Fatal Accidents and Sudden Deaths (Scotland) Act 1976 excludes the operation of the Act from deaths furth of Scotland. This contrasts with the situation in England, where section 8 of the Coroners Act 1988 provides that the coroner must hold an inquiry where the final resting place of a repatriated body is England.

This lacuna in the law has meant that the sudden or unexpected death abroad of an English civilian will automatically trigger a coroner's inquiry upon the return of the corpse. This is in addition to any inquiry that may have taken place in the country in which the person died. Where there has been a robust inquiry already, it is arguable that the English system leads to wasteful reduplication. However, where there has been no such inquiry, the coroner plays a vital role.

In contrast, due to the operation of the 1976 Act, the sudden death of a person from Scotland in very many developing countries will never be the subject of a judicial inquiry. This situation is potentially dangerous for Scottish people abroad. The Scottish Government has a duty of care to ensure that the deaths of people from Scotland do not go uninvestigated and that families receive justice. At present, Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service does not know how many people from Scotland have died abroad in recent years. This is disquieting.

Accordingly, my submission is that the 1976 Act ought to be amended to oblige the procurator fiscal of an individual's district of domicile to investigate the circumstances of a sudden or unexpected death abroad and to apply to the sheriff to hold a fatal accident inquiry unless he/she is satisfied that the matter has already been fully investigated by competent judicial authorities.

This issue came to my attention when a close friend of mine - Colin Love, 23, from Glasgow drowned while he was on a cruise when it docked in Margarita Island in the province of Venezuela. His mother, Julie, and the rest of her family were dismayed to discover that there would be no judicial inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Colins death. Colins family feel that he deserves at least this much. Like many young people with a life ahead of him in Scotland, Colin was embracing a chance that had been offered to him to travel abroad. He was using his trip to reflect on where he wanted to go in life. This tragedy has taken Colins life and blighted those of his family. The Scottish legal system should have afforded them the right to a judicial inquiry and the prospect of closure that that would bring.

I researched the issue further and discovered that the UK Government, with the permission of the Scottish Parliament, has put into place legislation that would require the COPFS to hold a fatal accident inquiry into the deaths of service personnel abroad. This is an important step forward but it does not help people in the same situation as Colins family.

Dr Kenneth Faulds MSYP and Julie Love (Colin’s Mum) launched the campaign.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP on behalf of the Glasgow MSYP Group

Kenny's petition may change Scots law

2009-09-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

Glasgow Shettleston MSYP Dr Kenneth Faulds this week launched a high-profile campaign which might close a loophole in Scots law and help families who have lost relatives in tragic circumstances.

Kenny's friend Colin Love drowned whilst on holiday in Venezuela, but was denied an inquiry in Scotland, as such incidents abroad can only be investigated in England.

On Tuesday, Kenny together with Colin's family, launched a petition to urge the Scottish Parliament to change the law to introduce coroner's inquests, which would allow the truth about tragic incidents to be uncovered. He'll be presenting the issue to MSYPs at the September Sitting to give the SYP a chance to back his bid, so you'll (MSYPs) have the chance to debate the issue very soon. In the meantime, the Glasgow Evening Times ran a story about the campaign this week.

http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/search..._scots_law.php

I am in full support of this campaign and I will be backing this by using my vote within the SYP to back the bid to change Scot's Law to allow Scotland to launch enquires. I would like to urge all other MSYPs to back this. If you think this is a good cause why not get in contact with your constituent MSYPs and ask him or her to support this. The more support we get for this the better!

If you do not have an MSYP or you can not find contact details for them then please send me an e-mail to show your support as I will be able to take this forward to the SYP in the debate. Every e-mail counts!

Please sign the petition to show your support too

http://epetitions.scottish.parliament.uk/view_petition.asp?PetitionID=344

Well done Kenny and I hope that you get the support of the full SYP.If you need to contact me please

e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
___________________________
This article can be found at: http://austinactive.yolasite.com/blog.php

Hardeep says heroin is better than alcohol

2009-09-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

I attend the Edinburgh international book festival as a "Scottish Youth Debate" which was set up by the Scottish Youth Parliament and other organisations to discuss the youth of Scotland and where they fit in to the future of Scotland. The issue of Scotland's relationship with alcohol was brought up by Hardeep Singh Kohli who is a former TV presenter for the BBC show called the "One Show". He voiced views on how Alcohol should be taken off the supermarket shelves and how prices should be put up. He also went on to say that heroin should be make legal as the statistics show that less people are harmed by the drug. I was outraged at his views, Glasgow has a problem with heroin users and I can tell you that from personal experience that it is a much larger problem. People who take heroin will mug people no matter who you are, old and young. I said "Our European cousins have the right idea by having a relaxed attitude to alcohol. I think that Scotland would benefit from a relaxed attitude as this would educate young people that alcohol can be enjoyed socially". He too this statement personal and said "the statistics show that less people are affected by heroin" he then went on to say, "your views are stupid and you should get a train ticket to the real world" I said "the only reason less people are affected by heroin is due to less people using the drug, I am not denying that Scotland has a problem with alcohol, but I don't agree that raising the prices and banning supermarkets from selling it is going to help the problem". I was shocked and offended that he made things personal. I could have raised about how he was suspended from the One Show for sexually harassing a female college, but I decided that I was better than that. I personally think it was rich for him to tell me to get a train ticket to the "real world" with his track record!, however on a better note the event went really well and was a great success, people from all over the world attend including people from the USA and New Zealand.If you have any questions please e-mail me at:

austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
________________________
This article can be found at: http://austinactive.yolasite.com/blog.php

Scottish Government release Al-Megrahi

2009-08-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

Yes the Scottish Government have decided to let Al-Megrahi (commonly known as the Lockerbie bomber) out of prison on compassionate grounds due to his illness. Al-Megrahi has been told after taking medical advice it was expected that three months was a "reasonable estimate" of the time Megrahi had left to live.

Kenny MacAskill decided after hearing the views of victims and doctors that it would be reasonable to release Mr Megrahi and let him return to Libya, but with conditions set by the Scottish Government.

My personal view on the matter is that I think it shows that Scotland has compassion were needed, the US said that they would not be happy if the Scottish Government made the decision to release Mr Megrahi. This shows that the Scottish Government will not be dictated to by a superpower like the US.

I do think that there should be a public enquiry into the bombing as it would be almost if not impossible for one man to blow up the type of plane that exploded over Lockerbie, questions still have to be answered in my view and until that happens we will never know what really happened on that sad and tragic day, the only think I am sure of is that Mr Megrahi was not the only person involved.

I am personally okay with Mr Megrahi being sent home to die, what benefit would be get out of him dieing in a Scottish prison?

I respect the Scottish Law system and I think that they were right to send Mr Megrahi to Prison, however I fully support his release on compassionate grounds, mainly because I believe that he was not the only person involved.

If you have any questions for me please contact me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_________________________

This article can be found at: http://austinactive.yolasite.com/blog.php

Glasgow Fair Vigil for Jailed Gambian Journalists

2009-08-13T13:51:00.000-07:00

Glasgow Fair Monday was a holiday of a different kind for LOCAL NEWS journalists and friends who took part in a vigil in Buchanan Street. They were showing solidarity with six journalists in The Gambia who have been imprisoned on charges of sedition and whose trial was due to start that day.

Read the full story here: http://www.localnewsglasgow.co.uk/2009/08/glasgow-fair-vigil-for-jailed-gambian-journalists/

If you have any questions for me please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you As soon as I can.Thanks

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Austin Helps SYP set Convener & Deputy Convener policy

2009-08-11T12:25:00.000-07:00

I was at the Scottish Youth Parliament office in Edinburgh today to help make the new code of conduct and policy for the Conveners and Deputy Conveners for the SYP subject committees along with one Convener and another Deputy Convener. The groups have seen a lot of chance in the past few months as the power of the committees have been reduced. Conveners used to have a place on the board of the SYP but due to restructure the SYP now has a new elected Board of Trustees with the Chair of the SYP as the head. This now gives Conveners and Deputy Conveners more time to focus on national and regional campaigns which I personally am pleased about. The policy has not changed very much, mostly just shortened due to reduced power and rewording, however the group decided that if a Convener leaves a group or stands down from convener for what ever reason the Deputy is to become Acting Convener until the next sitting where the group would be able to elect a new Convener. We are hoping to offer training to Conveners and Deputy Conveners in the near future.

If you need to contact me for any reason plese send me an e-mail at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you in good time.Thanks

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
_______________________
This article can be found at http://www.austinactive.yolasite.com/ (blog section)

Letter from Barack Obama outlines changes to the US health care system

2009-07-29T15:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Friend, If you’re like most Americans, there’s nothing more important to you about health care than peace of mind. Given the status quo, that’s understandable. The current system often denies insurance due to pre-existing conditions, charges steep out-of-pocket fees – and sometimes isn’t there at all if you become seriously ill. It’s time to fix our unsustainable insurance system and create a new foundation for health care security. That means guaranteeing your health care security and stability with eight basic consumer protections:

No discrimination for pre-existing conditions
No exorbitant out-of-pocket expenses, deductibles or co-pays
No cost-sharing for preventive care
No dropping of coverage if you become seriously ill
No gender discrimination
No annual or lifetime caps on coverage
Extended coverage for young adults
Guaranteed insurance renewal so long as premiums are paid

Over the next month there is going to be an avalanche of misinformation and scare tactics from those seeking to perpetuate the status quo. But we know the cost of doing nothing is too high. Health care costs will double over the next decade, millions more will become uninsured, and state and local governments will go bankrupt.

It’s time to act and reform health insurance, drive down costs and guarantee the health care security and stability of every American family.

Thank you,

Barack Obama

I hope this does make a difference to the American people, the US health care system is sick.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

Contact me at any time using: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmil.org.uk and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
________________________
This article can be found at: http://www.austinactive.yolasite.com/ (blog page)

Unsung Glasgow North East heroes receive awards

2009-07-29T12:04:00.000-07:00

I attended the Glasgow North Community champions awards to cheer on one of our Glasgow MSYPs Julie Lennox (MSYP for Glasgow Springburn), She was nominated by a member of the Glasgow North east community for all the hard work she puts into being an MSYP and her outstanding record for volunteering she does for Glasgow North East. Julie is now into her second term after winning the SYP by-election in Springburn over a year ago. She also won "MSYP of the year 2009" for the hard work she put into helping her constituents. Julie also runs her own Youth Club that she set up in her constituency and has been a great success after months of hard work. Julie feels passionate about young people getting on in her constituency and wants to focus on gang tension in the area. She is a true pillar to her community and I genuinely respect that. She was nominated for the Youth Award which she sadly did not win. I think the most important thing is that people recognised her effort and hard work she has put into the area and remains a well respected young person in her area. So well done Julie!

You can read all about it here: http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/display.var.2522739.0.0.php

If you have any questions for me please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP

_______________________________
This article can be found at: www.austinactive.yolasite.com (blog page)

Austin Makes Appearance on Sunny Govan Radio

2009-07-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Austin Sheridan who is a member of the Scottish Youth Parliament for Glasgow Govan made an appearance on Sunny Govan Radio. Sunny Govan Radio covers a large area in and around Govan and is also listened to by people from all over the world via the internet. Austin was asked questions through the text system and twitter, one of the questions were, What would you do if you were Prime Minister of the UK. Austin replied "If I was the Prime Minister I would call a general election as the people of the UK are clearly not happy with MPs in this current expenses scandal. The only way we will make the public feel happy is if the MPs face their constituents in an election and let them decide if they are trust worthy to continue to represent them." Austin was also questioned on what his main manifesto commitment was, Austin said "my main commitment to my constituents was more help for young carers in Govan and in the whole of Scotland. They do such a good and demanding job but people very rarely stop to think about them, They are Scotland's unsung heroes". Austin also spoke about how he supports Scottish independence and how he got involved in the Scottish Youth Parliament. Austin has been member since the 3rd of June and will serve a term of two years.

If you have any questions for Austin you can email him at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and he will get back to you as soon as possible.

Posted by Karren Smith
_____________________________

This article can be found at: http://www.austinactive.yolasite.com/ in his blog page.

Austin does Campaign work with Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon

2009-07-26T05:35:00.000-07:00

I was doing some campaign work with the Deputy First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon in Govan, Nicola Sturgeon is the MSP for Glasgow Govan which is the same constituency that I represent. I hope to have a joint surgery with Nicola sometime which she said she would be happy to arrange. She was very supportive of my campaign during the Scottish Youth Parliament elections. I think its great when MSYPs get on with their MSPs as it's important to build a good working relationship as at some point you will have to contact your MSP during your term as an MSYP. It was good just to knock on some doors and talk to the people of Govan. It really helps build up my profile with all the people in the constituency and helps improve my peoples skills. I hope to be doing more campaign work with Nicola soon.

If you need to contact me regarding anything please send me an E-mail at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

_____________________________

This article can be found at : www.austinactive.yolasite.com (then click on Austins Blog)

This Blog will stay open due to popular demand!

2009-07-26T05:29:00.000-07:00

Yes this blog is back due to popular demand, I have had lots of e-mails asking my to maintain this blog as well as the new one on my website, so I have decided to keep them both uptodate with my latest news and stuff I have been doing.

I hope this makes people who enjoy reading this blog on blogspot happy.

Kind Regards

Austin Sheridan MSYP

New Website With New Blog

2009-07-21T18:15:00.000-07:00

I have been working on a new website recently which will replace the two blogs I have with blogger.com. The new site has been launched now which means that this is going to be the last post on this blog.

The www.austinelection.blogspot.com blog will be deleted on the 20th August 2009

The www.austinactive.blogspot.com blog (this one) will be deleted on the 20th October 2009

The new website address is www.austinactive.yolasite.com where loads more information will be posted in the near future. The website also has all the blog content of this blog and a page for my manifesto.

Enjoy my new site.

Austin Sheridan MSYP
Glasgow Govan

Austin makes a stand!

2009-07-20T12:08:00.001-07:00

Austin Sheridan MSYP attended the vigil for the seven Gambian journalists who are being held in captivity in The Gambia for speaking against the President. The Trial was today (20th July) but we will not know the outcome until the Gambian state media report on it. Austin said "the vigil is going very well, the people of Glasgow and even Tourists have been asking about the protest and have been showing their support by sending a post card to the people being held in prison. I will also be sending a personal letter to show my support through these difficult times they are going through, my heart truly goes out to all seven of them" The Local News (Glasgow) team decided that it would be a good idea to send post cards from the people of Glasgow to show that people from all over the world are thinking of them and supporting them through what must be a frightening time for them. Austin thought that this was a good idea so he will be writing to the seven journalists to show his support. The Gambia has hired a judge from Nigeria for the court case (the judge has no or very little knowledge of the Gambian law system), the President has the power to appoint and sack judges so the President of The Gambia has the final say. Austin added "This is a disgrace and I denounce the Presidents actions, The Gambia is part of the commonwealth, I think its time for a suspension until the Gambian Government cleans their act up and holds a fair democratic election!" The trials continue and may do for weeks to come.

If you have any questions for Austin Sheridan MSYP you can contact him at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and he will get back to you when he can.

By Karren Smith

Austin is going to stand up for 7 Gambian Journalists

2009-07-19T12:23:00.000-07:00

Austin Sheridan MSYP for Glasgow Govan is to attend a vigil for seven Gambian journalists who are being held in captivity for trumped up charges against them for criticising the Gambian Government. Austin says "I believe that people who are born into this world have an entitlement to basic human rights, This in my view is in breach of a human right as all people should be allowed to criticise the Government that is in charge of their country, The Press should always remain independent" The vigil will take place in Glasgow, Buchanan Street at the Donald Dewar statue between 8am-4pm. All are welcome to attend.

If you have any questions for Austin please e-mail him at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk and he will get back to you as soon as he can.

By Karren Smith

Glasgow MSYP Pushes for a Glasgow Youth Council

2009-07-16T06:35:00.000-07:00

Austin Sheridan who is a Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP) for Glasgow Govan has proposed that Glasgow should have a citywide Youth Council. Austin Sheridan MSYP said "Every Major city in Scotland apart from Glasgow has a city youth council, Glasgow is the biggest and most populated city so surely we should have a citywide Youth Council and bring ourselves in line with other modern Scottish Cities" This proposal will be put forward at the next Glasgow MSYPs Group meeting (Which Austin is vice chairman of) and the group should come to a decision on the matter.

If you have any questions for Austin you can e-mail him any time and he will get back to you ASAP!

austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

By Karren Smith

Austin's SNP campaign work in Govan

2009-07-16T06:18:00.000-07:00

I spent 16th July delivering the new Nicola Sturgeon (Govan MSP) newsletter to the good people of Govan, I decided to do this to try and raise my profile in the Govan constituency. I also made an appearance in the Local News South were I gave my views regarding independence and much more. So look out for it. and if you need to contact me regarding anything please don't hesitate to drop me a line on my e-mail.

E-mail: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

Austin Sheridan MSYP
Glasgow Govan

Vice Chair of the Glasgow MSYPs Group

2009-07-09T11:28:00.000-07:00

Austin Sheridan has been elected to serve as Vice Chair of the Glasgow MSYPs Group (formally known as the "Glasgow Young Team") The name change came about after the newly elected MSYPs felt that the former name gave made us sound like a street gang. Austin Sheridan MSYP said "The name change was needed, not only did it make us sound like a gang, the name did not explain what the group stands for and who we are". The group also elected a new Chair person to lead the group, Kenneth Faulds MSYP who was elected as chair person said he would like the Glasgow MSYPs to focus on the Commonwealth Games which will take place in 2014, Austin Sheridan MSYP agreed and said that "the Glasgow MSYPs should focus on the Commonwealth Games which will bring Jobs to many young people,but we must also look at the issues of today like Gang and knife crime and standards in education so that young people see we are doing something right now".

If you would like to keep up to date with what the Glasgow MSYPs are doing you can also visit the Glasgow MSYP bebo page: http://www.bebo.com/Profile.jsp?MemberId=9442650327

Have you got any questions or sugestions for Austin Sheridan MSYP? You can contact him at anytime on his MSYP e-mail and he will get back to you As Soon As Posible.

austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

By Karren Smith

My first post

2009-06-26T11:42:00.000-07:00

Hi all. This is going to be my blog where you can keep up to date on what I have been doing for the Youth of the Glasgow Govan Constituency as MSYP for the area.

I attended the first Scottish Youth Parliament sitting on the 6-7th June which took place in Edinburgh. I was able to raise one of the key issue which was in my manifesto, the question of Scottish independence which I said I would take forward to the Scottish Youth Parliament, sadly the majority of the 80 MSYPs that attended the debate voted against asking the people of Scotland about our future as a country. I don't think this vote gave a clear idea on what all MSYPs think as only 80 out of a possible 150+ attended the debate. I would like to see the question put forward to the MSYPs again. I was also elected Deputy Convener of External Affairs which deals with UK and international issues. This is a field where I will raise the question of independence once more.

I have also been working with a workshop set up by Glasgow City Council which was discisung Religion and Belief. The young people who attend the workshop came up with very good ideas on how young peopple deal with religious differences in communities. I said as an MSYP I would be happy to help the group out at anytime as I would like to see more youth talking about religion and where it fits in the Scotland we know and love today.

I'm the kind of guy that likes to a wee bit of charity work, so I was at the Take That concert collecting money for the charity "Scottish Epilepsy Initiative". I was very moved by the people I meet on the day who are very committed to raising awareness on the condition. I am in full support of this charity.

On a final note I was able to attend a meeting which was talking about regenerating the town centre of Govan. I am in favour of the plans as long as the people of the Govan parish are told by Glasgow City Council whats going to happen to the ara so the people of Govan up to date and have a say in the things that are being planned including the young people! I have also said that a huge regeneration in the area will be good for the area but small things like putting weed killer where the old public toilets are would make a big difference as the weeds there are becoming out of control.

That will be all for just now, Don't forget if you have any questions please e-mail me at: austin.sheridan.msyp@sypmail.org.uk

I am always happy to help where I can.

Thanks

Austin Sheridan MSYP
Glasgow Govan