gair rhydd
gair rhydd | free word hydref 8 - hydref 15 2018 october 8 - october 15 2018 rhifyn 1120 | issue 1120
Cardiff University’s student paper | Established 1972
Freshers’ Week The Price is right a success for Students’ Union Adam Price elected new Plaid Cymru leader by Rhys Thomas
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A successful Freshers’ for some: Cardiff Students’ Union earned around £10,000 more this year compared to last, with club nights and alcohol sales making up the bulk of its profits.
Over 17,000 club tickets sold Additional £10,000 earned in revenue Over 500 student volunteers took part across Freshers’ events
by Matt Tomlin
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ardiff University Students’ Union is celebrating a massive increase in Fresher’s week sales on 2017’s figures, with over 17000 club night tickets having been sold throughout the week. The full figure saw 17,406 club night ticket sales, which is up over
Top universities accused of bullying by Hallum Cowell
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Freedom of Information request made by journalists discovered over 300 accademics have been accused of bullying students. Among those revealed, Oxford and Cambridge come out worst.
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5,000 sales on 2017’s 11,860 Freshers’ tickets. Decreases in ticket prices and the hosting of a greater variety of entertainment events for students during opening week are what the SU claim to be the cause of this. An extra £10,000 was earned by the SU in revenue, which for the most part has subsidised increased costs for security and crowd-management this year. YOLO Wednesdays and Juice Saturdays have launched with increased success compared to last year. Their premiers had an increase of 1,000 students through the doors. In addition, the most recent YOLO Wednesday club night reached the 2,400 person capacity by 10.15pm,
Cysondeb yw’r uchelgais i Giggs
by Llion Carbis
M
ae pêl-droed rhyngwladol wedi dychwelyd, a Taf-od sydd yn darogan tynged Cymru yn y gemau sydd ar gyrraedd yn erbyn Sbaen a Gweriniaeth Iwerddon.
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with SU officials recommending students aim to reach the SU steps on future Wednesday evenings by 9.30pm in order for them to stand a chance of getting in. With the higher demand in mind, the SU has also begun to sell 1,000 tickets online for £5 each to guarantee entry to YOLO Wednesdays before 11pm. This is also a strategy for earning more revenue to fund the necessary crowd management which these evening events require. This is also being introduced with the intention of being fair on athletes who compete in sporting events or matches away from home 5 and are sometimes unable to get into the SU on time.
Microplastics in half of river insects
by Nia Jones
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esearch led by the Cardiff School of Biosciences has found microplastics in 50% of insects sampled across South Wales rivers. Experts now fear the potential problem of plastics in river ecosystems has been overlooked.
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ales’ Nationalist party underwent a leadership election this summer. Incumbent Leanne Wood faced off against challengers Rhun ap Iorweth and Adam Price, with the latter coming out on top in the second round ballot. A former Member of Parliament and post-graduate student at Harvard University, Price is an impressive character. Campaign ideas such as a potential name change for the party and a seven step plan toward Welsh independence carved out his role as the change candidate. Will his election change the fortunes of the party? Price himself has not been afraid to criticise from within, exemplified by his campaign line that Plaid was on a road that will end
in defeat. Unfortunately for him and others in the party, it is a long and winding road with no end in sight. There is no doubt that Plaid’s future is better off without Wood. Arguably a breath of fresh air when she was elected as a former social worker and Plaid’s first female leader, the party’s fate since 2012 has not significantly improved. In the Welsh Assembly, they find themselves as the third party behind the Conservatives. In UK General Elections there is mixed news, with an additional Member of Parliament but the lowest percentage share of the vote 18 since 1997.
Internships The good, the bad and the exploitative
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EDITORIAL
Gair Rhydd 2018/19 Coordinator Elaine Morgan
Editor-in-Chief Gareth Axenderrie
Deputy Editors Silvia Martelli Jessica Warren
Head of Digital Media Michael Ash
News
Gee Harland Klaudia Jazwinska Emma Ogao Matt Tomlin
Campus Life Ashley Boyle Cerian Jones
Taf-od
Llion Carbis Tomos Evans
Comment
Alys Hewitt Hannah Newberry Emma Videan
Column Road Karis Pearson
word
the free
A letter from the editor
Mind your head Make the most of this week. It’s your chance to recollect and refocus on yourself and your wellbeing. It’ll be worth it.
Politics
Charlotte King Silvia Martelli Rhys Thomas Sam Tilley
Advice
Ashavari Baral Katie Lewis
Saunders’ Corner
let’s talk about the elephant in the room
Sam Saunders
Science
Daniel Brown Jonathan Learmont
Five Minute Fun Maria Mellor
Sport
Reece Chambers Rosie Foley John Jones Jack Vavasour George Willoughby
Social Media Editors Indigo Jones Giovanna Coi
Digital Media Editors Maisie Marston Jordan Parker Cadi Thomas
Copy Editors
Gemma Hopley Lowri Rowlands Meg Sharma Keiran Manetta-Jones
Write to the editor editor@gairrhydd.com
by Gareth Axenderrie
better than others, but everybody through the tougher times, we’ll have looking at the value of internships, reshers’ is now over, lectures have has to look after themselves at some it covered. how ethical unpaid internships are, begun and we have started to get point. This is especially true when Last week’s figures on the number and whether they are exploitative. back into this university malarkey. they’re surrounded by the trials and of students accessing student support It is a fascinating read, with This week is Mind Your Head tribulations of life as a student. were staggering at first, but they prove opinion from all sides of the Week, which now gives us the perfect Now, with a week worth of events that mental health is an issue that we spectrum, as well as some shocking opportunity to take stock. and sessions catered to appreciating our are engaging with more and more. It is cost comparisons and the view from Hopefully the madness of fairs, club wellbeing and mental health, the union a pertinent issue that isn’t going away. inside industry and our university nights, meeting new people and being is taking positive and productive action I’m not an advice giver, we have two itself. inundated with flyers, notifications and to help everybody help themselves. great advice editors and a columnist We also have our Cardiff teams emails has bounced right off you and It’s easy to make a09:00-14:30 mockery of who are far better positioned to give it making their first in Y Plas 11:00-16:00 in room 4J,forays into BUCS you’ve enjoyed your first fortnight back. students. Drinking too much, too than I am, but if was going to pass on action covered by our sport desk, Students’ Union have spiced things up If not, it may mean that you’re going much free time, living the life of Riley. one piece, I would say nip any issues in and comment to have to refocus with your wellbeing In reality however, we’re in a pretty the bud sooner rather than later. a bit this week with some content 10:00-12:30 in Y high-pressure Stiwdio 2,environment. and mental health a little. There is no better time to address that I’m sure ignite a little discussion Mind Your Head Week is a great We’re here to get a degree, we’re here any issues that have cropped up than or debate. 1st floor, Students’ Union initiative by the union to really get us to make friends, we’re here to push this week. Also, don’t forget the return of thinking about our wellbeing. boundaries, we’re here and it’s costing As we discussed in depth last week, Five Minute Fun, our puzzles page I’ve met hundreds of students in my us a lot of money, we’re here for a good we have some outstanding facilities now steered by a returning Editortime here in Cardiff, from almost every time, we’re not here for a long time. available in Cardiff, use them. in-Chief of this very newspaper. Meet at Senghenydd road room 4J, taking some MeetOne atthing Senghenydd walk of life imaginable. I have You’llroad read a lot in this12:30-15:30 paper this year While you’re time out, Finally, pick up the first copy of at 09:30 for registration, learnt is that nobody should take their about mental health. I’m glad you’ve decided to pick us up Quench Magazine, it’ a beauty. Students’ Union at 17:30, bus to the Heath mental health and wellbeing lightly. Whether it’s the latest on the again. We are stacked with stuff I hope Get stuck in, feel leave free to let us andpeople Queen’s will with the Centre for you’ll get your teeth into.buses will promptly Of course, some may be building a developments know what you think, and like I said little more resilient, some may Student Life, latest mental health My colleague Jess has worked onat 10:00 earlier, reconnect with yourself this bemanage provided and understand themselves a little statistics or advice on how to get our first feature of the year this week, week, you won’t regret it.
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Monday 8th Mind your Head Café and Mind Your Head Student Led Service Launch
Mind Your Head ‘Fun Run’
wednesday 10th Inner Child Day
Friday 12th Arts & crafts afternoon
thursday 11th Suicide Awareness Training
saturday 13th Pen-Y-Fan Trip
Poetry Morning
10:00-12:00 in room 4J, Keep an eye out for our ‘mood Students’ Union newspaper here at Cardiff University tuesday 9thabout Gair Rhydd What you need to know | your student
At Gair Rhydd we take seriously our responsibility to maintain the highest possible standards. We may occasionally make mistakes, however if you believe we have fallen below the standards we seek to uphold, please email editor@gairrhydd.com. You can view our Ethical Policy Statement and Complaints Procedure at cardiffstudentmedia.co.uk/complaints. Opinions expressed in editorials are not reflective of Cardiff Student Media, who act as the publisher of Gair Rhydd in legal terms, and should not be considered official communications or the organisation’s stance. Gair Rhydd is a Post Office registered newspaper.
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NEWYDDION
Students concerned as university closes 24-hour study facility S by Gareth Axenderrie
tudents have voiced their concerns after Cardiff University took the decision to close its 24-hour IT study facility in the Julian Hodge Study Centre. The facility, located just off Colum Drive, was previously available to students throughout the year, however as of Monday, September 24, the facility will only operate between 9am and 9pm on weekdays. The decision means that not only will 24-hour access no longer be available, but the facility will remain closed on weekends. Cardiff University confirmed the closure was due to reduced use of the facility following the extension of the Arts and Social Sciences Library’s (ASSL) opening hours. A spokesperson for the university told Gair Rhydd: “ASSL is now open on a 24/7 basis during semesters and for both the Christmas and Easter vacation. “Following consultation with the students’ union and university security, we have agreed that ASSL provides a more conducive study environment for 24/7 use, as it is staffed overnight. “The University Library conducted an impact assessment and identified that overnight and weekend use of the Julian Hodge Study Zone has dropped considerably since ASSL moved to 24/7 opening. “The number of students regularly using the Julian Hodge Study Zone
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First ground broken for Centre for Student Life
T Julian Hodge: The IT facilities will no longer open 24-hours, and will remain closed on weekends overnight and at weekends is low, and we have sufficient capacity to accommodate these students within ASSL during those times.” An anonymous letter to Gair Rhydd on behalf of students outlined concerns that, while ASSL has extended its opening hours, the closure of the centre after 9pm and on weekends will see a
reduction in the number of computers available to students, especially during busy exam periods. Jackie Yip, Cardiff Students’ Union Vice President for Education, said: “Any closure of study space obviously needs to have careful consideration. “Having spoken to library staff at the university, the usage of Julian Hodge
significantly decreased following the opening of the 24 hour ASSL. There is significant capacity to accommodate the Julian Hodge students into the ASSL. “Finally, student safety is imperative. ASSL is staffed overnight and so it provides a safer environment for students to study in.”
he first work has begun on the new Centre For Studnet Life. Cardiff Students’ Union president, Fadhilla Al Dhahouri was joined in an event to mark the occasion by Kirsty Williams, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills and Cardiff University Vice Chancellor Colin reardon. When complete, the building will tranform the front of the current students’ union, and see student support services come under one roof. The project is estimated to be complete by 2020, but is currently behind schedule. Speaking on Facebook after the event, Al Dhahouri said: “We will continue to develop the partnership for a greater student experience. “I am looking forward to the services the CSL will provide for our students and how we can develop the current services in the meantime.”
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NEWS
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Accusations of bullying by academics in the UK’s top universities
A recent freedom of information request made by journalists found that over 300 academics have been accused of bullying students by Hallum Cowell
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request, made by journalists from the Guardian, has found accusations of university staff members in the UK, including senior academics, bullying students as well as fellow staff. This has occurred at the UK’s top universities, with numbers of accused academics reaching 300 in the past five years. Over 100 universities responded to the freedom of information request, with some disclosing accusations against academics, and others being more liberal with their disclosure and including non-academic staff in their results also. It was found that Oxford University had the highest number of complaints against academic and non-academic staff combined at 73. Dozens of current and former academics spoke of aggressive behaviour, career sabotage and disinterested HR managers placing public image above staff and student well being. More than 200 academics contacted the Guardian after the article was released. There are also reports of cover-ups in universities. Professor Athene Donald, master of Churchill College, Cambridge, stated: “I know of 2 instances where it is hard to think a cover-up is not going on”. Fourteen universities said they used non-disclosure agreements to resolve bullying cases with at least 27 staff signing onto these agreements. A former researcher explains to the Guardian that many cases of bullying can have dire effects. Many students break down or simply vanish. Extreme cases can catalyse PTSD or suicide.
Bullying: Oxford had the highest number of complains against academic and non-academic staff. Source: Wikicommons
A social science lecturer commented that she was pushed to resign after making a formal bullying complaint. Claims of abuse have also been levelled against academic institutions outside of universities such as; Wellcome Sanger Institute in Cambridge and the Institute of Cancer Research in London. The president of the Royal Society, Professor Venki Ramakrishnan said bullying had become ingrained and that an overhaul of workplace prac-
others… In particular, harassment, bullying and victimisation… are unacceptable forms of behaviour which will not be tolerated”. The document adds: “Disciplinary action may be taken against the staff members” A note of advice from academics for students, especially if they feel their university is doing nothing, is to keep a diary of events so that, if the university is not prepared to take disciplinary action, they can ably take their case to higher powers.
Union may be challenged to ban balloons by Gareth Axenderrie
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ardiff Students’ Union may be pressured into banning the use of balloons after a campaign by the union’s Ethical and Environmental Officer.
Nia Jones, who was elected as one of the union’s campaign officers in March, has submitted the idea of a ban to the union’s website, with fifty ‘upvotes’ needed for it to reach the student senate.
Your news desk Gee Harland Klaudia Jazwinska Emma Ogao Matt Tomlin
tises were required. Most concerning, however, are the claims by many experts, students and academics that the number of bullies is actually significantly higher than reported. Cardiff University’s anti-bullying policies can be found online in a document titled “Dignity at work and stud policy 2013”. One statement included is: “The failure of University staff and students to behave with dignity, courtesy and respect towards
Unnecessary evil?: The Students’ Union currently uses ballons at events such as balls, award ceremonies and fairs. Source: Meg Sharma
The idea is currently around halfway to gaining the required number of votes, with a deadline of Monday, October 8. This comes just ahead of the first senate meeting scheduled for Tuesday, November 13. The move by Jones is part of a wider drive to cut down on plastic waste within the union and university as part of her role. Last year the 20-year-old co-founded ‘No Straw Stand’, a campaign to cut the number of single-use plastic straws in circulation in Cardiff. Balloons are used in the union for events like balls, elections and during freshers’ fairs. Jones told Gair Rhydd: “Balloons are a plastic pollutant and are a common item found on beach cleans throughout the country. They are single use, and even if disposed of properly in the bin, they aren’t recycled.” Cardiff Council does not currently recycle balloons, and despite ‘biodegradable balloons’ appearing on the market, concerns remain that such products don’t actually degrade under regular conditions. Products labelled, as ‘biodegrad-
able’ often need intense heat and pressure to break down, conditions which are unfortunately not found in the ocean or in landfill. Jones continued: “One of my main aims this year is to reduce single use plastic across the campus - and campaigns that seem relatively small like this and aim to raise awareness is the best way to get people used to the idea of reducing their single use plastic consumption in small, easy steps.” “If anyone feels strongly about other parts of plastic pollution they are welcome to submit their own idea and we can work to reduce the SU’s plastic footprint even further. “Students have a hugely powerful voice regarding influencing the Union & University and really listen when students are passionate about a topic. “I encourage all students to use their voice about topics they care about - whether it be through Twitter, Facebook, email, or in person. If you are a bit stuck on how to get your idea and opinion out there - get in touch with your elected officers, we are more than happy to help.”
NEWYDDION
Freshers SU numbers on the up S
Continued from front page
Another highlight of this year’s fresher’s lineup has been the Plws club night, which had its tickets sell out before doors opened.
VKs are the SU’s best mate: The union relies heavily on food and drink sales for its revenue year. Both the first Thursday and Friday of the year and their corresponding events were attended less than those of the 2017 freshers’ week. The SU has put this down to heavy rain on those nights deterring students from going out drinking. Overall, the SU is celebrating a
highly profitable and engaging first few weeks of the 2018/2019 academic year. Should this performance persist throughout the year then there could be an annual revenue increase on the cards. In both 2016 and 2017, the SU’s revenue for its bars, food and events was around the £3m mark. Should
2018 continue with its increases in ticket, drinks and food sales, it could be plausible that this figure will easily and significantly be surpassed. Whether or not this would affect profit, given increased costs attributed towards better security for the building and its events, is another matter.
Woman accuses Judge Kavanaugh of sexual assault weeks before Supreme Court vote
by Gee Harland
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On September 27, the U.S Senate Committee heard Dr Christine Blasey Ford’s testimony against Brett Kavanaugh. Ford has accused Kavanaugh of sexual assault, of which she has spoken about publicly before, but explains that she feels it is her civil duty to relay the events. Kavanaugh is a US Supreme Court Nominee, as put forward by President Trump. This trial places Kavanaugh at risk of losing his potential role as SCOTUS, with GOP’s such as Jeff Flake and Susan Collins already suggesting they will not vote for him if found guilty. Fighting for his professional life, Kavanaugh claims he is completely innocent of the allegations. This creates further issues because if Kavanaugh is found to be lying to Congress, he could face imprisonment. Senator Feinstein summarises this controversy, stating: “This is not a trial of Dr. Ford, it’s a job interview for Judge Kavanaugh. Is Brett Kavanaugh who we want on the most prestigious court in our country? Is he the best we can do?” Ford, a research psychologist, is not the only person to come forward with accusations against Kavanaugh. Two other women, who were students at Yale, have stated they were also sexually assaulted by the jurist.
Accommodation struggles to fill rooms by Caterina Dassiè
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U staff recommend those with these pre-paid tickets use the Senghenedd Road entrance to the SU in order to get into Y Plas on time for YOLO Wednesdays. Juice is also expected to sell out more often from now on. The SU’s statistics are indicating that at times in the week when, this time last year, only a handful of tickets would have been sold, this year hundreds have been sold.
Another highlight of this year’s fresher’s lineup has been the Plws club night, which had its tickets sell out before doors opened. Based in Y Stiwdio, the collaborative project between Cardiff University Students’ Union and the university’s LGBT+ society was an LGBT+ themed club night which gifted out free rainbow shots on entry and featured a unique set from a female DJ throughout the evening. The SU is hoping to host a Plws event again in the future given the success of it during freshers’ week. Admittedly though, there were some dips in the performance of the SU as a freshers’ events venue this
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Thirty-six years after the assault against Ford, she explains that still thinks about it. She suffered from PTSD, and felt shameful about the incident. The recorded testimony shows Ford clearly distressed and uncomfortable as she recalls the events. She claims she felt emboldened and obliged to come forward after the #MeToo movement gained momentum. There have been speculations about Fords testimony, however. Inconsistencies have been found, drawing people to believe Ford is lying with political motivation. President Trump nominated Kavanaugh for SCOTUS, meaning the result of the Supreme Court would be majority republican. This has come under scrutiny as they could then decide legal precedent on issues such as illegalising abortions; a controversial republican view. The #MeToo movement has also come under scrutiny in the light of this trial, with many people suggesting it is encouraging a lack of equality for men and is dividing women. However, if Brett Kavanaugh must step down from being a US Supreme Court Nominee, there is conversation of Amy Barrett replacing him as President Trumps nominee. Consequently, the result of the Supreme Court would remain with a majority republican.
Outraged: Protests have taken place throughout the USA This undermines Ford testimony, if it were to be found a lie with political motivation. The nine members of court in Washington, DC, will have a final say on the trial. Despite the outcome,
democrats have stated that once they come into power they will launch an investigation into Kavanaugh with the aims of getting him impeached. This means he will lose his current judicial role.
or the past three years, Cardiff’s skyline has been made up predominantly of tower cranes for the construction of new student accommodation. Twenty-three new student housing developments have been approved, opened or placed under construction within the last three years. This has led to almost 7,500 places still needing to be filled. The traditional halls of residence options are considered old and lacking in service, whereas the new accommodation sites offer modern and luxurious facilities. Prices for the old and the new worlds of student accommodation, however, differ largely. The new Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) has a monthly rent that can reach up to £950. This is double the price of many halls, and almost double the price of a standard ensuite in Talybont South on North Road, which has a monthly rent of £538.99. The booming of high-standard housing is a concern for many, including the Cardiff council. There are fears that the market may become over-saturated and that the potential profit could influence private companies. However, developers are certain there will be a demand for high-standard accommodations, as there are not prerequisites to account for reasonably priced accommodations. Despite this, there are still plans to convert some PBSA student accomodation into flats due to the high numbers of spare rooms. The council is afraid that this figure will increase after Brexit as most are occupied by international students.
Universities call for essay mills ban
by Mustakim Hasnath
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eaders of more than 40 UK universities have backed a proposed ban on essay writing companies, following a letter addressing the issue to the education secretary being signed by vice chancellors of 46 universities. This comes after a surge in the number of students allegedly engaging in ‘contract cheating’ schemes, which involve students ‘ordering’ essays online, and then paying a fee based on the subject, length and deadline of said essay. Despite serious penalties for students caught using these services, to-date, there is no UK legislation preventing these so-called ‘essay mills’ from offering their services and advertising them on social media. Consequently, university bosses seem to be increasingly concerned about the ‘essay mill’ companies involved, rather than the estimated 31 million students globally who invest in them. Dr Hefin David, AM for Caerphilly, has addressed the Welsh Assembly on the matter. He commented on how easy it was for him to pose as a student online and be assured from a supposed ‘senior academic advisor’ that he would not be caught cheating unless he told someone. This was shortly before he was quoted a reduced promotional price of £120 to have an essay written for him. The First Minister also commented that the implementing of relevant legislation to tackle the issue would have to be UKwide and institutions would need to take their own steps first.
ARCHWILIO 6
Internships Exposed
The good, the bad and the exploitative Gair Rhydd focus on why people do internships, the financial costs they can bear, and what people can gain from interning at a company. By exploring internships within and outside of the UK, we highlight the best and the most cost effective ways to gain experience.
Gair Rhydd ran an online questionnaire asking students at Cardiff University about their experiences at internships in the UK and beyond.
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FEATURE
To contact our features desk, drop us an email at j.warren@gairrhydd.com
Jess Warren
Why did you do an unpaid internship?
An internship was compulsory as part of my course. as well as the fact that internships and work experience are essential if you want to get a job
37.5%
Your features editor
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To experience a professional startup business environment
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“
Ultimately for the experience and getting good contacts, as well as putting something else on my CV
”
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How do you feel about exploitation? It boils down to how much you wish to be exploited I guess... I was fortunate, I was paid, and I come from a fairly affluent family. I know many people who simply won’t be able to afford to do three months worth of unpaid work. Then there’s what your boss, manager and company is making from you. They are exploiting your time, which is valuable. Even if you’re paid, is £8 or £9 worth your valuable time? You have to weigh it against skills, experience and enjoyment..
To gain experience and have access to a good reference for future work. It was working with professional TV broadcasting equipment, in particular cameras, and my work was uploaded to BBC iPlayer. As an entry level job, it seemed to be a perfect and worthwhile experience which allowed me to add my work to a portfolio.
37.5% of unpaid students thought they should have been paid during their internship
50%
Students that thought unpaid internships were exploitative
”
71% YES
50% of students did an internship lasting longer than a month
Students that have done unpaid internships and thought they were exploited
18% YES
29% NO
22.7%
”
50% NO
22.7% of students were paid in expenses only
Living cost analysis: London vs Ho Chi Minh City by Jess Warren
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here are internship opportunities all over the world. Traditionally, we might look to intern at a familiar company, perhaps a business in your local town, or one that your parent works for. But increasingly, people are straying further from their comfort zone in order to gain relevant experience in the fields their interested in. This summer, I interned for AsiaLIFE, an expat-orientated lifestyle magazine based in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). The opportunity came about through a company called InternVietnam, who help students find an internship in HCMC, supply accommodation, and support their participants with pastoral care whilst they’re away for two months. By interning abroad, you’re tested in many more ways than you perhaps would be in the UK. You have things to manage such as language barriers, networking, and simply getting around a very foreign city. Interning abroad can be considerably cheaper than in the UK. Gair Rhydd have looked at the living costs for London and Ho Chi Minh City, comparing food and drink, travel and accommodation prices. Admittedly, for those UK residents that can commute into
London easily, the housing cost is non-existent, however when the commuting costs and food, drink and networking events in the city are all considered, it’s easy to see that working abroad can be much cheaper. It’s important to consider the financial cost an internship can have, particularly when many internships are not paid, or only pay expenses. When this happens, it is essential to cost-out whether you can afford to undertake the internship you’re applying for. Or perhaps the financial cost outweighs the practical benefits for you. Whilst we haven’t included the financial cost of flights to Vietnam, often the experience that travelling abroad brings, outweighs the costs of travel in the long-term. Arguably, the impact of having a two-month internship in a foreign country on your CV will ultimately lead to bigger and better working opportunities. Money comes back but time doesn’t.
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 Sqft) furnished studio in normal area
£241 £1,270
+ 81%
Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district
£2.30 £11
+ 79%
Monthly ticket for public transport
£8 £139
+ 94%
1 pint of beer in neighbourhood pub
Key
£0.86 Cost of Ho Chi Minh City Cost of London
£5.31
Data analysis: Source: expatisan.com
+ 84%
ARCHWILIO
“We send people abroad to increase their employability”
Gair Rhydd spoke to Chris Gale, the International Summer Programme Manager at The Global Opportunities Centre about what value and cost of international internships
by Jess Warren
Why do Global Opportunities offer a bursary so that students can go and do an internship abroad? Cardiff University have a strategic aim to send students abroad during their time at Uni. The institutional target is currently set at 30% of UK students to spend three or more weeks abroad during their degree by 2030. Global Opportunities, are entirely funded by the University, and as travel is a desired addition to studies, Global Opportunities offer a range of funding in order to make the programmes accessible to as many as people as possible. The most popular options are the International Summer Programmes which do not contribute to degree credit. As such, there is no academic funding however, Global Opportunities is funded by your tuition fees, so the bursaries they provide the mean we really are getting value for money. Chris Gale, International Summer Programmes Manager said “the main reason we send people abroad is employability, it develops a wide-ranging set of skills including cultural awareness, global networking, increased confidence and the ability to adapt to a different environment”. Why aren’t Global Opportunities’ bursaries means tested? Global Opportunities do not means test their bursaries for a few reasons. Means testing is a difficult and laborious process for many students, and even then, it’s an imperfect system. Some students benefit and others don’t. By taking a consistent approach to funding, all students know where
they stand. If you’re already in receipt of the Cardiff Bursary, then an additional £200 is provided. There is also more funding available for disabled students. Chris Gale said “Ultimately, we want to make these programmes as assessable as possible, and because it’s not part of the University course, it’s difficult to justify means testing. “As an extracurricular activity, we aren’t comfortable asking students to pay too much.” How do Global Opportunities justify the decision to offer paid and unpaid internships? At Global Opportunities (GO), the preference is always to offer paid internships. When the student is unpaid, then ultimately GO are paying for a student to work for free. However, when looking at the masses of benefits including personal development and sector-based experience, it doesn’t seem to be such a bad deal. Chris Gale said “At Global Opportunities, we aren’t always comfortable about the fact that some of the internships we offer are paid, and some unpaid. “We’re at the mercy of the employer, although we ask them to offer a stipend as a minimum. “When you step outside of the UK law into the rest of the world, the internship provider is not always legally required to provide a salary for a shortterm placement”. How do Global Opportunities ensure students’ work is not being exploited by these internships? Global Opportunities are very careful with who they work with, principal-
ly working with internship providers who are reputable such as the British Council, and those with which they are fully aware of their procedures. Chris Gale explained “during an internship, the general idea is that students will be given a project for a set time period, at both a suitable work level for the intern and company. ‘That way the workload is not too low, such as making tea for the office, nor is it too high that it becomes stressful. We are careful that the workload is carefully managed so as not to become exploitative.” Have Global Opportunities found a reason why students decide not to do an internship? A lot of the time, people don’t choose internships because they’re viewed as a big and serious commitment, often it might not be a priority after a hard year of studying. Because there is such a variety of opportunities, it means some people don’t choose an internship, as they’re also often longer, often six weeks minimum. At Global Opportunities the volunteer programmes are the most sought after, with Fiji being the most popular destination. Chris Gale said that “sometimes the duration is a deterrent, plus some student refer sector based experience in the UK, compared to an international placement. “There’s also that element of affordability, even with all the bursaries that global opportunities offer, not everyone can afford to finance themselves for six weeks, they still need to find money for their flights.”
The numbers of students studying abroad has increased and will continue to increase. Out of the aim for 30% of UK students to spend time abroad during their degree, they are currently at 23%. Chris Gale said “in 2017, we sent 293 students abroad over the summer, whereas this year, we sent 402 students abroad. Out of these, 111 were on internship placements.” What do is the value of interning abroad compared to the UK? Wherever you go, internships are such a valuable thing to be doing, especially interning abroad, as it has the most impact on your CV. It provides real-world work and invaluable networking experiences. Among the interns in the UK, 1/3rd of students are offered a job afterwards. Chris Gale said that “internships showcase adaptability and versatility, with a day’s work sharpening the mind and renewing motivation before returning to your studies. “The most common feedback to GO is that students have had a life changing experience, and whilst it’s a cliché, it’s often very true.”
To find out more about all of the opportunities and funding available, search ‘spend time abroad’ on the intranet or visit Global Opportunities at 51a Park Place, 1.00 – 4.30pm, Monday-Friday
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fter spending the summer of my first year on various beaches, I chose to use the time between my second and final year at university interning. Originally, I organized three weeks of unpaid work experience at a PR agency that I had previously worked with in Cardiff. However as I would be living at home in Surrey, I was placed in the smaller, London office. I then planned to spend the rest of the summer completing a paid internship, three days a week at a small agency in Surrey. Unfortunately, this was postponed at short notice due to logistical issues within the agency itself. Luckily, when my work experience ended I was offered a four month paid contract with the London agency for the remainder of the summer. I decided to take the internship, as I needed to earn money. The experience I gained working at the agency for nearly five months was invaluable. I’ve learnt skills that have boosted my CV massively and will
hopefully make me more employable in the future. On the other hand, working so hard was very stressful and took a huge toll on me. I was spending three hours per day commuting to and from Central London and worked over my lunch breaks. I was absolutely exhausted when I eventually got home, plus a quarter of my paycheck went on travel costs and so I didn’t make a huge amount of money in the long run.
ings of a PR agency. It was also made very clear to me that should I want to return, I should keep in contact and give them a call in March. In my opinion, working hard will always
Gair Rhydd spoke to Jem Collins, the founder and director of Journo Resources about her view on internships
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ollins said that “to begin with, there is a massive difference between work experience and internships, but people often get it confused. “Work experience is for a short time frame within a business. The main focus should be learning and understanding the business. “Perhaps you’ll try some things that people do as part of their work, but the crucial part is it isn’t work, and the company would still function without you.” Where work experience should last a week or two, an internship is a junior job focused on development. It is a role that is not only integral to the business, but also paid. Internships could last from a month to a year. Any longer than a year and you’re verging on the territory of a more senior role, and should have a higher wage. Jem explained that “both work experience and paid internships are a brilliant way to grow your skills. “Even if you’re doing a practical course I don’t think there’s any real replacement for going into a work place. “Not only do you pick up practical skills, but you also work out if the industry is the right thing for you.” There is an issue of exploitation among internships. Employers try to dress unpaid internships in a disguise of learning, but for the most part, it’s a front for gaining free work. By doing this, employers are ignoring the inequalities they’re creating.
a paid role that
pay off in the long run, however I would not have taken the job if it was unpaid and think than even when interns are paid, it is at a fraction of what they deserve.
Working so hard was very stressful and took a huge toll on me.” Despite these factors, working so hard really paid off for me, I went to client meetings, worked on one of the largest accounts that the agency held and got a fantastic insight into the work-
“Anything unpaid is not an internship”
“An internship is
Do Global Opportunities aim to get more students spending time abroad at internships?
From unpaid to paid: all about my work experience
by Emma Videan
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Success at PR internship: Source: Shridar Gupta (Via Unplash)
is integral to the business”
Jem believes that “students should feel empowered to challenge unpaid internships, with both moral and business arguments into why they’re destructive. “There’s a growing movement that rejects unpaid internships, and you can report them anonymously to websites such Graduate Frog. “There are also lots of places that don’t advertise unpaid internships such as Journo Resources, Gorkana, Mediargh in the media, and Living Wage Interns too.” With unpaid internships exploiting young people’s labour, and putting them in situations of financial difficulty, it begs the question as to whether young people are having to be exploited in order to make progress in their career. Unpaid internships are difficult without financial support from parents or a sponsor. They result in an unequal spread of young people gaining experience in the workplace that often puts working class students at a disadvantage.
BYWYD CAMPWS
Working with Team CUSU What does it mean to be a volunteer? by Cerian Jones
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hen I received the e-mail asking for volunteers during Freshers’ Week I was hesitant to apply. I’d be no good at helping new students heave half a tonne of boxes and suitcases up flights of stairs. The reason I eventually did apply was that I remembered my time as a fresher and how the volunteers that I talked to helped me out, and I realised it’s not about carrying luggage, it’s about being a friendly face in a time of need. And that I could do. One application form, a phone call interview, and an e-mail later claiming that my application had impressed the Team CUSU staff enough to be appointed the role of a Deputy Team Leader. I humbly accepted the role, but I was unsure of how much groundwork I’d actually get to do because that’s where I wanted to be; talking to students and making a difference. The training day was upon us, deputy team leaders picking up their blue t-shirts and nametags, before taking a seat in the Great Hall anxious about the long day ahead of them. (I was particularly impressed and joyful to see each and every nametag had every team member’s preferred pronouns on them) Joshua Gibbs began the team leader training by congratulating us and thanking us all for being there, he then continued to talk about himself for an hour; I won’t go into details but it was highly entertaining. Gibbs is as inspiring as he is loud -
which is definitely important in his role as head of student advice in the union. There were 502 team members in total, of which 64 were team leaders and 38 were deputy team leaders. Each completed 7 hours of leadership training with the skills development service. Joining Team CUSU does not have to be a stand-alone commitment. Volunteering opens so many doors to other amazing opportunities and experiences within the Student Union. Many of the VPs and Sabbatical Officers were volunteers before they climbed up the ladder to a paid position of real power in the union. I and many other volunteers have since applied to be part of the executive committee which means we can lend our talents and beliefs in changing and improving the student experience. The Team CUSU also offered all team members opportunities for training classes regarding incredibly important issues. On offer was a suicide prevention class which informed us on how one can help someone at risk by connecting them to the right people. I also took part in a self-defense class which was surprisingly fun. The first aid class was both educational and entertaining – also in my opinion – incredibly vital. The Bystander Intervention class was eye-opening and it was really fantastic to see a huge amount of people who care enough to attend in order to help prevent sexual assault on campus. There were also opportunities to join the Give It A Go
team, the ‘Talk Team’ and the brand new ‘Buddy Scheme’. The volunteering aspect itself was everything I’d expected it to be; standing outside my old halls of residence for 4 hours at a time in a tropical depression storm (although it didn’t feel tropical). I spent most of my time assuring new students that: “I promise the weather isn’t always this bad”. The team members and leaders were amazing. Some ran around getting coffee to warm up cold hands and fuel sleepy early starts, others teamed up to lift heavy suitcases or explaining how to connect to eduroam. 4,700 students moved into halls of residence and to date, volunteers knocked on 3,00 student’s rooms to talk with them and ask how they’re settling in. Meanwhile at the SU volunteers organised the collection of Student’s ID cards. Every student was greeted by a volunteer with a smile and the knowledge of exactly what it felt like to be in their shoes. 10,800 students
collected their student card through the enrolment system. We estimate that team members spoke to over 95% of them in the new ‘Talk Team’ initiative. All of this was made possible during the 10 days of Freshers’ Week because of students volunteering their time. The passion and commitment I was surrounded by was incredible; from the team members to the SU staff. The entire experience was summed up by an awards ball; a fantastic evening which honoured everyone who gave up their time, and many volunteers that really stood out received awards for their hard work. There were 221 peer nominations for awards, of which 108 team members were shortlisted and 14 winners selected. The awards were titled appropriately, for example, the Kylie Jenner award was won by the team member who submitted the best selfie. There were more serious awards for members who really made an effort and stood out from the others. After a wonderful ball, we ended the night in true student fashion and headed to YOLO.
To contact our campus life desk, drop us an email at campuslife@gairrhydd.com
CAMPUS LIFE
For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/campuslife
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Your campus life desk Ashley Boyle Cerian Jones
Team CUSU: Volunteers celebrating a day’s hard work . Source: CardiffStudents
BYWYD CAMPWS
Your guide to Cardiff this week Give It A Go, Sport, Gigs and Shows by Ashley Boyle
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eel like you’re not quite finished with the Freshers Fortnight? Still want to explore Cardiff and ‘Give It A Go’? Well Campus Life has you covered. On campus, we have a mixed bag of sport, music and academic activities this week. You have the opportunity to release your inner Torvil and Dean, Anthony Joshua or Geraint Thomas in our ice skating, boxing and cycling Give It A Gos as well as giving Badminton a try at Talybont for just £1. The more adventurous among you may decide to try scuba diving or indoor climbing, both of which have pick up points at the back of the SU on Senghenydd Road. If you make it all the way to Friday and feel like you’re not quite done
with academia, the Public Uni 21 talk may be right up your street. The session consists of 10 minute talks by Cardiff University academics from various schools. They talk about their most interesting and exciting research projects which covers topics such as lung cancer, the immune system, pensions and British politics. Off campus, our very own Rob Brydon is in the Capital with his new stand up tour ‘I am Standing Up’. On a more serious note, comic Robert Webb talks about his new book ‘How Not to be a Boy’, losing his mother and masculinity at the Velindre Cancer Centre. Other events throughout the week include The Proclaimers, Wales v Spain at the Principality and the Cathays Ultimate Charity Movie Quiz.
MoRun Returns to Cardiff
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by Gareth Axenderrie ardiff will host a ‘MoRun’ this November as part of the Movember Foundation’s fundraising campaign. The event, which will consist of 5km and 10km fun runs, will take place on Saturday, November 10, and is one of 22 races at different locations across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. The UK wide event is in its ninth instalment with over 20,000 participants expected to take part. Cardiff ’s instalment will take place in the setting of Bute Park. The Movember Foundation is a charity that aims to change the face of men’s health and address health issues like prostate and testicular cancer, and mental health and suicide prevention. Dave Krangel, Founder of MoRunning, said: “To be a MoRunner means you are part of something bigger than yourself, you’re part of a community, a family and a team. We encourage all of our participants to have fun during their run because that’s what it’s about; dressing up, enjoying yourself and crossing the finishing line with a smile on your face. “There’s also a serious message though, the runs will be great fun for all the family, but we will be raising plenty of money and awareness of men’s health issues at the same time.” Runners are invited to either run solo or enter as part of a team. Early bird prices start from £18 for the 5k option and £22 for the 10k option. To purchase tickets, visit www. mo-running.com.
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Stand up in short: Brydon among the comics in Cardiff this week. Source: WMC
Mo-Runners: Runners celebrating with their Movember Moustaches
taf od
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Y Digwyddiadur
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yma’r lle i hysbysu’r holl ddigwyddiadau sy’n berthnasol i fyfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd. Isod, gwelwch y digwyddiadau sy’n cymryd lle dros yr wythnos nesaf. 11 Hydref (Nos Iau) - Gêm bêldroed gyfeillgar Cymru vs. Sbaen yn Stadiwm y Prinicpality. C’mon Cymru! 12 Hydref (Nos Wener) - Gig Twrw yng Nghlwb Ifor Bach gyda Mellt. Gwilym ac Ellis Derby sy’n cefnogi. 12 Hydref (Nos Wener) - Crôl Croesawu Aelwyd y Waun Ddyfal. Canwch ger’ed, bobl bach! Adolygiad Llion Carbis sydd â hanes noson ‘Pizza a Pheint’ y Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol. Ar nos Fawrth, 2 Hydref, cafwyd noson lwyddiannus arall yn nigwyddiad blynyddol y Coleg Cymraeg yn 29, Plas y Parc. Pwrpas y noson oedd denu a hysbysu glas fyfyrwyr o ddigwyddiadau cymdeithasau Cymraeg y Brifysgol. Bu llond llaw o aelodau’r Gymdeithas Gymraeg, yn cynrychioli mudiadau unigol, oll yn gwasanaethu anghenion a chwaethau myfyrwyr Cymraeg eu hiaith, yn y brifddinas. Roedd lluniaeth di-ri ar gael a chyfle i gymdeithasu â myfyrwyr ledled ein gwlad. Am fwy o wybodaeth am ddigwyddiadau’r Digwyddiadur, cysylltwch â tafod@gairrhydd.com.
Cornel CMCC
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leni mae Cyfryngau Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd yn profi eu blwyddyn lawn gyntaf gydag adran Gymraeg ym mhob rhan o Gyfryngau Myfyrwyr Caerdydd sef Clebar yn Quench a CUTV ynghyd â Xpress Radio a’r Taf-od o fewn Gair Rhydd. Dyma rai o’r pethau cyffrous sydd ar y gweill gyda CMCC dros yr wythnosau nesaf. Ar alw - Y Tri Gŵr Ffôl a Gwylio Gwleidyddiaeth ar Xpress Radio Wedi Wythnos y Glas fywiog arall ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd ar Xpress Radio. Medrwch wrando ar raglenni’r Tri Gŵr Ffôl a Gwylio Gwleidyddiaeth ar Mixcloud Xpress Radio am lawer o sgwrsio a hwyl, boed hynny’n wleidyddol, neu ddim! 8 Hydref - Clebar - Mae Quench yn ôl am rifyn cynta’r flwyddyn a chyda hynny daw dychweliad Clebar! Yn y rhifyn yma, mae criw Clebar yn eich tywys o gwmpas diwylliant y brifddinas a’r cyfleoedd sydd ar gael ar gyfer myfyrwyr Cymraeg Prifysgol Caerdydd. Am holl newyddion diweddaraf CMCC, dilynwch @CMCC ar Drydar neu ‘Cyfryngau Myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd - CMCC’ ar Facebook.
Eich unig gyhoeddiad myfyrwyr wythnosol trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg. Sefydlwyd: 2003 I gysylltu â ni, e-bostiwch tafod@gairrhydd.com Am fwy o gynnwys, ewch i gairrhydd.com/tafod
Gwleidyddiaeth Cymru: Newid ar waith Adam Price yn camu i’r adwy gan Jacob Morris
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ron yn amhosib oedd tynnu eich llygaid o’r llwyfan gwleidyddol gyda thymestl Brexit, ynghyd â rasys arweinyddiaeth y pleidiau yng Nghymru – teg yw dweud nad yw’r ddrama wleidyddol ‘di siomi dros y misoedd diwethaf. Ac i Blaid Cymru, gwelwyd machlud ar arweinyddiaeth Leanne Wood gydag Adam Price yn camu i’r adwy fel ei holynydd gan chwalu gobeithion Ms Wood o gipio grym fel Prif Weinidog Cymru erbyn 2021. Cefais y cyfle i’w gyfweld ond 24 awr cyn iddo ennill cefnogaeth ei blaid. Fe gyrhaeddodd y darpar arweinydd Ffair y Glas, Prifysgol Caerdydd, ar wahoddiad stondin Plaid Ifanc ac wrth imi ysgwyd llaw’r Aelod Cynulliad a’i dywys drwy’r neuadd fawr, hawdd oedd sylwi fod gan Adam Price bresenoldeb. Nid yn unig oherwydd ei fod yn ŵr dros chwe throedfedd o daldra, ond yn hytrach ei allu fel gwleidydd profiadol i droi at unrhyw stondinwr a ddaeth ei ffordd gan ddangos llawn diddordeb yn eu gwaith. Dyma i chi flas ar yr hyn oedd ganddo i’w rannu. Beth fyddai’ch prif amcanion petai chi’n camu i’r adwy fel yr arweinydd? “Yr economi, dyna’r sylfaen i bopeth ar gyfer y Gymru newydd. Rydym fel petai wedi bod yn ffrwtian yn ein hunfan gyda’n heconomi dan y Blaid Lafur dros yr ugain mlynedd ddiwethaf , ond yr her bennaf yw creu ryw hyder cenedlaethol newydd gan chwalu’r meddylfryd presennol. Drwy hau’r hadyn o hyder cenedlaethol ar gyfer y cyfnod pan
ddaw’r cwestiwn am annibyniaeth at ystyriaeth drwch y gymdeithas.” Felly a yw annibyniaeth yn sicr ar yr agenda? “Beth yw pwrpas Plaid Cymru oni bai ein bod am fynnu annibyniaeth? Mae’r blaid wedi bod yn gymharol swil ynglŷn â’r cwestiwn am annibyniaeth ond mae’n rhaid inni ddangos ein bod o ddifri am hyn. Hynny yw, mae pobl yn ymateb i angerdd ond beth sy’n rhaid gwneud yw troi’r angerdd hwn gan ennill calonnau a meddyliau’r genedl rhaid dangos ein bod wedi gwneud ein gwaith cartref. Rhaid gosod y seiliau nawr er mwyn i Gymru fod yn barod i gymryd y naid feddyliol hwnnw at annibyniaeth hwyrach ymlaen.” Petai chi’n camu i’r adwy fel Prif Weinidog, beth fyddech yn newid am y system addysg? “Mae’n rhaid gwyrdroi’r diffyg buddsoddi sydd wedi bod dros gyfnod datganoli. Y mae ysgolion, colegau a phrifysgolion wedi cael eu tangyllido a dylid defnyddio’r pŵer fydd gyda ni i godi trethi yn syth gan glustnodi ryw dau gant a hanner o filiynau i mewn i’r system addysg. Er dyw arian ddim yn ateb popeth, rhaid yw osgoi tangyllido a buddsoddi yn ein cyfalaf dynol, a dyna y byddai barn unrhyw economegydd sy’ werth ei halen hefyd.” Amser a ddengys felly i Adam Price, ond yn sicr y mae newid ar droed wrth i’r gwleidydd profiadol, sy’n hen law ar herio’r mawrion, arwain y blaid ac efallai Cymru yn ei phennod newydd.
Arweinydd y Ceidwadwyr Cymreig “o blaid gostwng yr oedran pleidleisio” gan Tomos Evans
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ae Paul Davies, arweinydd newydd y Ceidwadwyr Cymreig wedi dweud ei fod “o blaid gostwng yr oedran pleidleisio”, mewn cyfweliad â rhaglen Gwylio Gwleidyddiaeth ar Xpress Radio. Roedd yr Aelod Cynulliad dros etholaeth Preseli Penfro yn ymateb i adroddiad gan Laura McAllister, sy’n cynnwys argymhelliad i ostwng yr oedran pleidleisio i 16 oed. Eglurodd Mr. Davies “Dyw e ddim yn ‘neud synnwyr, er enghraifft, fod pobl 16 yn gallu mynd allan i weithio, talu trethu ond bo’ nhw ddim yn cael pleidleisio”. Dywedodd fod y gostyngiad yn yr oedran pleidleisio’n debygol iawn o ddigwydd “oherwydd mae Llywodraeth Cymru wedi ‘neud hi’n glir eu bod nhw yn ffafrio hyn. Ychwanegodd fod “Plaid Cymru, ‘dw i’n credu, wedi ei gwneud hi’n glir eu bod nhw hefyd yn ffafrio gostwng yr oedran pleidleisio.” Wrth iddo gymryd at yr awenau fel arweinydd yr wrthblaid yn y Cynulliad, dywedodd Mr Davies fod ei weledigaeth ar gyfer y blaid Geidwadol yng Nghymru yn cynnwys “rhoi’r cychwyn gorau i bobl ifanc”. Datblygiad sydd ar y gweill ar hyn o bryd yw sefydliad Senedd Ieuenctid Cymru. Mae’r cyfnod cofrestru i bleidleisio yn etholiadau’r Senedd
YN Y LLUN: Paul Davies yn cael ei gyfweld gan Tomos Evans Ieuenctid yn cau ar 16 Tachwedd. Dywedodd Paul Davies fod sefydliad y Senedd Ieuenctid yn “mynd i godi ymwybyddiaeth (o wleidyddiaeth) ymysg pobl ifanc” a’i bod hi’n “bwysig” fod hyn bellach wedi ei lansio. Dywedodd Mr Davies fod angen i’r Ceidwadwyr Cymreig, “fel plaid, i ymrwymo gyda phobl ifanc.” Cyfaddefodd fod “lot o waith gyda ni i’w wneud…a dyna un o’m mlaenoriaethau i nawr, dros y misoedd nesaf”. O ran y dyfodol, mae Paul Davies yn anelu am y brif swydd yng ngwleidyddiaeth Cymru. “Nid yn unig ydw i eisiau bod yn arweinydd yr wrthblaid, ond ‘dw i eisiau bod yn brif weinidog”, dywedodd. A chyda Mr. Davies yn galw am etholiad cynnar yn y Cynulliad mewn araith yng nghynhadledd y blaid Geidwadol ym Mirmingham, efallai’n wir y caiff ei freuddwyd ei gwireddu ynghynt na’r disgwyl.
Barn y bobl: Etholiad cynnar yn y Cynulliad
Gyda arweinydd y Ceidwadwyr Cymreig, Paul Davies, yn galw am etholiad cynnar yn y Cynulliad, Taf-od sy’n gofyn am ymatebion myfyrwyr Caerdydd.
Dafydd Wyn Orritt
Rhydian Thomas
Credaf fod penderfyniad y Ceidwadwyr i alw am etholiad brys yn y Cynulliad yn syniad eithaf da. Yn benodol er mwyn i’r Cymry gael dweud eu dweud ynglŷn â phwy maen nhw eisiau o fewn y Cynulliad er mwyn rheoli’r wlad, ac i sicrhau’r Gymru orau i’r Cymry – yn enwedig ymhlith yr holl dwrw am Brexit ar y funud! Mae’n neges galonogol gan Mr Paul Davies AC, ei fod o’n barod am “frwydr” ar gyfer dyfodol Cymru, ac o hyn felly mae’r syniad o etholiad brys yn syniad da ar y cyfan.
Ers i Paul Davies gymryd yr awenau gyda’r Ceidwadwyr Cymraeg, mae e’ wedi gwneud ei deimladau yn glir ynglŷn â’r ffaith ei fod eisiau etholiad cynnar yn y Cynulliad. Dwi’n cytuno ag ef, gan fod Carwyn Jones wedi penderfynu cymryd cam yn ôl o’i swydd fel Arweinydd Llafur ac fel Prif Weinidog Cymru, felly mae yna ansicrwydd o fewn y parti ynghylch arweinyddiaeth. Dwi’n credu fod nifer o’r bobl y gwnaeth bleidleisio am Lafur yn 2016 wedi gwneud gan fod Carwyn Jones yn sefyll fel arweinydd, a byddai cynnal etholiad 3 mlynedd yn gynnar yn medru profi mai hyn yw’r gwir neu beidio.
Myfyriwr blwyddyn gyntaf Cymraeg a Newyddiaduraeth
Myfyriwr blwyddyn gyntaf Y Gyfraith
Mali Llyfni
Myfyrwraig blwyddyn gyntaf Cymraeg a Hanes Fedrith y Ceidwadwyr ddim meddwl y byddan nhw’n ennill y mwyafrif yn y Cynulliad. Ai ceisio ennill parch Plaid Cymru yw eu hunig obaith er mwyn ffurfio clymblaid? Mae Adam Price yn cael ei ystyried fel ‘gobaith mawr y ganrif’ a’i freuddwyd/uchelgais o ydi bod yn Brif Weinidog ymhen tair blynedd. Mae Plaid Cymru a’r Ceidwadwyr yn cydweithio ar Gyngor Conwy ar hyn o bryd, ond a yw Adam Price yn fodlon troi cefn ar holl seiliau ac egwyddorion ei blaid? Ond, gwrthod yr etholiad oedd ymateb Theresa May, ‘dwi’n siŵr bo’ ganddi ddigon ar ei phlât!
TAF-OD
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BYWYD Y BRIFYSGOL
Beth yw gwaith Llysgenhadon y Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol? gan Nest Jenkins
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Mae sawl un yn ansicr am waith y Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol; ble mae’r Coleg? Pwy sy’n rhan ohono? A yw’r Coleg yn graig o arian? A oes mwy na’r Cymry dosbarth uwch, diwylliedig yn elwa?
Mae mwy i rôl llysgennad na gwenu’n ddel ar brosbectws na chaiff ei darllen yn aml. Ac yn fwy o benbleth fyth... beth yw pwrpas y llysgenhadon? Pwy sy’n haeddu’r fath fraint ddyrchafol? Ai dim ond rôl amwys ydyw i gyfoethogi’r CV? Ai tocyn mynediad yw’r swydd i eistedd ar soffa Prynhawn Da? Wel, er bod eistedd ar y soffa felen enwog yn un o’r manteision, mae mwy i rôl llysgennad na gwenu’n ddel ar brosbectws na chaiff ei darllen yn aml. Wrth lenwi ffurflen gais seml, fe ymrwymais, fel pedwar arall o brifysgol Caerdydd, i hyrwyddo’r Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol dros gyfnod o flwyddyn. Ac fel gwobr, cael dillad o ansawdd da a chyflog am weithio – beth sy’ well? Dysgais yn go sydyn nad adeilad o gig a gwaed yw’r Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol; sefydliad ydyw sy’n perchnogi congl fach o bob Prifysgol yng Nghymru. Ac yn y gongl honno ceir darlithwyr Cymraeg, arbenigwyr pynciau Cymraeg a gweithwyr sy’n
YN Y LLUN: Logo’r Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol (Tarddiad: y Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol)
gweithio tuag at yr un bwriad – o ddarparu fwyfwy o addysg Gymraeg mewn pynciau ledled y wlad. (Pwy feddyliai y gellid gwasgu cynifer o’r gair ‘Cymraeg’ i ddwy frawddeg?) Ac er nad oes syniad gen i ynghylch sefyllfa ariannol y sefydliad, mae syniad go dda gen i am eu parodrwydd i gymeradwyo’r myfyrwyr cyfrwng Cymraeg hyn gyda thomen o arian! Trwy ysgrifennu datganiad byr ac addo astudio rhan neu’r cwrs cyfan yn y Gymraeg, gall unrhyw un fachu ysgoloriaeth cymhelliant, prif ysgoloriaeth neu ysgoloriaeth William Salesbury. Ac wrth i wario
arian ddod yn haws a chynilo fynd yn anoddach, pwy fyddai’n gwrthod rhwng £1,500 a £5,000 am y fraint o astudio trwy’r Gymraeg? Swydd yw bod yn llysgennad. Dyw hi ddim yn 9 tan 5 nac yn meddu ar benaethiaid llym, ond, eto i gyd, mae’n rôl uchel ei pharch. Amrywiol yw’r tasgau gofynnol; rhannu hysbysiadau’r Coleg ar wefannau cymdeithasol, cyfrannu at ymgyrchoedd marchnata megis yr ‘Instagram takeover’ ac ysgrifennu blog ddwywaith y flwyddyn sef ‘Llais y Llysgennad’. Yn realistig, mae cael tâl am orwedd o glydwch fy ngwely yn hoffi neges ar Drydar
yn lleddfu’r hangofers yn syth! Gellir hefyd ddewis gwneud mwy os ydych am chwyddo eich cyfrif banc go iawn – ymweld ag ysgolion neu weithio yn yr Eisteddfod! Dwi’n gwybod, fel Cardi da, mae ‘diwedd y gân yw’r geiniog’, ond mae geiriau Elliw Iwan, Swyddog y Coleg dros gangen Caerdydd yn sefyll yn y cof: “Ydw, dwi’n mwynhau fy swydd, ond yn fwy na dim – dwi’n credu ynddo fo.” Mae hi’n credu mewn addysg Gymraeg, ac yn y bôn, dyna yw gwir rodd y Coleg Cymraeg inni. Wrth wybod ein bod yn gwneud cyfraniad
bach i addysg Gymraeg a bod gwaddol pitw yn cael ei adael ar ein holau, (efallai ‘mod i’n ddramatig ond) dwi’n hapus fy myd.
Wrth wybod ein bod yn gwneud cyfraniad bach i addysg Gymraeg...dwi’n hapus fy myd.
Yn Trafod yr wythnos hon... Gwern Llŷr 1. Pwy wyt ti a beth wyt ti’n astudio? Gwern Llŷr, o Ben Llŷn a rwy’n astudio Daeryddiaeth Ddynol ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd.
2. Beth yw’r digwyddiad sy’n codi’r mwyaf o embaras arnat?
4. Beth oedd dy air cyntaf? Dw i’n siwr ma’ rwbath fel ‘tractor’ odd o...
5. Pe fyddet ti ar yr X Factor, pa gân byddet ti’n ei chanu a pham? Gwilym, Llyfr Gwag; ‘chune’.
9. Prosecco neu champagne? Pam? Dim un o’r ddau; peint. Oherwydd bo’ nhw’n afiach.
10. Beth oedd y diwrnod gorau iti ei gael erioed? Wedi cael tipyn. Dydd Sul yng Ngŵyl Rhif 6 yn Mhortmeirion a gweld Anweledig odd y diweddara.
Ddim eisiau cyfaddef i rai o’r pethau gwirion dw i ‘di neud, ond byddai’r pobl sy’n fy nabod i yn gwybod bo ‘na un neu ddau ohonyn nhw.
6. Beth fyddet ti’n ei archebu o’r Bwyty Inidiaidd lleol?
3. Pam penderfynu astudio yng Nghaerdydd?
7. Pwy oeddet ti’n ffansïo pan oeddet ti’n iau?
Pobl sy’n gallu’r Gymraeg yn siarad Saesneg efo’i gilydd.
Dw i wrth fy modd â Chaerdydd! Roeddwn yn ei weld yn gyfle arbennig i gyfarfod pobl newydd ond dal i fod mewn ardal Gymraeg. Mae yna adran ddaeryddiaeth dda a bywyd nos amrywiol.
Ddim eisiau codi cywilydd ar neb, felly adawai hwn yn wag.
12. Beth fyddet ti’n gwneud yn ystod dy noson ddelfrydol?
8. Pwy yw dy hoff fand?
Noson allan yng Nghaerdydd, dim mwy.. laff efo’r ‘ogia.
Chicken tikka masala.
Miskin, ‘watch this space’ .
11. Beth yw dy gàs beth?
13. Pa taset yn gallu bod yn unrhyw anifail am ddiwrnod, pa un fyddet ti’n dewis, a pham? Hwn yw’r anodda. Efallai anifail sy’n cael bywyd hawdd fel ‘sloth’.
14. Disgrifia dy hun mewn tri gair. Cymro, hwyliog, balch.
15. Pwy fydd yn Trafod gyda’r Tafod yr wythnos nesaf? Amy George.
Eich adran taf-od Llion Carbis Tomos Evans tafod@gairrhydd.com
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TAF OD
Am fwy o gynnwys, ewch i gairrhydd.com/tafod
CHWARAEON
Cysondeb yw’r uchelgais i Giggs a’i dîm M gan Llion Carbis
ae bron mis wedi mynd heibio ers colled Cymru i Ddenmarc yng Nghynghrair y Cenhedloedd, ond mae’r gemau ar gyrraedd yn erbyn Sbaen, a’r ail ornest yn erbyn Gweriniaeth yr Iwerddon, yn dynodi cyfle euraidd i Gymru i gymryd y cam nesaf yn ei hesblygiad fel tîm cenedlaethol. Er gwaethaf y ffaith mai dim ond pum gêm sydd wedi bod o dan arweiniad Giggs fel hyfforddwr y tîm, mae patrwm canfyddadwy wedi ymddangos. Yn erbyn timau israddol megis Gweriniaeth Iwerddon (roedd nifer o brif sêr y Gwyddelod yn absennol yn ein buddugoliaeth y mis diwethaf ) a Tsiena, roedd llyfnder a medrusrwydd ymosodiad Cymru yn amlwg, wrth i’r Dreigiau dreiddio amddiffynfeydd y gwrthwynebwyr yn ddidrafferth. Serch hynny, yn erbyn gwledydd o safon uwch, sydd yn meddu ar amryw o opsiynau talentog, nid yw Cymru wedi llwyddo i wireddu gweledigaeth Giggs cystal. I fod yn fanwl gywir, nid yw’r tîm wedi llwyddo i sgorio’r un gôl yn erbyn Mecsico, Uruguay, na Denmarc. Yn gyfatebol, anodd ydyw i ddarogan buddugoliaeth i Gymru yn erbyn Sbaen, y gêm agoriadol o’r cyfnod cyfredol o bêl-droed rhyngwladol. Fodd bynnag, pwysig ydyw i ystyried perthnasoldeb yr ornest. Y prif ffocws yw cael cyfle i arbrofi’n dactegol, a bod chwaraewyr ifancach yn meithrin y profiad a’r mewnwelediad sy’n deillio o chwarae ar y llwyfan rhyngwladol, yn erbyn un o wledydd mwyaf adnabyddus pêldroed.
Bydd y gêm gyfeillgar yn erbyn Sbaen yn brawf o’r posibilrwydd...o chwarae pêl-droed yn gyson yn stadiwm fwyaf Cymru.
YN Y LLUN: Stadiwm Principality (Tarddiad: Neil Page drwy Flickr) Wrth ystyried bod Cymru’n wynebu Iwerddon mewn gêm gystadleuol ond ychydig ddyddiau ar ôl y frwydr yn erbyn Sbaen, nid yw’r gêm yn erbyn y Sbaenwyr yn flaenoriaeth i Gymru. Ond, gan gydnabod ei bod yn cael ei chynnal yn Stadiwm y Principality, y gêm bêldroed rhyngwladol gyntaf yn y stadiwm ers dros saith mlynedd a hanner, gall brofi i fod yn ennyd arwyddocaol i bêl-droed ein gwlad. Yn unol â llwyddiannau diweddar y tîm cenedlaethol, mae pêl-droed yng Nghymru wedi profi esgyniad ar sail ei boblogrwydd, yn enwedig ymysg cefnogwyr ifanc. Yn groes i ddymuniadau mwyafrif o aelodau’r Wal Goch, sy’n wrthwynebus i’r syniad o ddychwelyd i Stadiwm y Principality, bydd y gêm gyfeillgar yn erbyn Sbaen yn brawf o’r posibilrwydd a’r
ymarferoldeb o chwarae pêl-droed yn gyson yn stadiwm fwyaf Cymru. Er mae’n debygol y bydd y ddadl yn parhau i danio dros y misoedd nesaf, bydd gobeithion Cymru o lwyddiant yng Nghynghrair y Cenhedloedd, cystadleuaeth newydd ei wedd, yn fwy rhagweladwy ar ôl y gêm yn erbyn Iwerddon. Roedd buddugoliaeth ddiweddar Cymru yn erbyn y Weriniaeth yn achlysur nodedig yn hanes pêl-droed ein gwlad, y fuddugoliaeth gyntaf yn erbyn Iwerddon ers 1992, a’r canlyniad gorau erioed yn erbyn tîm Martin O’Neill. Yr uchelgais yw cofnodi buddugoliaethau olynol yn erbyn Gweriniaeth Iwerddon am y tro cyntaf ers 1986. Allweddol ydyw i ystyried fod tîm y gwrthwynebwyr wedi’i deneuo’n ddifrifol gydag
absenoldebau megis Shane Long, James McCarthy, Robbie Brady a Harry Arter ym mis Medi, ac er y cafwyd ymddangosiad rhagorol gan Gymru, mae’n debygol y bydd y sialens yn fwy heriol yn Nulyn. Nid ydym wedi ennill ar dir y gwrthwynebwyr ers 1992. O dan arweiniad Giggs, ar achlysuron, mae cefnogwyr y tîm cenedlaethol wedi’u syfrdanu gyda phêl-droed o’r safon uchaf. Serch hynny, ar y cyd, mae aelodau ffyddlon y Wal Goch wedi gweld cryn dipyn o chwarae diddychymyg ac amddiffyn gwan yn erbyn gwrthwynebwyr uwchraddol. Yr allwedd at lwyddiant y tîm yw cysondeb, fel bod modd gwireddu gweledigaeth Giggs ar bob achlysur, neu rydym yn bygwth methu â chystadlu yn erbyn cewri pêl-droed rhyngwladol.
Pryd o Daf-od Wiliam Rees
Llywydd UMCC, Wiliam Rees, sy’n egluro pam ei bod hi’n bwysig cael Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg yng Nghaerdydd i warchod diddordebau myfyrwyr Cymraeg y brifysgol. Mae cynrychiolaeth yn bwysig ym mhob agwedd o fywyd. Mae’n hanfodol fod pob unigolyn yng nghymdeithas yn gwybod ei fod gyda chynrychiolaeth gadarn gyda’r rhai o fewn awdurdod. Yr esiampl fwyaf syml ac adnabyddus o hyn yw ein Haelodau Seneddol ac Aelodau Cynulliad sy’n ein cynrychioli ni fel dinasyddion yn San Steffan ac ym Mae Caerdydd. Maent yna i sefyll lan dros ein hawliau, dwyn ein
Eich adran taf-od Llion Carbis Tomos Evans tafod@gairrhydd.com
llywodraethau i gyfrif ac i gynnig polisïau a chyfreithiau ym meysydd sy’n effeithio ein bywydau mewn amrywiaeth o ffyrdd o ddydd i ddydd. Yn yr un modd, mae cynrychiolaeth i fyfyrwyr o fewn y brifysgol yr un mor bwysig. Rydym yn talu miloedd ar filoedd o bunnoedd bob blwyddyn i dderbyn ein haddysg ac mae’n bwysig ein bod yn gwybod fod ein llais yn cael ei glywed gan gyfarwyddwyr y brifysgol sydd yn fwyfwy parod i drin y sefydliad addysgiadol hwn fel busnes. Dyna pam yn flynyddol mae’r Undeb Myfyrwyr yn ethol nifer o swyddogion llawn amser i’n cynrychioli. Golygir hyn os oes gennych fater o unrhyw fath y gellir cysylltu â nhw, a gyda’ch gilydd y gellir ceisio datrys y broblem. Os oes problem lles, gellir mynd i’r Is-lywydd Lles. Os ydych yn fyfyriwr yn y Mynydd Bychan, gallwch gysylltu â’r Is-lywydd dros y Mynydd Bychan. Yn yr un modd, mae myfyrwyr Ôl-raddedig yn gallu cysylltu â’r Is-lywydd Ôl-raddedig ac yn y blaen. Ond, beth am fyfyrwyr Cymraeg yng
Nghaerdydd? Yn sicr, mae’r rôl swyddog yr iaith Gymraeg yn un pwysig, ond mae’n amlwg nad yw un unigolyn, ar y cyd gyda’i astudiaethau, yn gallu cynrychioli holl fuddiannau myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd. Ers degawdau bellach mae myfyrwyr Cymraeg Prifysgolion Aberystwyth a Bangor wedi cael eu cynrychioli gan Undebau Myfyrwyr Cymraeg (UMCA & UMCB) o fewn eu sefydliadau addysgiadol, ac yn nawr yn dilyn lansiad llwyddiannus yn yr Eisteddfod Genedlaethol dros yr haf, mae gan fyfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd Undeb Myfyrwyr Cymraeg (UMCC) i’w cynrychioli. Mae hyn yn gam anferthol ymlaen tuag at sicrhau cynrychiolaeth lawn i fyfyrwyr Cymraeg eu hiaith yng Nghaerdydd. Roedd hi’n fraint ac anrhydedd i gael fy ethol i’r rôl Llywydd UMCC am y flwyddyn academaidd yma ac rwy’n edrych ymlaen at gydweithio gyda’r pwyllgor yn llawn yn ogystal â holl fyfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd dros y flwyddyn i ddod. Un o’n prif amcanion fydd i ymgyrchu er mwyn
creu rôl llawn amser dros gynrychioli myfyrwyr Cymraeg, yn unol â UMCA a UMCB, er mwyn gwarantu cynrychiolaeth lawn i’r gymuned glos Cymraeg yma yn y brifddinas. Rydym ni eisiau sicrhau UMCC sydd yn agored ac yn atebol i bawb. Yn fy marn i mae’n hanfodol bod myfyrwyr Cymraeg Caerdydd yn cael eu cynrychioli ymhob agwedd o fywyd prifysgol ac rydym eisiau sicrhau ein bod yn gwneud hyn trwy wrando ar lais pob un ohonoch, boed yn siaradwr rhugl neu’n ddysgwr, yn fyfyriwr yn y Mynydd Bychan neu’n fyfyriwr ar gampws Cathays. Os oes unrhyw fater neu syniadau rydych chi eisiau eu codi â ni – cysylltwch. Fel mae’r dywediad yn dweud, ‘mewn undod mae nerth’ ac mae’n bwysig fod pob un ohonom yn tynnu at ein gilydd a gweithio i wneud yn siŵr y bydd yr Undeb Cymraeg yma i aros, er mwyn gwir sicrhau cynrychiolaeth i’r Cymry Cymraeg a fydd yn penderfynu gwneud Prifysgol Caerdydd yn gartref am genedlaethau i ddod.
let’s talk about the elephant in the room
Monday 8th Mind your Head Café and Mind Your Head Student Led Service Launch
10:00-12:30 in Y Stiwdio 2, 1st floor, Students’ Union
Mind Your Head ‘Fun Run’ Meet at Senghenydd road at 17:30, bus to the Heath and Queen’s building will be provided
tuesday 9th ‘13 Reasons Why’ Debate 12:00-15:30 in Y Stiwdio
wednesday 10th Inner Child Day
Friday 12th Arts & crafts afternoon
thursday 11th Suicide Awareness Training
saturday 13th Pen-Y-Fan Trip
09:00-14:30 in Y Plas
12:30-15:30 room 4J, Students’ Union
Poetry Morning
10:00-12:00 in room 4J, Students’ Union
11:00-16:00 in room 4J, Students’ Union
Meet at Senghenydd road at 09:30 for registration, buses will promptly leave at 10:00 Keep an eye out for our ‘mood stalls’ across campus!
SYLWADAU
To contact our comment desk, drop us an email at comment@gairrhydd.com
COMMENT
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Your comment desk Alys Hewitt Hannah Newberry Emma Videan Columnist Karis Pearson
Should children stick to LEGO? Or should parenting move with the times?
by Joanna Cunningham
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s a 90s baby, I was one of the last groups of children to be reared on traditional toys and entertainment. My access to television was restricted until I had finished my homework, and I was always encouraged to colour-in, read, write, dress-up, or play outside with my friends before anything else. Of course, everyone is bias about their own childhood, seeing the world through rose-tinted spectacles. However, I truly believe that, by nurturing my imagination through these activities, I gained the ability to think for myself, and be ambitious and daring. That’s not to say that younger people don’t have these attributes, but can we see a difference in modern children with the influence of technology?
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Do children use too much technology for their own good? Child watching TV (Source: Pixabay)
ES - With the ever-growing influence of social media and the internet, children now have access to a huge array of negative influences. It is no coincidence that mental health issues are at an all-time high, with images of the “ideal” man and woman circulating every social media platform, and a huge lack of variety in body shapes, colours, and sizes throughout Hollywood. Even as a 21-year-old woman who is comfortable in her skin, I am constantly negatively impacted by these images, so can you imagine what an impressionable child might think if they do not conform to these “ideals”? Indeed, we see examples of children as young as five working out to attain a body that is simply not feasible for them until after puberty. We also see numerous men and women augmenting their bodies through plastic surgery to conform to these “ideals”. Take Megan, from
Love Island, for example - she made her first physical changes at the age of 14, and allegedly opted for lip fillers and a breast augmentation before her 20th birthday. She was not even out of her teens before she had completely changed her image! Of course, this was her choice, and she is now clearly much more comfortable with the way she looks, however, what influences made her feel inadequate to begin with? Moreover, with greater access to pornography, children are subject to unrealistic expectations about sex from such a young age, removing emotional connection from sex completely. Indeed, many young boys are unaware of the fact that, when a woman is in pain and says “no”, this is cause to stop immediately. We are teaching our men to disrespect women, and our women to feel inadequate in themselves through this access to technology.
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O - There is, of course, the argument that, even without technology, children would still have access to images which spread these negative ideologies. Indeed, plastic surgery has been around for over 100 years and, with access to magazines, children would still be exposed to these “ideal” images. Therefore, why should we restrict technology if everyone is using it, and if it would make little difference without it anyway? There is also the idea that porn is just a small part of a much wider issue of men disrespecting women. Indeed, men have been tailored to believe that women are their property since the dawn of time, so surely this should be in the jurisdiction of the parents to teach their boys the importance of the word “no”. There are also, admittedly, some benefits to having access to this vast array of internet wonders. Children are now privy to a wealth of knowledge which
they would otherwise have struggled to obtain, and can now write better informed essays and articles with just a few clicks of their mouse. Children can also have more lucid access to politics and the news, allowing them to get much more involved in wider issues from a younger age than perhaps previously. We could also say that modern children have a great many more transferable skills due to the influence of technology, including communication, typing, writing, and researching, and have access to an even greater variety of jobs through technological platforms, such as YouTube. So, is it really technology, or society that have these negative impacts on children? A little bit of both I’d say. However, I am certainly of the opinion that children these days have access to much more material which steals their childhood away prematurely.
terests where parents haven’t been able to.
we too used to the negative effects to consider change? There are many questions left; at what age can we decide for ourselves? Should parents or the government judge this, and how this would actually be enforced? Social media sites need to work with parents to create tools that allow them to intervene, should it be necessary. Whilst I agree that social media can be damaging to mental health, I am also aware of the pressure on parents to monitor new technology. Often they don’t want to restrict their children for them to consequently be left out of social situations. If a universal guideline was produced it ultimately would be down to parents to enforce it, and this is a risky rule to expect consistent results with.
Are we facing serious social media curfews?
by Natascha Ng
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ears that the social media usage of young people is negatively impacting their health has been enough to ruffle the feathers of the health secretary this week. For the first time ever, we’re seriously considering research into what counts as ‘appropriate’ usage of social media for children. It is hoped that these guidelines will be understood like those of recommended alcohol levels - now a norm in society but something we weren’t always accustomed to. Facebook, the largest social media site ever, requires that you must be thirteen to create an account. This is another limitation, but it’s been deemed appropriate since it was introduced. So where does this differ? Tumblr, Instagram, Snapchat are considered ways to express yourself
creatively, especially those who lack normal social outlets. The notion that this could have a negative impact on our minds has never been rejected, but simultaneously never considered detrimental enough to warrant funded research in our government before. So some of us are angry. Social media provides an opportunity for creativity to flourish (whether this is your canvas prints on Etsy or that weekly tweet moaning about the same lecture) and creates a wider community in which young people can find other likeminded individuals. It can be a great source of education; we breed young political activists through the likes of the Guardian and the Independent, young authors on Wordpress and other sites that gauge children’s in-
For parents, one of the biggest worries is emotional investment, developing an addiction to the validation of likes
On the other hand, the information that children receive is not filtered and their vulnerability can be targeted. For parents, one of the biggest worries is emotional investment, developing an addiction to the validation of likes and responses. So is it just generational panic – or are
SYLWADAU
Are the cards always stacked against women? The Ford vs Kavanaugh case and its implications for the #MeToo movement
by Alys Hewitt
T
he year 2018 is proving to be a confusing time for women. On the one hand, we are told that our voices matter more than ever, that there is a burgeoning movement in our favour, that times are drastically changing in a post #MeToo landscape. However, while it is true that there are many reasons to be optimistic, the fight is far from over, and we cannot dismiss the backlash and setbacks still inherent in the discussion surrounding sexual assault. Several instances have indicated that the efforts of #MeToo and Times Up are falling short and failing to move forward, still being overshadowed by deep-rooted patriarchal values. One year on from #MeToo, many victims still aren’t being listened to. The recent Kavanaugh vs. Ford hearing is exemplary of the way in which male power and privilege is still more or less untouchable. During the hearing Dr. Christine Blasey Ford gave an emotionally-charged testimony against Judge Brett Kavanaugh, a nominee to the Supreme Court, describing the moment in which he allegedly forcefully sexually assaulted her at a party in the 1980s. Kavanaugh, who has also been accused by two other women of sexual misconduct, angrily denied the allegations, dismissing them simply as a plot against him
Beyond the marches, is #MeToo moving forward? Source: Rob Kall (via Flickr) orchestrated by the Democratic Party. But by reducing Ford’s account simply to a weapon of political intent, Kavanaugh is disregarding and silencing the personal pain and horror felt by victims of sexual assault everywhere. Kavanaugh still has the support of many high-profile Republicans, not least the President himself, who defended the Supreme Court nominee this week as a ‘good man’ with ‘great intellect’ – never mind how little a man’s intelligence or perceived greatness has anything to do with his capacity to assault and abuse. In the same week
Trump also mocked Ford’s testimony during a rally in Mississippi, providing his cheering supporters with a scathing imitation of her inability to recall certain details about a traumatic event that took place many years ago. He also linked her to a Democratic conspiracy of ‘evil people’, hell-bent on destroying the Republican cause. It should seem remarkable that an American President would conflate believing and supporting an account of alleged sexual assault with ‘evil’, but comments like this don’t even come as a shock anymore.
The belittling and mocking of women who talk about their experiences accounts for exactly why victims are afraid to come forward in the first place; we are all aware that fear of humiliation and not being believed acts as a barrier to reporting sexual assault as it happens. By deflecting away from the issue at hand and arguing that Kavanaugh is the real victim here, that it is his life that has been ‘shattered’ by these accusations – Trump is feeding into the exact narrative we are trying so relentlessly to destroy. This is hardly surprising, given his track record, but still a reminder that those in power are the ones who need convincing the most, that unfortunately shared declarations of solidarity against sexual violence can only take us so far. This is just one case which feel like a backwards step for the #MeToo movement, reminding us that the values of victim-blaming, silencing and speaking over women are still very much entrenched in our culture. Although great strides have been made, we must continue to move forward in order to eradicate these values. More women than ever are speaking out about their experiences, but to truly enact change people in power have to believe and listen to victims and survivors, rather than continuously making excuses for the men accused.
Where do your restaurant tips actually go? Should we pool them or should we split? by Callum Sloper
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ack in 2015, the public became suddenly aware of a practice that many chain restaurants were partaking in whereby tips left for waiting staff were having deductions made by the business itself. This overwhelmingly concerned tips paid by credit and debit cards, so most chains simply reduced the deductions they were making to a standard 2.5% to cover card charge fees. The public outrage fizzled out and new rules came into play in 2016 giving waiting staff more guarantee to keep tips they earned, although it was never directly legislated. For about four years I worked on and off as a waiter in a Bangladeshi restaurant in my hometown where we would receive tips in both cash and as part of card payments. We never had deductions made on tips received from card payments due to the pooling system we used. The etiquette there was to pool the money from both means by writing every tip received onto a piece of paper
and later dividing the total sum by the number of employees working that night. This would include the chefs, as many other restaurants do when distributing tips, but also kitchen
Admittedly, it’s a bit demoralising when the total you personally handle in tips is well over £50 but it’s reduced to some £6 or £7 due to pooling
porters in our case. Admittedly, it’s a bit demoralising when the total you personally handle in tips is well over £50 but it’s reduced to some £6 or £7 due to pooling, although this is something you live with as your colleagues will have likely been working just as hard as you. Most restaurants operate a similar
Pooling restaurant tips: a fair move? Source: neshom via Pixabay system naturally as it’s the fairest way to make sure that everyone receives financial compliments from the customers for their efforts irrespective of government legislation. While it’s a good thing that workers have extra protection for retaining their tips it’s now far too late and instead the industry has al-
ready sorted out its own shortcomings. New legislation could affect the way many restaurants share tips with back of house staff and cause unexpected issues. Had this been done a few years ago it would be very welcome but now it seems to be unnecessary and potentially more hassle than it’s worth.
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The banal Britishness of the Welsh identity
by Heffin Rees Edwards
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ast week Theresa May announced plans for a ‘Festival of Britain’ which has reopened the debate around ‘Britishness’. On being ‘British’, Former Plaid leader Gwynfor Evans said: “Britishness is a political synonym for Englishness which extends English culture over the Scots, Welsh, and the Irish”, although not something which is completely true, England always been the dominant force in British national identity. In Wales, 58% of people identify as only Welsh according to the 2011 Census, but that’s still less than the percentage of people who identify as just Scottish or English in the rest of the UK. National identity in Wales is weaker than anywhere else in the UK, but why? It’s because, unlike other parts of the UK, the people of Wales live in a country without their own media and state institutions. Wales’ bank is the bank of England, most of the main newspapers are based in London, even BBC Wales news is classed as ‘regional’ news. Despite the existence of the Welsh Assembly, Westminster is still seen as the real seat of power, just look at the turnout in Assembly elections compared to those of Westminster: most people are even more apathetic towards electing AM’s than they are for MP’s!
Whereas most people don’t associate directly with being British, by viewing their lives through the dimension of these institutions most people experience a ‘banal Britishness’ These British institutions play a huge role in shaping our identity, and whereas most people don’t associate directly with being British, by viewing their lives through the dimension of these institutions most people experience a ‘banal Britishness’ which is a quiet, almost subconscious association with the institutions of the British state. This is true of young as well as old people. They might express this in different ways, the British Social Attitudes survey suggests that younger people view being ‘British’ as less reliant on ethnicity than older generations. Regardless of how this British identity manifests itself, the fact that it is deeply embedded within our institutions means it is still relevant and still has a large impact on Welsh identity.
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COMMENT
The weekend: an outdated concept?
by Matt Tomlin
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here has been a selection of articles recently from the likes of The Guardian, Forbes and Big Think calling for a three-day weekend. But is there a case for the weekend to be scrapped and substituted with more widely dispersed breaks throughout the seven-day week? A number of things need to be considered about this potential change in society, including how and when it could be implemented into today’s workplace and health service. Sometimes our lives can revolve around the weekend, despite it being the minority of what makes up our week. Everyone reading this probably knows one, or most-likely more than one, person who complains on the regular during the week about how they can’t wait for the weekend. But many of our work schedules don’t need to be bogged down with the majority of work being assigned to us Monday to Friday, and a long-desired, lighter two days guaranteed at the end of the week
supposedly for us to be looking forward to. In 2014, The Atlantic reported on a case where groups of workers switched between a four day weekend and a two day weekend each week. This led to increased productivity, happiness, social proactivity in the workplace and greater enjoyment of out-of-work activities. This scenario did not involve a decrease in hours worked. In fact, hours worked increased. This article is not going to touch on how much people should work each week, as that is not the focus here, but it is evident that there is potential for much good work to be done for working peoples’ welfare when space is given for free time. A more fluid week without the weekend at the end of it could easily allow for such space and its benefits to our emotional health and motivation to surface. The other main argument to consider about scrapping the weekend is that, in an ideal world, it would open up healthcare to be equally accessible on all days. This is stated with emphasis on the phrase ‘in an ideal world’. Currently, the decreased
number of healthcare services expected of the weekend in the UK are under a large amount of strain due to austerity cuts to the NHS. This puts doubt in proposals made by some politicians to extend GP working hours to cover weekends in the near future. In no way is this article proposing GPs work harder in the current austerity-centric political climate. If the weekend were to be removed as a social construct over time, in an ideal world, those working in the healthcare sector would follow similar routines to those suggested previously, with breaks and work times more widely dispersed throughout the week. Or, considering healthcare workers are needed above most, if not all, other professionals to be alert and able to work, a noweekend scenario could entail that more doctors and nurses would work, but for less time each in a no-weekend world. In today’s circumstances, this may seem like a complete fantasy. Such a system would require a major recruitment strategy in order to fill the current jobs gap in the NHS and to recruit more to cover the larger amount of time some NHS services would be operating for. 1 in 11 posts in the NHS are currently vacant due to austerity cuts, and with both uncertainty over Brexit deterring recruitment of and retainment of EU healthcare professionals, and the current government’s visa caps on non-EU workers of all professions - even those within the healthcare sector - there is much work to be done before such a scenario could even be justifiably planned for. The ways in which the healthcare labour gap could be filled with these visas in place postBrexit are: to have a soft Brexit, with continued access to the single market and free movement of people, a free trade deal with another coun-
BlacKkKlansman: when did we become this complicit? by Hannah Newberry
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lacKkKlansman has been the one to watch since Jordan Peele shook the complicity of our first world habits with the debut of Get Out. Entertainment is entertainment, right? But this dark, thought-provoking satire is a mirror image of the world around us right now. Movies like this draw out the reality that we don’t fight for equality like we used to, just because things ‘aren’t as bad as they used to be’. We normalise concepts that are downright irrational. Spike Lee walks a tightrope between our expectation that everyone should exercise basic human decency and a dismal road of exploitation and depravity. For those who haven’t a clue, Ron Stallworth is our African American protagonist who dreams of being a police officer, against the will of the inherently racist, whitewashed board of detectives, and against the will of his black classmates who do not recuse their insistence on the more accurate description of ‘pig’. Somehow, Ron eventually becomes a member of the KKK. We’re obviously hammering home the idea that racist prerogatives aren’t extinct, with
a reminder that we try to distance ourselves from our own wrongdoings too often. The election of Trump, the incredulous rise of the far-right, the political protection of ‘freedom of expression’ in relation to Nazi hate speech, and the protection of hateful beliefs that stem from biblical origins. These are all routine flaws in our system that we have become encouraged to accept ‘until times change’. The integral aim was to horrify and educate, and it was executed brilliantly. In reality, the environment around us is one that we breed ourselves – every democratic leader, every undignified law, every routine misdemeanour that is met with insufficient redress – we have chosen this by seeing inevitability in some of the most despicable beliefs. The optimism of the black community in BlacKkKlansman is all too unrealistic – remarks like the US ‘would never elect’ a white supremacist shows the toxicity in our comfortable naivety. While there remains outrage at the election of Trump, we are nowhere near as dumbfounded as before - the substantiated remarks he makes against ethnic minorities are normalised
rather than used as ammunition so we don’t make the same mistakes again. There is an inherent danger in combatting political turmoil by turning powerful figures into memes, tweets and funny shirts to put on Etsy. An image of comedy can be mistaken as one of harmlessness, and we shouldn’t embrace this just because it entails less responsibility for the choices that the electorate has made. People who don’t consider themselves ‘racist’ should not reject responsibility when bad decisions are made. We share videos of police brutality on Facebook, but does that mean we’ve never subscribed to something that’s indicative of our apathetic political system, on foundations of tactical intimidation and selfish prerogative? The movie takes us through the routine we subjugate ourselves to, in which we are complicit in the racist acts of others. Where we have an opportunity to form a political opposition or offer an alternative platform, but we are too busy laughing at a caricatured orange face, or pretending to be a ‘redneck’ on a stag weekend to remember that the joke has an unfortunate punchline.
try or the implementation of more automation and technology into healthcare. A soft Brexit may not occur, another free trade deal could take years to accomplish, and may not be as successful in filling NHS job vacancies, and automation will also take years to develop and has many ethical concerns surrounding it. Unfortunately, as it would appear in the present day real world, none of the roads lead to sus-
Sometimes our lives can revolve around the weekend, despite it being the minority of what makes up our week tainable, high quality healthcare on weekends. It almost seems like an impossible dream to get an equal seven day scenario. However, given the progress we have made with our services and technology over the past 100 years, even the kinks of Brexit could be ironed out fairly fast. None of us have a crystal ball to inform us of the future economic, social, political or cultural changes which may ensue in the coming months, years, decades or century. So, perhaps, the fantasy land of no weekend could turn out to exist for us in the future, with solutions to the problems listed having been invisible to us previously. Despite it seeming a long way off, and likely an impossibility, there is no harm in putting the theory out there.
Spike Lee’s new film is a reminder of the persistence of racism in today’s seemingly progressive society. Source: Pixabay
Peele explores the idea that the law is not deemed to be authoritative unless pursued by a white, ‘pure’, trustworthy source. Regardless of Ron’s own capabilities, his less intuitive
white colleagues are still the ones that have to come to the rescue in such toxic environments. Perhaps it’s our turn to step in and say something more than 140 characters worth.
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Karis Pearson
COLUMNROAD
COLOFN
Is Facebook untouchable in a social media world?
7/10 W
7 out of 10 organizations say their security risk increased significantly in 2017
hile out on Friday night a friend of mine went to check his phone, only to find he had been logged out of his Facebook account. He was a little confused, but his news app told him it was a result of a security breach. Drastic action was not taken, and I think his biggest inconvenience was probably having to log back in. This somewhat complacent reaction was similar I am sure to the other ninety million people who picked up their devices to find Facebook had logged them out after tens of thousands of profiles were hacked. I don’t mean to sound so judgemental to these kinds of reactions. I use Facebook myself, and while my account wasn’t hacked, I can assure you it is unlikely I’d have rushed to deactivate it over news of a hack. As much as it pains me to admit it, Facebook is quite important in how I manage my life. I am definitely not alone here. Whether you specifically use Facebook or not, you probably have a presence on some
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other social media app, maybe Instagram, or Snapchat, or even Tinder. Using social media has become an integral part of our lives, with connecting, sharing and definitely snooping being routine things we do online. While I’d like to think I could delete my accounts and live a less constantly connected sort of life, more Henry David Thoreau style, in reality I still use Facebook almost every day to check group chats, organise plans and generally stay in the loop.
Using social media has become an integral part of our lives We treat Facebook like our friend.
Is risking our personal data the price we pay in a social media world? Source: Anthony Quintano (via Flickr)
Over 20% of cyber attacks in 2017 came from China, 11% from the US and 6% from the Russian Federation
Why else would we share with it so many personal details about ourselves? We not only voluntarily give up our name, date of birth, location, job, interests, friends list, personal photos to Facebook; but also, plenty of data that is produced from all our online clicks. You may not care who sees your data, you’ve put it all on there for viewer consumption and that’s that. But, I think we’d all be surprised at the damage that could be done if that amount of personal data ended up in the wrong hands. In the aftermath of the hack, The Economic Times suggested that Facebook may suffer the consequences of having broken crucial trust with its users. A simple understanding of customer- business relations tells that when a business breaks consumer trust, the consumer loses faith in that company and will go elsewhere for its services. I’m not so sure. The issue here is slightly atypical to previous examples of companies breaking trust, such as
63%
consumers going to a different supermarket because of a horse meat scandal or buying a panini from a different (but still extremely similar) sandwich chain because their usual accidentally caused a fatality. Facebook provides a service that is currently pretty unrivalled within the market.
Personal data in the wrong hands could be dangerous While I would be more than happy to switch supermarket or sandwich shop, switching social media would perhaps come less easily. So, what does this mean for the future of social media use? It’s becoming
63% of device leaks are phone numbers Source: Varonis.com
a sort of trend among us to do a ‘social media cleanse’; deleting apps and trying to be less reliant on them day to day. Most of the time however we fail to permanently delete our accounts, aware that we may wish to log back in at some point. So long as the account is there, our information is available to anyone with the ability and inclination to access it. For days after the hack Facebook claimed they were unable to clarify the exact nature of the breach, meaning other apps under the Facebook umbrella could be vulnerable too. Cybersecurity is a complex area, and answers may not surface for months, or even years. It’s been suggested that Facebook may face a fine of up to £1 billion, but for a man with a net worth of nearly £60 billion, that slap on the wrist won’t have a lasting effect for Mark Zuckerberg. No, in the meantime, Zuckerberg will sit in Facebook HQ bathing in his remaining £59 billion, relishing our inability to get off Facebook.
GWLEIDYDDIAETH
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18
Price is Right for Plaid The Party of Wales have a new leader for the first time since 2012. Is this the injection needed to emerge from a period of stagnation?
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Continued from front page
n the 2014 European Elections, they dipped by more than three percentage points. No Plaid leader has had the preponderance of coverage that Wood has, and aside from a personal victory in the Rhondda at the Welsh Assembly elections in 2016, the party has failed to gain from the platform which saw her, amongst other things, share a stage with a Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition. This is underlined by a poll which showed that Wood was the most popular Plaid leader with their voters along with Labour voters – a recognition she only has due to her inflated media profile, and something which hasn’t actually been turned into votes and seats in a meaningful way. What are the big issues that Price and Plaid will face? They make a bold claim to be the ‘Party of Wales’, but in reality that could hardly be further from the truth. On the big question of the day, Brexit, they are set against the democratic will of the Welsh people who voted to leave the European Union. Plaid want Wales to be a sovereign state, but when the people of Wales make a sovereign decision that disagrees with Plaid, they want to reverse it. Price has compared Brexit to the Titanic, and stressed that it must be stopped at all costs. The sight of so-called Welsh National-
ists and their reaction to Brexit has been a sight to behold. For years they have luxuriated in their moral righteousness, defining a “Welshness” which has very much been middle-class and Welshspeaking. Nothing wrong with that in itself, but it has always been a niche position. Brexit was a realisation that Wales is different to Plaid’s vision. Welsh people were happy to “take back control” from Brussels. Welsh independence, their raison d’etre, is a minority pursuit. In the annual St. David’s Day poll conducted by ICM and BBC Wales, support for Wales breaking away from the United Kingdom sits at 7%. Still, that’s up from 3% in September 2014 – progress, comrades! The people of Wales have no appetite for independence and are happy remaining a part of the United Kingdom, not that the position of the Welsh people would deter Plaid. Political parties of all persuasions must engage with their country as it is, and not as they would wish it to be. For it is this political realism that can lead to victory and radical change in the nation which Price has said he wants to see. Plaid are certainly better off with Price, and it may lead to a bump in the polls or a handful of extra seats in the Assembly - but when the foundations are built on a false appreciation of and hostility to the Welsh people, then don’t be surprised when Labour are still rooted in power
The Victor: Adam Price, Plaid’s new leader represents Carmarthen East and Dinefwr. Source: Wikipedia
for the foreseeable future without any credible challenge at Cardiff Bay.
Big changes for Welsh Assembly A new Parliament for Wales?
To contact our politics desk, drop us an email at politics@gairrhydd.com
POLITICS
by Masie Marston
Your politics desk Rhys Thomas Charlotte King Silvia Martelli Sam Tilley
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he ongoing devolution of power means that the Welsh Assembly today is very different to the one established in 1999. The Wales Act 2017 is a game changer for the Welsh Assembly, granting more autonomy to Wales. Most importantly it enables powers over income tax rates, something which hasn’t been exercised in Wales for 800 years, as well as electoral arrangements. This rewriting of the Assembly’s “reserved powers” relationship with Westminster has been met with new plans to set the minimum voting age to 16, change the name of the Welsh Assembly, and expand its membership. The issues of voting age and the name of the Assembly have been pushed forwards in the agenda, meaning that they will be put to Assembly Members (AMs) next week. In Scotland, the voting age has previously been lowered for Scottish and local government elections and we have already seen that in practice in 2014. In the report of the Expert Panel on Assembly Electoral Reform, chaired by Cardiff University’s Professor Laura McAllister, it is suggested that “a reduction in the minimum voting age to 16 with effect from 2021 would be a powerful way
The centre of Welsh political life: Cardiff Bay is where old and young Welsh political heritage meets Source: Robin Drayton to raise political awareness and participation among young people”. The panel plans to complement this change with “appropriate, effective and non-partisan political and citizenship education”. The consequence of this could be better engagement, giving Welsh school children an opportunity and reason to be interested in politics. As a result of the transformation of the Assembly’s nature, many people think it needs a new name. In July 2016, AMs agreed that the name change
should honour the constitutional status of the assembly as a national parliament. This would of course mean that AMs would now potentially be known as MWPs, just like Scottish members are MSPs. There has been worry that this name might be too easy for the press to bend, as the Welsh word for stupid is “dwp”, for daft is “twp”, and for poo is “pwp”. Many Welsh Conservatives have even expressed concern that it is too easy to make MWP into ‘Muppet’, due to the pronunciation of the Welsh letter
‘w’. Other options have included Welsh Parliament Members (WPMs), but unfortunately for those paranoid members it seems public support lies with MWPs. Announced on Tuesday, The Welsh Parliament and Elections (Wales) Bill will be debated on the 10th of October. If passed, the legislature’s name will change to Senedd Cymru/Welsh Parliament, and the Assembly elections’ voting age will be 16. These changes are planned to be implemented by 2021.
GWLEIDYDDIAETH 19
Yemen, ‘the world’s worst humanitarian crisis’
The civil war keeps tearing the country apart. Eighteen million people are currently without food, half of which “on the brink of starvation” by Ryan Matthews
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emen is on the brink of one of the world’s worst famines, the UN has warned. Eighteen million people around two-thirds of the country’s population - are going without food every single day in the Arab world’s poorest nation. Close to half of them are “on the brink of starvation”, as pointed out by David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme. Speaking at the 2018 United Nations General Assembly, Beasley blamed man-made conflict and extreme climate change for the dramatic increase in global hunger and severe famine rates in recent years, following nearly two centuries of steady decline. Since March 2015, Yemen has been locked in a brutal civil war between the forces of the Saudi-backed government of President Abdrabbuh Mansou Hadi and the Ansar Allah rebellion led by Abdul-Malik al-Houthi. The war has effectively split the country in two: the north, including the capital city of Sana’a, is controlled by the Houthi rebels; the south primarily by
The Numbers
18 million 8.5 million 3 months 400,000 50,000 Yemeni people with no daily access to food
Yemeni people “on the brink of starvation”
Time left before all food supplies
Children severely malnourished
Children who died of starvation in 2017
Food crisis: People in Yemen collecting some of the last food and water supplies. Source: Felton Davies (via Flickr) government forces and their Saudi-led allies. There is little hope of a resolution to the war any time soon. The Saudi Arabian-led coalition, which includes American and French special forces units as well as tactical and logistical support from Britain, has set up a naval blockade of major Yemeni ports in rebel-held areas. It has been accused by aid groups of disrupting the delivery of vital resources, including food and fuel, to the people of the war-torn country. CARE International has warned that if Saudi Arabia continues to block aid deliveries to the Yemeni people,
food supplies will run out within 3 months. The coalition has also been accused of deliberately targeting civilians in the war. In August 2018, a Saudi Arabian warplane dropped an American-supplied bomb on a school bus, killing 40 children, 11 adults and injuring a further 79 people, mostly children. It was one of over 50 similar attacks by the coalition on civilian vehicles in 2018. The war has also caused the value of Yemen’s currency, the rial, to plummet. It has lost over half of its value in 2018 alone which has sent food prices skyrocketing, fuelling fears of full-
scale famine conditions across the country within the coming months. The international charity Save the Children reported that in 2017, over 50,000 Yemeni children had died of starvation and disease caused by the war. According to the UN, a further 400,000 children are thought to be severely malnourished, hence the situation is being labelled as ‘the world’s worst humanitarian crisis’. “First, we hope the war ends,” said Beasley. “Second, we hope that we will have the access, while the war goes on, to get to the children and the families that need our help.”
Erdogan’s controversial state visit to Germany Although mutual interests were recognized, the meeting did not ease tensions between the countries by Janna Ehrhardt
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ecep Tayyip Erdogan’s state visit to Germany at the end of September has been a much-discussed topic in the media over the course of the last week. It was the Turkish president’s first formal visit to the country, which is home to more than three million people with Turkish roots. The stated reason for his visit was the opening of one of Europe’s largest mosque, located in Cologne. He also met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and president FrankWalter Steinmeier, all harboring a mutual intention to repair German-Turkish relations that have suffered in recent years. During the three-day stay there was a permanent presence of simmering tensions, despite both countries being aware of their similar in-
terests which were made clear at a press conference on September 29. Merkel emphasised the importance of the two allies having positive international relations in the NATO conference, specifically collaborating to approach migration and the refugee crisis. Erdogan expressed similar interests, and touched upon the states striving for stronger economic relations also. “We want to completely leave behind all the problems and to create a warm environment between Turkey and Germany — just like it used to be”, he stated. However, there are clear dissensions between the countries regarding press freedom and the rule of law; Merkel described these as “deep-seated differences”, and insisted on Erdogan releasing several political prisoners held in Turkey including five German citizens. Prior to Erdogan’s visit
though, a list was sent from Ankara to Berlin with 69 wanted people, and Ankara claims the extradition of journalist Can Dundan, former chief editor of Cumhuriyet, a government-critical Turkish newspaper. Meanwhile, it is said that the list was extended to 136 absconders. Erdogan’s visit aroused critical response among citizens as well as politicians. Many German opposition politicians did not attend the state banquet on Friday night as a symbol of protest. The same day, approximately 100,000 citizens demonstrated in Berlin, protesting the president’s visit out of belief that he is too oppressive towards ethical and religious minorities. A poster held by a Kurdish woman standing near the Brandenburg Gate read: “Erdogan you’re not a leader, you’re a dictator.”
Furthermore, the necessity of Erdogan dedicating the mosque has been questioned in the aftermath. The mosque is central to one of Germany’s largest Islamic organizations, the Turkish-Islamic Union for Religious Affairs, or DITIB. For a long time, DITIB claimed to be an independent institution despite being financed by the Turkish government. The opening by Erdogan was a way for the Turkish president to present himself as a political and religious authority in Germany. The next encounter of the heads of states is just around the corner, as at the press conference Merkel announced a four-way meeting in October between Turkey, France and Russia. Talks of Syria are expected to dominate the conference, and in particular the rebel stronghold Idlib.
20
POLITICS
What they have said...
Adultery no longer a criminal offence in India
The decision against the colonial-era law is the latest socially progressive ruling by Silvia Martelli
What happened to the confidence and ideals of the European dream? The EU was set up to protect freedom. It was the Soviet Union that stopped people leaving. The lesson from history is clear: if you turn the EU club into a prison, the desire to get out won’t diminish, it will grow — and we won’t be the only prisoner that will want to escape. health risks. Jeremy Hunt 02/10/18 The UK’s Foreign Secretary accusing EU negotiators of trying to punish the U.K. because of Brexit.
I like him. He likes me. I guess that’s OK. Am I allowed to say that? I was being really tough and so was he. And we would go back and forth. And then we fell in love. No, really. He wrote me beautiful letters. They were great letters. And then we fell in love. Donald Trump 30/09/18 The president of the US describing his “bromance” with NorthKorean leader Kim Jong-Un during a rally in Wheeling, West Virginia.
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ast week, New Delhi took a further step towards civil rights by decriminalising adultery. The vote was unanimous: every member of the special five-judge bench agreed on the colonial-era law being unconstitutional as it discriminated against women. The law, which dated back 158 years, established that having a sexual relationship with a woman without her husband’s consent was a criminal offence, punishable with up to five years in prison. However, this solely applied to men. According to the text, women could neither report nor be punished for the crime. As such, the judges believed the law was archaic and deprived women of agency. “Any provision treating women with inequality is not constitutional,” said former Chief Justice, Dipak Misra, who demitted office last Monday. “Legal subordination of one sex over another is wrong in itself” he added, quoting philosopher John Stuart Mill.
Only a few weeks ago, the justices ruled to decriminalise homosexuality following 24 years of fierce legal battles
Although there is no official data on how frequently men were prosecuted under the law, local lawyers admitted
that it was often raised in divorce proceedings. “I welcome this judgment by the supreme court,” said Rekha Sharma, the head of India’s National Commission for Women. “It was an outdated law, which should have been removed long back. This is a law from British era. Although the British had done away with it long back, we were still stuck with it.” The decision is one of several socially progressive rulings by the court this session. Only a few weeks ago, on September 6th, the justices ruled to decriminalise homosexuality following 24 years of fierce legal battles. Once again, the vote was unanimous. The decision was embraced by many across the
country as an act of decolonising India’s Raj-era criminal code. The Delhi high court is currently examining another law that makes an exception for sexual assault if the perpetrator and victim are married. Karuna Nundy, a Supreme Court lawyer leading the case to overturn the marital rape law, said the court had shown in recent judgments that it now believed “sexual autonomy is not forfeited at the marital door”. Despite the latest progress towards civil rights, many are still skeptical. Gautam Bhatia, a Delhi-based lawyer and legal scholar, stated “I wouldn’t yet call it a progressive era in the court. In cases such as the adultery or homosex-
uality rulings, the court was dispensing with laws that had clearly fallen behind social mores. These are the low-hanging fruit”. It is however undeniable that the succession of high-profile cases helped shape a positive send-off for Misra, an at times controversial Chief Justice who was often subject to public complaints over his handling of politically sensitive cases. Only last January, four fellow judges had made public their concerns that Misra was threatening “the court’s integrity” as well as “the country’s democracy”. Regardless, the former Chief of Justice will most likely be remembered as a strong advocate for civil rights.
the two superpowers of the twentieth century. So how is it that - only 30 years later - there has been renewed talk of a second Cold War breaking out? And who, if anyone, would take up the mantle left by the Soviet
Union? With the election of Donald Trump as the most pro-Russian U.S President in living memory, political analysts were hoping for a thaw in the constantly-frosty relations between the Obama administration and Putinled Russia. Whilst officially, relations between the US and Russia have remained tense, one only has to look at the recent expulsion of Russian diplomats in response to the Salisbury attack, it cannot be denied that on a personal level there has never been an American president more open to reconciliation with a Russia that has become more and more brazen in its actions against the West. Therefore, it is not surprising that many commentators have speculated that any “Cold War II” would not be a rematch between Russia and the West, instead the emergent power of China would prove to be a major player in any hypothetical ‘round two’. The growing influence of China can be best seen in the military manoeu-
vring deployed in the South China Sea; the construction of a network of vast network of artificial islands by the Chinese has risen to become potentially the greatest diplomatic crisis outside the Middle East. US military support for South Korea in the region has merely added more fuel to the growing fire, with the Chinese statecontrolled Xinhua news agency even stating in 2016 that a “New Cold War looms large” over the US’s decision to deploy the THAAD missile defence system in the Korean peninsula. Perhaps the greatest indicator that a new Cold War is on the horizon is the escalation over the summer of trading tariffs; the majority implemented by the White House. Tensions have skyrocketed over the US decision to place tariffs on a number of Chinese goods, an act that former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has described as the beginning of a “trade war, an investment war and a technology war”. Time will only tell if he is right.
Are we entering a new Cold Era?
by Sam Tilley
The process will not be frozen, we have to move forward. We will know in a few days whether we can reach an agreement with the opposition to adopt the constitutional changes. The alternative is elections.
The Secretariat Building The Indian government, based in New Delhi, is making significant progress towards civil rights. Source: Wikimedia
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he fall of the Berlin Wall is often lauded as the climax of the Cold War, the end of a period of hostility that had the world fearing open nuclear warfare between
Zoran Zaev 01/10/18 Macedonia’s prime minister talking to the opposition MPs following the results of the referendum on the country’s change of name.
The close presidents Donald Trump is largely considered the ‘most pro-Russian U.S. President’. Source: Wikimedia Commons
CYNGOR
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ADVICE
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22
How to make your loan last longer
A few quick tips to help you save your precious pennies by Abi Dudbridge
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eeling the pinch since returning back to Uni? The first term may seem impossible when trying to save money, as the temptation of nights out and takeaways are at an all-time high. The sense of joy when your student loan drops into your account can last longer however. Here are some small tips on how to cut back costs, to save you from depending on handouts from your family. Ditch the takeaway coffees! A caffeine obsession can be expensive, and regular coffees on the go can make a significant dent in your wallet. Instead, buy a reusable cup and make your own drink before leaving the house. This way, you’re both saving your money and helping the environment – result! Buy loose fruit and veg! Buying pre-packed fruit and veg can be expensive, and usually only available in large quantities. If you’re like me and can’t get through a kilo of carrots in a couple of days before they go off, try buying loose veg. By doing so, you’d also be cutting back on unnecessary plastic and food waste.
Walk instead of using public transport ...Cardiff really isn’t a large city. Visit the supermarket in the evening! From working in a supermarket myself, I know that large reductions
Saving for the future: With a few sacrifices you can kiss your money worries goodbye. Source: rawpixel.
can be made on products at the end of their shelf life near the stores closing time (around 8pm depending on the store), therefore you could bag yourself a serious bargain. You can freeze the products you don’t eat (as long as it’s safe to do so) and save them for another day. Cut back on Takeaways! Indulging in a Takeaway and food delivered to your door is a real treat, however if done regularly, can equal extortion-
ate amounts. Therefore, if you’re a fast food fanatic, try only ordering food on special occasion; Fridays, birthdays, deadline days. This way, getting a takeaway will be less of a stress on your wallet, and more of an enjoyable meal without the sense of regret. Walk instead of using public transport (wherever possible)! The temptation of getting the train to Uni is a daily struggle, however Cardiff re-
Dating on a budget
ally isn’t a large city. From Cathays to anywhere in the City Centre, the walk will rarely reach over half an hour. Therefore, walking to your destination instead of using the train can save you a lot of money. Again, the tickets may be cheap, but if done regularly can cost you unnecessary amounts. Walking to Uni in the morning can also help to wake you up, and get your mind ready for the day of studying.
It doesn’t have to be fancy meals and expensive trips by Joanna Cunningham
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s a student, it’s a given that you’ll have your fair share of dates, whether that be with a first love from school, a fresh new fling, or a budding uni relationship. However, dating can be expensive, so I have put together a little list of perfect date spots, which are cheap, cheerful, and perhaps a little different to what you’d normally go for…
Your advice desk Ashavari Baral Katie Lewis Columnist Sam Saunders
Pic ‘n’ Mix and Cinema Who doesn’t love a little trip to the movies? Once you’ve sussed out your dating partner, and know a little more about their personality, you can tailor this trip exactly to them - do they like horror movies, or do they prefer a good old-fashioned rom-com? I’m sure you’ll find a movie that’s just right and, if you don’t mind walking a little way to Cineworld, you can secure tickets for as little as £2.90 each! Just be sure to pack your student card. It’s also no secret that movie snacks can cost a bomb, so pop on over to Poundworld before you go, and grab yourself a pot of sweets for, you guessed it, £1! This is the perfect date idea if you’re not ready
for the intensity of a candlelit meal.
Treetop Adventure Mini Golf This is situated in the St. David’s Centre, and is a great way to blow off some steam. Although it may sound a little childish, it is perfect for all ages! Student putters can buy a ticket for £8, and it’s a really fun way to get to know one another a little more; it’s always good to know firsthand whether someone can handle your competitiveness… A Romantic Stroll There are so many areas in Cardiff to explore, for example, a short walk to Bute Park with a picnic in hand is all you need! You could also take a short trip to Bae Caerdydd, either via train or on foot, and have a little walk around the bay. It’s worth stopping there for ice-cream or coffee so you can enjoy the beautiful view together. Night In If you compare a night in to your usual 3-course meal, this sort of date is so much cheaper. There is an abundance of takeaways here, my favourite cheaper
Low on funds doesn’t mean low on fun : It’s easier to date on a budget than you might think. Source: Tim Gouw option being Wiwo, a delicious chinese on Woodville Road. This sort of date may be a favourite for those more seasoned relationships simply snuggle under the blankets with a Netflix series ready to go, and order your food for as little as £6 each! National Museum Cardiff Not only can you acquire this date
completely free, you can impress your partner with your intelligence and knowledge of culture! Cardiff is one of the cheapest cities out there, so as a student, this makes living on a budget a lot more comfortable than those poor Londoners. I hope these date ideas will give you a little inspiration for your next romantic get-together.
Why you should take that solo trip
CYNGOR
How to have your dream trip all on you own by Ashavari Baral
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’ve never been a fan of being on my own, I’m a people person and I love having deep conversations with friends, getting to know them better, understanding them better. In India, I used to make plans with my friends of us travelling and seeing the world excited about our bond being stronger as we went to different places. However, when I moved to University I unfortunately didn’t make friends straight away. Maybe I was too homesick or never really went for it and gelled with anyone. I had to learn to be alone and the only meaningful conversations I had for a long time were via Skype with my friends from back home or with my family. I was honestly sick of it. After an uneventful Christmas break I was borderline depressed. I wasn’t going to sit in Cardiff and mope, I thought to myself ‘’ Okay, I don’t really have anyone to travel with this Easter why not go see the world on my own, I’m in Europe one of the most beautiful places on earth!’’ and believe me it was the best thought I had in mind that entire year. My uncle lives in Bern, the capital of Switzerland. I quickly rang him, sorted my tickets out and I was off. Just me, myself and I with one bag and a pair of headphones. For a week, my uncle and aunt let me stay with them but as they are busy people I knew that most of my travelling was going to be on my own. Switzerland in the spring is gorgeous. I planned my day, leaving at around 11 every morning, take the bus around the center, seeing houses of parliament, visiting museums and taking the train and visiting Geneva, Zurich and Luzern all on my own. I re-
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A new-found Independance: Taking advantage of the opportunities that you have. Source: Gaurav K member listening to the Weekend’s new album while sitting on the banks of the famous river ‘’Aare’’ and feeling at complete peace. I was also extremely eager to explore Italy, so spontaneously took a train to Milan! While I was walking with my headphones in soaking up this new city, seeing things I had never seen before, I felt a sense of new-found independence in
me, that I didn’t need to be chatting to anyone to feel whole – I was too busy experiencing life and the joys of a new city. I was captivated by the views and sights and sounds rather than sharing a laugh with someone. Now, I’m not saying travelling with someone isn’t fun, but it is a completely different ball game when you are by yourself.
My advice? Take that trip. Do it by yourself you will learn things about YOU that you never knew existed. While finding out routes to different cities I began trusting my instinct and my gut, I had a boost in self esteem and began loving myself more. The trip was incredible, and I am hence planning another trip to Portugal this December, yes. By myself.
My list of dos and donts to help you succeed this term
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O the reading! It makes life SO much easier. Make a plan – whether that’s reading week by week or reading a few weeks in advance. If you feel daunted by the sheer volume of reading, then read little and often. If a book is 450 pages long, then read 45 pages at a time; that’s about 30 minutes reading for most of us. If you do that three times a day, you’ll get through it without even realising.
Do secondary reading early. It makes essay writing a lot less of a scramble. DON’T skip lectures/seminars because you haven’t got around to doing the reading. Read a summary online the night before if you have to. You will be able to understand some of what’s being said and then connect it to the text when you do read it.
How to survive the Cardiff winter to come
Source: Brigitte Tohm by Steph Rowe
How to manage your modules this semester by Lydia Ractliffe
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Skipping a seminar will only put you further behind. DO listen to audiobooks if they are available. You can listen to them walking to lectures/seminars, at the gym, going to sleep or even while you’re playing Candy Crush. It really helps you make a dent in the reading. Listen on 1.25% or 1.5% and you’ll get through it even faster! DON’T sacrifice everything else for reading. Downtime makes you more productive in the long run. Recognise when you are most productive and make best use of those hours. DO secondary reading early. It makes essay writing a lot less of a scramble. A chapter or article here or there doesn’t take too long but if you do that once or twice a week, you have a source of notes to draw on – and connect to your own ideas – when essay time comes. DON’T just highlight. A file of highlighted sheets won’t help you when it comes to essay writing. You will end up rereading it in full and going through the same thought process twice. Annotate and make notes by hand or on your laptop as you go along.
Utilise your motivation while it lasts: The best thing you can do is learn how to time manage efficiently. Source: J. Kelly Brito. DON’T do TOO much! You don’t want to crash and burn before you even get to essays/exams. Although a lot can be said against ‘underworking’, overworking and burning yourself out is counterproductive. DO enjoy it! If you engage in your
modules you will enjoy them more because you will understand what’s going on. REMEMBER! If you’re not happy, go and speak to your personal tutor and change to something you do enjoy. Have a great term.
hen the beast from the east hit Cardiff last winter, all hell broke loose amongst us students. The shops ran out of meal deals, the uni buildings closed their doors and everyone was having issues with their heating! Here are a few tips to help you survive another snowpocalypse, so the cold doesn’t come to frost-bite you in the bum! Firstly, I would definitely invest in a warm, waterproof coat and some practical footwear. I know that the first sign of snow will make you want to go out and play, but don’t underestimate how cold your feet will get in your old pair of converse and trainer socks! When the forecast begins to predict snow, either splash the cash on a new coat, or ring your parents to send you your old pair of wellingtons and a big warm puffer jacket. Layers are also a must. Wear multiple pairs of socks, leggings and jumpers! If you’re planning a night out, ditch your minidress for something more weather appropriate and be prepared to pay for cloakroom.
When the snow hit, it didn’t take long before the shops ran out of the essentials. My second piece of advice would be not to make fun of your housemates for panic-buying bread from Lidl. When the snow hit, it didn’t take long before the shops all ran out of the essentials. I’m not saying you should spend your student loan on bread and milk, but I would definitely recommend buying a week or two’s worth just in case. Not only should you keep an eye on whether you have enough food to survive, I would also keep an eye on your student emails as there is no need to brave the blizzard if lectures are cancelled. Many lecturers have to commute into Cardiff, and if the snow disrupts public transport, it may be that they can’t come in to teach us (what a shame!). Also buy loads of blankets, as we are all aware that the radiators in student housing can sometimes be a little temperamental. Therefore, if your room is a little chilly at night, make sure you have layers of blankets to keep you warm! Layers are your friends during the cold months, so I don’t mean to sound like your mum but make sure you KEEP WRAPPED UP. My last piece of advice would be to have fun! This weather only comes very rarely in Cardiff, so if it does snow this year, make the most of it!
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COLUMN
University Mental Health Services and Other Info
Saunders’ Corner Sam Saunders
Mental Health and Me
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ental health is, as we all know, a huge problem for those currently studying at university. According to a survey conducted by the NUS in 2015, 78% of over 1,000 student respondents said that they had experienced problems with their mental health in the last year. Clearly then, if any student, no matter the year, thinks that they are the only one suffering, and that this makes them worse than everyone else, I can’t even begin to say how false that statement is. I know from personal experience how much mental health issues can impact your life, definitely not to the same extent as some other unfortunate people, but I hope to give you some advice on how to effectively deal with these problems, or at least provide a positive example. Just like any part of the body, the mind needs care and consideration too. So, whether you’re a fresher, overwhelmed by starting a new university course far away from home, a final year struggling with workload or anyone who’s had difficulty coping at any point at university, I hope this article is beneficial to you. In retrospect, I had suffered from mental health issues through much of secondary school, particularly in sixth form, which mostly related to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth. Whilst being at university and feeling like I had succeeded, as well as doing well in assessments, initially helped, I began to experience these earlier feelings again towards the start of the Easter break. This was when I decided
that enough was enough, and that’s a very important piece of advice I can give to anyone suffering with mental health issues, which is that admitting to yourself that you need help is one of the most important things you can do to help set yourself on the road to recovery. For me, I decided to fill out the self-referral form on the counselling and wellbeing section of the intranet, which is provided by the Student Support service (all the details will be added at the bottom of this article).
78% of student respondents said that they had experienced problems with their mental health in the last year. It’s quite a long process, and whilst my case was less urgent than some others, I was still seen around two weeks after I’d sent the form off, a delay which would be massively reduced if you’re really at risk or having serious issues, such as suicidal thoughts. I went along to student support, not really sure of what to expect, but it was an incredibly useful and informa-
tive process. I realised that in not really talking to anyone about these feelings before, I’d bottled everything up, and that was part of the problem. Discussing these feelings with someone that I didn’t already know and who I knew was a complete confidant helped me massively, to the extent that, even today, two and a half years later, I don’t experience these feelings anymore. Unfortunately for me, worse was to come in the exam period of first year, when, just before my last two exams (there had been a twoweek gap between my first four and my last two) I began to have feelings of anxiety, primarily around exams, but I then began to exhibit symptoms that I later recognised as OCD. Now, there’s a few things to mention at this point. Firstly, apart from a few close friends and family, I haven’t told anyone else about this condition, though I’m sure that a lot of other people have noticed it! Secondly, I know that the common conception of OCD is someone who likes to arrange books or DVDs alphabetically, or organises clothes in a certain way. There’s an irony that I used to say I was ‘OCD’ about certain things as well. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is actually a mental health condition that can manifest itself in various different ways and sufferers can often experience awful feelings; I read one case study of a person whose OCD started by checking things, but it got to the point where she feared she would harm those closest to her. Luckily, she got help by seeking assistance, and I
Student Support Website: http://www.cardiff .ac.uk/study/student-life/student-support Self-Refrerral Form: https://intranet.cardiff.ac.uk /students/health-and-wellbeing/specialist-counsellingsupport/counselling-appointments/book-a-counselling -appointment NHS Choices Mental Health: https://www.nhs.uk /using-the-nhs/nhs-services/mental-health-services/ Link to Case Study: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions -obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/dianas-story/
Image source: Pim Stouten via Flickr
too, had to get counselling.
I went along to student support, not really sure of what to expect, but it was an incredibly useful and informative My OCD manifests itself in a more conventional manner, my mind thinks that things aren’t clean when ordinarily everyone else thinks that they are. So, after my exams and summer were over, and after discussing it with my parents and others close to me, I decided to go through the same steps as before, filling out the self-referral form and going along to student support. Oddly enough, I ended up with the same counsellor from earlier on in the article! She was incredibly helpful once again, and I really can’t thank her, my friends and my loved ones for being so supportive and encouraging. Slowly but surely, I began to make progress, essentially trying to wash my hands less and change my thoughts back to what they were. It hasn’t always gone well for me, and that’s another piece of advice I’d give, it doesn’t matter if you have a bad day, or a bad week, you can’t stay
down about it, because there will always be another chance, so stay as positive as possible! It’s been a while now that I’ve been living with OCD and it’s still difficult to this day. I know I’ve got to stay positive and keep trying to improve day on day, I hope I’ll be able to, and I feel much better in myself today than when I first started suffering, so that’s definitely progress. As I’ve said, I couldn’t be more grateful to everyone at student support who helped me and everyone who supported me during the difficult times I’ve had. This has been difficult to relive, and it’s a big decision to share it by publishing it online and in the paper, but if this article helps even one person to help himself or herself then it’s served its purpose. Just two more pieces of advice before I go, I found that keeping myself busy really helped, there were only so many days I could pass with Netflix and a games console with nothing else to do before I started feeling shit again. Finally, it’s an oft-repeated mantra, but exercise and keeping active really does help, it gives you more confidence in yourself and it certainly made me feel better. Thanks for reading, you’ll find all the information about student support, as well as a link to the OCD case study on this page. If you’ve got a problem with your mental health, I urge you to get help, you owe it to yourself and everyone who loves and values you.
FIVE MINUTE FUN Sudoku
To contact our advice desk, drop us an email at advice@gairrhydd.com
Quiz The first letter of each answer make a word relating to Cardiff Students’ Union. Tweet us your answer to @gairrhydd and you may get a shout out in the next issue if you get it right! 1. Which Cardiff University school moved to a new building in Central Square this academic year? 2. On October 23, which planet will be visible in the sky using just binoculars? 3. What was the name of the first person to leave The Great British Bake Off in the current season? 4. What country is Donna Strickland, the first woman to win a Physics Nobel Prize in 55 years, from? 5. Which football club is based at Goodison Park?
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QUESTION 3: The Great British Bake Off. Source: Pexels
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WELSH WORD OF THE WEEK
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Your five minute fun desk Maria Mellor puzzles@gairrhydd.com
GWYDDONIAETH
For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/science
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The Ever-Heated Discussion On Global Warming More than 1 in 10 Brits don’t accept the science of climate change, despite the blatant evidence it’s produced.
Record Breaking: 18 of the warmest years on record have occurred in the last 2 decades. Source: Wikimedia Commons by Danny Brown ing almost in a cyclic pattern, where tics depending on what side of the
To contact our science desk, drop us an email at science@gairrhydd.com
SCIENCE
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Your science desk Danny Brown Jonathan Learmont
t may sound ridiculous that 13% of the UK population don’t agree or accept the science of climate change, and that when asked, “do you believe in global warming?”, only 34% of the surveyed people from Wales answered “Yes, completely” (found by a Censuswide poll). It’s particularly angering, when you realise all the major scientific organisations in the world agree that global temperatures are rising, and greenhouse gas emissions produced by humans are to blame.
Global temperatures are rising, and greenhouse gas emissions produced by humans are to blame For a relatively long time now, we have known that the climate has varied quite massively over time, work-
for several thousand years the climate will spike at a rapid rate, then for another couple of tens of thousands of years, the global temperature will decrease slowly. We know this from various pieces of evidence, the most prominent one being the advance and retreat cycle of glaciers; we know there have been seven cycles in the last 650,000 years. We currently believe the cause of the advancing and retreating to be due to the global average temperature rising and falling with the atmospheric CO2 concentration. It’s believed that a source of natural CO2 concentration change occurs from the sub oceanic stores rising to the surface and evaporating into the atmosphere. The concentrations from hundreds of thousands of years ago can be measured by taking samples from pockets of air trapped inside glaciers, the concentrations of the present gasses can be measured using a gas chromatograph. The age of the air pockets can be estimated using methods with an equally complex sounding name.
The concentration of pollutant gasses is much higher than it should be From the evidence that has been found so far, scientists in the field can confirm that the world is currently at a stage in its cycle where CO2 levels would naturally be high. However, the concentration of pollutant gasses is much higher than it should be. This is evident from the recorded temperatures that have been taken for about 140 years; 18 of the hottest on record have occurred in the last 20 years, with the hottest ever being in 2016. The relationship between the average global temperature and the atmospheric CO2 concentration is made shockingly apparent when you compare graphs showing both data. Climate change deniers, or scep-
fence you’re on, often use some of the discussed evidence as proof that climate change isn’t due to human effect, or even, isn’t real at all, claiming that global warming now is meaningless as the rise in average global temperature and CO2 concentration have naturally happened before. Some of the common arguments used against climate change and global warming are: “the climate has changed before”; “Models aren’t always reliable”; and my personal favourite, “it’s still cold in winter”, with a US senior Senator, James Inhofe, going as far as taking a snowball into a senate meeting, arguing that that’s evidence enough to show global warming isn’t real. All of these arguments, in fact, every argument against global warming, can fairly easily be proven wrong. Some people need reminding that the consequences from our polluting and global warming go beyond our opinions and even our lifetimes. The effects we, as a society, have inflicted and forever scarred the planet we call home.
Global warming, public opinion and debate | The Facts Sea surface temperatures have been higher during the past three decades than at any other time since largescale measurement began in the late 1800s
During the 20th century, sea level rose an average of
7 inches after
2,000 years of relatively little change
Arctic summer sea ice has
decreased by roughly
34% since 1979
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GWYDDONIAETH
Huntington’s disease affects early brain development
by Milo Moran
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untington’s is an inherited disease which causes serious neurodegenerative damage it destroys nerve cells in the brain, resulting in a gradual loss of motor skills and cognitive ability. It takes approximately 20 years to progress, is always fatal, and affects roughly 1 in 10,000 people. Towards the final stages of the disease, sufferers require 24-hour nursing, as it causes difficult breathing, swallowing, and moving. The disease is Autosomal Dominant, which means that if either parent has Huntington’s, a child has a 50% risk of also developing it. This also means that the sex of the child doesn’t matter - Huntington’s affects both males and females equally.
This will allow us to develop treatments for this fatal disease
Research at Cardiff University has indicated that the progression of Huntington’s may begin very early in life. Previous research has only focused on later life, since humans do not show symptoms until they are between 30 and 50 years old. However, in partnership with Lund University and the University
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Breakthrough: Study reveals the severe condition can be identified at a younger age. Source: NICHD (Via Flickr)
of Erlangen-Nuremberg, scientists have found evidence of the disease in mice and rat pups. The gene which causes Huntington’s disease produces a protein called huntingtin, which poisons nerve cells irreversibly; thus, there is currently no known cure. The scientists found that young animals with the disease show more risk-taking behaviour - a symptom which has also been reported in humans with the disease. The fact
that these symptoms are observed at a young age could indicate that Huntington’s begins its progression much earlier that thought, and further study might help us treat or manage the disease. Cardiff University’s Dr Florian Siebzehnrubl said that the research “gives us a better understanding of the point at which the mutant gene begins to influence the brain”, and that this will “allow us to develop potential treatments for this fatal
disease”. Panobinostat, a potential new cancer drug, was tested in the study and found to completely restore the damage caused by Huntington’s. This would not affect the genetic mutation which produces huntingtin. However, the study also uncovered changes to the brain caused by huntingtin before physical symptoms appear; identifying Huntington’s and minimising its effects early on offers new and potentially ground-breaking opportunities for treatment.
Chemical pollution may threaten 50% of the world’s orcas
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he killer whale is at the top of the food chain when it comes to marine animals, which is the main problem when discussing the effects of PCBs. When, the chemicals enter the ocean they are first absorbed by plankton, and the
Microplastics found in half of South Wales river insects
by Nia Jones
PCBs: The Real Killers by Hannah Priest
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level of PCB increases in each animal that consumes it. As a result, Killer whales absorb the highest amount of PCB pollution as they continue to consume the different prey in their food chain – from fish, to seals and sharks. Polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB)
At Risk: PCBs are easily passed down from the mother orca to its new-born. Source: Wikimedia Commons
has been mass produced and manufactured from the 1920s through to 1981, when they were finally banned here in the UK. Over the course of three decades, Europe alone produced over 3000 tonnes of PCB. The issue now being that the majority has yet to be safely destroyed or put in safe places. Even though PCBs have been banned for decades, they are still continuing to pollute and harm marine mammals and the ocean as a whole. Since it was used in everything from paint to plastics to electrical equipment, it is extremely difficult to erase the presence of PCBs in our oceans. In order for the Killer Whale species to continue thriving in our oceans they must be able to reproduce. However, it has been shown in recent studies that the pollution of PCBs in the Killer whales’ diets has had a significant effect on their ability to reproduce, as they stunt the production of female orcas’ ovaries. Moreover, PCBs are easily passed down from the mother orca to its new-born through the mother’s milk. This means that the pollutants remain to exist in the mam-
mal’s bodies, continuing the harmful chain of PCBs being prominent in future Killer whales. As a result, the orcas’ bodies remain full of pollutants that are far more persistent than the animals themselves are.
PCBs in the killer whales’ diets has had a significant effect on their ability to reproduce Although it is difficult to control the level of PCB when in enters the ocean there are steps and precautions that can be taken to prevent it entering the environment. Certain areas including Europe urgently need to address the placement of the banned PCB products by destroying or placing them away safely urgently. By doing this the amount of PCB entering our oceans will drastically decrease.
esearch led by the Cardiff School of Biosciences has found microplastics in 50% of insects sampled across South Wales rivers. Microplastics are pieces of plastic under five millimetres in diameter, meaning they are almost invisible to the naked eye and are often mistaken for food by aquatic organisms. The resulting ingestion of plastics or absorption of pollutants on their surface can harm growth, reproduction and survival of marine animals and riverine insects. This makes microplastics a widespread and invasive threat to our marine, and now freshwater environments. Professor Steve Ormerod, Co-Director of Cardiff University’s Water Research Institute said “our understanding of the risks to wildlife and people is absolutely rudimentary. We need to improve this situation urgently to know how best to manage the problems”. Although the presence of microplastics was greater in river sections downstream from waste water input, the study showed that plastics were found both upstream and downstream in all the rivers surveyed. This is indicative of diverse and complicated sources of microplastic.
Every year, between eight and twelve million tonnes of plastics are thought to be entering the World’s oceans Fred Windsor, PhD Student at the School of Biosciences, said: “Every year, between eight and twelve million tonnes of plastics are thought to be entering the World’s oceans, but around four million tonnes of it passes along rivers. In some cases, there can be over half a million plastic fragments per square metre of river bed, so that ingestion by insects is very likely.” South Wales’ rivers have a long history of industrial pollution with over 70% of them once classed as ‘grossly polluted’. However, many have undergone a major recovery since. This study highlights reducing microplastic concentration as a new challenge for river management in the region, and a new focus for pollution campaigners. Professor Isabelle Durance, Director of the Water Research Institute at Cardiff University said that “the potential problem of plastics in river ecosystems has been seriously overlooked.”
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SPORT
Blues back in business
by John Jones
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aving watched their team suffer three excruciating last-gasp defeats in their opening games of the season, Blues fans finally have something to smile about. Through their 24-21 win over Toyota Cheetahs on Friday night, Cardiff recorded back-to-back PRO14 victories, having thrashed Munster 37-13 a week earlier. His side sloppy in preceding fixtures, John Mulvihill approached both games knowing that a step-up in physicality and intensity was necessary and, whilst their South African opponents really made them work for it, was happy to come away with two wins from two. In doing so, from initial despondency, the Blues have moved into a new stage of their season. Quite simply now that they know they can win, they must continue to do so – points will bring confidence and vice versa. Whilst each game will be approached differently tactically, however, Cardiff ’s second half performance against the Cheetahs made it clear what basic elements are needed for this new run of form to be extended. In a league like the Guinness PRO14, physicality counts for an awful lot, with quick feet and neat passing only getting you so far. Outmuscled at times against Leinster and Benetton, the Blues brought strength and power to the Cheetahs fixture, within both the forwards and backs. A thumping tackle from Rey LeeLo within the opening two minutes set a precedent for what was an immense physical display from the home side, who dominated the battle of attrition in the middle of the park. With a pack containing the wrecking balls of Rhys Gill and Scott Andrews, as well as the gargantuan frame of Rory Thornton, with new signings Samu Manoa and Dimitri Arhip also waiting in the wings, Cardiff need to utilise this staggering physical potential to dominate teams from the opening passages. Furthermore, Mulvihill’s side must continue to work on their discipline. Having conceded a number of penalties, and letting a 21-point lead slip in their match against Zebre, a week after being reduced to 13 men against Benetton, the Blues seem to have now realised the dangers of complacency. Whilst their penalty count was still fairly high against both Munster and the Cheetahs, Cardiff heads did not drop, particularly when the South Africans came from behind to race into an elevenpoint lead. Given the disappointments of previous weeks, few would have expected the Blues to respond the way that they did, launching attacks on their opposition, whilst keeping cool heads throughout. After a wobbly start to the season, there are encouraging signs that the Blues’ PRO14 season is back on track.
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Opinion: Springboks on their way back South Africa are back to their usual best under Rassie Erasmus
By Jack Vavasour
O
ver the weekend New Zealand won the Rugby Championship, a competition involving Argentina, South Africa, Australia and, of course, New Zealand. This can be considered as a predetermined result as New Zealand have won six of the last seven Rugby Championships, last losing in 2015. The ‘competition’ has seemingly become pointless as the All Blacks are so dominant, this dominance is
also apparent in World Cups with the Southern Hemisphere nation having won the last two world cups. Domestically, the Kiwi teams also dominate the Super Rugby competition having won sixteen out of twenty three years. Many wondered if any nation could stop them, up step South Africa, a team who have suffered a huge dip in form over the years since the last World Cup. Having lost to Japan at the 2015 World Cup, the Springboks recuper-
ated and made it to the Semi-Finals and eventually managed to finish third. However, Allister Coetzee took over from Heyneke Meyer with a squad full of potential and South Africa entered a period of mediocre performances, winning only four rugby championship matches in a two year period and losing to England for the first time since 2006. Coetzee was fired and Rassie Erasmus was drafted in to save the Springboks. Currently the team are in a renaissance and are looking like a force to be reckoned with, however, there are potential problems with Erasmus and his Boks. Erasmus has been successful due to his selection of players playing abroad such as Faf de Klerk and Willie Le Roux, this is good for the national team, however, in the long term this is bad for South Africa as it will damage the talent that is playing domestically.
In Wales, Ross Moriarty and Rhodri Williams went back to Wales to be eligible for selection. Springboks are dominating on the field once again. Source: Maximiliano Aceiton (via Flickr)
South Africa had a similar policy but due to lucrative contracts in France and England, many players
have emigrated to play their rugby abroad. The most notable team to have suffered this year have been the Lions, who lost five of their squad to English sides. The money in South African rugby isn’t able to draw the players that it used to, the quality of the South African sides also dipped in recent years due to their being six South African Super Rugby teams, this has been reduced to four in the last season and the talent is now more focused upon the remaining sides. Despite this apparent negative impact, it cannot be denied that South Africa have been blessed with a group of young talented rugby players all coming through at the same time. Before, selection was inconsistent and confused but Erasmus has added stability to those playing under him. If the Springboks can keep this young crop of players playing their rugby in South Africa then the future looks bright for this super power of a rugby nation. Erasmus is the perfect coach to lead the Boks into the next World Cup in Japan and with his discovery of players such as Aphiwe Dyantyi then he should be looking to compete seriously with the likes of New Zealand following their away victory of the World Champions two weeks ago. Now we wait to see if anyone can stop the All Blacks from either the southern or northern hemisphere.
Europe’s heroes must bring form to majors By John Jones
T
here were jubilant scenes over the weekend as Thomas Bjorn’s European team cruised to a terrific 17½ - 10½ victory over the United States. The emphatic win marked Europe’s sixth successive Ryder Cup triumph, with their American counterparts only winning the tournament once since the turn of the millennium, despite fielding golfing superstars such as Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Jim Furyk. However, whilst this consistent Ryder Cup success is obviously no bad thing for the European game, it appears that the same dominance has not yet been transferred to the continent’s individual form, with American golfers seemingly, more often than not, occupying top spot in the majors.and, since 2000, over half of
“The numbers don’t lie. The past three winners of the PGA Championship havebeen American.”
the British and US Open Championships have been from the USA. Even with the triumphs of Danny Willet and Sergio Garcia at the 2016 and 2017 Masters, the last twenty green jacket winners have been predominantly American, with Texan Patrick Reed emerging victorious at Augusta this year. But why is this the case? An obvious factor is home advantage – three of the four majors are played in the USA, granting players such as Jordan Spieth, Brooks Koepka and Bubba Watson familiar courses and passionate home crowds to play in front of. Correspondingly, the British Open, the one major played outside of America, has seen a number of European winners in recent years, with victories for Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson and Francesco Molinari sandwiched between American wins. However, this cannot be the sole reason for the puzzling trend. Golf is a truly international sport, and players frequent courses all over the world in various tournaments, and those with long careers are certainly no strangers to the major courses, whilst European golf fans often travel across the globe to show their support.
To the casual observer, it may seem that the personalities of many American golfers – arrogant, loud, brash – directly conflict with what the sport of golf demands, whilst quieter, more unassuming European golfers must possess the personal discipline and
“However, this has not been the case, save for Danny Willet’s unbelievable victory over a crumbled Jordan Spieth.” cool head to succeed. It seems that the swagger and attitude of the USA’s talent has not held them back at all, with the media pressure that they carry only spurring them on, inflating their belief that they truly are the greatest in their field. And perhaps that is Europe’s problem; we don’t have a true golfing superstar on par with Woods or Spieth. McIlroy, Rose and Garcia have all
been consistent performers over the year, but attention only really falls to them at tournament time – somebody needs to assume this iconic role. Following the weekend’s victory, captain Bjorn has a few ideas about the likely contenders. Tommy Fleetwood, who contributed four points to Team Europe’s impressive 17½ point haul, is at the top of his list. The long-haired 27-year-old is breaking the mould as a youthful, funny and chilled-out golfer, and, after coming second to Koepka in this year’s US Open, looks certain to achieve success in the majors for years to come. Spaniard Jon Rahm has also had a rapid rise to fame, climbing from 766th to second in the world rankings over just two years, and placing fourth at this year’s Masters.
Ryder Cup Final Score
EUROPE
USA
17 1/2
10 1/2
CHWARAEON
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Cage warrior success sparks UFC possibilities
Can Cardiff become a regular venue for major UFC events? By George Willoughby
S
hore was able to cause a stoppage in the first round with a barrage of strong elbows and punches, however many MMA fans have openly shown their disapproval at Marc Goddard’s decision to call an end to the bout. That wouldn’t stop the crowd from congratulating their man and subsequently, Shore remains Wales’ hottest fighting prospect It wasn’t just Shore flying the flag high for Wales as Mason Jones, Aaron Khalid and Corey McKenna were also in action. Not all were victorious, but the overall success of the evening has prompted Cage Warriors Owner Graham Boylan to raise the possibility of the Welsh capital being the place for future events. In an interview after Cage Warriors 97, Boylan spoke to Wales Online about how the city “has everything it needs to host a UFC event”. Without a doubt Wales has a vibrant love for fighting, more so now than ever with the recent passing of Enzo Calzaghe. Arena wise, Cardiff Motorpoint Arena would be the first option, but maintaining a sufficient capacity after most of the floor place will be
taken up could prove to be a difficult obstacle to overcome. We know that the Principality Stadium would be another alternative, especially give the two Anthony Joshua boxing fights that showcased the stadium in all of its glory. Cage Warriors 97 was the biggest ever MMA event to be hosted in Wales, so for it to go down as well as it did can only bode well for the future. To go from the Ice Arena to the Principality would be an unrealistic jump, so this is a multi-year plan but Cardiff is not very far away at all. The passion from the fans is palpable, they have numerous options regarding arenas, and all that is needed is a superstar. This is where the undefeated Jack Shore comes in. Graham Boylan also mentioned that Shore draws comparisons to Connor McGregor in his early days of fighting. The same buzz McGregor generated in Ireland is comparable to the excitement Shore is creating in Wales. Obviously, there is a way to go for Shore but his impressive victories are not going unnoticed. If he continues to dominate the way he is, then there is no reason as to why he
can’t become a global star and that is when Cardiff will be ready to host the UFC. Jack shore will be back in action for the most important fight in his career when he takes on Mike Ekundayo at Cage Warriors 100 for the Bantamweight title. Shore will have the Welsh backing with the event taking place in the Ice Arena once again.
“It comes as no surprise that talk of hosting a UFC event has surfaced given the passion for combat sport success.”
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2018 Cardiff’s sporting year Cardiff City
Promoted to the Premier League
Cardiff Blues European Challenge Cup Winners
Cardiff Devils Elite League and Playoff Champions
Geraint Thomas Source: UK-I Photography
Tour de France winner
Match Preview: Giggs faces tough Spain task By George Willoughby
I
nternational football returns to the Principality Stadium as Ryan Giggs’ men host Luis Enrique’s Spain. There’s quite a difference in form heading into the match with Spain coming off the back of an impressive 6-0 win over a Croatia side that recently reached the World-Cup final. Wales on the other hand were defeated 2-0 by an organised Denmark team and an in-form Christian Eriksen who scored both goals. Home advantage should be beneficial with a bumper crowd expected at the Principality. The fans could prove to be an invaluable twelfth-man and they are going to be needed come Thursday. Upon announcing his team, Ryan Giggs was forced to make two changes. Joe Ledley and Tom Lockyer have been ruled out through injury. Callups have come for Jazz Richards and 21-year old George Thomas who has been very impressive for the Under 21s. Looking at the squad, there is an extremely promising contingent of youth who have been performing excellently at their league clubs. Game time is crucial for the development of players and it is a heavily discussed topic especially for the England national team with numerous squad members struggling for firstteam football. In particular, the developing rap-
port between Tom Lawrence and Harry Wilson for Derby County must be exciting for Wales’s fans. Both have been very good in the Championship and make strong cases for starting in Thursday’s match. David Brooks has also looked great for Bournemouth and his confidence will be sky-high after notching his first Premier League goal against Crystal Palace. The 25-man squad looks to have a nice blend of experience and youth and the friendly matchup should be a good environment to give the younger players some game time. You cannot forget Gareth Bale of course who is the star-man for this Welsh side. Although, Bale did not feature in Real Madrid’s midweek Champions League game so his fitness will need to be monitored closely. This could pave the way for Aaron Ramsay to shine so look for the midfielder to play an important role going forward. Ethan Ampadu stood out in Wales’ 4-1 victory over Ireland back in September and he could be in line to start once again. Spain would be a great test for the youngster, but nothing seems to faze the 18-year old and I’m sure it’s a challenge he will be relishing. After impressively dispatching Croatia, this Spain team will want to follow up their exceptional performance with another win. Marco Asensio was simply superb
Source: Clint Budd in that match and the Wales defence will be in for a long game if he can replicate the same brilliance. Enrique’s men blew away a strong Croatian side that just could not deal with Spain’s attacking prowess. The striker position still remains questionable, but they more than make up for that with midfielders
like Isco, Saúl Ñíguez and Sergio Busquests who all understand their roles so well. It’s very impressive to see Spain look so good given the abrupt changes in management the side has had to deal with. Thursday may be a friendly but momentum is very important, as The Red Fury will be facing up against Gareth
Southgate’s England on 15th October. Wales’ fans have every right to be optimistic and there is no reason as to why they cannot battle against one of the world’s top teams. If Spain are at their best then they are a handful for any international side so a positive result will be the main focus for Ryan Giggs and his coaching team.
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SPORT
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Enzo Calzaghe: Goodbye to one of boxing’s true greats
A long road ahead
by Reece Chambers
W
hen any side gets promoted to the Premier League, the excitement soon wares off when they get hit by the brutal reality of one of the toughest leagues in professional football. Cardiff City’s promotion to the promised land back in May might well have been met with surprise amongst football fans and so-called experts, but there is no surprise to the way the Bluebirds have started this season. As of 4th October, two days before a trip to Wembley to face Spurs, Neil Warnock’s side sit on two points from their first seven matches - scoring just four goals and conceding 16 which gives Cardiff the second worst goal difference in the league with only bottom-placed Huddersfield Town worse off. It would be easy to use this column to harp on about the rut that Cardiff City currently find themselves in but that would not only be counterproductive but also a complete waste of time for everyone involved. Instead, I want to examine whether actually reaching the Premier League – just to struggle and most likely go straight back down – is something for teams like Cardiff to strive for. The first thing people point to – whether they are season ticket holders or stay up to watch the Bluebirds last on Match of the Day – is their evident lack of spending in the summer transfer window. Both on paper and on the pitch, Cardiff look seriously short of quality in the attacking third. Rarely this season have they looked like seriously threatening teams in front of goal. Instead, their only real attacking plan against Burnley was to launch the ball into the area from what seemed like thousands of Sean Morrison throw-ins. As a result, it’s clear to see that Cardiff do not have the financial firepower to recruit the players needed to develop into a fully-fledged Premier League side. Warnock clearly did not have the financial backing in the summer to get players of either Premier League quality or top-flight experience. The closest they came to recruiting Premier League experience was the loan signing of Harry Arter from Bournemouth. Now the fact that their most notable signing of the summer was a loan sums up the transfer window quite well for the Bluebirds. Unsurprisingly, they are now paying the price for what was an underwhelming summer of recruitment. True, money doesn’t buy you success but it certainly equips you with the tools to challenge against teams in the league. As performances against Burnley and Manchester City demonstrated, there is only so far that organisation and team spirit can take you until a lack of attacking quality becomes a serious flaw. In sum, Cardiff ’s season so far is one that demonstrates that coming to the Premier League with little money to spend will most likely leave you with an impossible task against most sides in the league.
Without his father by his side throughout an illustrious career, Joe Calzaghe would not have been the same fighter
By John Jones
T
o say that Enzo Calzaghe had an extraordinary career would be somewhat of an understatement. Born in Sardinia in 1949, before moving to the UK briefly as a young boy, Calzaghe spent a number of years travelling around Europe with a dream of making it big as a musician. When a musical breakthrough looked increasingly unlikely, fortune saw him end up in Cardiff, where he found work in a local branch of Wimpy, and married one of the waitresses, with whom he later had three children. Hardly a conventional route to sporting glory, but what lay ahead for Calzaghe would change British boxing forever. Whilst growing up in Newbridge, Enzo became involved in the local gym, and when his son Joe became the target of bullying, he was encouraged to bring him along to try boxing by trainer Paul Williams. Both men immediately spotted the young boy’s natural boxing ability, and, as his trainers, helped him to hone his skills, with Enzo eventually taking over the gym from the departing Williams when Joe turned eighteen. This move brought with it the creation of a sporting partnership like no other. Twenty-five years on from his first professional fight, the now retired Calzaghe Jr. stands as one of Britain’s finest ever boxers. Over a fifteen-year career, Joe achieved an undefeated record of 460, with 32 of these victories coming by means of a knockout. He won world championships in two weight divisions, becoming one of the most successful super-middleweight fighters ever, whilst also defeating the legendary Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr. as a light-heavyweight. Joe has always been fully aware, however, that he has not achieved this incredible success through raw talent alone. Both in and out of the ring, his father has continually been in his corner, urging him to never give up, from when he resented training as a young boy, to when he found himself knocked to the canvas for the first time in his career in
In his element: Enzo Calzaghe’s passing is a huge loss to the boxing community. his 2003 fight against Byron Mitchell. Whilst Enzo was dwarfed by Joe in terms of physical stature, he more than made up for it with his eccentric personality and often fiery temperament, which, in the long term at least, helped to nurture his son’s discipline as a fighter. Tactically, Enzo’s relative lack of experience in boxing drew criticism from those more seasoned professionals, with his prioritisation of hard work and holding a positive attitude, over more sophisticated sports science and conditioning approaches, being seen as naïve and damaging to his son’s development. This certainly didn’t seem to be the case when it came to fight night. What Calzaghe Jr. admittedly lacked in clinical punches, he more than made up for with speed and power – when a punch did land, it dazed his opponents, who
often would not recover. Even as this speed began to fade as he entered his thirties, that many believed would see the end of his unbeaten record. Furthermore, if Enzo’s critics needed any further proof of his ability, the trainer not only achieved success with his own son, but also led two other Welshmen, in the shape of Gavin Rees
Enzo’s positivity and hard work drove Joe to many impressive fights.
and Enzo Maccarinelli, to world championship glory. Regardless of his hugely successful career and charismatic personality, what endeared many people to Enzo was his obvious overwhelming pride in and love for his son, and the special relationship between the two. In a 2014 TV interview, when Joe was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Enzo got choked up as he reflected on the incredible journey he had been on with his son, as the boxer embraced him in a touching display of affection. A cliché admittedly, but this journey truly was incredible in every sense, and we, as sport fans, were lucky to have witnessed part of it. A “father, best friend… mentor and hero” to his son, Enzo gave so much to the world of boxing, and he will be sorely missed by all associated.
Enzo Calzaghe’s career highlights with son Joe Fights
Fights won
Defeats
Knockouts
46
46
0
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Men’s 1st XV and Ladies compete at Arms Park
Cardiff 30-12 USW Cardiff Met 20-0 USW Cardiff 17-31 Cardiff Met
T
he Arms Park hosted a full day of rugby with all the universities in south Wales playing in the tournament. It started at 11:30 in the morning, finishing with the BUCs Super Rugby League Cardiff derby in the evening. The men’s teams were all freshers apart from Cardiff Medicals who took the win of the cup. The women’s sides were all mixed years and being new sides, had limited time to prepare. The day was kicked off by the women’s teams playing with Cardiff Met facing off against USW. USW tried hard but
“Met brought out fresh legs for this game whereas Cardiff made minor changes.” Met took the win with 0-20. A Similar situation happened when Cardiff University played USW. Cardiff were 30-12 winners with try’s from Liliana Podpadec, Theresa Pflaum and Claire Morgan. However, Met won the women’s
cup in the deciding game against Cardiff University. It was a very physical match with some big hits resulting in injuries for both teams. Met were the superior attacking side on the day and broke through Cardiff ’s defence, winning the game, 15-0. It was the first year in the Blue’s cup where the Cardiff Medicals were invited to play. They proved that they were worth the invite coming away winners, even with 12 freshers on their squad. Good rugby was played by all the boys fresher’s teams. The Medics didn’t concede a point throughout the whole competition, they beat USW 10-0, Cardiff Uni 7-0 and Met 15-0. The day concluded with the Cardiff derby. Cardiff Met 1st XV against Cardiff University 1St XV in both their second game of the Super Rugby League. For Cardiff it was a tale of playing hard but not getting the result they wanted, as Met came away with the win, 31-17. It was a very physical game with both sides hitting hard lines and keeping a solid defence. Game play frequently went back and forth between both team’s halves. 10 minutes in Met got their first try by winger Zach Clow. Cardiff followed it up quickly with a try from
a maul touched down by Cary Davies, making it 5-5 (15’). With the Met forwards feeling the pressure in the scrums from Cardiff, Met flanker, Dan Thurston was put in the sin bin (20’). However, Met did step up with only having 14 men
“Met scored the first points in the second half with a break from prop Harry Seward.” on the pitch and were able to break through the Cardiff defence with Winger Chris Lewis scoring from an interception, 12-5 (39’). Yet again Cardiff replied with another try by winger George Thomas, making the score 12-10 (34’). Although with minutes left untill half time Met scored again after a series of rucks from a solid defence by Cardiff, but second row Eduardo Balocco got the try leaving the score at half time 12-10 to Met. As both teams ran back out onto the pitch both Met and Cardiff crowds were giving it their all to
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‘‘ support their boys. The second half began with the same amount of intensity as the first. Met scored the first points in the second half with a break from prop Harry Seward. This lead to a try from centre Luke Northmore which was converted by fly-half Harry Johnston. Leaving the scoreline at 24-10 (43’). Met were pressurising the Cardiff defence, but they held strong, and from that pressure points came for Cardiff. Fly-half George Finney scored the try and they got the conversion, 18-24 (53’). Cardiff were nearing Met’s score and both sides were working extremely hard to get over the line with the victory. However, Met were able to use their backs and break through the Cardiff defence, as fly-half Johnston made the try line on the 70th minute. Met now lead 31-17. No other points were scored in the last 10 minutes as both sides rallied on. The scoreline would finish 31-17 in Met’s favour. Cardiff ’s opening games into the Super League were not the easiest, playing both last year’s finalist teams. Cardiff ’s next game is on the 17th of October against Durham. They have a well-deserved week off from playing where they can focus on areas where they need to improve .
Huge congratulations to @cardiffuni student @kirancarlson on winning the @ GlamCricket John Derrick Young Player of the Year award #Cricket @CardiffUniSport
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Don’t forget that the Give it a Go is tomorrow from 3pm til 5:30pm at the 3G in Taly North @CardiffCobras_
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By Rosie Foley
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To contact our sport desk, drop us an email at sport@gairrhydd.com
Women’s football growing rapidly
T
he Fifa Football Awards were at the end of the last month. It saw Brazil’s Marta named as the Best FIFA Women’s player for the sixth time. She is regarded as one of the greatest female players of all time, as she holds the record for the most goals at the World Cup. Also announced last week, the French Football Magazine France Football said that the prestigious Ballon d’Or award will be awarded to women for the first time with a shortlist of 15 nominees. French International Wendie Reard said that “It’s a step forward. Women’s football is progressing and the inequalities are being reduced even if there is still progress to be made.” Editor-in-chief, Pascal Ferre, commented that “Women’s soccer is a booming discipline that deserves the same respect as men’s soccer. It’s coming to maturity and growing bigger.” This is also shown by the development of Women’s
Football in England. Over the past few years the growth of full-time professionals in women’s football in England have seen a pay rise which has been provided from outlets like the FA and other sponsors. The FA also introduced a second tier to the WSL to provide a distinction between the professional and semi-professional sides of the women’s game. Women who play in the WSL can
“For the new season, the FA approved a one tier full-time structure for Women’s Super League Football.” earn up to £35,000 for the year. For a professional sports woman this is
pretty good, but not when you compare it to the likes of what Serena Williams can earn. However, there is a big difference between the top and bottom of women’s football. Matthew Buck, the director of player management at the PFA said that “over the last couple of years more and more players and teams have gone professional” but the system is “still catching up”. According to Buck the range of the salary ranges from “£5000£10,000’” for non-professional players to “up to around the £35,000 mark for the top earners.” England internationals have been paid for the last few years with each of them earning a minimum of £25,000 a year. It can mean that a professional female footballer can earn up to £60,000 but in comparison to the men’s top earners with the likes of Raheem Sterling getting in excess of £250,000 a week, it is very meagre. Lucy Bronze, England star even
says that getting to the men’s height is “so far in the distance” but “the whole of the England squad is fulltime and the majority of the league players are full-time and its making a difference to performances. It’s raising the whole game.” Nevertheless, with the awarding of the ballon d’Or and general pro-
“To compare the two games isn’t feasible as they are in different stages of their development.” gress of Women’s football becoming more professional world-wide. Women’s football can only continue to grow towards the heights of male professional football.
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Congratulations to the 21 players who made it into the Men’s and Ladies #bucs squad this year @CardiffTennis
Your sport desk Reece Chambers Rosie Foley John Jones Jack Vavasour George Willoughby sport@gairrhydd.com
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By Rosie Foley
CHWARAEON
To contact our sport desk, drop us an email at sport@gairrhydd.com
sport
Europe’s Ryder Cup Victory Page 28
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Cardiff City and Cardiff Blues Columns Page 28-30 Women’s football to be awarded Ballon d’Or
By Rosie Foley
A
t the Fifa Football Awards last month, Brazil’s Marta was named Best FIFA Women’s player for the sixth time. She is regarded as one of the greatest female players ever, as she holds the record for the most goals at the world cup. Last week, the French Football Magazine, France Football, said that the prestigious Ballon d’Or will be awarded to women for the first time, with a shortlist of 15 nominees. Read: P31
Heyward says winning Welsh Junior Athlete of the Year is an ‘honour’ EXCLUSIVE
By Reece Chambers
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500 metre runner Jake Heyward says it’s an “honour” to be awarded Welsh Junior Athlete of the Year. The Cardiff University student registered a personal best time of 3:36.90 in July at the IAAF Diamond League Anniversary Games in London’s Olympic Park. After breaking his lifetime best time on a number of occasions in this calendar year, Heyward is making the right steps in his career. In particular, national recognition of his achievements – through the Welsh Junior Athlete of the Year award – is one of the biggest achievements in his athletics career to date. Speaking exclusively to Gair Rhydd, Heyward said that winning the Welsh Junior Athlete of the Year award was a big honour. “It’s a big honour when you look at the other names to have won the award. “It gives me great confidence go-
ing into the next stage of my career,” said Heyward. Heyward has had an unforgettable year in 2018 as he broke several impressive records. Not only did he break his own personal best, but, in doing so, his lifetime best of 3:36.90 put him second in the UK U20 alltime list at 1500 metres – putting himself ahead of the likes of Steve Cram and Sebastian Coe. The Cardiff-born athlete, then, is certainly a hot prospect for the future if his recent performances this year are anything to go by. Winning the Welsh Junior Athlete of the Year Award is a great achievement for the 19-year-old and it gives him a chance to move in the right direction as he looks to establish himself in the senior ranks. However, despite winning at the European youth and junior championships in 2016 and 2017, Heyward will be concentrating on keeping up his development as an athlete as he looks to transition well into the sen-
ior level. “There’s the U23 level between junior and senior but it’s just a case of if you’re good enough, you’ll be able to push for a senior place,” said Heyward. With his 1500m lifetime best the 2nd best of any UK male athlete to compete at U20s, Heyward’s racing times suggest that he will not have any problems adapting to the demands of the senior level of racing.
Heyward’s racing times suggest that he will not have any problems adapting.
As a University student, Heyward was keen to state that studying for a degree and training to a professional level is achievable. “It’s just about managing yourself well. That’s something that took me a while to do but there’s definitely enough time to do both, it’s just about finding the balance,” said Heyward. With a plethora of career highlights already in his short career as an athlete, the 1500m runner still believes that his achievements on the track in 2016 and 2017 at European Championships are his biggest achievements yet. “Nothing compares to winning on the track so I’d have to say that the victory in 2016 is a personal highlight.” Heyward will be looking to add to his success at junior level as he enters a crucial part of his career. Transitioning through junior level to senior levels will be testing, but he looks in a good position to be able to do so.
Can Cardiff become a venue for UFC? By George Willoughby
F
ollowing on from Cardiff ’s highly successful night of Mixed Martial Arts last weekend, the talk of Cardiff being the place for further events has intensified. Cage Warriors 97 took place in the Cardiff Ice arena with the highly regarded Welshman Jack Shore taking the headlines with an impressive T.K.O victory over Brazilian Featherweight Wessley Maia. Read: P31
Enzo Calzaghe: One of boxing’s greats
By John Jones
T
o say that Enzo Calzaghe had an extraordinary career would be somewhat of an understatement. Born in Sardinia in 1949, before moving to the UK briefly as a young boy, Calzaghe spent a number of years travelling around Europe with a dream of making it big as a musician. What Enzo made of his European travels were not foreseen by anyone as he established himself as one of boxing’s all-time great. Read: P31