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
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
Wednesday, 22 December 2010
Surge in Support for Independence
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
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
Monday, 13 December 2010
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Govan High Autism Unit
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.
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.
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
Happy St Andrews Day
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
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
Thursday, 25 November 2010
London listens to Gambia Campaigners
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.
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.
Tuesday, 2 November 2010
Austin Sheridan MSYP Wins Vote Against Big Society and NCS
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.
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This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)
Monday, 25 October 2010
SNP Freeze Council Tax Again to Protect Families Income
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.
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.
Sunday, 24 October 2010
Truth About Youth
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.
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This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/
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.
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This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/
Sunday, 10 October 2010
Mundell should call a By-Election in Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale
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
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This Article can be found at http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)
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
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This Article can be found at http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
'New' New Labour's new Leader Slaps Unions and Public Sector in the Face
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
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This Article can be found at www.austinmsyp.co.nr (Blog Section)
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
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This Article can be found at www.austinmsyp.co.nr (Blog Section)
Monday, 27 September 2010
Scotland's Voice for people in The Gambia
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
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This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)
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
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This Article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)
Scotland's Voice for people in The Gambia
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)
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
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This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)
Tuesday, 24 August 2010
Austin Sheridan MSYP welcomes face lift of Govan Cross
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
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This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)
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
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This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)
Thursday, 5 August 2010
Campaign for Glasgow Southside Begins
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)
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
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)
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
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This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)
Thursday, 29 July 2010
Austin Sheridan MSYP Welcomes more help for Young Carers
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
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This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)
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
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This Article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)
Tuesday, 27 July 2010
New Constituency Office
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)
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
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)
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)
Monday, 19 July 2010
Vigil for Florence and Precious Mhango
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
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This article can be found at: http://www.austinmsyp.co.nr/ (Blog Section)
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)
Sunday, 18 July 2010
Picture The Change
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)
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)
Monday, 28 June 2010
New Convener of External Affairs Committee
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
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
Monday, 7 June 2010
Govan Fire Station Open Day Was a Success
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)
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)
Wednesday, 2 June 2010
Austin Sheridan MSYP condemns Israel for attacking flotilla
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)
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)
Saturday, 29 May 2010
Michael Moore MP is the new Secretary of State for Scotland
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)
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)
Thursday, 27 May 2010
UK Government try to control QT?
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)
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)
Tuesday, 25 May 2010
Glasgow MSYP Group set to change constitution to create a Glasgow Youth Council
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)
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)
Friday, 21 May 2010
Scottish Youth Parliament prepares for AGM on 26 June
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)
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)
Friday, 14 May 2010
New UK Government
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)
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)
Sunday, 25 April 2010
Labour lie to most vulnerable people in society for votes
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)
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)
Monday, 12 April 2010
Campaign Tour with SNP/YSI
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)
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
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This article can be found at: www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (blog section)
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
UK General Election, May 6 2010
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)
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)
Tuesday, 30 March 2010
Xscape event went well as I attend an event in my Glasgow Govan (MSYP) constituency
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
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
Tuesday, 23 March 2010
Fight local cut backs and cuts to front line services!
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
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
Monday, 22 March 2010
SNP say "More Nats, Less Cuts" and "Scotland needs champions"
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
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
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Vote Yes Yes, Alex Salmond MP MSP sets out Scotland's Future
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:
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
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
Wednesday, 3 March 2010
Lets show support for Andrew Deans MSYP on his 'Mosquito device motion'!
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)
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)
Thursday, 11 February 2010
Glasgow SNP MSP Anne McLaughlin Stands up to UK Home Office
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.
Posted by Austin Sheridan MYP
__________________________
You can find this article at www.AustinMSYP.co.nr (Blog Section)
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)
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
Surprise response to my blog article about the 'right to die'
I received this surprise e-mail today regarding my Blog Article titled: Margo MacDonald's 'End of Life Assistance (Scotland) Bill'
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)
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)
Tuesday, 9 February 2010
Margo MacDonald's 'End of Life Assistance (Scotland) Bill'
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)
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)
Monday, 25 January 2010
Hand's off Lorne Street Culture and Sport!
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
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
Saturday, 23 January 2010
Austin Sheridan MSYP, MYP chosen as Vice Charman of Malawi '10 Steering Group
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
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
Thursday, 14 January 2010
Lib-Dem leader Nick Clegg to be Grilled by young people
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)
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)
Friday, 1 January 2010
Happy New Year 2010
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
I hope this year brings you fortune, happiness and joy for you and all thoes around.
Posted by Austin Sheridan MSYP
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