Issue 1152 - Monday 9 March

rhifyn 1152 issue 1152

gair rhydd

9 mawrth 2020 9 march 2020

Check out Gair Rhydd online

Cardiff University’s student paper | Established 1972

Head online to find out the SU Election results:

gairrhydd.com

Exclusive “I’m disappointed”: Jackie Yip discusses leaked email

Charlotte King Head of News

L

ast month, Gair Rhydd was contacted by an anonymous source who leaked an email sent by Cardiff University Students’ Union President, Jackie Yip. In the email, Yip said that some Cardiff University students will be unable to graduate this academic year due to ongoing University College Union (UCU) strike action.

Part of the email read: “Confidentially, further strike action will now mean some of my students will have missed so much content that they will not be able to graduate this year, even if there are mitigating actions put in place. We have not told students this as we do not want to cause panic and behind closed doors, I am doing everything I can to protect my students. I am sure this may be the case in some of your Unions.”

Last week, Gair Rhydd sat down with Jackie Yip to find out more about this leaked email, the campaign to try and ensure students will be able to graduate, and the backlash she has faced as a result of the leak. “[The email] was never meant for public view”, Yip said. “I was incredibly disappointed that the very panic I wanted to avoid by working behind the scenes to sort this out [happened]. The time it took me to firefight this situation could have been spent sorting out things for students.”

Yip informed Gair Rhydd that she was very disappointed that the email was leaked. It was confidential, she said, and the Students’ Union has consequently spent “many hours” trying to deal with the response from students and staff alike. “I’m disappointed...This was not something that was helpful [to the SU].”

The leaked email formed part of an email chain between over 70 other SU presidents across the UK, all of whom are facing UCU strike action at their own universities. We asked Jackie Yip why she felt comfortable

sharing the fact that some students might not be able to graduate with over 70 people via email, but was not willing to tell students themselves.

“We were 70 unions all trying to write a letter to pressure those negotiating to compromise with the UCU, and we expressed in our chain how concerned we were for the nuances of the letter … This is why I was so frustrated, because the email was taken completely out of context.

“You trust your counterparts across the country because you’re all going through the same thing. It’s just disappointing that [it was my email] that was chosen.”

In light of this, we asked Yip whether there were emails from other SU Presidents expressing similar concerns regarding graduation and learning outcomes. Yip did not confirm or deny that this was true, saying “we all expressed some very personal concerns and sentiments.”

In our search to discover if the possibility of students not graduating is true, Yip informed Gair Rhydd that the SU and the University are both planning for the “worst-case scenario.” She stressed that at this point, everyone is unsure what the full impact of strike action will be but the Union is working to plan for every scenario so that they are “fully aware of how to support students” if the worst happens.

“The University has openly said now that they’re going to make sure all students can graduate and I’m going to happily hold them to that and make sure students are not compromised in any way.”

So, what are the Union doing to work with Cardiff University and UCU to prevent a situation where students cannot graduate? The SU President told Gair Rhydd that a lot of time, she hears comments from people saying she should be putting more pressure on management “which is fascinating [because] the whole year has been spent putting pressure on management.”

Continued on page 3.

Wil Rees: Ymgeisydd Plaid Cymru yng Nghaerdydd Canolog yn Etholiad y Senedd. Tarddiad: Wil Rees

Myfyriwr Prifysgol Caerdydd i sefyll i Blaid Cymru yng Nghaerdydd Canolog Llion Carbis

Pennaeth y Gymraeg

G

ydag ychydig dros flwyddyn i fynd nes Etholiad Senedd Cymru 2021, Taf-od sy’n cyfweld ag un o fyfyrwyr Prifys-

gol Caerdydd a fydd yn sefyll yn yr etholiad.

Mae Wil Rees, myfyriwr yn y drydedd flwyddyn sy’n astudio Gwleidyddiaeth, wedi’i ddewis gan aelodau Plaid Cymru i’w cynrychioli yng Nghanol Caerdydd. Mewn cy-

First coronavirus Men’s Football cases confirmed in suspended from Wales BUCS activity Hallum Cowell Politics Editor

A

s the number of confirmed Cornavirus (COVID-19) cases surpasses 100 in the UK, the Government has outlined plans to contain the virus. In Wales, as part of the first ‘contain’ phase laid out in government plans, local authorities will be able to apply a magistrates order to isolate, detain, or insist upon a medical examination. In the worst case scenario, the military would be mobilised to give support to emergency services.

To read more on the latest on the coronavirus, turn to page 12. 12

Olly Allen

Sport Editor

C

ardiff University men’s football club have been suspended from all football activity, pending an investigation, following a complaint made to Cardiff University Students’ Union. Gair Rhydd Sport understands the complaint was made following an ‘initiation’ social in February which allegedly broke both university and BUCS regulations. The suspension could potentially cost the first team the league title, and also puts their participation in the upcoming Welsh Varsity in doubt. To read more, turn to page 31. 31

fweliad â Taf-od, soniodd Rees am eu rhesymau dros fod yn wleidydd, ei flaenoriaethau gwleidyddol a gobeithion Plaid Cymru o wireddu annibyniaeth.

Ewch i dudalen 6 i ddarllen rhagor.

6

Cardiff University resources to be used in 5G grant Liv Davies Science Editor

A

grant will be given to a project that aims to install 5G in rural communities in Wales.

As 5G has almost 10 times the speeds of 4G, this £65 million grant will hopefully enable these rural communities to be less isolated and more interconnected. This project will involve several of Cardiff University schools including School of Computer Science and Informatics, School of Geography and Planning, and the School of Mathematics. To read more on the project, turn to page 25.

25

2

EDITORIAL

Gair Rhydd 2019/20 Coordinator Elaine Morgan

Editor-in-Chief Tomos Evans

Deputy Editors

Charlotte King Sam Tilley George Willoughby

News

Charlotte King Olly Davies Anna Dutton Zoe Kramer

Features

Mustakim Hasnath Sam Tilley

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com

A note from the Editor Nodyn gan y Golygydd Changing Yr oes : mae hi’n landscapes newid!

Taf-od

Llion Carbis Aled Biston Rhodri Davies Deio Jones

Politics

Lowri Pitcher Hallum Cowell Tom-Henry Jones Maisie Marston

Comment

Adam Clarke Harry Clarke-Ezzidio Kat Smith Tehreem Sultan

Column Road Indigo Jones

Advice

Molly Govus Rhiannon James

Satwik Speaks Satwik Shivoham

Science

Liv Davies Holly Giles

@Caerdydd

Tirion Davies Natalie Graham

Sport

Reece Chambers Olly Allen Ella Fenwick Luke Wakeling Tom Walker George Willoughby

Head of Digital Media Aliraza Manji

Social Media Manager Lottie Draycott

Digital Media Editors Sophia Grace Matt Hancock-Bruce Daniel O’Callaghan

Graphics Editor

Oli King

Copy Editors Boadicea Dowd Anurag Hegde

Write to the editor editor@gairrhydd.com

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 and opinion pieces 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.

Satire is key: One of the most crucial elements of a healthy and vibrant democracy. Source: UK Parliament (via Wikimedia Commons) Tomos Evans Editor-in-Chief

T

hose immortal words, “Class dismissed!” But they’ll soon be back in the classroom as the news many people have been awaiting for some time has finally been confirmed.

Popular satirical comedy Spitting Image is returning as part of ITV and BBC’s new online streaming service, Britbox.

As part of the new series, famous faces such as Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings, Harry and Meghan, and Donald Trump will be transformed into the iconic puppets.

In a time where our politics has undergone a period of significant change, when would there be a better time to revive a show that’s very raison d’être is to make light of our political landscape?

One of the most important parts of a healthy, vibrant democracy, is the ability to satirise, and such a show has been sorely missed from the TV schedules.

With social media being an almost constant barrage of divisive messages and posts, a return to the regulated world of satirical television, where you can be provocative without being offensive, is a welcome one.

Following a General Election which saw a government elected with a strong majority, it has never been more important that we have both a strong

media and shows which aren’t afraid to satire our political classes.

But the times are a-changing, and it’s not just the political landscape in the country which appears to be differing now, our media is also evolving.

At a time when the future of the BBC is under threat from plans which could see it lose the licence fee, it is good to see a more collaborative approach with one of its main broadcasting rivals.

We have recently seen several highprofile current affairs programmes axed by the BBC, with both Victoria Derbyshire and Watchdog set to cease transmission.

Of course, the fact that Spitting Image will only be available as part of Britbox does prove how the British media landscape is changing, with the BBC now having to consider alternative sources of income. With that in mind, will people really be willing to pay for an optional subscription-based service in place of a compulsory fee?

The BBC has been a staple of our media landscape for many years, its content has often been thoughtprovoking and inspired. Of course, it should be held accountable but seeing its future in doubt in this way is hugely concerning.

Who knows how Spitting Image will resonate with audiences in 2020, having been off our screens for so long? But with the political image changing, it’s never been more needed.

Dychan yw’r dyfodol: Un o’r elfennau mwyaf allweddol i ddemocratiaeth ffyniannus. Tarddiad: UK Parliament (drwy Wikimedia Commons) Tomos Evans Prif Olygydd

M

ae un o raglenni mwyaf poblogaidd yr ugeinfed ganrif ar fin dychwelyd i’r teledu, gyda’r newyddion wedi bod yn hir-ddisgwyliedig i nifer. Mae’r gyfres ddychanol boblogaidd, Spitting Image, yn dychwelyd fel rhan o wasanaeth ffrydio newydd y BBC ac ITV, Britbox.

Fel rhan o’r gyfres newydd, bydd wynebau cyfarwydd megis Boris Johnson a Dominic Cummings, Harry a Meghan, a Donald Trump yn cael eu trawsnewid i’r pypedau eiconig.

Wedi cyfnod lle mae gwleidyddiaeth ein gwlad wedi profi newid sylweddol, pryd fyddai’n well i adfywio rhaglen gyda’r pwrpas o ddychanu ein tirlun gwleidyddol?

Un o’r elfennau pwysicaf o ddemocratiaeth iach a bywiog yw’r gallu i ddychanu, ac mae’r fath raglen wedi bod yn absennol o’r amserlenni teledu ers cryn dipyn o amser.

Gyda chyfryngau cymdeithasol bellach yn llawn sylwadau dadleuol, mae dychweliad i fyd y rhaglenni teledu dychanol sydd wedi eu rheoleiddio, i’w groesawi.

Wedi Etholiad Cyffredinol sydd wedi gweld llywodraeth wedi ei ethol gyda mwyafrif sylweddol, dydy hi byth wedi bod yn bwysicach fod ganddom gyfryngau cryf sy’n dwyn i gyfrif, yn ogystal â rhaglenni sydd ddim yn ofni

dychanu’r sefydliad gwleidyddol.

Ond mae’r oes yn newid, a nid dim ond ein sefydliad gwleidyddol sy’n newid, mae ein cyfryngau hefyd yn gorfod addasu.

Mewn cyfnod lle mae dyfodol y BBC yn y fantol gyda chynlluniau a fedrai weld y sefydliad yn colli’r ffi drwydded, mae’n dda i weld cydweithio rhwng y BBC a un o’u prif gystadleuwyr, ITV. Yn ddiweddar rydym wedi clywed bod sawl rhaglen faterion cyfoes ar y BBC i ddod i ben, gan gynnwys Victoria Derbyshire a Watchdog.

Wrth gwrs, mae’r ffaith y bydd Spitting Image ond ar gael fel rhan o Britbox yn profi sut mae tirlun cyfryngol Prydain yn newid, gyda’r BBC nawr yn gorfod ystyried ffynhonellau ariannol gwahanol. Gyda hynny mewn golwg, a fydd pobl wir yn fodlon talu am wasnaeth opsiynol gyda thanysgrifiad, yn hytrach na thalu ffi drwydded orfodol?

Mae’r BBC wedi bod yn rhan annatod o’n tirlun cyfryngol ers tro, mae ei gynnwys yn aml wedi bod yn ddiddorol, a weithiau’n ysbrydoledig.

Wrth gwrs, dylid dal y BBC i gyfrif ond mae gweld ei ddyfodol yn y fantol i’r fath raddau yn gonsyrn sylweddol.

Pwy a ŵyr sut fydd cynulleidfa fodern yn ymateb i Spitting Image?

Ond gyda’r ysgytwad diweddar i’r byd gwleidyddol, dydy’r angen amdano heb fod mor uchel.

Zoe Kramer News Editor

M

arch 2-8 marks Eating Disorders Awareness Week.

According to Beat Eating Disorders, 1.25 million people in the UK are currently living with an eating disorder. The organisation highlights the importance of the role of carers in the recovery of those with eating disorders.

According to the Beat website, “Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses and those caring for someone with an eating disorder are too often left without the support and information they need to help their loved one towards recovery.”

Cardiff University Students’ Union’s Student Minds organisation has organised two events for the week; a Yoga session in collaboration with the yoga Society on March 2, and a self-care event on Friday, March 6.

According to the SU website, “The evening will include making soaps,

face masks and heat packs, amongst other activities. Entry is free and light refreshments will be provided.”

The SU is also raising money for the UK’s Eating Disorder charity, Beat, during this week.

A representative from the Students’ Union said, “Student Minds, one of our Student-Led Services are raising awareness for Eating Disorders Awareness Week. They are hosting a Self-Care event on Friday, March 6 and handing out resources and also raising money for Beat, the UK’s leading Eating Disorder Charity. We believe it is important to raise awareness of eating disorders because this is an issue that can affect our students at any point during their studies – we want students to know where they can get support and how to support others who may be affected.”

According to Priory, eating disorders have the highest mortality rates among psychiatric disorders. Eating disorders are most common in indi-

viduals between the ages of 16 and 40. Approximately 10% of those affected by an eating disorder suffer from anorexia nervosa, and 40% suffer from bulimia nervosa. For those who suffer from bulimia nervosa, it is most often onset at 18-19 years of age. Additionally, approximately 25% of those affected by eating disorders are male.

Beat’s statistics also show that the average duration of anorexia is eight years, and the average duration of bulimia is five years, although these illnesses can become severe and enduring, especially when untreated.

46% of anorexia patients and 45% of bulimia patients make a full recovery.

Some data shows that there may be a genetic element to eating disorders, as female relatives of someone who suffers from anorexia were 11.4 times more likely to suffer from anorexia themselves than those who did not have relatives suffering from anorexia.

The SCOFF questionnaire for diagnosing eating disorders goes as follows: Do you ever make yourself Sick because you feel uncomfortably full?

Do you worry you have lost Control over how much you eat?

Have you recently lost more than One stone in a three month period?

Do you believe yourself to be Fat when others say you are too thin?

Would you say that Food dominates your life?

Students with an eating disorder or students who think they may have an eating disorder can find support by consulting Beat’s online resources or calling their helpline at 0345 634 1414. Students can also consult The National Centre for Eating Disorders for resources.

Finally, Anorexia & Bulimia Care provides support and guidance not only for those struggling with an eating disorder, but also for parents, families and friends.

Charlotte King Head of News Continued from front page.

Y

ip said that it has been “a very interesting dynamic”, working with both the University and UCU as mandated by last year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). The Students’ Union has primarily been doing a lot of ‘hosting work’, she said, for example working with UCU to create blogs on ‘a day in the life of a lecturer’, hosting forums with Postgraduate Research students, and holding banner making sessions. However, the President said the Union is also continuing to lobby management and improve communication channels between the University and UCU “behind closed doors.”

In the leaked email, the SU President also commented that as per last year’s AGM, she is mandated to support the strike action “despite [her] own personal opinions regarding the matter.”

Numerous UCU members have suggested that if universities across the UK do not cede to their demands following the current bout of strikes, they could re-ballot for further strike action later in this academic year which could create a situation where students are unable to graduate.

When asked if she thought it was fair that students are caught in the crossfire of this ongoing dispute, Jackie Yip said: “What I think is fair and what I’ve been mandated to do have to be different

things. My duty is to support [the strike action] and I will support it unless told otherwise, so this is the trap. I’m caught between a rock and a hard place.

“I can only do what the students want me to do; they want me to support this so that’s what I’ll have to do wholeheartedly.”

Continuing to speak about whether she finds it hard to navigate between her personal views on the strikes and her mandate to support them Yip exclaimed “Oh yeah! How do you support maximum impact while simultaneously minimising it?”

Since the email was leaked, Jackie Yip has not only been met with panic from some students but also with criticism. Cardiff Students Supporting the Strike, a group of Cardiff University students supporting the UCU strike action, called on the SU President to reconsider her position.

Shortly after the leak, they posted a statement online which said: “The assertion that students will not graduate as a result of strike action - without any evidence to support this - is dangerously irresponsible.

“If [Jackie Yip] is not comfortable representing the democratic mandate given to her by the student body, then she should consider her position.”

Speaking about this backlash, Yip told Gair Rhydd: “I love a good keyboard warrior … I welcome people to have a conversation with me before they go and say these things.

“It’s not nice … Certainly, when I had conversations with [Cardiff Students

Support the Strike] afterwards they said ‘no, we didn’t mean it, we didn’t mean it like that’ and actually, words mean things. When you say things like that, no matter whether you think it’s professional or not, there’s a human being sat here going ‘Woah, I was only trying my best!’”

In response to Yip’s comments, Cardiff Students Support the Strike have said: “As Yip knows, our group has been tireless in providing support, visiting picket lines, speaking at rallies, attending meets and creating content; we have had no help in this.

“Until after the email leak, she neglected to meet us despite commitments to do so. Our small group of volunteers have exhausted themselves, so the insinuation that our members are simply ‘keyboard warriors’ is as insulting as it is patently untrue.

“We’ll continue in our efforts to support students and stand by our statement that she should consider her position if she will not uphold the mandate.”

Last week, it was announced that an Extraordinary Members Meeting (EMM) has been called following a student-led petition in order to reopen discussions around the Students’ Union’s mandate to support the UCU strike action.

Gair Rhydd asked Jackie Yip whether she believes the SU’s current mandate could be overturned. “I don’t know”, she said. “People have seen strike action now, but I couldn’t tell you what the thoughts and feelings of the student body are relating to the EGM

and I don’t think I have enough understanding to predict how this motion will sway.”

The EMM is being held on Tuesday 10 March at 7:30pm in the Great Hall of the SU. All Cardiff University students are able to attend. Both Jackie Yip and Cardiff Students Support the Strike are encouraging students to attend.

There are three tabled motions to be debated. The first is titled “Cardiff SU must support further strike action” and calls on the SU to ensure sabbatical officers join staff in lobbying the University and should not undermine the motion if it differs from their personal opinions.

The second motion, titled “Supporting the interests of all students during industrial action”, demands the SU represents the interests of all students at the University and continue to lobby for fee reimbursements for lost contact hours.

The final motion is titled “Cardiff Students’ Union should support students during periods of industrial action” and calls on the SU to provide a Strike Desk in the Union on strike days, provide extra mental health services around exam times, and inform students of the negotiating progress made nationally and locally regarding the strikes, amongst other demands.

Ultimately, it appears that there is still ambiguity surrounding whether some students will not be able to graduate at the end of the academic year, but Yip reassures Gair Rhydd that the University and the SU are planning for this worst-case scenario.

To contact our news desk, drop us an email at news@gairrhydd.com

The SU President spoke to Gair Rhydd about the leak, the impact of strike action, and the backlash she has received in its wake

NEWS

“I’m disappointed”: Jackie Yip discusses leaked email

NEWYDDION

The campaign is raising awareness for the treatment of eating disorders

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/news

A glance at Eating Disorders Awareness Week in the Students’ Union

3

Your news desk Charlotte King Olly Davies Anna Dutton Zoe Kramer

4 NEWS

10 Feet Tall to become commercial site

Cardiff Airport asks for further £6.8m loan Eszter Gurbicz Contributor

I

n addition to the £21.2 million loan that was approved last year, Cardiff Airport has requested an extra £6.8 million loan from the Welsh Government.

Writing to the Welsh Assembly, civil servant Andrew Slade said that the initial £21.2 million from the Welsh Government will aid the airport in investing in “buildings and infrastructure, route development, and security.”

If this new loan is to be approved, the Welsh Government will loan the airport £28 million, the sum it asked for in 2019. This sum of money would go towards the investments mentioned above, whilst also helping to implement the next generation of security screening and runway resurfacing.

The airport was bought by the Welsh Government in 2013 and they have invested a lot of money into it since then; £52 million was paid in 2013 alone.

Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “Cardiff Airport, since it was taken into public ownership, has been a success story and in very sharp contrast to the declining path to closure that it was on prior to the Welsh Government’s intervention.” However, there are some concerns regarding the latest potential investment as the airport continuously sees huge financial losses. Additionally, given that Flybe is the number one regional airline operating from Cardiff Airport and this airline has recently gone into administration, eyebrows are most definitely being raised.

How could improved infrastructure at Cardiff Airport benefit students?

Thanks to the multiple universities located in Wales, especially South Wales, there is a large number of international students studying and living in Cardiff.

According to Cardiff University’s website, Cardiff University alone has more than 7,900 international and European Union (EU) students studying at the moment. However, even though Cardiff has an airport, many students currently do not benefit from it that much and there are several reasons why many choose to travel from other airports across the country.

Cardiff Airport is currently a very small airport, therefore not many airlines operate flights from it. Even though the number of cities where it is possible to get direct flights to is increasing, there are still many places where one cannot get from Cardiff.

This includes many destinations where students come from.

This is true for both international and domestic flights. It is also often cheaper to travel from bigger airports as direct flights are sometimes more likely to be available from there, saving students time and most importantly, money. Therefore, it is not surprising that students often prefer flying from other cities, like Bristol or London.

Perhaps this new loan would help Cardiff Airport grow so that someday, more students find that it is possible to travel to and from home via Cardiff without having to travel to airports further afield.

It has been revealed tht 10 Feet Tall/Undertone was reported will be converted into a restuarant and office spaces

Anna Lockwood Contributor

E

motions continue to run high as students and residents come to terms with the sudden and controversial conversion of 10 Feet Tall and its attached nightclub Undertone into a restaurant and office space. The loss of the independent live music venues, some of the last in Cardiff ’s city centre, seems to have been felt profoundly.

The saga began on January 17 this year when staff at 10 Feet Tall and Undertone learnt that a planning application had been approved to turn the premises into a commercial unit, via Wales Online. The following Monday, every staff member at 10 Feet Tall resigned in protest of the directors’ decision to close down Undertone completely and to renounce the possibility of live music in the new venue.

With the news of the resignation came an emotional message published by ex-staff members on the Save 10 Feet Tall Facebook page: “Because of the actions of our directors and their advisors, two more homes for live music in Cardiff are now set to close. Bands, artists and DJs will lose yet another venue to hone their craft after the terrible losses of Gwdihw and Buffalo this time last year.”

On February 26, Cardiff Council gave the all-clear for the conversion.

The directors at 10 Feet Tall have taken to the internet to declare the premises “open for business as usual” and stated that “the decision by staff today to resign has not helped this current crisis situation.” The 10 Feet Tall Facebook page, however, declares this information false and insists that all music events have been moved to

Farewell: 10 Feet Tall is set to become a new commercial site with a restaurant and office spaces.

Source: Anna Dutton

different venues due to the lack of staff.

Bradley Rae, who was interested in buying the venue at one point, commented: “When I first went to 10 Feet Tall it was a vibrant venue doing very well. When I was approached early last year by one of the business owners to buy it, it was very run down and losing business rapidly. But I saw an opportunity to do some major refurbs and bring the live scene back to life. I don’t think Cardiff or Church Street needs another restaurant but it does need more live venues.”

The decision has been felt deeply by many music goers and artists. One international student, Louise Marmié, stated: “A lot of my best memories from Cardiff Uni took place in Undertone - it felt great to support independent venues like these with cool

events you wouldn’t find anywhere else in city centre. Now it seems that the Cardiffian independent night life is slowly dying (just like with Buffalo or Gwdihw) and that everything will eventually be replaced with insipid

Independent night life is slowly dying and everything will be replaced with insipid chains.

Louise Marmié

chains.”

Cardiff Central MP, Jo Stevens, has also publicly expressed her anger at the plan to convert the live music venue into a commercial site, saying: “Many a nightclub promoter or DJ will have cut their teeth at these venues.

“The surrounding area, as it stands, is already saturated with restaurants and cocktail bars - losing these two popular venues would be detrimental to what’s on offer in our city centre and would create an imbalance.”

The news of 10 Feet Tall and Undertone reveals a deeper debate: if independent venues can’t seem to survive alone in Cardiff, and the authorities are not protecting these spaces, how will Cardiff ensure its live music scene thrives and what does this mean for budding artists?

University admissions could Will Cardiff University ban see major changes staff-student relationships?

Omo Ifabua Contributor

A

fter an investigation by the UK’s higher education watchdog, students could be seeing the university application system in England completely revolutionised. The method currently operates using predicted grades, personal statements and references, however the alternative system, outlined by the Office for Students, would no longer use any of these traditional measures.

Calls to change the application process came after the watchdog’s three-month review which concluded that the current system was not entirely fair. Their research discovered that 75% of the time, students do not reach the predicted grades issued by their schools. In addition to this, the review suggested there is a lack of transparency between universities and students regarding the grades needed for admittance, which are often much lower than those advertised during the application stage. As a result, the Office for Students have drafted three ‘fairer’ potential reforms of the English system: Firstly, universities would not make offers to students until A-level results day when candidates have received their grades. Applications could still be made in advance, but would not be ac-

cepted until the required grades were achieved.

Secondly, students would not make university applications until they had received their results. University visits could still be made and students may register their interest, however, formal applications would only be made after receiving their exam results.

Thirdly, retain most elements of the current system but more greatly consider the disadvantages faced by certain pupils. This system would also reconsider using personal statements and enforce greater transparency from universities over required entry grades.

A different approach to reforming the English university system has also been suggested by the Higher Education Policy Institute, which posed scrapping tuition fees for the first year of study for students whose parents have not attended university. This would aim to create more open access to university by removing financial barriers for disadvantaged pupils, with the government paying the fee instead.

The watchdog will publish its final findings once the full admissions review has concluded in May 2020, but ultimately, universities are independent bodies and will have the final say on what changes are imposed.

Laiken Farmer Contributor

U

niversity College London (UCL) has become the third university in the UK to announce a ban on students and staff having intimate relationships. Two universities, Greenwich and Roehampton, also already have the policy in place.

UCL is the first Russell Group university to issue the personal relationships policy that aims to “protect against potential abuses of power and conflicts of interest” between staff and students. The policy refers to employees that are “academic, research and professional services staff, postgraduate teaching assistants and student mentors in a position of trust” and sets out to “protect students and staff from allegations of actual or perceived conflicts of interest”.

The new rules prohibit “personal or intimate relationships between staff and students where there is direct supervision”. It also prohibits “intimate relationships with staff or students who are under the age of 18” and also adults “at risk” who are those over the age of 18 who need or receive care services for a disability or illness and thus cannot protect themselves from harm or exploitation.

Kelsey Paske, the Behaviour and Culture Change Manager at UCL, said

the ban was put in place to “recognise positions of power and power imbalances within higher education settings, and to help prevent abuses of power.”

Although most universities do have policies in place for personal relationships between staff members and students, many only discourage intimate relationships and are yet to have a stricter disciplinary procedure in place.

Cardiff University does not currently have such a policy, however, the University does have a code of practice on close personal relationships between staff and students. Cardiff University’s policy states that “everyone who is employed in any capacity by the University is in a position of authority over Cardiff University students and must not abuse that authority in any way to initiate or develop a close personal relationship with a student”. The university advises that in a situation where a close personal relationship does develop, “it is always incumbent on the member of staff to ensure that the essential standards of academic integrity and impartiality are maintained”.

A Cardiff spokesperson advised: “the University has a clear policy on close personal relationships between staff and students. Whilst our policies are routinely reviewed and amended there are no plans to review our current policy in this area.”

Jake Bugg

March/ Mawrth

April/ Ebrill

Bedlam presents: Hybrid Minds Outline Tour

King King

06/03/20, from £17.50 ADV

Gabrielle Aplin

03/04/20, £28 ADV

The Boomtown Rats 18/04/20, £30 ADV

13/03/20, £20 ADV 13/03/20, £22.50 ADV

May/ Mai

Jake Bugg

The Hunna

Stiff Little Fingers

14/03/20, £22.50 ADV

19/05/20, £24 ADV

Fish

June/ Mehefin

19/03/20, £25 ADV

Bedlam presents: My Nu Leng & M8’s 27/03/20, from £16 2ND RELEASE

The Undertones 04/06/20, £26 ADV

Forgotten Lands 12/06/20

An Evening with Flash (Queen tribute) 19/06/20, £20.00 ADV

November/ Tachwedd The Brand New Heavies 20/11/20, £27.50 ADV

Becky Hill 28/11/20, £18.50 ADV

December/ Rhagfyr Oh Wonder 04/12/20, £20 ADV

Skunk Anansie 05/12/20, £29.50 ADV

The Sweet 11/12/20

All tickets subject to booking fee. Codir ffi archebu ar bob tocyn. | cardiffboxoffice.com | cardiffstudents.com/boxoffice

6

taf od

Barn y Bobol

Wedi mesurau newydd gan Lywodraeth Cymru, mae isafswm o 50c bellach yn cael ei roi ar bob uned o alcohol. Myfyrwyr y Brifysgol sy’n pwyso a mesur i weld os bydd y newid yn eu heffeithio nhw

Jacob Morris

Myfyriwr trydedd flwyddyn, Gwleidyddiaeth a’r Gymraeg Fel yfwr gwin, mae’n debyg na fyddaf yn cael fy effeithio gan y codiad hwn. Gwaetha’r modd, dwi’n ganddryll bod Llywodraeth Cymru wedi cyflwyno y deddfwriaeth hon, a fydd yn effeithio pobl o ddosbarth cymdeithasol is yn hytrach nag yfwyr dosbarth canol. Mae’r camddefnyddwyr gwaethaf o alcohol ymysg y dosbarth canol - pobl mewn swyddi uchel a pharchus lle mae yfed yn rheolaidd yn rhan o’r norm. Dwi’n amau’n fawr, felly, y bydd yr yfwyr hyn yn cwtogi ar ei defnydd o’r cyffur o ganlyniad i godiad pitw o 50c.

Heledd Ellis

Myfyrwraig flwyddyn gyntaf, Y Gyfraith Alcohol... Dyma bwnc yr ydym ni fyfyrwyr yn hyddysg iawn ynddo.

Cysyniad go ddoniol sy’n baradocs ynddo’i hun, melltith a bendith.

Ond, wnaeth faint o weithiau mae alcohol wedi ein gyrru i grio, gwneud y ‘walk of shame’, byddwn ni fodau dynol pob amser yn ein grefu. €18 oedd pris double vodka ar daith y GymGym i Ddulyn fis diwethaf. Eto fyth, roedd pob un ohonom yn ymddwyn fel pe buasem yn filiwnyddion wedi ennill y loteri’r diwrnod cynt. Felly, byddai codiad o 50c mewn pris alcohol yn cael effaith ar yflwr ein banciau, ond y gwir amdani gyfeillion, yw na fyddai’n cael unrhyw effaith ar faint ohono’r ydym yn ei fewnoli!

Indigo Jones

Myfyrwraig trydedd flwyddyn y Newyddiaduraeth a’r Cyfryngau Gwarthus! Fel person sy’n gwethio’n ddiflino o ddydd Llun i ddydd Gwener mae peint fach ar ddydd Sadwrn yn wobr imi! Er, sai’n gwadu bod 50c o godiad yn niwsans, nid yw’n mynd i dorri’r banc na chwaith rhoi terfyn ar fy nosweithiau hwyr a meddwol! Dw i wedi gwneud rhai o’m ffrindiau gorau o ganlyniad i noson allan, felly 50c ai peidio fyddai dal yn ciwio am fy niod ger y bar ar nos Sadwrn.

Yr unig gyhoeddiad myfyrwyr wythnosol trwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg.

Sefydlwyd: 2003 Am fwy o gynnwys, ewch i gairrhydd.com/tafod

Eich hadran taf-od Llion Carbis Aled Biston Rhodri Davies Deio Jones tafod@gairrhydd.com

GWLEIDYDDIAETH

‘Dw i’n ifanc, angerddol ac eisiau Cymru i lwyddo’ Taf-od sy’n cyfweld â Wil Rees, ymgeisydd Canol Caerdydd Plaid Cymru yn Etholiad Cynulliad 2021 Llion Carbis

Pennaeth y Gymraeg

G

ydag ychydig dros flwyddyn nes Etholiad Cynulliad, sy’n cael ei chynnal ar 5 Mai 2021, mae un o fyfyrwyr Prifysgol Caerdydd yn paratoi ac yn ymgyrchu i ddwyn perswâd pleidleiswyr Canol Caerdydd. Mae Wil Rees yn fyfyriwr gwleidyddiaeth trydedd flwyddyn ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd ac ym Medi 2019, cafodd ei ddewis gan aelodau Plaid Cymru fel eu hymgeisydd Canol Caerdydd ar gyfer Etholiad Cynlluniad 2021.

Soniodd Rees wrth Taf-od am ei awydd hir sefydlog i fod yn wleidydd a’r camau sydd wedi ei galluogi i gynrychioli Plaid Cymru.

“Dw i wastad ers fy nyddiau yn yr ysgol wedi cael diddordeb yng ngwleidyddiaeth. Mae bod yng nghlwm gyda Phlaid Cymru, bod yn aelod o Blaid Ifanc a mynychu Ysgol Aeaf Plaid Ifanc – ble roedd hyfforddiant i aelodau ifanc fod yn ymgeiswyr - wedi rhoi’r cyfle i mi sefyll fel ymgeisydd.”

Fel carfan, mae pobl ifanc yn cael eu cyhuddo yn aml o fod heb ddiddordeb yng ngwleidyddiaeth, ond mae Rees o’r farn bod angen rhagor o bobl ifanc yng ngwleidyddiaeth Cymru. Soniodd hefyd am ei sgiliau a’i brofiadau i leddfu un-

DIWYLLIANT

rhyw bryderon posib pleidleiswyr am ei oedran.

“Dydw i ddim yn wleidydd arferol fel petai, dw i’n ifanc. Ond, dw i wedi cael blynyddoedd maith o ymgyrchu i’r blaid a mudiadau gwahanol o fewn undeb y myfyrwyr. Mae hynny wedi rhoi’r sgiliau i fi, sgiliau angenrheidiol o wrando ar anghenion bobl a gweithio allan y ffordd gorau o wella bywydau nhw. Dyna beth dw i’n angerddol am, a dw i’n credu bod angen mwy o bobl ifanc mewn gwleidyddiaeth.”

Pwysleisiodd Rees mae’r un yw’r sgiliau sydd yn angenrheidiol i wleidyddion, beth bynnag yw eu hoedran neu brofiad.

“Yr hyn sy’n angenrheidiol ar gyfer unrhyw wleidydd, o unrhyw genhedlaeth yw bod ganddynt y gallu i wrando ar anghenion pobl, bod yn gydwybodol, a chyfleu hynny i bobl gan sicrhau bod chi yna iddyn nhw fel gwleidydd.”

Rhestrodd Rees dlodi, yr argyfwng hinsawdd a phroblemau tai fel ei blaenoriaethau gwleidyddol – materion sydd o berthnasedd amlwg i fyfyrwyr. Soniodd hefyd am yr angen am newid ym Mae Caerdydd a’i neges i ddinasyddion Canol Caerdydd.

“Ar ôl 20 mlynedd o Blaid Lafur ym mhŵer ym Mae Caerdydd, mae angen newid arnom yn Llywodraeth Cymru a dyna beth dw i’n meddwl mai Plaid Cymru yn cynnig. Dw i eisiau agor pen-

Pennod newydd i Wil: Wiliam Rees yn datgan ei fwriad i sefyll ar restr rhanbarthol etholiadau’r Senedd. Tarddiad: Wiliam Rees nod newydd i’r blaid yn y rhanbarth.

Dw I eisiau uno pobl. Dw i’n ifanc, yn angerddol ac eisiau Cymru i lwyddo tu allan i San Steffan. Dw i’n gobeithio fy mod wedi dangos bod gen i’r egni i ymgyrchu a pherswadio pleidleiswyr ar y stepen drws.”

Gyda pholau diweddar yn dynodi cynnydd ym mhoblogrwydd yr ymgyrch dros annibyniaeth i Gymru, mae Rees

o’r farn ei fod yn darged angenrheidiol i wella bywydau pobl yng Nghymru. Dywedodd Rees, “Mae rhaid i ni gael annibyniaeth er mwyn cymryd rheolaeth dros feysydd polisi sydd wir angen i wella bywydau pobl. Mae Adam Price wedi gosod cynllun deg mlynedd [ar gyfer annibyniaeth] ac mae hynny’n cychwyn gyda ni yn ennill yn 2021.”

Cân i Gymru yn ôl am y 51fed tro!

Gruffydd Wyn oedd yn fuddugol yn y gystadleuaeth eleni Rhodri Davies Golygydd Taf-od

M

ae’n anodd credu bod blwyddyn arall wedi gwibio heibio ers i Cân i Gymru ddathlu eu 50fed cystadleuaeth. Ond nos Sadwrn y 29ain o Chwefror, roedd y llwyfan wedi osod am gystadleuaeth rhif 51. I’r rhai ohonoch chi sydd yn anghyfarwydd a’r gystadleuaeth, mae gornest flynyddol sy’n cael ei gynnal o gwmpas Dydd Gwyl Dewi er mwyn darganfod “Cân i Gymru.” Bwriad y gystadleuaeth yn wreiddiol oedd i gael can i gynrychioli Cymru pe baent yn cael cynrychioli’u hunain yn yr Eurovision. Yn amlwg, nid oes cynrhychiolaeth unigol gan Gymru ond mae’r gystadleuaeth yng Nghymru wedi parhau er hyn.

Wyth cân sydd yn cyrraedd y brig yn flynyddol ac bydd yr ennillydd yn hawlio gwobr ariannol o £5,000 yn ogystal a chyfle i gystadlu yn yr Wyl ban Geltaidd.

Agorwyd y noson gyda’r gân “Anochel” a’i chyfansoddwyd gan Aled Mills sy’n frodor o Grangetown, Caerdydd. Mae hawl gan gyfansoddwr i berfformio’i

gân ei hun neu wahodd cerddor arall i’w berfformio. Rheinallt Rees felly oedd y perfformiwr gorau ar gyfer y perfformiad. Gweddol oedd safon y gân ac nid yn glasur o bell-ffordd. Mae caneuon Can i Gymru’n aml yn cael eu chwarae flynyddoedd yn ddiweddarach gyda chaneuon megis Y Cwm gan Huw Chiswell, Gwlad y Rasda Gwyn gan Bryn Fon a Harbwr Diogel gan Arfon Hughes yn dal i hawlio’i lle fel rhai o glasuron mwyaf Cymru. Doedd “Anochel” ddim wir yn cyrraedd yr uchelfannau yno, yn anffodus.

Cawsom dwy gynnig gan un cyfansoddwr sef Rhydian Meilyr o Gemaes, ger Machynlleth. Mae Rhydian yn hen law ar gynnig ei ganeuon i’r gystadleuaeth. Daeth ei gân “Gewn Ni Weld Sut Eith Hi” yna agos i’r brig y llynedd ac eto eleni, cafodd ei gân “Pan fyddai’n 80 oed” yr ail safle. Dim gwobr gyntaf i Rhydian Meilyr eleni ond mae gennyf deimlad nad hwn yw’r tro olaf y gwelwn ni’r enw hwn ar lwyfan y gystadleuaeth.

Roedd yna gymysgedd o genres gwahanol eleni. Roedd cân Beth Celyn o Ddinbych yn rhoi golwg newydd ar chwedl Arianrhod. Teimlaf bod yna nodweddion o gân fyddai’n gweithio’n

Canolfan y Celfyddydau, Aberystwyth: Lleoliad Can i Gymru 2020 Tarddiad: Ian Capper (drwy Georgraph)

dda yn yr wyl Ban Geltaidd yn hon ond roedd hi ychydig yn undonog gyda’r ailadrodd di-baid o’r gair “Arianrhod.”

Hen ffasiwn efallai byddai fy nehongliad o gan Allistar James sef “Morfa Madryn ond chwarae teg iddo am dderbyn y 3edd wobr. Cawsom gân llawer yn fwy cyfoes gan Ben Hamer and Rhianna Loren sef “Dawnsio’n Rhydd.”

Er nad hon oedd y gân orau ar y noson, roedd neges y gân sef ei bod y “byd yn tagu, mae’n amser i ni sylweddoli” yn un o’r pwysicaf.

Ennillydd 2020 oedd Gruffydd Wyn

(a ymddangosodd ar Britain’s Got Talent) gyda’i anthem a oedd yn ymdebygu i gan agoriadol ffilm James Bond.

“Cyn i’r lleni gau” oedd y gan fuddugol.

Doedd hon chwaith ddim yn nodweddiadol o gan Can i Gymru ond roedd pwer tu ol iddo a llais cryf Gruffydd yn mynd a’r gan i lefelau uwch. Hollol haeddiannol o’r brif wobr.

Blwyddyn digon cyffredin oedd hi eleni. Wyth cân digon dymunol ond heb unrhyw glasur. Croeswn fysedd am gnwd gwell a sawl clasur yng Nghân i Gymru 2021!

TAF-OD

Effeithrwydd Dathlu Diwrnod Rhyngwladol y Menywod 2020

Ennillwyr Newyddiaduraeth Gymraeg Orau - Gwobrau SPA Cymru 2019

Pryd o Daf-od

Cyd-olygydd Taf-od, Deio Jones sydd yn trafod y profiad o ryddhau sengl newydd ar Ddydd Gwyl Dewi, ac effaith cynhyrchu cerddoriaeth yn y cartref.

M

ae Dydd Gwyl Dewi yn ddiwrnod o ddathlu ein Cymreictod fel cenedl.

Mae’n gyfle gwych i adlewyrchu ar

Trafod gyda’r

taf-od

Nel Richards Cyfrannydd

beth sydd gennym i ddiolch amdano yma yng ngwlad y gân. Fel cefnogwr brwd o’r sîn gerddoriaeth Gymraeg, teimlaf fod y sîn mewn lle da ar hyn o bryd. Mae yno ystod eang o wahanol fathau o gerddoriaeth ar gyfer gwahanol ddiddordebau. Er fod yno wahanol fathau o gerddoriaeth a rhai bandiau yn dod ar draws yn well na ei gilydd, rydym yn lwcus fel cenedl o gerddorion o fod yn y cyfnod hwn, gan fod unrhyw un yn cael ymuno a’r sîn. Erbyn heddiw, mae’n lawer haws i unigolion neu fandiau gynhyrchu cerddoriaeth o’r cartref. Rwyf innau yn bersonol yn dod o dan yr ymbarel hon, gan fy mod yn ddiweddar wedi rhyddhau fy sengl gyntaf ‘Crynu yn y Gawod’, a chafodd ei recordio yn ystafell wely fy ffrind. Nid oes angen talu arian mawr i fynd i stiwdio a chael peiriannydd profiadol. Mae digon o âpiau i’w cael ar ein ffonau symudol neu chyfrifiaduron sydd yn galluogi chi i gynhyrchu cerddoriaeth o safon uchel. Mae yno hefyd ddigon o gwmnïau ar-lein sydd yn barod i roi cymorth a dosbarthu eich cerddoriaeth i nifer o blatfformau am bris rhesymol. Mae hyn yn amlwg yn newyddion gwych i gerddorion ifanc

Yn Trafod gyda’r Taf-od wythnos yma mae...

Llew Williams

1. Pwy wyt ti a beth wyt ti’n astudio?

8. Prosecco neu champagne?

Llew Williams ydw i a dwi’n astudio Hanes.

Prosecco achos mae o’n meddwi fi’n hawdd

2. Beth yw’r digwyddiad sy’n codi’r mwyaf o embaras arnat?

9. Beth oedd y diwrnod gorau iti ei gael erioed?

Colli eyebrow a siafio hanner pen

Gweld Llew gwyllt am y tro cynta’ yn Zambia

3. Beth oedd dy air cyntaf?

Mam. 4. Pe fyddet ti ar yr X-Factor, pa gân byddet ti’n ei chanu a pham?

Oes Gafr Eto 5. Beth fyddet ti’n ei archebu o’r bwyty Indiaidd lleol?

Tikka Masala gyda Pilau Rice.

6. Pwy oeddet ti’n ffansio pan oeddet ti’n iau?

sydd yn ceisio datblygu eu crefft ac ddim angen dibynnu ar neb i greu cyfleoedd eu hunain. Mae’n braf gweld nifer o gerddorion ifanc yn manteisio ar y cyfle hwn hefyd ac yn adeiladu’r sîn yn fwy ac yn fwy pob blwyddyn.

Dyma sydd angen er mwyn i’r sîn symud yn ei flaen ac i gyrraedd uchafbwyntiau newydd.

Rydym hefyd yn lwcus iawn yng Nghymru o gael cefnogaeth cyfryngol i’r sîn sydd yn dal i dyfu. Drwy gystadleuthau fel Cân i Gymru ac yn y blaen, mae’n rhoi cyfle i dalentau newydd ddangos eu gallu a chael cyfleoedd unigryw drwy wneud hynny.

Mae Cân i Gymru wedi agor y drysau i nifer o mawrion Cymru ac mae’n gyfle gwych i feithrin talentau’r dyfodol. Mae Cân i Gymru wedi gweld nifer o glasuron fel ‘Y Cwm’ gan Huw Chiswell, ‘Gwlad y Rasta Gwyn’ gan Sobin a’r Smeiliaid, a phwy all anghofio ‘Nid Llwynog oedd yr Haul’ gan Myrddin ap Dafydd a Geraint Lövgreen. Dw i’n fwy na siwr fod fydd Cân i Gymru yn darddle i nifer o glasuron yn y dyfodol sydd i’w ddod ac yn dal i feithrin artistiaid newydd.

Mae rhyddhau sengl fy hun wedi

10. Beth yw dy gas beth?

Pobol yn cwyno.

11. Beth fyddet ti’n gwneud yn ystod dy noson ddelfrydol?

Noson dda yn Clwb Ifor neu Netflix yn gwely

Rhedeg mewn i trwbl: Llew yn herio’r gwrthwynebwyr. Tarddiad: Llew Williams

12. Pe taset gallu bod yn unrhyw anifail am ddiwrnod, pa un fyddet ti’n dewis, a pham?

Llew, achos wel..

Mila Kunis

13. Disgrifia dy hun mewn 3 gair.

7. Pwy yw dy hoff fand/artist?

Cymro, Gymraeg, Cyfeillgar

The Velvet Underground

14. Pwy fydd yn trafod ‘da’r Taf-od wythnos nesaf?

Ifan Prys Jones

Pawen lawen: Llew yn teithio’r byd.

Tarddiad: Llew Williams

gwneud i mi sylweddoli pa mor hawdd gellir y broses fod, ac rwyf yn annog i unrhyw un sydd gyda diddordeb i fwrw ati. Mae ddigon o gymorth ar lein i’w gael ac mae digon o unigolion yn y sîn sydd yn barod i estyn llaw i unrhyw un a chynnig cymorth. Nid yw hi fyth yn rhy hwyr a mi fydd y drws yn agored i unrhyw un. ‘Your biggest critic is yourself ’ meddai nhw!

Crynu’n y Gawod: Mae’r sengl wedi bod yn brofiad newydd i Deio. Tarddiad: Deio Jones

D

ydd Sul, 8fed o Fawrth fe fydd pobl ar draws y byd yn dathlu Diwrnod Rhyngwladol y Menywod i gydnabod cyflawniadau merched, i godi ymwybyddiaeth yn erbyn rhagfarn, ac i weithredu dros gydraddoldeb.

Ers dechrau’r 1900au mae mwy a mwy o wledydd wedi dod at ei gilydd i ddathlu gwaith menywod, yn benodol yn y gweithle; gan ei wneud yn ŵyl i hyrwyddo cydraddoldeb ym mhob ffordd. Ym 1975, a adnabyddir fel Blwyddyn Rhyngwladol y Merched, dechreuodd Cynulliad Cyffredinol y Cenhedloedd Unedig ddathlu Mawrth 8 fel Diwrnod Rhyngwladol y Menywod. Erbyn 2014, roedd yn cael ei ddathlu mewn mwy na 100 o wledydd, gan gynnwys Cymru ac wedi cael ei wneud yn wyliau swyddogol mewn mwy na 25, megis Ciwba ac Affganistan.

Diwrnod o brotest a brwydro mewn un gwlad, a dathlu benywdod i wlad arall fydd Mawrth yr 8fed.

Thema’r diwrnod blwyddyn yma yw “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights ”. I frwydro dros gydraddoldeb o dan lawer o gategorïau - yn y gweithle, ym myd addysg, gofal iechyd a throsedd.

Mae menywod wedi dod yn bell ers 1918, lle nad oedd ganddynt yr hawl i fwrw pleidlais hyd yn oed; ond mae gwendidau yn y system.

Er bod mwy o fenywod yn graddio o brifysgolion, maent yn ennill 16% yn llai ar gyfartaledd nag y mae dynion yn ei wneud; a dim ond 8% o Brif Weithredwyr (CEOs) o gwmnïau mwyaf yr Undeb Ewropeaidd sy’n fenywod. Mae’n amlwg fod hyn yn broblem eisoes ymysg prifysgolion Prydain (UCU), gan taw un o’r rhesymau buant yn streicio yn ddiweddar yw i gael cyflog cyfartal rhwng dynion a menywod yn y gweithle. Yn ychwanegol, yn 2017, roedd 3.1% o fenywod (510,000) a 0.8% o ddynion (138,000) rhwng 16 a 59 oed wedi profi ymosodiad rhywiol yng Nghymru a Lloegr.

Yn ôl Fforwm Economaidd y Byd, ni fydd y bwlch cyflog rhwng y rhywiau yn cau tan 2186. Ar Ddydd Rhynglwadol y Menywod, mae menywod, a dynion ledled y byd yn dod ynghyd i orfodi’r byd i gydnabod yr anghydraddoldebau hyn - tra hefyd yn dathlu cyflawniadau menywod sydd wedi goresgyn y rhwystrau yma.

Gwnewch yr hyn a allwch i wneud gwahaniaeth cadarnhaol i fenywod ym mhobman.

Dilynwch ‘#EachforEqual’ dros y gwefannau cymdeithasol am fwy o wybodaeth a digwyddiadau sy’n mynd ymlaen.

taf od

Deio Jones

7

Dathlwch Fenywod Heddiw: Tarddiad: unruly.co.

8 TAF-OD

Mwy o ferched yn chwarae pêl-droed nag erioed yng Nghymru Llion Carbis

Pennaeth y Gymraeg

M

ae Cymdeithas Bêl-droed Cymru wedi datgelu bod cynnydd o 50% wedi bod yn y nifer o fenywod a merched sy’n chwarae pêl-droed yng Nghymru. Bellach, mae 8,600 o fenywod a merched wedi cofrestri a chlybiau pêl-droed yng Nghymru sy’n fwy nag erioed.

Mae’r ffigyrau diweddar wedi’u ryddhau gan Gymdeithas Bêl-droed Cymru wrth i’r ymddiriedolaeth ehangu ei rhaglen Huddle, sef cynllun sy’n hwyluso’r naid rhwng pêl-droed yn ysgolion a phêl-droed gyda chlybiau i ferched rhwng pump a 12 mlwydd oed.

Yn ôl, Caroline Spanton – sef Prif Weithredwr dros dro Ymddiriedolaeth Cymdeithas Bêl-droed – mae’r rhaglen yn cynyddu parodrwydd ferched i chwarae pêl-droed. Dywedodd Spanton, “Mae ymchwil yn dweud wrthyn ni bod merched yn debygol o fod yn llai hyderus na bechgyn wrth ymuno â chlwb chwaraeon. Felly nod Huddle yw rhoi cyfle i ferched ddatblygu eu sgiliau a’u hyder mewn amgylchedd hwyliog a chymdeithasol gyda’u ffrindiau.”

Fel rhan o’r rhaglen Huddle, cymerodd 450 o ferched rhan yn ei sesiynau yn 2019. Mae Cymdeithas Bêl-droed Cymru yn disgwyl i gynnig 20 o leoliadau newydd fel rhan o’r rhaglen ym mis Ebrill, gyda’r disgwyl i weld dwbl y cyfanswm o ferched â gymerodd rhan yn 2019.

Mewn ymateb i boblogrwydd cynyddol pêl-droed ymysg merched a menywod, soniodd Rhiannon Roberts, amddiffynnwr Cymru a Lerpwl, am y buddion o weld rhagor o fenywod yn chwarae’r gamp. Dywedodd Roberts, “Mae’r twf yn nifer y merched a’r genethod sy’n chwarae pêl-droed yn newyddion gwych i’r wlad. Bydd nid yn unig yn helpu i ysbrydoli chwaraewyr y dyfodol ar lefel elitaidd, ond hefyd mae’n helpu i wella iechyd a lles pobl yng Nghymru.

“Fe wnes i ymweld â digwyddiadau Huddle ym Mae Penrhyn a Bwcle yn ddiweddar ac roedd yn grêt gweld cymaint o ferched ifanc yn mwynhau chwarae pêl-droed gyda’u ffrindiau mewn amgylchedd mor gynhwysol a hwyliog.”

Mae gan Ymddiriedolaeth Cymdeithas Bêl-droed Cymru nod uchelgeisiol o gyrraedd 20,000 o chwaraewyr benywaidd cofrestredig erbyn 2024. Er mwyn cyflawni’r nod hon, maent wedi trefnu rhaglenni, megis sesiwn pêl-droed gyda’r Rainbows Brownies and Guides a hefyd rhaglen ysgol uwchradd fydd yn cael ei lansio ym mis Mehefin 2020.

Dyfodol Disglair: Yr amddiffynnwr, Rhiannon Roberts, yn hyfforddi sêr y dyfodol. Tarddiad: FAW

CHWARAEON

Cymru i herio’r Ffindir, Iwerddon a Bwlgaria

Mae gwrthwynebwyr Cymru ar gyfer yr ail dymor o Gynghrair y Cenhedloedd wedi’u henwi Llion Carbis

Pennaeth y Gymraeg

B

ydd tîm Ryan Giggs yn herio’r Ffindir, Gweriniaeth yr Iwerddon a Bwlgaria yng ngrŵp 4, Cynghrair B, yng Nghynghrair y Cenhedloedd.

Yn wahanol i dymor agoriadol y gystadleuaeth, mae yna bedwar tîm yng ngrŵp Cymru wrth gymharu ag ond tair gwlad pan ddechreuodd y gynghrair am y tro gyntaf yn Medi 2018. Yn ogystal, dim ond dwy wlad bydd yn llwyddo i dderbyn llefydd yng ngemau ail gyfle (play-offs) i gyrraedd Cwpan y Byd 2022. Bydd y ddau enillydd grŵp gorau sydd heb gyrraedd Cwpan y Byd, neu gemau ail-gyfle Cwpan y Byd, trwy’r broses ragbrofol arferol yn ennill lle yn y gemau ail-gyfle ym Mawrth 2022.

Yn ddiddorol, bydd Cymru yn herio gwrthwynebwr cyfarwydd sef Gweriniaeth yr Iwerddon, a oedd yng ngrŵp Cymru yn nhymor diwethaf y gystadleuaeth.

Bydd Cymru yn gobeithio am ganlyniadau tebyg yn erbyn y Gwyddelod ar ôl i dîm Ryan Giggs eu curo 4-1 yng Nghaerdydd ac 0-1 yng Nghynghrair y Cenhedloedd diwethaf. Fodd bynnag,

Y tro diwethaf: Cymru wnaeth curo’r Iwerddon 4-1 yng Nghynghrair y Cenhedloedd llynedd. Tarddiad: Llion Carbis ni all Cymru diystyru cryfder Iwerddon yn enwedig wrth ystyried mai’r golled yn erbyn y Gwyddelod yn Hydref 2017 oedd wedi rhwystro Cymru rhag cyrraedd Cwpan y Byd yn 2018.

Nid oes gan Gymru hanes mor ddiweddar yn erbyn y Ffindir, gwlad sydd wedi llwyddo i gyrraedd ei gystadleuaeth ryngwladol gyntaf wedi gorffen yn yr ail safle (tu ôl yr Eidal) yng Ngrŵp J yng ngemau rhagbrofol Ewro 2020. Yn wir, dim ond 12 ornest sydd wedi bod

rhwng Cymru a’r Ffindir – gyda’r gêm ddiwethaf bron saith mlynedd yn ôl rhwng y ddwy wlad. Gorffennodd y gêm 1-1, gyda Andy King yn sgorio i dîm Chris Coleman – ond ei ail gôl ar y maes rhyngwladol a dyna yw’r tro diwethaf iddo sgorio dros ei wlad.

Yn debyg, mae bron degawd wedi pasio ers i Gymru herio Bwlgaria ar y maes rhyngwladol. Mae Cymru ond wedi ennill tair allan o’r wyth gêm rhwng y ddwy wlad, ond y Dreigiau oedd

yn fuddugol yn yr ornest ddiwethaf yn 2011 gyda Gareth Bale yn sgorio’r unig gôl i seilio buddugoliaeth i Gymru yng ngêm olaf ymgyrch rhagbrofol Ewro 2012.

Pan gafodd y syniad am y Gynghrair ei basio gan UEFA yn 2014, roeddent yn pwysleisio ei fod yn fodd o leihau gemau cyfeillgar dibwys a modd o ailsefydlu’r elfen gystadleuol ym mhob gem ar y maes rhyngwladol. Er tegwch, dyna’n union mae’r gystadleuaeth wedi llwyddo i wneud, a chafodd ei phoblogrwydd ei adlewyrchu gan bresenoldeb y gemau yn y tymor agoriadol.

Roedd dros 25,000 o gefnogwyr yn bresennol i weld Cymru yn maeddu Iwerddon yng ngem gyntaf y gystadleuaeth ym mis Medi 2018, ac roedd bron 33,000 o bobl yn gwylio gêm dyngedfennol Cymru yn erbyn Denmarc – gyda’r ymwelwyr yn ennill grŵp B4 mewn gêm ddramatig ym mhrifddinas Caerdydd. Wrth ystyried mai ond llai na 8,000 oedd yn bresennol i weld gêm gyfeillgar ddiwethaf Cymru yn erbyn Belarus, mae’n ymddangos bod y Gynghrair yn gwireddu uchelgeisiau UEFA a bydd disgwyl i weld presenoldeb tebyg wrth i’r ymgyrch ddechrau ym mis Medi 2020.

Dyfodol darlledu y Chwe Gwlad am ddim yn y fantol

Trafodaethau rhwng y CVC a’r Chwe Gwlad i symud y bencampwriaeth i wasanaeth danysgrifiad Aled Biston Golygydd Taf-od

M

ae yna botensial na fydd gemau Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad ar gael i wylio am ddim ar ôl 2022. Mae hyn yn dilyn trafodaethau’r bencampwriaeth gyda’r cwmni preifat CVC, sydd am fuddsoddi £300 miliwn mewn i’r bencampwriaeth flynyddol. Mae’r gwledydd cartref (Cymru, Lloegr, Yr Alban a’r Iwerddon) yn erbyn y penderfyniad, gan honni y dylai rygbi rhyngwladol fod am ddim i bawb.

Ar hyn o bryd, mae’r cytundeb gyda BBC ac ITV werth £90 miliwn, ond mae’r buddsoddiad o £300 miliwn mae CVC yn cynnig treblu’r buddsoddiad presennol Mae gan CVC buddsoddiad yn Premiership rugby a’r Guinness Pro14 ar hyn o bryd. Dywedodd Benjamin Morel, Prif Weithredwr Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad, wrth The Guardian, nad oes dyddiad wedi’i phenodi ar gyfer gwneud penderfyniad, ond yn obeithiol byddai trafodaethau wedi bennu mewn cwpwl o wythnosau yn hytrach ‘na fisoedd.

Mae gemau Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad yn grŵp B yn rhestr y llywodraeth o chwaraeon i’w darlledu, sydd yn galluogi gwylwyr i wylio’r gemau am ddim. Mae Adam Price, arweinydd Plaid Cymru wedi dweud wrth y BBC bod gemau’r Chwe Gwlad yn rhan ganolog i hunaniaeth a diwylliant Cymreig, a bod angen i’r gemau aros o fewn categori lle maent am ddim i’w gwylio. Llynedd, roedd gêm Cymru yn erbyn Lloegr wedi cyrraedd brig o 9 miliwn o wylwyr, dros hanner y nifer oedd gallu cael mynediad i’r gêm, ac

Carfan gadarn: Gêm cyntaf y Chwe Gwlad cafodd ei darlledu ar y BBC eleni. Tarddiad: Tomos Evans mae Adam Price yn brwydro i gadw’r ar gael iddynt. Ond, byddai’n siom yn denu nifer o wylwyr yn flynyddol, ffigurau yma fyny. Dywedodd ef wrth enfawr i weld y gystadleuaeth yn ac mae’r bwrlwm a chyffro ymysg y BBC, ‘Rydym yn sefyll yn gadarn symud, gan na fydd y wlad gyfan Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad yn yn ein cred nad yw rygbi Cymru ar yn gwylio’r gemau rhagor’. Yn sicr, unigryw o fewn y byd rygbi. Mae’r gael i’w werthu a bod rygbi perthyn i byddai symud gemau i ffurf tanys- ffigyrau gwylio’r Chwe Gwlad milltibawb yng Nghymru’. grifiad, yn golygu na fydd llawer o roedd o flaen rygbi rhanbarthol, a Mae Owain ap Myrddin yn gefnog- bobl gallu gwylio’r gemau heb dalu siom byddai gweld y ffigyrau yma yn wr brwd Cymru, ac yn edrych ym- am wasanaeth teledu ychwanegol. cwympo o ganlyniad i’r gystadleualaen at gemau’r bencampwriaeth Gyda phrisiau nifer o wasanaethau eth yn symud i wasanaeth danysgripob blwyddyn. Dywedodd ef ‘Dwi’n teledu megis Sky, BT a Premier Sports fiad. Mae dyfodol darlledu Pencampdeall rhesymau’r gystadleuaeth dros yn eithaf drud, anodd bydd gweld wriaeth y Chwe gwlad yn un sydd symud i gael eu darlledu ar Sky, nifer o bobl yn prynu gwasanaeth ddim yn edrych yn obeithiol ar hyn oherwydd yr arian ychwanegol fydd ychwanegol. Mae’r bencampwriaeth o bryd.

Looking for work?

Here’s just a selection of opportunities currently available through Jobshop!

Brand Ambassador Pay: £11ph + Commission Days/ hours of post: 2 hrs per week Details & main duties: If you’re a third year student with a passion for eco-friendly alternatives, Churchill gowns are looking for a Brand Ambassador to promote their recycled plastic graduation gowns. You’ll be flyering at student houses and campus locations, as well as creating your own marketing strategies and campaigns.

Catering Assistant – Festival season Pay: Meets National Minimum Wage Days/ hours of post: May – Sept 2020 - Festival Season, hours to be confirmed Details & main duties: Various festival season locations available throughout the summer. The role involves food

preparation, serving customers, taking electronic and cash payments, ensuring the external standard of the unit, set up and post event cleaning of unit.

Nightlife Crew (City Centre) Pay: £8.00 per hour, £8.21 per hour (25+) Days/ hours of post: 2-3 shifts per week, 10pm-4.30am Details & main duties: Nightlife Crew is part of Drinkaware’s Drunken Nights Out programme, developed to reduce alcohol-related harm amongst 1824 year-olds. You’ll be introducing yourself to, looking out for and supporting people on nights out in various ways to ensure the safety of guests.

cardiffstudents.com/jobshop

Contact Jobshop for details on how to apply. To start receiving job alerts for all our vacancies please head to our website for details of how to sign up.

2nd floor, Students’ Union

029 2078 1535

Jobshop@cardiff.ac.uk

To contact our politics desk, drop us an email at politics@gairrhydd.com

POLITICS

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/politics

GWLEIDYDDIAETH

10

Your politics desk Lowri Pitcher Hallum Cowell Tom-Henry Jones Maisie Marston

Minimum alcohol pricing law enters into force in Wales The average pint in a pub has remained unchanged but drinks including Strongbow and Lambrini sold in supermarkets have almost doubled

Lowri Pitcher Head of Politics

L

ast Monday, March 2, a new law came into force which obliges retailers and outlets serving alcohol to charge at least 50p per unit of alcohol sold.

What is the law?

The law states that it will now be illegal for any alcohol retailers including pubs, bars, shops or any outlets requiring an alcohol licence to sell alcohol without adhering to the minimum unit pricing (MUP) regulations.

According to the legislation, if a person is found guilty of selling or authorising the sale of alcohol in Wales below the correct minimum price, they can be issued a Fixed Penalty Notice of £200 if the payment is made within 29 days or £150 if paid within 15 days. If somebody is found guilty of supplying alcohol in Wales below the correct pricing regulations, they will be liable to a fine of up to £1000.

Price increases

In practice, the total minimum cost of an alcoholic drink in Wales is calculated through a relatively simple formula of 50p, times the strength of the alcohol, times the volume of alcohol in litres. While a single shot (0.025L) of a spirit is one unit, and consequently must now cost at least 50p, a litre of 40.0% proof spirit would cost £20.00. Similarly, a standard can (0.44L) of cider or beer at 5.2% proof will have a minimum price of £1.14 and a bottle of wine (0.75L) of 12.5% proof will cost at least £4.69.

It has been stated that most wine is unlikely to be affected as this is mostly sold above the 50p margin already. The average pint and servings of beer will remain largely unaffected, although alcohol served in multipacks and at discount supermarkets may be affected as these retailers often promote alcohol on a benchmark below

Spirits: The minimum price for a litre of 40.0% gin will now be £20.

Source: Maatla Kebs (via Pexels).

the new minimum pricing.

As a result, many pub owners are welcoming the MUP as it could even out the field between pubs and supermarkets. However, the legislation has not been so warmly welcomed by supermarkets such as Asda which claims that the changes will cost the company around a million pounds.

Currently, any revenue from the increase in pricing will remain in the hands of the supermarkets and retailers, but Alcohol Change UK said that: “If it becomes clear that MUP is increasing supermarket alcohol revenues, we will be calling for any additional profits to be channelled via taxation into services to support people with alcohol problems.”

“Strongbow tax”

Upon announcing the new law, the Welsh Government stated that “You won’t notice a change in the price of most alcoholic drinks, but highstrength, low-cost products like white cider will be significantly more expensive.”

Drinks which have been affected

include Strongbow, Lambrini, multipacks of Budweiser and two/threelitre bottles of 5% cider. For example, before the introduction of the new law, it was possible to purchase a three-litre bottle of 7.5% proof Frosty Jack’s cider for £3.59. However, when the minimum pricing formula is applied (0.5 x 7.5 x 3) the new cost of the bottle is £11.25 which is over three times more expensive.

“You won’t notice a change in the price of most alcoholic drinks” Welsh Government

Tony Cristofaro, owner of Spar Landmark Place, Cardiff, told ConvenienceStore.co.uk: “I don’t envisage any issues as I believe MUP has been adequately advertised in the local press and I am hoping for a small sales increase as now our own-brand spirits will be the same price as Tesco and Sainsbury’s around the corner.

“I have delisted all the large bottles

How many unit are in different types of alcohol?

1 small shot of spirit (gin, vodka, whiskey)

Standard glass of red/rose or white wine

25ml / 40.0%

175ml /12.0%

1 unit

2.1 units

Can of beer or lager

Can of cider

440ml / 5.5%

440ml / 5.5%

2 units

2 units

Units: The estimated number of units in different alcoholic drinks according to the NHS (2018) Source: Lowri Pitcher

of cider (Frosty Jacks and own brand).

I had already delisted the strong cans and bottles many years ago due to theft. I decided to delist the big bottles because I envisage them being stolen more often when they’re over £10 a bottle!”

Public health

Vaughan Gething, the Welsh Government’s Health Minister said: “We know when alcohol is cheap and readily available, harmful drinking increases. The minimum price won’t affect moderate drinkers who may be worried about the price of a pint going up. The aim of this legislation is to reduce the harm being done by those most at risk of alcohol abuse.”

According to Public Health Wales, alcohol ranks among the top five risk factors for disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in Wales and an estimated 19% of people in Wales drink more alcohol than the recommended weekly guidelines of consuming no more than 14 units per week for men and women who drink regularly.

More so, a survey conducted in seven universities across Wales found that a third of alcohol consumers said that they or somebody else had been injured because of their drinking and between 10 - 15 per cent of students said that they had been in a fight during or after drinking.

According to the Government “Around 10 people die every week in Wales from alcohol-related causes.

Alcohol causes harm to societies as well as individuals, with taxpayers picking up the bill. Every year, alcohol leads to nearly 60,000 hospital admissions in Wales and costs NHS Wales an estimated £159 million.”

This law is part of the Welsh Government’s long-term strategy to help tackle substance misuse in Wales which receives funding of £53 million a year in order to ensure that people are aware of the dangers and impact of substance misuse and to know where information and support are available if needed.

GWLEIDYDDIAETH 11

Cabinet Office launches inquiry into Priti Patel’s behaviour

The Secretary of State for Home Affairs is facing mounting pressure to resign Tom-Henry Jones Politics Editor

H

ome Secretary Priti Patel has received fresh accusations of bullying her staff and senior civil servants. The claims date back to 2016, accusing Patel of bullying across three government departments. The most senior civil servant in the Home Office, Sir Phillip Rutnam, resigned two weeks ago in protest against the actions of Patel in the department. In an unusually public statement, the civil servant said he would issue a claim against the Home Office for constructive dismissal.

Rutnam had received numerous allegations from staff in the Home Office that Patel’s “behaviour created fear.” Rutnan said the behaviour included “shouting and swearing, belittling people, making unreasonable and repeated demands.” Patel denies all of the allegations.

Rutnam’s resignation came after weeks of publicly known tension between himself and Patel. The pair clashed on several occasions over Patel’s immigration reforms, with Rutnam accusing Patel of briefing against him in the press. Clashes are frequent between ministers and civil servants, yet on this occasion the fallout was played out in a very public manner.

Whitehall: Patel is facing allegations about her behaviour across various Government departments Source: Tbmurray (via Wikimedia Comons)

Since Rutnam’s resignation last week, more allegations have come to light regarding Patel’s behaviour as a minister. The BBC reported more allegations of bullying from her in the Department for International Development (DFID) where Patel worked as the department’s Secretary of State between 2016-2017. Patel was allegedly accused of humiliating civil servants in front of others. Allegations that were similar to what Rutnam had described in the Home Office.

More allegations have since surfaced from Patel’s time at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

The BBC reported an official received a £25,000 payout after she was bullied by Patel in 2015. After allegedly receiving abuse from Patel, the female official took an overdose in an attempt to kill herself.

The latest allegations laid against Patel will add to the history of her behaviour from her previous three government departments. It is this track record that has meant she is under

renewed pressure to resign from her role of Secretary of State for Home Affairs.

However, after an attack on Patel’s record by Jeremy Corbyn at Prime Minister’s Questions last Wednesday afternoon, Boris Johnson said he was still “sticking by her.” Corbyn attacked Patel’s previous behaviour as a minister and called for an independent inquiry into the latest allegations.

Patel was sat alongside Johnson on the Conservative front bench as he valiantly defended her, claiming she was “doing an outstanding job” in the Home Office citing her reforms to increase the number of police officers and plans to introduce a new postBrexit immigration system.

Patel will remain under huge political pressure until the Cabinet Office investigation is concluded. The previous history of Patel’s behaviour coming to light has led to increased pressure for her to resign. If she were to resign, it would be another big hit to the government and would be the second prominent front bench resignation since Sajid Javid resigned from the Treasury last month. Despite the public backing from the Prime Minister, Patel will wait anxiously to see what the verdict will be from the Cabinet Office investigation, until then, her position will remain slightly unstable.

Welsh councils seek assistance to aid flooding recovery work

Having received a month’s worth of rain in two days, the recovery process begins Lowri Pitcher Head of Politics

F

ebruary 2020 marked the wettest February in the UK since records began in 1862. The average rainfall across the UK last month was 202.1mm, this beat the previous record of 193.4mm from the same month in 1990. Having faced three storms; Ciara, Dennis and Jorge, South Wales has been particularly gravely affected by the extreme rainfall.

As Storm Dennis brought 90mph winds and over a month’s worth of rain to Wales in approximately 48 hours, areas from Aberfan to Cardiff Bay were flooded as major waterways such as the River Taff, River Severn and River Wye all burst their banks.

Cardiff’s Bute Park was badly affected by flooding, with greater impact on the north side of the park near Blackweir and Pontcanna fields, as well as the area near Castle Street.

It is understood that the cost of repair work that Cardiff Council must conduct is an estimated £150,000 - 200,000.

However, in order to repair and improve relevant infrastructure such as dredging the River Taff, the cost could increase up to three million pounds.

This is only one example of the large sums of money needed by local councils

in order to aid the recovery from the flooding. Rhondda Cynon Taff Council leader, Andrew Morgan has claimed that the costs to his council will range between £10-15 million and could increase.

In response to the widespread damage, Minister for Energy, Environment and Rural Affairs for the Welsh Government, Lesley Griffiths announced that “The Welsh Government will continue its work to combat the climate emergency, support communities most in need to recover from these incidents, and invest to protect people from the impact of increasingly severe weather events.”

In practice, up to £10 million will be available from the Welsh Government in order to help those whose houses have been damaged by the storms, support businesses and highstreets affected, help local authorities with clean-up costs and allow for urgent infrastructure repairs such as fixing bridges or transport links.

The emergency fund means that “All households affected by flooding throughout Wales will receive £500.

An extra £500 will be available to those without house insurance cover.”

First Minister Mark Drakeford said that “We [The Welsh Government] want to do all we can to help [those affected] at this extremely stressful time. I

also saw the extreme pressure people are under if they didn’t have insurance cover or if their insurance policies do not cover flooding. To help those people, we are providing additional money to those not covered by house insurance.”

Upon announcing this emergency funding, Drakeford demanded a response from the UK Government as to what assistance it could provide to the communities affected.

In response, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that the “Government is committed to working flat out with the Welsh devolved administration to en-

sure everybody gets the flood relief that they need...And that cash, yes, of course, will certainly be passported through.”

Meanwhile, a letter signed by Labour MPs for South Wales constituencies and three Labour Assembly Members has been sent to the new Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, seeking a year-long suspension of council tax and business rates in affected properties.

The letter has also requested a £30 million grant which would be used to fund the repair and restoration work across Rhondda Cynon Taff, one of the worst affected regions in Wales.

Rivers Burst: Large areas of Wales have been hit by major flooding. Source: GothicNexus (via Pixabay)

What could be in the 2020 budget?

Maisie Marston Politics Editor

T

his Wednesday, the new Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, will deliver his first budget just 27 days after he took office. It was originally thought that Sunak may delay the announcement as he settled into his new job, but on Twitter he confirmed he was “cracking on with preparations” for the original date. This budget will be the UK’s first as a non-EU state for over four decades.

Taking a look at some of the promises made in the Conservative manifesto, to honour Sunak’s pledge to “deliver on the promises [the party] made to the British people”, extra funding will need to be allocated to the NHS, science, schools, apprenticeships and infrastructure. Investment in clean energy solutions and green infrastructure will also be expected in line with the party’s promise to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Additionally, the rate of income tax, VAT and National Insurance will need to be kept the same.

The latter promise, that the party will not raise taxes, could prove particularly difficult. In a report by the Institue of Fiscal Studies (IFS) it is suggested that the Government has a choice between either raising taxes, entrenching austerity, or breaking the fiscal rules set out in the party’s manifesto. Sajid Javid has recently said that “the fiscal rules that we are elected on are critical. To govern is to choose, and these rules crystallise the choices that are required: To keep spending under control, to keep taxes low, to root out waste, and to pass that litmus test that was rightly set in stone in our manifesto of debt being lower at the end of Parliament.”

It has been reported that one way Sunak is trying to raise money is by scrapping the entrepreneurs’ relief, a tax break which allows company founders who are selling their business to pay a lower capital gains tax. The rate is 10% on lifetime gains of up to £10m, rather than the usual 20%. Scrapping this could bring nearly three billion pounds per year to the Treasury, which could be used to fund the Government’s manifesto pledges. The Conservatives had previously said they would be either curbing or scrapping entrepreneurs’ relief. However, there are mixed feelings about it going. Some believe that scrapping the programme is a mistake as it would damage entrepreneurship, whereas others including the IFS have said getting rid of it would make the tax system “more equitable and more efficient.”

Treasury officials have also made plans to deal with the spread of coronavirus. Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of England, has told the Commons Treasury Committee that the effects of the coronavirus on the economy could last up to six months. Sunak has already said that the government “understand[s] that people across the country are worried” and that “we are well prepared for this global threat and, as the wider economic picture becomes clearer, we stand ready to announce further support where needed.”

12

POLITICS

Coronavirus facts and figures Disclaimer: All information on this page is correct at the time of writing (March 6)

There are currently 100,300 reported cases of COVID-19

Of those, 59,000 are closed cases and 41,000 active cases

The virus is currently present in 95 countries

There are 116 confirmed cases in the UK with over 16,000 people tested

Disclaimer: All information is correct at the time of writing (March 6)

UK government responds to COVID-19

As reported cases continue to rise the in the UK, the government has outlined their plans for tackling the virus and preventing its further spread Marcus Powis Contributor

C

oronavirus (officially called COVID-19) spread to the United Kingdom in late January and at the time of the March 4 there have been 85 confirmed cases out of 16,659 people tested. The first case in Wales was confirmed on February 28. For quite some time the public has been waiting for more information on the Government’s stance and proposed actions to prevent the spread of this new disease.

In a press conference last Tuesday, Boris Johnson, standing alongside England’s Chief Medical Officer, said it was “highly likely that we will see a growing number of UK cases.”

Though the virus primarily affects older people and people with pre-existing health conditions, it is a worrying situation for many, whether that is due to their own health, or the health of loved ones.

Based on the epidemic in China, the government stated that among the infected, some will experience no symptoms and the vast majority of those affected will exhibit a mildto-moderate illness, similar to the seasonal flu. However, those who are severely affected may contract complications such as pneumonia and the disease can lead to death.

The UK Government estimates that 1 in 5 workers may need to take time off due to the virus

The Government’s plan entails four phases: contain, delay, research, mitigate

in today’s plan to reduce the number of absentees and lessen the impact on our economy and supply chains.

We prepare for the worst, and work for the best.” It has been stated in the action plan that it’s possible up to one in five employees may need to take time off from work, so there is a potential for a drastic impact on the economy in a worst case scenario.

Wales’ Chief Medical Officer, Dr Frank Atherton, estimated that cases of the virus may peak in May or June.

So far, 450 people have been tested for the virus in Wales, and the only confirmed cases have been noted in

Swansea and Cardiff.

As of March 5, the government has moved onto the second phase of their coronavirus response plan, to delay the spread of the virus.

This could constitute banning large events, closing schools and limiting the use of public transport. Treatment is currently to manage symptoms, support patients, and hope that their immune system can fight the virus itself. Until there’s some breakthrough, the government has stressed that proper and effective handwashing is key to prevent the spread of the virus.

COVID-19: Effective handwashing is key to prevent the spread of the virus. Source: Conger Design (via Pixabay)

Governments around the world react to outbreaks of COVID-19 Many governments have begun enacting plans to limit infection and contain the virus’ spread including banning public events and closing schools

Hallum Cowell Politics Editor

The UK Government maintains that washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and warm water if possible

The currently estimated mortality rate is around 3%.

The government also released its Coronavirus Action Plan last Tuesday, setting out the work being done by the government to combat the disease. The four phases of the plan are; contain, delay, research and mitigate.

In Wales, as part of the contain phase, local authorities can apply to magistrates for an order to isolate, detain, or insist upon individuals to undergo medical examination.

If the risk of spreading the virus increases, Welsh Ministers would be able to grant healthcare professionals the power to detain and quarantine people at risk or suspected of having the virus, which is the current legislation in England. In a worstcase scenario, the military would be mobilised to support emergency services.

It has been heavily stressed that people must take the time to properly wash their hands as this will aid in preventing the spread of the virus.

This means to use soap and water, and wash for the length of time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice, according to Boris Johnson.

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Health Secretary Matt Hancock said that “if necessary we will use some of the actions set out

A

s coronavirus (COVID-19), spreads across the globe, goverments have been quick to enact new policies to limit the spread of the virus. With over 90,000 cases, over 3,000 deaths worldwide and over 77 countries infected; the virus has continued to spread past its region of origin in Wuhan, China.

The World Health Organisation has declared the virus a global health emergency.

China

The COVID-19 outbreak began in China earlier this year. Back in early Febuary new cases were reported at a rate of around 3,000 a day. However, those have now dropped to around 200 a day. The Chinese Government has also asked its overseas citizens to reconsider or minimise their travel plans. Mass surveillance and artifical intelligence have also been used to great effect to identify and isolate those with the virus. There has also been a lot of use of thermal sensors.

Italy

Italy is facing the worst outbreak in Europe with over 3,000 cases and 107 deaths. The virus has spread to

19 out of the 20 Italian regions. The Italian Government is also planning on banning public events and closing schools and unviersities until mid-March. The Government is also urging their citizens to refrain from hugging and shaking hands. Experts point to Italy’s large elderly population, second only to Japan.

France

France is currently the second most infected country in Europe.

The French Government has reacted quickly to the outbreak in France.

It started by regulating the price of hand sanitisers after public outcry on steep price increases. The Paris Half Marathon was also cancelled in early March and some schools in the north of France have been closed in an attempt to curtail the spread.

Israel

Israel has banned groups of over 5000 people from gathering in the country as well as confining anyone coming home from Germany, France, Spain, Switzerland and Austria. The ban comes after an infected student attended a football match in Tel Aviv and an infected student at a high school resulted in 2000 students being quarantined. Israel’s Chief

Task Force: Many countries have established special government committees to deal with the outbreak.

Source: Nick.mon (via Wikimedia Commons)

Rabbi has also issued a statement saying that people should not touch or kiss Mezuzahs, a scroll inscribed with biblical verses which is hung outside homes, (people entering the house traditionally kiss the scroll).

Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia confirmed its first case of the virus on the last day of February. The Saudi Government has decided to ban foreigners from taking the pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina.

Another Muslim pilgrimage also known as the Umrah has been temporarily suspended. The government department in charge of disease control in the country has also advised people not to travel to France or Germany.

India

India was the first country outside of China to begin screening people for Coronavirus as early as January 17.

Indian Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan said “India is thoroughly prepared to handle any situation that could emerge.” The country has already screened over 600,000 people and over 27,000 people have been placed under surveillance. India has also restricted the export of medicine.

With 77 countries around the world having confirmed cases of coronavirus, it is clear that the international community must now work together in order to prevent the effect of the coronavirus on the global population and economy.

Israel’s third election in a year another stalemate

GWLEIDYDDIAETH 13 results in In other news...

Voters have gone to the polls for the third time since last April

Hallum Cowell Politics Editor

L

ast Monday, Israel held its third election in a year. The election resulted in Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party, remaining the largest party with 36 seats but remains short of a majority. This means that the party will need to form a coalition to effectively govern.

The election has been marred by controversy as Mr Netanyahu is due to appear in court on March 17 on charges of fraud, breach of trust and bribery.

Holding this many elections in a year is unprecedented for Israel, with the last two elections failing to present a clear result between the current president’s centre-right to right-wing Likud party, their allies and the centrist Kahol Lavan (Blue and White) alliance headed by the former Israeli military chief Benjamin Gantz.

This round of voting has ended in the Likud party gaining another three seats taking their total to 36 seats, while Gantz’ Kahol Lavan remains on 33. This makes the Likud party the largest in the Israeli Parliament. However, the party will need to form a coalition with other parties to reach the 61 seats needed for a majority. Coalition talks are

underway although it seems likely that if any government is going to be formed, it will be Mr Netanyahu and his Likud party that returns to government.

Netanyahu is Israel’s longest-serving prime minister leading the country for four terms firstly from 1996 to 1999 and again since 2009 until the most recent round of elections.

This election process has become so drawn out due to the inconclusive nature of the previous elections, the first of which was held in April 2019, each producing no clear winner and leaving both major parties neck and neck in the polls.

Israel’s elections run on proportional representation with parties gaining seats in Israel’s 120-seat parliament proportional to their share of the popular vote. Previously, it had not been possible for either side of the Parliament to agree to a coalition deal, so voters were asked to go to the polls once again.

The Joint List alliance of Arab parties has lost seats compared to the first round of voting but has successfully retained 15 seats. In the past, it has been willing to back Kahol Lavan in order to form a coalition but it seems that these two parties will not control enough seats to form a coalition unless they are willing to add additional parties to their agreement. Interestingly, if the Ka-

Argentina could become one of the first few countries in Latin America to legalise abortion. The President is set to introduce legislation to Congress in the coming week which would reform the current law. Currently, abortion is punishable by jail unless to preserve the mother’s health or in cases of rape.

Netanyahu: Mr Netanyahu is Israel’s longest serving prime minister.

Source: Chatham House (via Flickr) hol Lavan alliance does make it into dorsed Trump’s two-state solution government the party’s leader, Mr deal. However, it is unclear to what Gantz and former finance minister, extent Mr Gantz would act upon the Yair Lapid have agreed to share the deal. presidency with each politician runAfter all the votes were counted ning the country for two and a half Mr Netanyahu and his right-wing years. bloc are short of a majority in the IsThis election may bring major raeli Parliament by three seats. It has change to the political landscape of been reported that the Likud party the Middle East. Mr Netanyahu has is seeking defections from other parvowed to annex the Jordan Valley ties, particularly their main rival the and Jewish settlements in the West Kahol Lavan alliance.

Bank if he wins his fifth term. This Mr Netanyanu said on election could potentially cause grave conse- night that Likud had “won a victory quences as the United Nations con- against all odds“ yet it remains to be sider this move illegal. Both leaders seen how an official government will of the two major parties have en- be formed.

Citizenship law provokes widespread violence in Delhi Largely anti-Muslim protests result in over 45 deaths and hundreds injured

Amy King Contributor

O

n the night of February 23, cases of anti-Muslim violence

by Hindu mobs broke out across Delhi, resulting in a four-daylong crisis.

According to The Guardian, the majority-Hindu groups raged across India’s capital city setting mosques alight, lynching and burning Muslims alive and destroying properties and businesses owned by the Muslim community.

Indian authorities are yet to provide an accurate account of all the damages made and what exactly started the four-day clash that left hundreds wounded and 47 people dead. However, tensions between Hindus and Muslims have been circulating for months now after the BJP’s (Bharatiya Janata Party) new citizenship law that was passed in December 2019.

The new citizenship law, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), allows illegal immigrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan, who belong to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities who entered India to seek citizenship. However, the law does not allow Muslims the same right.

Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi passed the CAA as he believed it was a “noble effort to welcome Hin-

dus who are oppressed by Muslimmajority countries.”

After the law was enlisted, antiCAA protests broke out in almost every major Indian city over the past three months and show no sign of subsiding. Delhi’s most recent fourday assault is thought to be an extremist retaliation to these protests by devote followers and believers of the BJP. Imran Khan from north-east Delhi stated, “some of them forced me to pull down my trousers. They started beating me violently as soon as they became sure that I was Muslim.” Del-

hi police have been accused by locals of encouraging, enabling and even joining in with the Hindu mobs and the destruction of Muslim property.

Countless murderous reports were being circulated on WhatsApp as the violence broke out, which the police and local legislators were quick to dismiss. Some Indian journalists were threatened, attacked and even shot at to keep them from documenting the violence that was spreading through the city. The majority of journalists were forced to leave the commotion if they could not provide proof of Hindu religion.

Taj Mahal: Trump’s visit to the iconic landmark was overshadowed by the deadly violence developing in Delhi. Source: Glavo (via Pixabay)

The CAA has been compared to US President Donald Trump’s travel ban that placed stringent travel restrictions on citizens of Muslim-majority countries including Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen; coming to the US. This was often dubbed a “Muslim ban.”

Coincidently, Trump’s recent visit to Delhi was overshadowed by the violence and brutality occurring just miles away from where he visited the Taj Mahal. Trump said he had not brought up the violence with Prime Minister Modi, saying he would not comment on “individual cases.”

However, the president said the pair had discussed the rising attacks on the Muslim community and he was satisfied that Modi worked “really hard” on religious freedom.

In Gujarat, where Trump and President Modi attended a BJP rally together, a wall was constructed by the Indian Government to hide slums and protests from the American’s view.

In a press conference during his trip, the US President stated that the pair had discussed the increasing attacks on the Muslim community and that Modi claimed to be “working very closely with minorities in India … Modi said that there are 200 million Muslims in India, and that his government is working closely with the minorities.”

During Slovakia’s recent parliamentary election, the anti-corruption ‘Ordinary People Party’ (OLaNO) emerged as the largest party after winning over a third of the seats. The leader, Igor Matovic, is now expected to form a centre-right coalition and become prime minister.

Liberal and Conservative parties have threatened to boycott the election for a new premier in Thuringia, Germany, after Alternative for Germany (AfD) placed a controversial figure up for election. Bjorn Hocke, the candidate, is one of the AfD’s founding members and caused controversy after a German court ruled that he could legally be termed a fascist.

A bill has been passed in Malawi which will decriminalise cannabis for medicinal and industrial purposes. The decision follows Zimbabwe, Zambia and Lesotho’s decisions to legalise medicinal cannabis. It is hoped that cannabis will replace tobacco as a major cash crop and contribute to the country’s GDP.

Just three days after the United States signed a deal with the Taliban to bring peace to the war-stricken regions of Afghanistan, the US military conducted an airstrike against Taliban fighters. Attacks from both sides have intensified in recent weeks. On Tuesday, March 3 alone, the Taliban launched 43 attacks on Afghan forces in Helmand.

To contact our comment desk, drop us an email at comment@gairrhydd.com

COMMENT

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/comment

SYLWADAU

14

Your comment desk Adam Clarke Harry Clarke-Ezzidio Kat Smith Tehreem Sultan Columnist Indigo Jones

Second Strike of the Year

Will you support the strike if your degree was at stake?

Devika Sunand Contributor

W

ith the ongoing strikes at university, you may have a lot of opinions and views on them, positive or negative.

But will you support the strike if you will not be able to graduate and will have to retake this year? Well, if you ask me, it is a complete no.

I understand that the whole point of the strike is to cause disruption but disruption to the extent where degrees are at risk is not acceptable.

Since most of the students at Cardiff University are supported by loans and government bursaries, retaking a whole year could be stressful, mentally, physically and financially.

It could completely turn our lives upside down. Students could have to pay for their daily expenses, accommodation fees, tuition fees, learning materials required for a whole extra year. Moreover, it could also affect the time of graduation, which is every student’s worst nightmare.

Imagine being all set for your graduation, you’ve got a job offer and you have to reject it because you haven’t completed the degree!

Even though the main point of this strike is to make improvements for the staff and the university, the fact that the students are paying thousands of pounds for absolutely nothing is one thing that lets me

down. Being an international student and paying almost double of what the home students pay and watching it disappear into thin air is painful. Furthermore, this semester, my course was becoming really interesting and all of my course mates were very excited, too. Now when I look at the syllabus, the interesting topics we were looking forward to will never be covered due to the strikes.

Being an international student and paying double of what the home students pay is painful enough already.

As a student, I feel like the strikes have let me down. It is hard when you come to a new country to receive good quality education spending thousands of pounds and the strike kind of ruins it. I have lost three whole weeks of classes since all my lecturers are participating in

Consequences of the strike?: The potentially devastating impact on students at Cardiff University. Source: Tehreem Sultan

the strike and we have just two more weeks of classes before the Easter break. I really hope the strike gets called off soon because it is really taking a toll on students and I request the university takes necessary action regarding the syllabus we missed during the strikes. Finally, I do understand that the lecturers and staff have their reasons to strike but as a student, I am not happy about it. Hopefully, this strike doesn’t affect us in a way that we have to retake or stop us from graduating.

I have lost weeks of classes since all my lecturers are participating in the strike.

It’s time to talk about takeaways

The public are blissfully unaware of the contents of their guilty pleasures Adam Clarke Comment Editor

L

et’s face it, we all love a bit of fast food from time to time.

Whether it’s a greasy kebab after a night out or a takeaway pizza for a movie night, it’s sometimes hard to resist the ease of choosing the unhealthy option.

But having watched ‘The Truth about Takeaways’ on BBC one last week (it’s still on iPlayer if you’re interested), I was shocked as to how unhealthy that option actually can be.

The show essentially opened people’s eyes to the truth that we all bury our heads in the sand to avoid; there are a shed load of calories, fats and sugars in almost all of our favourite takeaway guilty pleasures.

The show namedropped Domino’s, stating that a single large stuffed crust pizza contained almost the same amount of calories as the guideline daily amount for women.

Fast food favourites such as curry, kebabs and burgers also had their food stats named and shamed, with only KFC coming out of it with any meagre credit.

These stats were shocking and I feel that people should be made aware of the potential harm consuming this kind of food can do to their health. The packaging of cigarettes makes it graphically clear how dangerous they are, and we are always reminded to ‘drink respon-

sibly’ when it comes to alcohol yet there seems to me to be no legislation in place that makes it totally explicit to the public how damaging fast food can be. According to NHS data, over a quarter of men and women in the UK are obese and there were over 600,000 obesityrelated admissions to hospital last year - an 18% increase on the previous year. Surely more can be done to combat this issue and one thing that I feel will help is making it a lot more obvious how unhealthy certain foods are, in the same way that the dangers of smoking and alcohol are advertised.

fore ordering a takeaway again. I’m not saying that I will never eat fast food, as some people on Twitter did after the show aired, but I will pay a lot more attention to the calorie and fat content of my food as a result of having watched the show. The sheer number and variety of fast food outlets available in Cardiff is mindblowing and the recently opened Taco Bell outlet - Wales’ first - only adds to this. People queued for five hours for the grand opening of the

restaurant and this shows the length to which people will go for a taste of a new kind of fast food.

Whilst I am in no way against fast food (I’ve been to Taco Bell and can confirm the reports that it’s delicious), I just feel that, from a public health point of view, how unhealthy it is should be more clearly signposted so that people can make better-informed decisions about what they’re eating and the effect it can have.

There seems to be no legislation in place that makes it totally explicit to the public how damaging fast food can be.

I’m not going to pretend that the fact these foods were unhealthy came as a huge surprise, we all know they aren’t good for us, however, the size of the numbers involved will certainly make me think twice be-

Guilty pleasure: Many are unaware of just how unhealthy fast food can be in general. Source: Piqsels

Should we legally be given the choice?

SYLWADAU

German courts have recently legalised assisted suicide; is this right?

Tehreem Sultan Comment Editor

L

iving in this era, suicide remains a taboo issue and the implication of the shame and illegality unfortunately add to the grief and stigma felt by the deceased’s loved ones. Up until 1961, it’s bizarre that killing yourself was illegal in England and Wales, and would convict the individual of attempt to self-murder. Even the possibility that an individual who was in an intense state of emotional turmoil, could be dragged into the court and imprisoned sounds absurd. Fortunately, suicide was decriminalised 60 years ago but now the issue of the criminalisation of suicide stirs controversy again, after the recent decision by the German courts to overturn the ban on ‘assisted’ suicide.

The five-year-old rule, once banning assisted suicide, has now been overturned and euthanasia is no longer illegal. Now here arises the question, isn’t helping someone end their life similar to murder? This judgment came following a long, heated discussion regarding the role of doctors and hospitals in medically assisted suicide, allowing gravely ill patients to end their suffering and take the decision to end their own life, without terminally sick patients having to travel to countries like the Netherlands or Switzerland for

euthanasia. With conflicting views, this recent rule has been already met with criticism, while the supporters claim freedom to take one’s life is a right of any individual, which in any circumstances must be respected.

Is there really more dignity in death than in living your last few days of life knowing your time Is nearly up? Do you want to see your loved ones at your deathbed?

With this ongoing debate, it is hard to draw a fine line where assisting someone to end their life shall be allowed, and whether this would violate the right to life of an individual.

Shortening your time in this world is a cruel yet appealing option for those suffering from severe, debilitating illnesses, and before coming to a final decision, dozens of thoughts will cross your mind. Is there really more dignity in death

I

Overturned decision: The German Courts recent judgment stirs controversy. Soure: BlueDiamondGallery

than in living your last few days of life knowing your time is nearly up?

Are you really willing to see your loved ones at your deathbed? The scene you probably teared up at in ‘Me Before You’, happen all over again, but this time with your family and close friends? While this act is bluntly described as selfish and a violation of one’s right to life, it has now become legal in more parts of the world and that strongly indicates the great amount of support assisted suicide has received in the past few years.

With this never-ending debate, let me once again highlight how despite many years have passed since suicide was officially ‘illegal’, in 2020 we still use the term ‘commit’ for a suicide attempt. Today, where ‘commit’ is used for heinous acts like murder, rape or assault, this shows that our attitudes in society still have a long way to go. A simple act of switching terminology, could mark the beginning of a more open-minded and informed public attitude, while making it easier for families to deal with their loved one’s loss.

In our meritocratic society, does the cream always rise to the top?

A

midst the chaos and uncertainty of the 2016 Brexit Referendum, Theresa May brought forth her vision for the future of Britain and its education system. She stated that she wants “Britain to be the world’s greatest meritocracy.” The idea that any individual, regardless of their background, with enough effort can make their way up the social ladder and live the life they wish.

This idea is reductive and ignores countless external material factors which are glaringly present in our modern society.

Of course, such attitudes towards everyday life are not uncommon amongst the Conservative Party. In September 2017, Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg told LBC radio that the recent rise in food bank usage was “rather uplifting” as it was a sign that “people know that they are there”, and not that poverty is on the rise.

This false conclusion is not only painfully ignorant, but it is also a sign that the government is not willing to accept that change is needed.

Meritocracy does not function in a society where inequality exists in every corner of the nation.

Despite this, some reformation to the education system has come into effect.

The 2010 to 2015 government policy

for qualifications and curriculum reform provided some promising outlooks for the future of our education system, with amendments made to GCSEs, AS and A-levels to ensure a stronger educational foundation, as well as encouraging more 16-18 year-olds to study mathematics and science.

Meritocracy does not function in a society where inequality exists in every corner of the nation.

These changes, whilst seemingly promising, have not truly created a great impact in terms of meritocracy and social mobility.

Statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that during the 2013/2014 academic year, pupils eligible for free school meals were less likely to achieve at least 5 A* to C GCSEs, compared to all other pupils. Regarding ethnicity, there is a massive disparity between the highest attainers and the lowest, with a huge percentage of Chinese students achieving 5 or more A* to C GCSEs including English and mathematics, compared to less than half

Is positive discrimination a good thing?

Stephanie Israel Contributor

The state of our meritocratic society...

Tomos Lloyd Contributor

15

of Black-Caribbean students.

The disparity continues into the workplace. A 2015 study by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation found that White British individuals make up a larger portion of the highestpaid jobs compared to minority ethnicities.

Then what are the factors in play? In 2018, the ONS found that Pakistani and Bangladeshi people were over three times more likely than White British people to live in the most

income-deprived neighbourhoods.

Poverty and material deprivation are major obstacles confronting educational attainment. The deprivation cycle is evidently a cause for concern, yet for over a decade the minor variations in data have meant the inequality trends remain true.

These few examples are not even the full picture, as disability, discrimination, stereotyping, and labelling all contribute to the failure of a meritocratic Britain.

Race to the top: It isn’t necessarily a given that hard work will take you far in our society. Source: Rawpixel (Via Flickr)

ndustries in the UK have started to impose schemes to encourage marginalised groups, most commonly women in science and BAME people in media and communications, to apply for jobs lacking a particular demographic.

Whilst this can be perceived as good progress, is positive discrimination really the right way to go?

With certain opportunities only being open to BAME people, media spaces are progressively getting more populated with workers with diverse backgrounds.

Charities such as the Taylor Bennett Foundation are helping to encourage BAME graduates to pursue a career in the media and communications field.

Without this programme, many people from BAME backgrounds would not have had a chance to obtain careers in the highly competitive and arguably nepotistic industry.

To have a diverse workforce is to have a diversity of skills. It is important for companies to take a step back and have a clear focus as to why having a diverse environment will be beneficial for the organisation. Organisations will benefit from having a diverse set of workers in order to be progressive and ensure a constant flow of ideas, maintain innovation and drive up morale. By having people from different backgrounds collaborate in a team, there is a better chance of comprehensive understanding and, in turn, reaching the full potential of a simple idea.

Furthermore, by encouraging diversity and employing more women in science, we can further the advancement of technology and scientific research.

Historically, the contributions of women in science have been overlooked. There is a massive gap to fill in terms of allowing female excellence to resonate into STEM fields and in gaining recognition for women’s contribution. Many schemes have opened up for women who wish to pursue a career in science and technology, most notably UN Women’s initiative to promote gender diversity in the workplace in order to help businesses to perform better. On the other hand, couldn’t we argue that seeking out specific people with certain characteristics is actually a form of discrimination in itself? Positive discrimination, under the Equality Act 2010, is actually considered unlawful. Employers who recruit people solely because of their certain ‘protected characteristics’, which includes age, ethnicity, disability amongst many others, are practicing unlawful conduct under the legislation.

Diversity, inclusion, and belonging are the three principles that workspaces aim to follow. But are BAME and women in science schemes really effective in combatting the imbalanced distribution of jobs in certain industries? Some say no.

There is still evidence that ethnic minorities are still under-represented in senior level positions.

Without BAME representation in high ranking positions, BAME graduates will not be enthused to apply for a career in an environment where they may not be able to assimilate into swiftly. Although internships and placements seeking BAME graduates are multiplying, the awareness for these opportunities remains low. To counteract this, science and media industries need to start from the root. By encouraging young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue creative careers, companies who want to abide by the three principles will have a better chance of fulfilling them.

180

£

Edinburgh with Give it a Go!

FRIDAY 27TH – TUESDAY 31ST MARCH 2020 SIGN UP ONLINE: CARDIFFSTUDENTS.COM/GIVEITAGO

18 COLUMN

Indigo Jones

COLUMN ROAD

#EachforEqual W

International Women’s Day: Following the occasion celebrating women, I look at the struggles women face. Source: coloringcuties (via Pixabay)

omen have it hard; saying that, everyone has their struggles, but for now let’s just focus on women. The theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) this year is #EachforEqual, and as a result promoting one of our fundamental rights, the right to equality.

Because isn’t equality something we all deserve?

According to the IWD, “The first International Women’s Day occurred in 1911, supported by over one million people”. This is just seven years before women were allowed to be elected into parliament in the UK in 1918, and 17 years before they were given the right to vote in 1928.

Women were not born equal, they were seen as domestic beings only fit to serve men.

The suffragettes fought for the right to vote and even in 2020 they are still fighting for equality. This inequality is seen within our universities. One of the reasons the UCU are striking is due to the gender pay gap as female lectures are paid less than their male colleagues. This isn’t just within universities but across various establishments who refuse to pay women and men equally for doing the same job.

IWD campaign states that “The race is on for the gender equal boardroom, a gender equal government, gender equal media coverage, gender equal workplaces, gender

equal sports coverage, more gender equality in health and wealth ... so let’s make it happen. Let’s be #EachforEqual.”. This suggests the various sectors where women face inequality, perhaps in some cases in areas we wouldn’t have thought to see inequality.

One in 10 girls between the ages of 14 and 21 in the UK have been unable to afford sanitary products Compassion UK

People often face adversity as a result of menstruation and their inability to obtain sanitary products.

This is called period poverty, and it isn’t just an issue overseas, sometimes it is closer to home. According to the charity Compassion UK “One in 10 girls between the ages of 14 and 21 in the UK have been unable to afford sanitary products, while 49% have missed an entire day of school because of their period”.

They continued by stating that “In the UK, period poverty has caused more than quarter of women to miss work or school”. This demonstrates

the extent of the issue and that it can happen to people of various ages. We are united in the struggles of menstruation globally and it unfair that we should have to suffer as a result of not being able to afford these products.

In the last couple of weeks Scotland has not only set the standard for the UK, but also for the rest of the world, as they became the first nation to create a bill that will make sanitary products free to all who need them. The Period Products (Free Provision) Scotland Bill passed with 112 votes in favour. Hopefully, in the near future other nations will adopt a similar bill, which would eventually lead to an end for period poverty.

During David Cameron’s time as Prime Minister, the government stated they were going to abolish the tampon tax, as sanitary products are currently taxed 5% in the UK. They were apparently unable to do so as a result of European Union rules. This then spurs the question, will we see change once we leave the European Union?

Another issue that women face more often than not is, sexual harassment. It is an increasing issue within the UK, as well as being seen as a frequent issue in Cardiff. Women raise awareness of these issues on the likes of Overheard at Cardiff, speaking of their experiences with men follow-

ing them home from nights out. It’s almost expected to see one of these posts after a night out, to the point where some women are calling for an app or a group chat to be made for women to find others to walk home with on a night out. We shouldn’t have to feel unsafe within our city, scared of the fear that when passing a new corner somebody might jump out and assault us.

Equality is not a women’s issue, it’s a business issue International Women’s Day

Growing up, whenever men made lewd or inappropriate comments, I often just ignored them and let it go over my head, it’s something that as a female I was used to and took no notice of. Then the other day I had enough, some men in a bar in Swansea began to harass me and I decided to stick up for myself, and after doing so I left the situation and avoided the men for the rest of the night, that was until their friend approached me. This friend began blaming me for “misinterpreting” what his friends had said, telling me that I had “blown it all out of proportion”,

essentially victim blaming me when I had in fact done nothing wrong. I was lucky that I had the guts to stand up for myself and that the people I was with and the security of the bar took the situation very seriously, and the men ended up being escorted out. I hate to imagine what would happen if the situation was worse, or perhaps if these men were targeting someone more vulnerable, it’s something that doesn’t bear thinking about.

It’s wrong that in a society this type of harassment has become the norm, and that we are so used to it that we have a tendency to ignore it.

In reality, we should hold those to account and stand up for women in these situations.

The IWD website expresses that “Equality is not a women’s issue, it’s a business issue”. Therefore, we should all work together to ensure equality among genders, to close the gender pay gap, to raise awareness of period poverty and to minimise sexual harassment. After all, we are supporting our mothers, sisters, daughters, family, friends and women in general to increase the likelihood of a more equal future.

We shouldn’t let a male-dominated society cloud our judgement on what is right and wrong in regards to what they believe is equal. It’s time for us to take a stand and become #EachforEqual.

C I M N E P O

T H G I N Tuesday 17th March From 8pm Prizes for the best performers!

ADVICE

To contact our advice desk, drop us an email at advice@gairrhydd.com

ADVICE

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/advice

CYNGOR

20

What to do if you’re not enjoying university How to beat the university fallacy

Charlotte King Deputy Editor

G

oing to university is daunting. We’re told that we’re going to have the time of our lives and we need to cherish every moment, but it’s not quite that simple. All too often, people remind me that my debt is racking up and whenever I miss a lecture, there’s always someone who chirps “each lecture missed costs you fifty quid!”, reminding me how much money I am paying, putting pressure on me to enjoy university to the fullest.

Realistically, not everybody enjoys university. I spent a whole year at a different university where I switched courses and dropped out before applying here, so I know what it’s like to wish your course and university experience was different!

So, what steps can you take if your university experience isn’t all it’s cracked up to be? Some people know right away that they chose the wrong course.

I’m on my third different course in four years. When I arrived at university for the first time and attended my first week of lectures, I knew instantly that my course wasn’t right.

If you find yourself in this position, a logical first step is to change modules if it’s early enough in the semester.

It might be that you don’t enjoy your current classes rather than your entire study programme. Peruse the module options available to you, look at the assessment methods

and consider changing your classes.

However, if alternative modules don’t float your boat and you’re still feeling a sense of dread about your course, don’t be afraid to consider changing programmes.

First-year students can change courses within the first three weeks, so if you know there’s a course you would rather be doing (like I did), go and speak to your personal tutor or Student Advice to make sure it’s the right decision.

There are other reasons people don’t enjoy university too, though.

We expect that when we move into halls, we will meet a group of people who instantly become our best friends, but that’s not always the case.

University isn’t the right choice for everyone and that’s okay.

If you’re not enjoying university because the social side isn’t what you dreamed of, join a society.

You could find a group of likeminded individuals with the same interests as you who quickly become good friends.

You could also get a part-time job. Earning money to fund yourself at university provides a sense of achievement and could lift the financial burden of being a student.

Also, it provides another chance to expand your social circle! What’s better than bonding with colleagues

over your mutual hatred for eighthour Saturday shifts? These little steps could also take your mind off your studies if they are causing you grief too.

Ultimately though, university isn’t the right choice for everyone and that’s okay.

If you have taken these steps, still feel unhappy and decide that you don’t want to be at university, withdrawing from your studies is not a sign of failure.

To recognise you have made a decision that wasn’t right for you takes courage.

Dropping out of university was the best decision I ever made. It allowed me to re-evaluate my choices

and what I wanted out of my university experience and taught me a whole host of valuable life lessons about not being afraid to get what you want and admitting when you’ve made mistakes.

University is hard, and the pressure to enjoy your time at university only makes it harder when you feel like something isn’t quite right.

At the end of the day, if you are having doubts about any aspect of university, be proactive.

Speak to Student Advice, your personal tutor, friends and family.

Without a doubt, there is a huge support network out there full of people ready to help you realise what is right for you.

Life as a BAME student The importance of embracing your culture

Sarah Harris Contributor

I

come from a city in the UK that had a highly diverse and cultural population, so when I moved to Cardiff and was put in a flat where to majority of the students in the building were of a Caucasian background, I found it slightly hard to adjust. It’s not that I didn’t fit in or I didn’t have friends, but when you’re from an ethnic minority back-

ground, it’s reassuring for your own self-identity to find people who you can relate to.

Most of my friends back home, like me came from a South Asian background. My course, a course of over 300 people, had a very narrow percentage of BAME students but I somehow found myself gravitating towards them on the first day of University and to this day, they’re some of my best friends.

I was never one of those girls who would only hang out with people

Your advice desk Molly Govus Rhiannon James Columnist Satwik Shivoham

Don’t be afraid to take a step back: sometimes all it takes is a small change. Source: @priscilladupreez (via Unsplash)

Recovery isn’t far away: Source: @michiele (via Unsplash)

who were ‘like me’ so to speak, but I did find it comforting having friends who had the same lifestyle and experiences as me. Especially when you’re living away from home and need that sense of familiarity.

Little things such as them understanding why you may not drink or enjoying the same cuisine as you, can result in friendships and relationships that will last a lifetime.

Now, in my final year, I can say I have friends from all ethnic backgrounds, including my own, and it’s taught me to appreciate my own heritage so much more.

There were times I struggled with having my housemates or students on my course understand me and why my identity as Minority Ethnic Student was so strong and to find people who I could share my thoughts and feelings with was important to me and my mental wellbeing.

No one wants to feel like an outsider, popular cult films such as Mean Girls or Clueless can attest to that.

We just want to surround ourselves with people who have the same likes, beliefs and backgrounds as us and although it’s important to sometimes branch outside of your

comfort zone, it’s also nice to have someone who reminds you of home.

Thankfully, Cardiff and Cardiff University in general has a pretty diverse population and it was easy for me to find people who I could relate to, even if they weren’t in my lectures or accommodation.

We have a range of societies from the Afghan Society to the Zimbabwean Society, all which bring together students from their home countries and celebrate and partake in various traditional events.

Some of the events I’ve attended with the Pakistani Society and the Asian Society have been some of the most memorable highlights of my time at University.

The struggles of BAME students all over the world are being heard more clearly than ever and thankfully, due to the inclusivity of Cardiff, it’s very rare to face acts of racism or disparity, in this day and age.

But, if you are unlucky enough to be targeted by racism, make sure to report it to the police and the University if it was by a fellow student or staff member.

And remember, regardless of what people may suggest, Cardiff and the UK are just as much your home as it is anyone else’s.

Cymru am byth

Embracing and celebrating Wales’ rich culture Rhiannon James Advice Editor

I

t was wonderful to see so many embracing Welsh history and culture on Dydd Gwyl Dewi (St David’s Day), I viewed multiple Instagram stories and snapchats of students making Welsh cakes, enjoying a bowl of cawl or sharing old pictures of them dressed up in traditional costumes. I believe this celebration of Wales shouldn’t be reserved solely for St David’s Day and we should all, as students of the capital, be making an effort to honour Wales’ traditions. Therefore, here are a few tips on how you can implement these into your everyday.

The Welsh language is one of the most prominent aspects of Wales’ culture. With the government aiming to reach a million speakers by 2050.

You could be part of this movement.

Being able to speak the language of your country connects you further to your homeland. I recognise that learning a language is a big commitment, but if it something you want to purse there are plenty of opportunities and support in Cardiff. For more information see my previous article called “Diddordeb Dysgu?”

A lighter task than learning Welsh is baking. Wales is known for its delicious ‘picer ar y maen’ or Welsh cakes as they’re more widely known.

Some of my first memories are of baking Welsh cakes with my mamgu, and whenever I have one I think of those times. Welsh cakes are quick and easy to make with great results,

therefore this is something you could enjoy with your friends and family. If you’re not one for baking, then there are plenty of local shops in Cardiff that sell Welsh cakes. My personal favourite is a little stall in Cardiff Market. Their Welsh cakes are delightful and if you don’t like raisins, they have an array of different flavours to choose from such as, chocolate chip, rhubarb and custard or strawberry cheesecake. If you pre-

fer savoury to sweet, another popular dish you could rustle up is “cawl”, a traditional Welsh stew that’ll warm you up on these cold nights.

For some, their way of honouring their country is through sport. Wales Rugby are currently in the midst of the Six Nations and you don’t need a ticket to the matches to show your support. Despite the unfortunate results of recent, the atmosphere in the pubs in Cathays and Cardiff central

Daffodil: One of Wales’ most prominent national emblems. Often

adopted by rugby fans as an accessorie. Source: @pirye (via Unsplash)

CYNGOR 21 Celebrating International Women’s day

during a competition such as the Six Nations is unrivalled. If you venture out on game day you will see a sea of red jersey’s and daffodil accessories.

Get your dragon face paint at the ready as the upcoming game is arguably the most anticipated, as Wales take on rivals; Scotland. If rugby isn’t for you, Wales are also excelling at football so grab your bucket hats and head to the UEFA Euro 2020 as Wales embark on their second major tournament since 1958 with Ryan Giggs taking the lead.

Recently on S4C, the Welsh language TV channel, Can i Gymru aired, a competition in which performers compete by singing an original song. This year’s winner was Gruffydd Wyn, who recently received a golden buzzer from Amanda Holden on Britain’s Got Talent.

Following in Gruffydd Wyn’s footsteps, why not join a choir? Wales is often referred to as “the land of song” due to the tradition of the Eisteddfod, therefore joining a choir is a fun way to embrace Welsh culture.

A choir can be great for socialising and building friendships as well as practicing a new skill. There are many choirs in Cardiff singing in Welsh and English.

As you can see, there is something for everyone in the rich culture of Wales, whether it’s baking or eating Welsh cakes, singing the anthem loud and proud during the Six Nations or just enjoying the programme’s S4C has to offer. As a Cardiff University student I urge you to try one of these traditions.

Endometriosis

Sarah Harris Contributor

Raising awareness of an often invisible illness

I

was nine when I first started my period and twelve by the time that for a few days each month, I was missing school because the pain became so unbearable. I distinctly remember my parents picking me up from school and taking me to A&E because they thought my appendix may have burst. I overheard the doctor talking to them in the corner and suggesting to them that my pain was all in my head.

I was in my second year of university in 2016 when I started what I now refer to as ‘the period from hell.’

Just like every month, my periods started and with that came the nausea, heavy bleeding and severe pain.

But six weeks later, it still hadn’t stopped. I kept going back and forth to my GP and they would tell me to come back again in a week. But after six weeks of not being able to go to any lectures because the blood loss and symptoms were so extreme, I begged my GP to do something and that’s when I ended up in A&E and one week later, getting scanned by a gynaecologist who suggested that I could have Endometriosis. Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition

Endometriosis: 1 in 10 women in the UK are affected by this invisible illness. Source: photorech (via pixabay) that affects 1 in 10 women in the UK yet takes an average of seven years to diagnose. It’s essentially when the tissue that grows in your uterus starts to grow in other places in your body, most commonly your reproductive organs. However, many women who have advanced stages of the disease have found it on their bowels, bladder, intestines, kidneys and in rare cases, even your lungs, diaphragm and chest. Although sometimes, Endometriosis can be picked up on ultrasounds, you can’t get an official diagnosis until you’ve had laparoscopic surgery.

There are dozens of myths associ-

ated with Endometriosis to this day that even come from gynaecologists themselves. I’ve met countless people who have suggested that it can be cured by getting pregnant or getting your ovaries removed. However, the truth is that unfortunately, at this current moment in time there’s still no cure. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t ways to relieve your symptoms. Doctors can recommend painkillers, hormonal treatments and even surgery to help you cope but ultimately, it all depends on your own personal experiences.

So how do you get a diagnosis? Well, just like I did, you’ll probably have

to fight for it. Unfortunately, we live in a society where pain is somewhat normalised when it comes to women and especially when it’s linked to menstruation. However, according to Dr Susan Evans of the Pelvic Pain Foundation of Australia, the normal amount of period pain is ‘pain on the first one or two days of bleeding that is easily managed with antiinflammatory or going on the pill.’

So, if you have extreme pain that is disrupting your quality of life, then see your GP and ask to be referred to a gynaecologist for further investigation.

Also, if you have been diagnosed, make sure that your doctor has the right knowledge and is a specialist in Endometriosis because they’re the only people who are qualified to treat and removed the disease.

Thankfully, Cardiff is home to the only Endometriosis Centre in Wales so if you are registered here, you should be able to get a referral to the centre. I’d also highly recommend joining Facebook support groups such as South Wales Endometriosis Support Group or Fair Treatment for the Women of Wales for a little extra guidance. If you would like to know more on the disease look at the Endometriosis UK page.

Charlotte Thompson Contributor

M

arch 8 is dedicated to celebrating women from all backgrounds. With the first International Women’s day happening in 1911, the day is all about celebration, honouring the achievements of amazing women across the globe.

The movement was started by women protesting against their unjust working conditions. Due to its popularity, with the likes of the Socialist Party of America supporting the following year, it became a landmark day for women around the world.

Every year brings a new theme.

For 2020, the hashtag is #EachForEqual, which motivates us as individuals to encourage and acknowledge equal opportunities.

This year is all about raising awareness against bias in the workplace and the creative sphere to balance out the health and wealth of the globe. The hashtag encourages us all as individuals to question our conversations, behaviours and mindsets in order to make a change.

On such a historic and significant day, it can be daunting deciding how to honour the history of an entire gender. Of course, it is not exclusive only for females, all are welcomed and encouraged to get involved.

On the day itself, Cardiff University hosted an International Women’s Day concert showcasing musical works written, directed and performed by women.

Also, Fusion Students and Breakfast Hustle came together to create an immersive feminist workshop.

On March 6, Chapel 1877 in town is welcomed gay and bisexual women for a night of dancing and drinking.

Profits from the event went to Women’s Aid and donation bins were provided on the night for clothing, toiletries and sanitary products.

However, there is not one correct way of celebrating this amazing day.

Little things we do can cause a great impact on the females of the world.

You could participate by buying a coffee from an independent female-led café or reposting one of the amazing feminist social media pages such as ‘Freeda_en’. Sharing this year’s hashtag ‘#EachForEqual’ on your social media page, donating sanitary products to Cardiff Universities’ Periods in Poverty charity or even telling a woman in your life you love them.

These are all amazing contributions to the movement aiming to celebrate half the population, by the whole population.

Feminism means something different to us all, therefore it is important to express what the day means to you in your own way.

But of course, we should always be careful and apprehensive not to force our views, as well as our beliefs onto anyone. In short, stay classy and Happy International Women’s day.

COLUMN

22

SATWIK Speaks

Satwik Shivoham

How to be a good mentor

B

How to be a good mentor: a guru’s roles and responsibilities. Header: Geralt (via Pixabay). Left: Mohammed Hassan (via pxhere). Right: Martin Lopez (via Pexels).

eing asked to “mentor” someone makes my nerves tickle because I know the immense responsibility and risk associated with it. Very often, friends, lecturers or supervisors at work need me to do a bit of hand-holding with new recruits or my fellow colleagues, help them come up to par with the team. Sometimes, I’m required to explain very intricate, complicated things which I myself took a while to absorb. It becomes a really cumbersome process if what you’ve absorbed in weeks and months of constant learning and practicing, perhaps even in years, has to be passed on to someone in a fraction of that time. It’s almost impossible to make them absorb everything and even if they do, there are good chances they’ll forget certain important things.

While it is important to be an adept learner, it is extremely important to also be a capable leader who can pass on the same knowledge and expertise to others. After all, you will progress in your career some day and pass on what you’re currently doing to someone else.

I read a quote somewhere which said, “If you’ve fully understood something, you should be able to explain it to anybody with ease, to a child and an elder alike”. With this in mind, this will act as a guide for becoming a better mentor, and understanding why it’s crucial to

be patient and understanding, but also strategic, more than anything else with your mentee. The stakes are unusually high for a mentor in these scenarios, because the mentee’s performance will ultimately translate into a judgement of how well the mentor has performed.

One of my favourite management trainers, Chris Croft, always emphasises, “The management is always responsible”. Even if an intern commits a grave mistake, it will be their supervisor facing the music. “How could you let this happen?” and “I thought you had this under control?” are the two very dreadful questions I’ve seen managers and mentors face, and seldom are they able to answer. Mentoring someone (especially under a tight deadline) is the ultimate leadership test: more than them, you may be judged for your competency. I wish human mentoring was as easy as it is to teach A.I., but sadly, machine learning isn’t meant for us.

It’s quite human to have the mentees stumble and mess up, so never expect a flawless result of your efforts. That said, there are certain steps you could take to ensure your mentee adopts everything in the most effective way possible.

Firstly, understand them (and their pace)! I can’t stress this enough. Most mentors I’ve come across have wanted to be done with it as soon as possible. I

understand that they may be operating under a tight deadline, but treat mentor-

The mentee will be a reflection of the mentor’s leadership competency. ing like any of your other tasks because the stakes are equally high. If you want to do a good job at mentoring someone, you need to understand them wholly.

Spend some time with them away from the job too if possible, and understand their motivations, skills, weakness and anxieties. Trust me, having done this, a task as crucial as passing on a skill becomes a cakewalk. You may be the most qualified person in the room, but if you can’t devote your time to understanding someone who wants to learn, and how they wish to learn, you will be an ineffective mentor. Everyone has a pace of grasping things, and everybody prefers to be educated in different ways, so be conscious about how comfortable your mentee feels. It will ultimately dictate their performance.

Secondly, start with what could go wrong. When time isn’t on your side, start by introducing the most common errors you made when you had just

filled in the position. Talk about how they could fail, what the biggest associated risks are and what things they must always be mindful about. Instilling just the right amount of worry ensures careful execution on their part, and therefore, peak performance. It seems absurd because everyone naturally starts with the “basics”. Doing this, not only will your mentee remember distinctly what you chose to discuss first (the red flags and errors), they will also understand the importance of flawless execution.

If you start with “what could go wrong”, proceed with “how to avoid that”, and then explain the main task/skill in the process, it’ll leave a lasting imprint on their minds. Your mentee may end up doing anything to achieve that task, perhaps even adopt a novel approach you couldn’t think of, but they will definitely avoid the mistakes you highlighted specifically.

This “do everything but this” approach drastically reduces the changes of bad performance on their part. Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with people. Everyone has certain personality traits which make them more of less difficult to mentor, so the first step is undoubtedly the most important.

As a mentor, you’re given all the freedom to use whatever means necessary

to teach, but at the very essence of it, you need to understand who you’re dealing with. The best mentors I’ve come across have made as earnest of efforts in teaching me as I have made in learning from them. I’ve had supervisors who’ve first truly understood me, then carefully

Mentoring someone is the ultimate leadership test drafted a training programme.

Where I like things fast, they’ve challenged me to stimulate my mind.

Where I like things slow, they’ve made entire presentations for me to glance through in my own time, at my own pace.

The result was a self-sufficient, confident and well-equipped professional, and those were my best mentorships.

Make sure that what you pass on isn’t a burden, a worry or an incomplete toolkit.

Your mentee must be able to survive and thrive on their own, and when they don’t need you to do their job anymore and rather tell you how they could improve further, you will know that you have succeeded as a guru.

CELEBRATING CULTURE & DIVERSITY THURSDAY 12TH MARCH 19:00-22:00, GREAT HALL

To contact our science desk, drop us an email at science@gairrhydd.com

SCIENCE

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/science

GWYDDONIAETH

24

New guidelines using physiotherapy published to aid Huntington’s Disease

Cardiff University’s Huntington’s Disease Centre source of new hope for sufferers Mili Jayadeep Contributor

H

untington’s Disease is a neurodegenerative condition affecting the basal ganglia and cerebral cortex of the brain. It is a hereditary condition that causes debilitating symptoms affecting a person’s everyday life. Effects of the disease include involuntary movements, muscle rigidity, problems with behaviour, cognition and memory, which progressively worsen over time. Unfortunately, there is limited medical help for the condition as there is no current cure.

Following diagnosis, the condition is managed by prescribing medications to ease the effects of the symptoms and referred to get physiotherapy. Physiotherapy aims to improve a person’s strength, balance and gait. By improving overall fitness, physiotherapy and exercise helps Huntington’s disease patients perform better at everyday activities hence improving their quality of life and gain independence.

Researchers from Cardiff university are involved with an association that has found the significance of physiotherapy in helping Huntington’s patients. On conducting systematic review, they have presented their findings in the ‘Journal of Neurology’ and have recently published the first guidance for treating Huntington’s disease patients, which will form the basis for clinical

Time to workout: Physiotherapy increases muscle control, vital for retaining the independence of those affected by Huntington’s. Source: Royalty-Free Photo (via PickPik) practice by healthcare professionals.

Professor Monica Busse, one of the researchers from Cardiff University’s Huntington’s Disease Centre stresses the importance of physiotherapy: “People with Huntington’s need physiotherapy to help them cope with their changing physical function” Ian, aged 53, is a Huntington’s disease sufferer with initial behavioural and cognitive symptoms such as irritability and memory problems was later diagnosed for Huntington’s disease. The diagnosis impacted his life

in many ways affecting his lifestyle and his everyday activities as well as affecting his family and friends.

For example, he could no longer be a lorry driver or take part in things he enjoyed because his motor function was compromised. As it is a hereditary condition, he watched his father struggle with the disease and now his siblings also have Huntington’s. However, Ian refused to let the disease take away his independence. He uses physiotherapy and exercise as a way of managing the condition and lives “each day as

it comes”.

Ian’s story is one of many who live with this debilitating disease. The current guidelines proposed by the researchers strive to lengthen a person’s ability to stay mobile as long as possible following diagnosis and empower sufferers even at times of defeat. Physiotherapy, exercise and fitness are key to helping patients tackle the challenges they may face in their day to day lives. The research by Cardiff University hopes to take a step forward in providing this help and support.

University team investigates link between genomic disorders and psychiatric conditions in global project

New research into genetics behind conditions including autism, ADHD & schizophrenia Shannon Budden Contributor

C

ardiff University is to take part in the “Genome to Mental Health” international consortium, backed by the National Institute of Mental Health and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Mental Health and Human Development.

The consortium comprises researchers from 14 institutions globally and is led in the UK by Professor Marianne van den Bree, who works at Cardiff University’s MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics.

The research will involve looking at rare genetic disorders, caused by minute changes in someone’s genet-

ics and the prevalence of coinciding psychiatric conditions.

These disorders affect fewer than 1 in 2,000 people globally, equivalent to 0.05% of the population, but are considered a major cause of developmental and psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia, autism and ADHD. Currently, more studies are needed to build a clearer picture on the clinical presentation of these disorders and the potential risk for development of psychiatric conditions.

Rare genetic changes in an individual, such as deletion or duplication of chromosome 22 or 16, can have a big impact on biological function, allowing researchers to investigate potential links to psychiatric health.

The Genome to Mental Health consortium involves four projects that aim to study the symptoms in individuals that signal high risk for development of psychiatric disorders, with participants identified amongst the general population and in hospital clinics across three continents.

The aim of the project is to shed light on the current knowledge gap.

Past studies have been conducted in isolation, resulting in many small, difficult to compare studies. The goal is to conduct effective sharing of knowledge across institutions, researchers, patients, families and clinicians in order to overcome this.

With this wider approach it is hoped that the research carried out by the consortium will lead to fur-

ther studies focused on improving diagnosis and care for patients, with the eventual goal of leading to better clinical outcomes.

In addition to Cardiff University, participating institutions include: the University of Pennsylvania, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, University of California Los Angeles, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), the University of Toronto, Sainte Justine Pediatric Hospital Montreal, University of California San Diego, Geisinger, Washington University - St. Louis, University of Washington, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Maastricht University, University of Leuven, University of Cape Town and Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, Cape Town.

Word of the week: Chromosome Your science desk Liv Davies Hollly Giles

• The structures of DNA are wrapped around proteins and create a pair of chromosomes.

• DNA is the instructions for how your body functions and grows.

• Every human has 23 pairs of chromosomes, whereas some other living organisms different number.

Did you know? There is no correlation between the number of genes and the complexity of the organism!

GWYDDONIAETH 25

Initiative launched to combat UK’s productivity puzzle Cardiff researchers join team of specialists to form the PrOPEL Hub

Will Howell Contributor

A

new initiative has been launched to combat the UK’s productivity problem. Productivity is the measure of how efficiently inputs, such as labour and capital, are transformed into outputs such as manufactured goods. The UK has long had a problem with stagnating productivity, often performing far worse than similar economies.

However, a new research hub has been launched to fight this issue. Two Cardiff University researchers, Professor Alan Felstead and Rhys Davies have joined the Productivity Outcomes of Workplace Practice, Engagement and Learning (PrOPEL) Hub, led by the University of Strathclyde.

PrOPEL Hub, which also includes five other universities - Aston University, Ulster University and the Universities of Sheffield, Nottingham, and East Anglia - is also supported by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and five separate ESRC re-

They’re basic things but if you get these right, and you get engaged people, you can do fantastic things.

Allan Meek Founder and CEO of SCS Group

search projects, such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

The Hub is a £1.95 million, threeyear program dedicated to combating the UK’s poor productivity. Higher productivity could result in benefits such as lower production costs that can be passed on to consumers, improved international competitiveness, economic growth and higher wages.

PrOPEL Hub will be a multidisciplinary forum for policy makers, employers and employee organisations such as trade unions to come together to provide input that with the aid of the newest research, will help shape decisions that could be a crucial boost to productivity. The Hub will also organize research into spheres such as innovation, job design and employee management, in the hopes of developing practical steps to boost UK productivity.

Principal Investigator Professor Graeme Roy, Director of the Fraser of Allander Institute at the University of Strathclyde Business School said: “Boosting productivity is one of the greatest economic challenges facing the UK. “Through the PrOPEL Hub we will be able to take cutting edge academic research directly into the day-to-day operations of businesses – large and small – across the UK. Our work will also help inform policy making, both at the UK level and within the devolved nations.”

Professor Alan Felstead, who is based in Cardiff University’s School of Social

Holly Giles Science Editor

S

Productive Post-it: An increase in productivity could boost the Welsh economy. Source: Pexels (via PeakPx) Sciences, said: “It is difficult to underestimate the scale of the economic challenge facing the UK at the moment.”

Rhys Davies, from the Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data (WISERD), added: “Across a variety of measures of economic strength, Wales remains a relatively poor part of the UK “The persistence of the Welsh productivity gap needs to be addressed so that the people of Wales can enjoy the same chances in life as those that exist elsewhere. This project will explore

how businesses in Wales can improve their performance by enhancing the quality of employment so that both employers and workers can reap the benefits of more fulfilling and satisfying work.”

The CIPD will also co-fund a leading position within PrOPEL Hub, giving an opportunity for businesses to provide input on management and employee engagement. The CIPD will also help convert evidence and research produced by The Hub into content for HR and management professionals.

Welsh rural communities to be given 5G with new grant

A new grant utilises Cardiff University resources in multiple research schools in order to better connect the country Liv Davies Science Editor

A

£65 million grant has been put forward in order to help people in rural Wales have quiker internet connections. This new technology installed into these rural areas will involve Cardiff University’s School of Computer Science and Informatics, School of Geography and Planning, School of Mathematics, and the Data Innovation Research Institute.

Connected Communities in the Rural Economy will collaborate with various experts in the field along with the county council of the communities that the 5G will help.

This new source of internet access will hopefully bring about improvements to farm security and tourism, as well as tackling rural isolation.

5G is more advanced in that it has

almost ten times the internet speeds of 4G, and could therefore change the way that these rural communities interact with one another and with services. It is hoped that more and more individuals will be open to new technologies such as smart devices and remote health care, improving the standards of living for many in these communities.

Secretary of State for Wales Simon Hart said “The UK Government is committed to eliminating the difference in connection between urban and rural areas whilst exploring innovative ways to use 5G technology to develop emerging industries, supporting our rural economy in Wales.”

The project by Connected Communities in the Rural Economy notes that this is an important step in enabling all of the UK to be able to access computational technolo-

Microplastics found at the peak of Snowdon, showing effect of climate change

gies such as edge computing and analytics. However, the project realises that cyber security remains an important issue to tackle.

Professor Peter Madden OBE, from Cardiff University’s School of Geography and Planning, said: “5G technology has the potential to improve the lives of people in rural areas. We’re really pleased that Cardiff University, has been able to help secure this funding, so that we can explore the benefits that this technology could bring to people living across south east Wales.”

A grant of five million pounds has been given for this project by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. This was matched by various partners, who are both privately and publicly funded. These funds are necessary to carry out this project that can make great changes in Wales’ productivity and tourism.

The British countryside has always been a hotbed of pioneering industries and we’re making sure our rural communities aren’t left behind in the digital age. We’re investing millions so the whole country can grasp the opportunities and economic benefits of next generation 5G technology” Nicky Morgan Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport

nowdon is a place of national pride for Wales and is regarded by many as a place of beauty unaffected by the rest of society. However, research published this week has proved that this isn’t the case.

Researchers at the School of Natural Sciences at Bangor University have found microplastics near the peak of Snowdon.

They think this is particularly telling when, due to inaccessibility, it is unlikely to be as a direct result of litter but more likely to be deposited by rain, caused by litter breaking down and being deposited into water systems. This shows the widespread impact of global plastic use.

Dr Dunn from Bangor University explained the sadness of their findings; “The results are scary when you think that this is at the top of a mountain and a very remote location. However a more detailed analysis would almost certainly find more plastic. I should be surprised because it’s so horrific, but sadly I’m not.”

A particularly striking part of this research is their method for collecting the data; many of the locations are inaccessible by foot so activist Laura Sanderson swam up the mountain from the river’s source and collected water samples in glass bottles along the way. Laura swam a total of 16 miles but it’s far from over.

The team have now asked her to continue this swim at the 15 other national parks located across the UK in a ‘source to sea’ challenge.

The challenge is expected to include 980km of swimming and will collect 220 litres of samples. This can then be analysed by the team to provide further insight into to our plastic problem. The project is expected to take up to a year to complete but, as Laura explained, “we want to see just how widespread the problem is and look at waterways in all our national parks”.

The samples from Snowdon are currently reporting an average of three pieces of microplastic per litre from the lake but the team knows this is probably an underestimation.

Hopefully after this year-long project, the team will have a clear picture of microplastics in the UK and, from this, a strategy for how to combat it.

We want to see just how widespread the problem is and look at waterways in all our national parks” Laura Sanderson Swimmer & Activist

@CAERDYDD

To contact our @Caerdydd desk, drop us an email at caerdydd@gairrhydd.com

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/@caerdydd

26

Your @Caerdydd desk Tirion Davies Natalie Graham

Gair Rhydd speaks to...T J Roberts Disclosing the True Secret to a Happy Life

Natalie Graham @Caerdydd Editor

T

wo weeks ago I arrived at the aptly named Pirate Studios in Grangetown to meet TJ Roberts, a self-described Alt/Garage/Americana ‘Uncle Rock’ band comprising of four members; Tom Roberts, Heather Louise, Gavin Owen and Jasper Gaskin. TJ Roberts, having already released a debut album in 2019; Best New Reissue, coincidently presented us with their new single True Secret to a happy life the same day as this interview. The song has hit on a winning formula, on the surface True Secret to a happy life is an upbeat, serotonin boosting musical offering, complete with jangly guitar riffs at its core. The single also has a deeper meaning, one of an intelligent and objective political discourse.

Surrounded by endless cables and woodchip walls, I sat in on the bands rehearsal for their gig at Rough Trade, Brick Lane, that took place last Monday. All four members set up immediately, clearly a band that is focused and willing to work. After a casual discussion over the ever nearing (only two more months to go!) festival season, it’s obvious the band is ambitious with their eyes set on playing Green Man festival alongside the likes of Mac Demarco and Michael Kiwanuka in August. The TJ Roberts line-up was finalised only six months ago, Tom emphasised the difficulty in hunting down a winning combination “finding a permanent line-up is challenging. You can play with the most skilled musicians in the world, but it takes months to imbed yourself as a team, but you have to work with the faith you’ll eventually find the right pairing". Like all good relationships chemistry is key. The lineup works, with each individual throwing their own unique quality into the alt rock mixing pot, resulting in an assertive fresh sound.

As I have mentioned, True Secret to a happy life bears a subtle political undertone. I was curious as to how the name of the song came to fruition. Tom, the brains behind the lyrical prowess wrote the lyrics a week after the election: “I read a tweet by another band saying you’ll never catch us writing a political song, as if there’s a dirty association with politics and music. I think that’s weird, music is inherently political”.

Music and politics have a historically intimate connection. From Bob Dylan’s A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall (1963), to Marvin Gaye’s What’s Goin on (1971) . Even M.I.A’s Paper Planes (2008) is inherently political.

“I think the idea they were trying to get at is the idea that politics is really complicated, and presenting one idea is really hard. So I came at it from that respect. One of my big things is I’m Welsh and have been brought up Welsh… I was really surprised by the Brexit result with them receiving so much funding from the EU. So, I started with this lyric ‘Bite the hand that feeds’ and it turned into a song that was trying

T J Roberts: Single 'True Secret to a happy life' hits the airwaves.

Source: Tom Arnold to be political, with a level of empathy to the audience. That’s one thing that’s missing in political discourse.

This is a ridiculously difficult situation, and I think for me to write a purely political song would’ve been a little bit disingenuous”. From observation, TJ Roberts are nothing but genuine with a belief in the music they are making. “The lyrics‘you give yourself better’, are about you not having to settle for this, this isn’t everything you have to accept, you can shoot for higher. Don’t settle for less, shoot for higher.”

We are currently living in a period of intense political contention, polarization and disenfranchisement. It seemed only apt to ask the band what they thought about the influence of music on politics. Gav summed up perfectly the impact music can have.

“With politics and music, I don’t think you can do massive amounts for political change, but it’s a strong communicative asset".

Tom stated, “I’ve never come from a position of trying to influence, but a position of trying to use music to understand how I feel. I would never say my songs are songs to rally behind, all of my songs are introspective. True secret to a happy life is a song that talks about an audience and a group of people. It’s me addressing my own difficulties with other people’s differing views”.

TJ Roberts have been experiencing both live and studio success having been signed by Libertino Records in November, the same record label as Carmarthen based trio Adwaith, who won the Welsh Music Prize last November. I offered up an opportunity for the band who are still very much in their adolescence, to reflect on the lessons they have learnt in the last few months.

Tom said, ”Never release your music when you are drunk, without knowing how to publicise it. It’s uncomfortable as musicians to realise you have to strategize. We gave the first album the worst possible start, and Libertino saved it. It’s unusual for a label to do that as it’s a big risk for them”. Gav added, “It’s about being

savvy with gigs, and thinking twice about what we do or don’t do”.

For anyone reading this about to embark on band formation, here’s some valuable words of wisdom from Tom: “As far as song writing goes you have to write all the time, like anything that’s a skill, song writing can be treated like a muscle you have to work and have to exercise. If you stop you lose your ability to engage with it. Write a little bit everyday whether that be chords or lyrical, I believe massively in seeing the bottom end of your writing ability.

If you don’t know where the floor is you cant reach for the ceiling”.

Welsh Music is something we keep coming back to in this section.

I was eager to get an insight into the Cardiff-based band’s opinion on the future of the Welsh music scene.

Tom: “At the moment we are having a renaissance period in Welsh music which is great, a lot of deserving bands getting quality attention from the national media, the Guardian picking up on Adwaith’s success and Boy Azooga playing with Bob Dylan. But I am sceptical of the idea of ‘Cool Cymru’, that’s happened before and it died. Then what, do we not have Welsh music anymore?

The Cool Cymru movement trivialises our nation and the Welsh music scene as a novelty for Anglo media.

The answer needs to come from within Wales. There are huge infrastructure problems in that venues are closing all over the country. Cardiff is bad but if you think about Carmarthen, its lost its only gig venue 'The Parrot'.

TJ Roberts have experienced firsthand the impact of closing venues in Wales. “It’s definitely had an impact, we’ve had to move the 10 Feet Tall gig and it certainly means we have to think very carefully about where we are playing in Cardiff, otherwise we are playing the same two venues that we’ve always played. We can sit around and wait for Anglo media to be interested, or we can invest money into venues, local bands, promoters and labels. Libertino is a good example, its one of only two or three labels across Wales, whilst in Bristol alone there’s about 10. What we need to do

is invest in the music scene from the inside, become self-sustaining", Tom said.

Heather commented, “This could be a weird metaphor but it’s like when you have female bands, you want to get to a point when that’s not a defining factor. Obviously I see Wales in terms of the UK being a place that has more obstacles in the way, in comparison to England, so you need to get to a point where there’s just good bands not Welsh bands. That’s my marker for equality, when everyone’s allowed to be as s*** as each other”.

Gav said, “When people say ‘welsh music’ that can mean just Cardiff centric. You’ve got the neighbouring cities like Newport, which has a small music scene, and there’s some great bands in Swansea, like our friends Bandicoot. If there’s more opportunity nationwide for all these venues to pop up, then there wouldn’t be this huge concentration of everyone coming to Cardiff. But on the other hand the scene in Cardiff is thriving. There needs to be more preservation of venues.Another gripe of mine is the creation of the Cardiff Music Board, it was something that seemed hopeful when it was announced around the same time as the Guildford Crescent closure. It almost seems like a red herring to calm people down whilst that was going on, and a whole load of other venues have closed since.

There has been no mention since of the Cardiff Music Board doing literally anything in regard to the closure of venues, so why does it exist, other than a nice name for the city”.

The Cardiff Music board was created by Cardiff Council for the purpose of, "championing Cardiff ’s music scene locally, nationally and internationally, protect and promote music at grassroots and all levels, providing a platform for increased communication and collaboration across the sector".

A lot can change in a year, whether TJ Roberts are playing at their dream festivals Green Man and End of the Road, or are hard at work in a rough and ready rehearsal studio. For Tom, there is only one guarantee: putting together the third album. “I don’t know what album three will look like, I had a really clear idea about album two”. When pressed further on what type of sound we should expect from the third album, Tom told me: “We went more country and Americana on this album, we really laid into that. I think I’d like to take it back a little and widen the tonal space, FJM (Father John Misty) would be a really good way to go. FJM has always got these amazing orchestrations. We wouldn’t get an orchestra, but look at that vaster sound”.

What lurks imminently round the corner for TJ Roberts? A series of upcoming gigs across Wales and the West. On April 9 the band will be playing a charity gig at Depot in memory of Ben McDonald who sadly passed away during Cardiff Half Marathon last year. Album two is also worth looking out for, likely to be released in the autumn. It is currently in the final stages of the album writing process.

@CAERDYDD

Boosted support for Welsh film How Film Hub Wales & BFI are working in support of Welsh film Tirion Davies @Caerdydd Editor

I

Scotland v Wales Saturday March 14

Suzi Ruffel: Dance Like Everyone's Watching Friday 13 March, 7:45pm New 2020: Ripples Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Tuesday 17 March until Thursday 19 March

Made in Wales: One of the Made in Wales films, Mr Jones premiered in Chapter in January.

Source: Made in Wales

ing the support it needs to expand itself further.

Film Hub Wales, led by Chapter as part of the BFI Film Audience Network, has announced projects aimed to champion Welsh storytelling in Wales, the United Kingdom and internationally. A way of celebrating Welsh identity, language and culture through film throughout the year, the new project will increasingly boost the status of Welsh films.

In association with BFI’s Network scheme, aiming to support talent development across the UK by pledging over three million pounds per year to develop new UK filmmakers, Film Hub Wales will work collaboratively to create more content made within Wales.

By collaborating with BFI, Made in Wales will earn more financial support in expanding the film sector within Wales, and the collaboration offers

more funding to create Wales-led films, including those made in Welsh.

Since 2013, the Made in Wales project has supported over 80 films with Welsh connections, 24 of which would not have otherwise gained theatrical release. With the aim to release eight Welsh films annually, the activities offered by Made in Wales include preview days and online screenings.

Under the new Film Hub Wales project, a Made in Wales Officer will be created with the support of companies such as Creative Wales to explore ways of bringing Welsh films to a wider public audience so that local stories, talents and locations earn acclaim outside of Wales.

Hana Lewis, Strategic Manager for Film Hub Wales, has said of the new project, "Our ambition is for Welsh film to be recognised alongside quality independent and foreign language

titles worldwide". She also noted, "There’s so much creativity in Wales and we want this to be told" and stated, "this work will prioritise the audience, exploring how to maximise the journey of a film once it’s been made".

Although Film Hub Wales already have a catalogue on their website for Welsh exhibitors, the BFI Film Audience Network new releases strategy will help boost visibility for Welsh artists and storytelling.

The projects will help to give Welsh filmmaking more of a status within the UK. There is the understanding that films with Welsh connections need that little bit more support, and with the help of the BFI Film Audience Network new release strategy and Film Hub Wales’ Made in Wales project, there’s no doubt Welsh film will quickly gain the attention of more than just the Welsh public.

Iris Prize Festival Director nominated for top award at LGBT Awards ris Prize LGBT+ Film Festival Director Berwyn Rowlands has been selected in the Top 10 at the British LGBT Awards, under the category ‘Outstanding Contribution to LGBT life’.

The British LGBT Awards, which have been running since 2015, aims to highlight and celebrate role models and organisations who better the lives of LGBT+ people. The ‘Outstanding Contribution to LGBT life’ award was created to celebrate individuals whose work has significantly impacted the LGBT+ community.

Last year’s award was won by the human rights activist Peter Tatchell.

The Iris Prize Film Festival, which was created with the intention of offering a platform for talented filmmakers who are part of the LGBT+ community, has earned support year after year. Dee Rees, the winner of the Iris Prize at the festival’s first ever event, has since earned nu-

SIX NATIONS

Tylwyth Tuesday 10 March until Friday 13 March (Performed in Welsh)

Success for Berwyn Rowlands

Tirion Davies @Caerdydd Editor

Events - March 2020

Sherman Theatre Cardiff:

W

ith Wales becoming a hub of activity for films in recent years, it’s no wonder more support is being earned within Wales’ blossoming cultural section.

Wales has been the backdrop for many films in recent years – between Wonder Woman 1984 choosing to film in North Wales, and of course television programmes such as Sex Education and His Dark Materials using South Wales primarily to film – Wales is garnering a name for itself in Hollywood. However, for the most part Hollywood is using Wales to explore more Hollywood-centric stories – ones which don’t always have a Welsh lens.

The story of a Welsh journalist researching life behind Russia’s Iron Curtain, ‘Mr. Jones’ was recently released, having been made in Wales. Other films which have earned acclaim in recent months include ‘Eternal Beauty’, ‘St Maud’ and ‘Rare Beasts’, which were all made in Wales.

Welsh films aren’t often well-received. There can sometimes be an assumption that Welsh films are made for Wales and Wales alone and thus don’t earn the support they desperately need to flourish beyond their homeland. Welsh language films in particular are kept to Wales. Despite S4C’s 1992 film ‘Hedd Wyn’ gaining an Oscar nomination for best foreign language film, not many outside of the Welsh speaking community has heard of it.

Wales has a blooming cultural section, and films made by Welsh artists are steadily becoming more popular in the United Kingdom. But now, it seems Welsh filmmaking may be gain-

27

merous awards at highly acclaimed awards ceremonies, including an Academy Award nomination for her film ‘Mudbound’ (2007).

Iris Prize Film Festival has been an incredible addition to LGBT+ filmmaking. Thousands gather in Cardiff each year since Iris first started to support the presentation of the world’s largest LGBT+ short film prize. In 2016 and 2017, the festival was identified as one of the top 50 film festivals in the world by Movie Maker Magazine. It has since even been promoted by BAFTA to its ‘A’ list of festivals (alongside Cannes and Sundance) who are officially recognised as qualifying for the BAFTA Awards.

Iris Prize is supported by the Michael Bishop Foundation, and with £30,000 as a prize, it is the only LGBT short film prize in the world which allows the winner to make another film.

Berwyn Rowlands, who organised his first public film festival in Aberystwyth in 1989, has since grown

St. David's Hall Cardiff: The Music of Star Wars and Beyond Sunday 15 March 3:00pm

Star Wars: Source: User:KAMiKAZOW (via Wikipedia)

Clwb Ifor Bach: David Keenan Friday 13 March, 7:30pm Get Funky 4th Birthday Demuja Friday 13 March, 11:00pm

The Moon Cardiff: Flood Fundraiser 2: White Riot, Bedface, Versify, Thoby Davis, The Catacombs Monday 9 March, 6:30pm Flood Fundraiser 3: Lacertilia, Wonderbrass, Aniya Savage, Eleri Angharad, Laura Power, Lauren Evans Tuesday 10 March, 6:30pm The Peach Fuzz, The Moindanes, Kampago, Sun Spot (This Feeling) Thursday 12 March, 7:30pm

Y Plas Gabrielle Aplin Friday 13 March, 7:00pm

Iris Prize Festival: Berwyn Rowlands created the Iris Prize Festival in 2006, and it has since grown to be the world's largest LGBT+ short film prize. Source: Iris Prize Film Festival an incredible community with the Iris Prize Film Festival. Having been recognised in 2013 by the Queen at a reception for the British Film Industry, the Iris Prize Film Festival has had a profound effect on film.

Berwyn Rowlands’ nomination at the 2020 British LGBT Awards is

only an example of the impact the festival has had not only in the United Kingdom, but across the world for the LGBT+ community.

We wish Berwyn Rowlands the best of luck at the 2020 British LGBT Awards!

Fish Thursday 19 March, 7:00pm Gabrielle Aplin: Source: Justin Higuchi (via Flickr)

To contact our sport desk, drop us an email at sport@gairrhydd.com

SPORT

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/sport

CHWARAEON

28

For more content, head to gairrhydd.com/sport

Women in Sport In celebration of International Women’s Day

Sport Editor Ella Fenwick has interviewed four women in sport and their journeys in the sporting world through their personal accounts Ella Fenwick

Sport Editor

T

he sporting world prides itself upon the power it has to create a sense of togetherness. Full of energy bringing nations together around the world, giving people a sense of belonging they desire. From global events to local competitions, fans stand on the side-lines cheering and athleticism is celebrated as a gift. The effect sport can have on an individual cannot be discredited, but issues surrounding should not be forgotten either.

Over the past decade there has been a noticeable positive shift towards female inclusion in sport but underlying problems still exist. In a male-dominated sector, women have found themselves denied equal opportunities in sport.

The favouritism of male athletes in the sporting world has been prominent in sports coverage, and is reinforced by the gender pay gaps. Male or female, an athlete is still an athlete, and both genders are deserving of the same opportunities. Policies and practices are changing, but as a proud sporting community, how should stereotypes be challenged and female participation be empowered?

According to a study by Sport England data, 26% of women across the UK are inactive in sport, meaning they do less than 30 minutes of physical activity a day. The results showed there was still a large difference between the male involvement in sports in comparison to women.

There has been a positive shift towards female inclusion in sport But there are campaigns across the UK working hard to improve these statistics, including “This Girl Can” and “Women in Sport”. The current achievements by both parties and other campaigns alike, have allowed for real progress, reaching some major milestones and have hopefully triggered legacies in female sport across the United Kingdom.

The positives from women in sport should not be repressed either therefore in celebration of International Women’s Day, I have spoken to four inspirational women involved in sport. Following personal accounts and different experiences, to exploring aspects of the sporting world through the eyes of some incredible athletes.

back medals for us, including Esther Adikp, who brought back bronze in the 400-metre sprint.”

“We have very well performing women’s teams, but we make sure that there is an equal opportunity for women and men to get involved, whether that is competitive or recreational at the University.”

Pickett praised the performance of the women’s teams over the past season, too, pointing out that there have been some very high achieving sides.

“We have some really well performing Ladies’ teams. Our Ladies’ rugby team have been smashing it this season, as they went undefeated in their league, so we are excited to see where they will go in the next couple of years.”

“I think across the board, Ladies’ sport at Cardiff is celebrated,” Pickett went onto say, “there’s lots of women active across the campus which is something we really celebrate and enjoy here at the University.”

What do you do to fight for equality?

Verity Butt, Ladies’ Rugby President, speaks about her sports journey

V

erity Butt is an aspiring rugby player who is currently the President of the Cardiff University Ladies’ Rugby club working hard to increase equality in a maledominated sport to ensure there are equal opportunities for her team.

Butt began her rugby journey in school, despite the discouragement from her Dad in taking up the sport, she

decided to follow her dreams.

“My three brothers have played rugby from a young age, so I was quite competitive. I was always standing on the sidelines. One day I said to my Dad ‘I want to play rugby’ and he turned round and said ‘No you need to work on your studies’ and ‘Rugby is not a girls game’. I was at boarding school at that time so I joined the girls rugby team behind his

Your sport desk Reece Chambers George Willoughby Ella Fenwick Luke Wakeling Olly Allen Tom Walker

S

port is first introduced to everyone at a young age and we are given the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports right up until education is finished. At Cardiff University, engagement in sports is encouraged, with students having the choice to participate in over 65 sports clubs.

Jude Pickett, Cardiff University’s Athletic Union President, has made equality across all sports clubs a priority. The AU President has been keen to reiterate the efforts made this year to improve the overall balance and diversity across the sport.

“The sports that we run here at the AU have women involved, that’s because they are either a mixed group like American Football or because we have a men’s and then a women’s team,” said Pickett.

“On any given week, we have up to 26 female teams that go out and compete in BUCS including ultimate frisbee, netball, tennis, hockey and rugby, there’s just so much going on at Cardiff University. Sport involvement at the university goes beyond just BUCS with more casual IMG leagues where there are over 50 netball teams that get involved.“ “We have the BUCS nationals, which is where lots of individual sports go. So there was a lot of athletics and martial arts there, as well as other sports.

We have some very high performing athletes that went and brought

Rugby: Butt at Varsity Source: Cardiff University SU

back.”

At the beginning of her sporting career, Butt was scouted by multiple development schemes and even played in the Olympic trials.

“My coaches scouted me and put me into the county team, then I trained with the Harlequins development Premiership team. I had Olympic trials in Cardiff, got scouted by Rowland Phillips who put me into the Dragon’s development set-up. I joined Cardiff University and began playing for their team.”

Since playing for Cardiff University, Verity took her passion for the sport a step further and was elected President for the club.”

As President I am involved with quite a lot of talks about Ladies’ rugby development and we have definitely had our fair share of barriers this year.

Obviously the men are in the Super League of BUCS and we are in the Premiership. The girls don’t actually have a Super League, I feel like that is always held over our heads.”

“Men’s rugby is so much bigger but I feel like Ladies’ Rugby is very successful in the development side so essentially we have gone from Western 1A to Premiership in a year, and then straight up to winning the league.”

As President, Butt encourages the engagement of women within the club, offering the students many different aspects outside of playing for the team.

“From a club side of things we provide so many opportunities for the girls.

We have mental health support every Thursday, we do loads of fundraising, we host lots of fun sober socials and interclub socials and lots of team bonding sessions.”

The university has provided the club with star coaches to train the players, leading them to many victories over the year, however Butt thinks they are all working together to achieve more.

“We are really close with our coaches and at the end of the day we are all here to progress and really use that inner quality aspect of it that we do have to fight so many barriers to become equals to the men.”

For Varsity this year, Butt has worked in close quarters with Swansea University to achieve equality in how rugby is experienced by students on the day.

“This year we have fought to play Varsity in the Liberty Stadium and we finally got it and finally got our names on Varsity posters. People are really driven by the aspect to have these opportunities.”

CHWARAEON

ToTo contact contact our our sport sport desk, desk, drop drop usus anan email email atat sport@gairrhydd.com sport@gairrhydd.c

How does it feel to represent your country at the top level of sport?

29

Iconic women in sport

Natalie Powell, former Cardiff University student, discusses her rise to the top of Judo, representing Wales and much more

N

atalie Powell competes professionally in Judo and has represented both Wales and Great Britain since winning Gold in the Commonwealth Games back in 2014.

The former Cardiff University student has since gone on to break several records in British Judo history.

Most notably of which was becoming the first-ever British female to be ranked number one in the world.

Building on the success from 2014, Powell achieved world number one ranking by winning Gold at the Abu Dhabi Judo Grand Slam 2017.

Her achievements in Judo have been the main reason for the rise in popularity in the UK and further highlight the rise of female involvement in martial arts.

Powell began her Judo journey at an early age with her first involvement in the sport coming through school.

“A few of my friends were doing it when I was about eight in Primary school, so my mum took me along to a local club where they were all training.

“I think as well because I used to always fight my Dad in the kitchen, so I think she just wanted me to channel my energy better,” said Powell.

From training at a local club, Powell now finds herself on the international stage. The 29-year-old has performed at the peak of Judo for a number of years and continues to thrive in the sport.

“It makes me feel really proud. I love fighting for Wales, the only time you get to do so is in the Commonwealth Games so I think that was a real highlight of my career just because I could

actually fight for Wales.

“I am really proud to be British and Welsh, but there are not many opportunities to actually fight for Wales, which made it an extra special one.”

Powell has achieved medals at many global sporting events, one of which was Gold in the Commonwealth Games in 2014, but she says her ‘biggest achievement’ was winning a World Championships bronze medal in 2017.

Gender equality in Judo has improved massively over the years with Powell explaining how it has encouraged more diverse involvement.

“I think it is potentially going up, it was quite a male-dominated sport when I was younger.

“The tide has sort of changed in British Judo, there seems to be a lot more women doing it now.

“I think in my time in Judo, over the past 20 years I have definitely seen a shift in equality.

The same amount of men and women qualify for the Olympics and all the prize money is the same.”

Powell’s rise to the top of the Judo pyramid showcases that anything is possible in sport if you apply yourself.

Asked on her advice for aspiring female athletes, Powell stated that the overall enjoyment of competing in sport outweighs the challenges female athletes can face.

Serena Williams Former world number one American singles tennis player, holding the most Grand Slam titles in singles, doubles and mixed doubles.

Williams won gold in the London 2012 Olympics.

Judo: Powell in action. Source: Natalie Powell (via Twitter) “I would definitely say a hundred percent to give it a go, there are just so many benefits to Judo. Socially, you get to travel as well.

“It is such a physically and mentally demanding sport so you really get to challenge all aspects.

“It is just really enjoyable and it keeps you fit, so I would definitely tell them to give it a go.”

Powell still has an exciting sporting career ahead of her and will be hoping to continue her record-breaking career in style.

Looking ahead to the next few years and her short-term aims, Powell quickly pointed towards Tokyo 2020 and the ambition to achieve at least bronze there.

“I will hopefully have an Olympic medal round my neck after Tokyo, that is my immediate goal. To win in the Olympic games would be my dream come true.”

For now, the Welsh Judo star will have full focus on training well and fully preparing for the Olympic games.

If her success in the sport is anything to go by, she certainly stands in good stead to reach the podium in Tokyo.

Given her success in Judo, Powell should be seen as one of the groundbreakers in helping improve female involvement in Judo.

In a wider context, her success shows just how much can be achieved despite a number of obstacles in the way.

Did you ever find gender inequalities?

Micheala Breeze, former British weightlifter, talks about her achievements, the Commonwealth Games, coaching and much more

M

ichaela Breeze is a former British weightlifter who has competed in some of the biggest global sporting events, representing both Wales and Great Britain. Breeze was awarded an MBE in 2011 after retiring in 2010 once she had received a silver medal in the Commonwealth Games. Breeze opened a gym in Aberdare but shortly made a comeback in 2014 to represent Wales in the Commonwealth Games bringing home a bronze medal.

Breeze began weightlifting while in secondary school, encouraged through her PE lessons.

“I was a 13-year-old, I guess I was under pressure, well not under pressure but was encouraged to do sports that I didn’t particularly enjoy and I wanted to do something different. So, I chose weightlifting and taekwondo. They are the sports I pursued in my early years.”

Breeze represented Great Britain in the European Championships in 2003 achieving a bronze medal and went on to represent Wales in the Commonwealth

Games from her professional debut in 2002 to her comeback in 2014.

Breeze said, “Emotional, if I had to describe it in one word, it would have to be emotional. It is just such an honour to have the privilege to represent your country and to be able to do so over two decades. On such big stages like the Olympics, Commonwealth, Worlds and Europeans, it has been quite a privilege and something that I will forever cherish.

“My personal highlight would be gold in the Commonwealth Games in 2006 in the 100kg snatch.”

Weightlifting has always been predominantly stereotyped as a “male sport”.

Breeze explained, “I guess being female in a male-dominated sport throughout the early part of my career was always a challenge. There were always comments whether that be at school or going through the ranks that it is a sport for men. That is another reason why I I pursued it, because I wanted to show that actually, no it is not just for men, women can do this as well.”

Over the years, weightlifting has developed a higher rate of female participation due to the inclusion within the Olympics, inspiring many young athletes to get involved.

“As it is apparent now women being involved in Olympic weightlifting, I guess I bucked the trend early on and it is great to see so many other people now following suit.”

Since retiring and opening her own

Nicola Adams Former professional British boxer, holding an undefeated record. With two gold medals in the Olympics and one in the World and European championships and the Commonwealth Games.

gym, Breeze coaches athletes daily, running training camps and seminars for aspiring athletes.

Breeze also went onto say, ”I encourage both genders, we talk about female equality but at the same time I give equal opportunities to both males and females, whoever wants to have a go at the sport is welcome to come and train with me and come to my training camps. I welcome both genders.”

Jessica Ennis Hill

Defiant: Breeze in competition. Source: Micheala Breeze (via Twitter)

Former British field and track athlete, competing in the heptathlon as a three times world champion, winning gold in the 2012 Olympics and the 2010 European championships.

30 SPORT

Olympic spotlight: Hannah Mills

Concussions, media criticism, and rugby - the story of George North

Olly Allen Sport Editor

W

ith the exception of thr 1904 games, sailing has been present at every single edition of the modern Olympic Games, and Great Britain has won more gold medals (28) than any other nation in the sport. One of those medallists is Cardiff-born Hannah Mills, who topped the podium at Rio 2016 after picking up silver in London 2012. A medal in Tokyo this summer would mean she becomes the most successful female Olympic sailor of all time.

Mills started sailing at the age of eight after trying the sport whilst on holiday in Cornwall, and in 2002, was voted UK Young Sailor of the Year and BBC Wales Young Sports Personality of the Year. By the time she won a gold medal at the 2008 Junior World Sailing Championships, her talent was clear.

In 2011, she paired up with Saskia Clark for the first time, a partnership that would go on to achieve huge success in the Women’s 470 category over the next few years. Gold at the World Championships in 2012 gave them confidence going into the London Olympics that summer, and the pair were agonisingly close to topping the podium in Weymouth.

Mills and Clark shared the lead with the New Zealand boat going into the medal race, and despite a good start they were undone by a shift in the wind, finishing next to last, leaving them with silver.

This only inspired them four years later though, and nothing could deter them in Rio. The pair held a 20-point lead going into the medal race and finished eighth to claim the gold medal.

Mills considered retirement after her success in Brazil, especially as Clark confirmed that she was calling it a day.

However her love of sailing proved too strong, and Mills found a new partner in Eilidh McIntyre.

After winning silver and bronze in the Women’s 470 at the 2017 and 2018 World Championships respectively, the pair finally got their hands on gold last year before finishing as runners-up in the Olympic test event. In October they were announced as part of the Team GB squad for Tokyo as sailing became the first sport to select its athletes for the games. Mills now has the chance to make history this summer.

Speaking to The Guardian following the announcement, Mills said: “To get selected for the Olympic team is a huge achievement and to do it again, with a new partner, is just so special. Eilidh and I have been sailing together for coming up to two years now and we’ve had to work on a lot of stuff.

“As I have got older, I’ve really tried to enjoy the journey of the Olympic Games. That’s something Eilidh and I have put a lot of effort into, making sure that we enjoy the whole process.

“Obviously we go there to win and will do everything in our power to win but there’s no guarantees at the Games.

If we can deliver our best performance and that’s not good enough because of whatever factors we still have to be proud of everything we put into it, and know that we’ve not left anything in the bank.”

Sport editor Tom Walker attended an event where the Welsh winger opened up about numerous aspects of his life Tom Walker Sport Editor

A

fter only previously being subjected to mundane, PR induced interviews from professional footballers and other athletes alike who have been media trained to within every inch of their life, it’s fair to say I was relatively sceptical heading into this ‘evening with George North’ hosted at the Blake Theatre in Monmouth.

But much to my delight, we were treated to an evening filled with laughs and stories dating all the way back to his humble beginnings in North Wales.

It could not have been easy for North, who only two days prior had been forced off 11 minutes into a crucial Six Nations clash against France following a big collision with French winger Gael Fickou.

But he was still in great spirits, explaining how he felt he could have come back on to see out the rest of the match and that he should be back to face England on March 7.

It has not been an easy few years for the man currently playing at the Ospreys. He has come in for plenty

of criticism for his performances, but he was keen to point out that he is his harshest critic and believes his performance levels can reach the heavy heights he has previously set throughout the early years of his career.

But, if tries are what defines a winger’s value to a team, then North has actually only upped his game since 2014.

The Welsh winger, despite much criticism, has been in prolific scoring form since 2015.

The Welshman scored 19 tries in 45 games between 2011 and 2014, whereas since the turn of 2015, he has scored 22 in 45 matches, including one against Italy in this year’s Six Nations campaign.

He said he tries to avoid the criticism levelled at him in the media, but as is the current state of affairs, it is almost impossible to not see things written about you. Despite the number of head injuries - which he jokingly eluded to throughout - North clearly has

a grip on the current state of society, demonstrating a great knowledge of the current state of the media and the effect upon athletes’ mental health.

His passion for the game, and for his national team, was clearly demonstrated when asked what is was like to play for Wales by a young boy.

A smile instantly rose upon hearing the question: “There is not a feeling like it” he replied, describing how he would have been over the moon to just have the one cap, let alone approaching 100.

At the age of 27, North still has a lot to offer this new look Welsh side.

Following the 2019 World Cup in Japan, Wales’ coaching staff underwent a complete overhaul, with Head Coach Warren Gatland departing, along with defensive coach Shaun Edwards, who was back at the Principality as part of the French setup.

North described the strange feeling of coming into the Six Nations training camp with a whole new coaching staff, as Gatland has been all he has known since his time in the Welsh first-team squad.

He amusingly described how he was not sure whether to give long time teammate, now coach, Sam Warburton a hug or handshake upon first

Competition in the squad is something that North has thrived upon during his time for Wales. greeting him earlier this year.

Wayne Pivac, Gatland’s replacement, has already shown his faith in North, starting him in every test match so far despite calls for him the be dropped in favour of Johnny McNicholl.

With the task of regaining the Six Nations title looking fairly unlikely following two losses from three, the remaining matches against England and Scotland will be about getting to grips with Pivac’s playing style and integrating those who are new to the squad.

To round off the evening, North generously auctioned off some of his personal Lions memorabilia, with the money raised going towards restoring Lydney Rugby Club after being hit hard by Storm Dennis. This generosity highlights his passion for the game and his humility, before being met by a resounding round of applause when walking off the stage.

Welshman Jay Harris loses out in world title fight

The man from Swansea put up a valiant effort but fell short to the superior Julio Cesar Martinez Tom Walker Sport Editor

A

fter ending 2019 with the IBF Inter-Continental Fly Title, following victory against fellow Brit Paddy Barnes, Jay Harris came into the new year ready to fight for a world title.

His opponent came in the form of WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez.

Prior to this fight with Harris, the Mexican had shown his pedigree by beating fellow Welsh boxer Andrew Selby in Mexico City last year, as well as displaying a dominant performance against Charlie Edwards at the O2 Arena despite the fight ending as a nocontest because of a low blow.

The Welshman managed to achieve what many others before him had not been able to do and go the full 12 rounds. But unfortunately for Harris, the Mexican won by unanimous decision with the judges scoring the contest 118-109, 116-111 and 115-112 in favour of the champion.

Harris was on the back foot for the majority of the fight, with Martinez’s aggressive style coming to fruition very early on. But the 29-year-old displayed a lot of heart, inculpating everyone in the arena who gave Harris a standing ovation upon leaving the ring.

Following a tough first round, Harris managed to silence the crowd, using his reach and size advantage to withstand the onslaught of Martinez’s punches.

Martinez’s dominance began to pay off as he managed to open a cut across Harris’ left eye late in the fourth and a quick combination to the Welshman’s body made him have to retreat midway through the fifth.

Martinez really picked up the pace in the seventh, launching a big assault on Harris right from the bell, landing some big, powerful shots to the head, which continued to bleed from the earlier cut.

A left-right combination to the body 30 seconds into the tenth made the Welshman drop to the canvas, but he responded well to see out the round despite the pressure from Martinez.

Harris clearly had the WBC champion’s respect as the two embraced with a hug before the 12th round, but Martinez clearly won the fight, putting on an excellent offensive display despite the gutsy efforts of Harris.

Post-fight, the Mexican named Harris as his toughest opponent to date and promoter Eddie Hearn said “I real-

ly believe he can be a world champion”.

“My worry was that he wasn’t a world-class fighter, but he proved he absolutely is a world-class fighter” added Hearn, “He was absolutely brilliant”.

Harris came out of the fight with huge credibility, he’d gone up against one of the best, and proved he could fight at that level.

Welsh Warrior: Jay Harris put in a commendable performance.

Source: Sashshots Photography

BUCS Highlights

CHWARAEON 31

A round-up of Cardiff University’s sporting action from the latest BUCS Wednesday

Winchester 1s 11 -15 Cardiff 1s

Exeter 3s 1 - 5 Cardiff 1s Women’s Tennis

Men’s Ultimate Frisbee

Joe Penning Contributor

T

he Ultimate Frisbee Men’s 1st team made their way over to Winchester to play their toughest league competition to date. With both teams going into the game unbeaten all season, this was set to be the game which determined the league winners. Winchester started in possession and flexed their experienced handling skills which caused Cardiff to have to kick into gear instantly. With a lucky change of hands, Cardiff were able to take the disc from Winchester and claim the first point into the wind. The next point came quickly on the downwind for Cardiff, rapidly causing Winchester to make a mistake

and allowing Cardiff to take advantage of the surprised side. The score was 2-0 within a short couple of minutes which allowed Cardiff to gain momentum and get into the heads of the opposition.

Winchester slowly climbed back and forced the away side to hold their intensity, with Cardiff going into half-time 8-7 in front. Cardiff took the half-time opportunity to assess where they could improve, deciding to throw a zone defence to slow down Winchester’s handlers. The field seemed to open up for Cardiff with their lead, allowing their team chemistry to show as they effortlessly worked around Winchester’s defence. The great attitude, combined with expertly placed pitch-length throws, allowed Cardiff to claim the victory 15-11.

Rebecca Astill Contributor

I

t was another successful week for women’s first tennis team, with a 5-1 win over Exeter threes, securing them first place in the Western 1A league. Imogen Sinclair and Alice Warren continued their winning streak as an established doubles pair with a 6-0 6-1 win opening up. Gaby Webb and captain Alex Boardman followed suit with a slightly closer 6-3 6-3 win over a strong second pair. The girls followed up with a successful set of singles matches. Only a draw was needed to win the Western 1A league, as it meant that Cardiff would be tied with Exeter 2s on matches, but win by sets.

Cardiff 1s 17 - 20 Exeter Men’s rugby

Ben Lovell-Smith Contributor

C

ardiff avoided relegation in the last game of their BUCS Super Rugby season after securing a losing bonus point in a 2017 loss to Exeter Uni at the Cardiff Arms Park. Cardiff scored all three of their tries from driving mauls, something the squad have been working on with Thomas Rhys Thomas and Gethin Jenkins. However, the match ended with little excitement as this result marked their 16th consecutive league defeat of the season.

The poor weather lead to a num-

ber of handling errors and testing kicks in the opening moments.

It was a slow start but the game was finally opened up when Cardiff winger Marcus Ramage received the ball in space and proceeded to rupture Exeter’s defence with a superb stop-and-go. After a couple of successful offloads, Cardiff looked set to score before an Exeter hand knocked the ball on and the player was sent to the sin bin.

Cardiff dominated throughout the next ten minutes but struggled to get on the scoreboard until an alteration of tactics from the lineout saw every man and his dog add their weight to driving maul. Jubilation ensued as

the referee finally awarded the try.

Although, celebrations were short lived. An easy penalty from Cardiff allowed Exeter to score from their own driving lineout.

With the last play of the half, Exeter converted a questionable penalty, awarded for a high tackle by Huw Roberts, which took them into the lead heading into the break.

The momentum remained with Exeter as Harry Tarling nonchalantly scythed through with ease and put full back Charlie Davies in down the left.

Cardiff were down but not out as Ed Dunford raised the tempo by taking a quick tap penalty taking Cardiff well into the Exeter twenty-two.

Luckily there was no danger, as Imogen Megha and Alex all won their singles. Alice narrowly missed out on her win in a match tiebreak loss. Imogen won easily in 6-0 6-1, in the same easy fashion which she has all year. Alice lost 6-3 4-6 7-10 in a nail-biting match, against a girl who normally plays for a higher team for Exeter and has proven a tough opponent all year.

Singles specialist Megha Roy won her match in 6-2 6-3, which ensured the win for Cardiff. Alex Boardman pulled through with a 7-5 6-1 victory.

The win means that the girls will compete in playoffs against winners of South-Eastern 1A and Midlands 1A to decide who gets promoted to the Premier South A league.

After being awarded a penalty at the break down, a kick to touch gave Cardiff another opportunity to pile into the driving maul and cross the line.

Exeter substitute Francesco Scardamaglia was able to capitalise as he burst through a number of tackles to score and extend Exeter’s lead to eight points.

With Cardiff requiring at least a point to near enough guarantee their safety, the next score was vital.

A textbook box kick from substitute scrum half Josh Oakley provided the platform. Cardiff earned themselves a lineout deep in the Exeter half and once again rumbled over the line to finish a poor league season on a high.

Men’s football face BUCS suspension Their involvement in the upcoming Welsh Varsity is also in doubt

Olly Allen Sport Editor

C

ardiff University men’s football club have been suspended from all football activity, pending an investigation, following a complaint made to Cardiff University Students’ Union.

All of the club’s fixtures, except for the one involving the Medics side, on Wednesday 4 March were postponed.

Meanwhile, their participation in this year’s Welsh Varsity is now in doubt. The futsal side are being allowed to continue fulfilling their fixtures.

Gair Rhydd Sport understands the complaint was made following an ‘initiation’ social in February. It is believed that the complaint did not come from within the club, but from a third party, which the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) organisation lists as hotels, coach companies, members of the public, par-

ents and national governing bodies.

A statement from the Students’ Union confirmed that the alleged incident appeared to break regulations set out by both the University and BUCS. A joint investigation between the University and Students’ Union is currently underway. At the start of the academic year, all AU committees are required to attend a session entitled ‘Socials and Behaviour Policy Training’ at which the club rules, including those related to initiations, are laid out.

BUCS lists initiation behaviours as including: coercion to undertake activities against a person’s will, forced consumption of large quantities of alcohol, humiliation of a person in public (i.e. setting someone up to fail), forced acts of nudity/nakedness, victimisation of a group of individuals described as “freshers”, consumption of abnormal/unpleasant substances, bullying, discrimination or harassment and psychological torment.

Initiations can also be called a “Wel-

come Event” or “Meet and Greet” and be held at any time of year on or off campus. BUCS have taken a strong stance on initiations in recent years and state that all such events are banned.

The full statement from the Students’ Union on Thursday March 5 read: “The Students’ Union has received a complaint in relation to an alleged incident that took place involving the men’s football club.

“The reports that we have received are very disappointing and have highlighted that behaviour within the club appears to have breached of the University Student Behaviour Procedure, the Athletic Union Sports Club Behavioural Policy and BUCS regulations.

Any student found to be in breach of these codes will be subject to disciplinary action.

“The Students’ Union is clear that there is no place for social activity that may involve, dangerous or inappropriate behaviour, peer pressur-

ing or humiliation of team members.

“We take these complaints of this nature incredibly seriously. The Students’ Union and University are conducting a joint investigation into the matter, during this time, a full suspension of all men’s football activity has been put in place.

“There will be no further comment on the matter until the outcome of the investigation is known.”

A Cardiff University spokesperson said: “We are aware of an alleged initiation involving members of the University’s men’s football club. As a result, the Students’ Union has suspended all men’s football activity, including fixtures, training and social activity subject to the outcome of a joint University investigation. Initiations or similar behaviour have no place at Cardiff University. If the reports are in any way accurate, the Athletic Union and University will take appropriate disciplinary action against the individuals involved.”

Getting to know: Honor Bailey Luke Wakeling Sport Editor

F

or this week’s ‘Getting to know’, we talked to the Senior Women’s captain of Cardiff University Rowing Club (CURC), Honor Bailey.

Bailey discussed how she got involved with rowing and what she enjoys most about the sport.

“Sadly, it is a really dull story, I was terrible at all other sports at school with no hand-eye coordination. One day someone came up to me saying I was a good height for rowing so decided to give it a chance.”

“I love the challenge of seeing how I can push myself each session. Rowing is a great mix of power and aerobic exercise. It is massively satisfying after but during can be miserable. It’s the rest of the squad that makes the sport enjoyable and gets you through the tough sessions to the other side.”

Bailey joined CURC in 2017 after rowing for her school.

“I had been rowing for four years at school and wasn’t planning on stopping anytime soon so I signed up on day one of freshers. After two years with the University I wanted to give something back to the club so I ran for captain.”

The Senior Women’s squad have a successful track record; they are unbeaten at Varsity and consistently perform highly at BUCS. This year’s squad is no different.

“The senior women have been fantastic this season and I have the wonderful problem of having so many athletes it’s hard to get everyone on the water enough. We’ve been hitting or exceeding all our targets at races. Sadly, some of our big races have been cancelled because of the weather but our big aim is Henley, both women’s and royal. It is the first year that Henley Royal has let women’s student 8s race, so it’d be so exciting to be a part of this inaugural event.”

Rowing is a huge commitment with training weeks regularly surmounting to 18 hours. Bailey reveals how she manages to cope with the balance of University work and socials.

“It’s a challenge as a lot of university socialising involves nights out which is tricky when you have 5am starts and 9pm finishes. I don’t drink which is quite a nice excuse to be a grandma, so I tend to see friends in the day. Because training is early or late when I wouldn’t usually be doing work anyway training isn’t too bad to fit work in during the week but on the weekends I just have to be organised – I have so many to do lists.”

However, the intense training regime does have its payoffs, as Bailey discloses.

“Varsity in my first year was a huge highlight for me. We came back in the last quarter of the race to win with clear water in Swansea. It was such a good race and that feeling is why we put in the hours of work.

“I’m also really proud of the work I’ve done as captain this year. It’s a really kind group that builds each other up and I’m really lucky to be a part of that atmosphere as sport can breed tension.”

To contact our sport desk, drop us an email at sport@gairrhydd.com

sport

Olympic Spotlight Gold medalist Hannah Mills Page 30

CHWARAEON

32

chwaraeon

BUCS Highlights Ultimate frisbee, Rugby and Tennis Page 31

Jay Harris Welshman loses world title fight Page 30

Feature: Women’s involvement in sport after International Women’s Day

Ella Fenwick Sport Editor

I

Line out: Cardiff in BUCS Super Rugby action against Exeter University last week. Source: Ben Lovell-Smith

Edwards: ‘This Varsity is going to be quite tasty, it’s a shot at redemption’ Ben Lovell-Smith Contributor

A

fter the BUCS Super Rugby season ended for Cardiff University last Wednesday, all eyes are now on next month’s Welsh Varsity match at the Liberty Stadium and an exciting future beyond that.

It has been a disappointing season for Cardiff, who started the season off strongly with two wins. However, since then, Cardiff have lost 16 on the bounce which is not the ideal preparation heading into Varsity. However, for club captain Ben Edwards, this is not a reason to be concerned. “I take my hat off to the boys, the positivity that we have kept has been second to none.”

In many ways it has been a transitional season for Cardiff, with both first choice half backs and a number of other key forwards having graduated last year. A number of freshers have had to step up, notably Mikel

Davies and Ed Dunford at nine and ten respectively. When you consider that hooker Ben Chapman and Luke Shore are also new to the team, the spine of the squad has been completely refreshed.

Though this process has been detrimental to this season, it points to an exciting future. Edwards emphasises that Davies and Dunford are a key cog in that wheel.

“Mark my words, Ed Dunford will be the best ten in BUCS Super Rugby, by second or third year we will have the best half back combination in the league again.”

Mark my words, Dunford will be the best ten in BUCS Super Rugby.

Ben Edwards, CURFC President

On top of this, a newfound bond

with Cardiff Blues has strengthened the future of this bright young team.

“This season has been quite special, we have developed a great relationship with the Blues. [Use of the Arms Park] has allowed us to play and train every week without fail.”

This relationship provides access to the Cardiff Arms Park, a luxury which the club has had to pay for in the past and has been important in maintaining a stable training pattern for the team.

The relationship has extended to the club’s player pathway. This season the Blues signed exciting Wales under 18s prop forward Theo Bevacqua, who will study Economics and Philosophy at Cardiff University, and is expected to break into the first team. Bevacqua is a real coup for the side, who have been light in the front row this season.

With the league season having now finished, preparation for Varsity begins next week for the squad who will be going through a mini pre-season, training in a professional format dur-

ing the days over Easter.

“Varsity camp is like no other thing you will ever do, there is a constant buzz, I can’t wait for it,” added Edwards.

This year Varsity will be away in Swansea, culminating with the clash between the two first teams at the Liberty Stadium, home of the Ospreys, but Edwards doesn’t think that this will have any effect on his side.

“You can feel the pressure, but for us it will be no different to St Helen’s [Rugby and Cricket Ground], the venue doesn’t really bother us”.

It was at St Helen’s where Cardiff lost 24-10 to Swansea in November, the first of two defeats to Swansea this season.

Despite this, Edwards is unphased and is eager to take on the challenge head on.

“Swansea are Swansea, we knew they were going to be a challenge… on the result of us narrowly losing out twice, this Varsity is going to be quite tasty, it’s a shot at redemption.”

n celebration of International Women’s Day, Sport Editor Ella Fenwick interviewed four inspirational women involved in sport. Ella explored different personal accounts in sports, talking about experiences through the eyes of some incredible athletes. From Cardiff University, she talked to Jude Pickett the VP Sport for the academic year 2019/20 about how the university contributes to equality in sport. As well, she was able to talk to the President of Ladies’ Rugby, she spoke to Verity Butt who discussed the equality the club have been working towards in the BUCS league and for Varsity. Ella also had the opportunity to speak to two professional athletes who have had the privilege to represent their country in a number of large sporting events, including the Commonwealth games. She spoke to professional British judoka Natalie Powell about her sporting career and the exciting future that lies ahead. Michaela Breeze, former British weightlifter, was also interviewed on her biggest achievements representing the country and her current career in inspiring young athletes and 28-29 coaching.

Welsh winger George North opens up about his life in Q&A Tom Walker Sport Editor

S

port Editor Tom Walker attended a Q&A session with Welsh international rugby player George North. North was extremely open talking about the media criticism he has received throughout his career, as well as his recurring concussions.

The winger still believes he has more to offer on both a domestic and international level. Ending the evening, the 27-year-old auctioned off some of his Lions memorabilia with the money going towards 30 restoring Lydney Rugby Club.