Issue 1179 - Monday, 7th February

rhifyn 1179 issue 1179

7 chwefror 2022 7 february 2022

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Inside: Gair Rhydd looks into the potential impacts of hormonal birth control on students (Page 6-7)

A retrospective on some of the key events we saw in 2021

Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

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ooking back over the last twelve months, it seems safe to say that 2021 was an ‘interesting’ year to say the least.

People in all corners of the world seemed to usher in the new year with good cheer and an initial sense of optimism, much of this in anticipation for what many hoped would be a swift return to normality. As the months continued to progress, it became increasingly obvious that 2021, like any other year, would not be without its fair share of controversy, strife and civil disorder.

With this in mind, it’s important for us to take a retrospective look back over the events of the last year and reflect on everything that happened in the worlds of politics, science, media, sport, and elsewhere.

COVID-19, perhaps unsurprisingly given the disruption the virus has caused over the last two years, remained to be one of the most significant ongoing events of 2021. Whilst it is difficult to gauge the true extent of the impact of the pandemic so far, statistics published by WHO estimate that there have been over 350 million confirmed cases of the virus worldwide – This uncertainty has been reflected in the UK with the significant disparity between the statistics reported by the Government and The Office for National Statistics.In spite of this, the UK has received widespread praise for its nationwide rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines, a rollout which saw the NHS become the first health service in the world to deliver a dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.

A year later, now that over 71% of the UK population is fully vaccinated, the UK Government is set to continue its process of gradually easing restrictions as cases of the virus begin to fall.

Stepping back from the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 was also rocked by a series of political events which held the future of democracy in the balance.

These events began as early as January, a month which saw a group of insurrectionists lead an attack against

the U.S. Capitol Building in protest against Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election. Alongside this, the Chinese Government increased its attempts to crackdown on political dissent by detaining and arresting 50 pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong. These restrictions on free speech were also reflected in Russia months later when Alexey Navalny, the leader of the Russian opposition and an outspoken critic of Vladimir Putin, was arrested just five months after he was targeted in a nerve agent attack – These events, according to European Think Thank IDEA, were emblematic of a trend that “really raised the alarm bells” for a growing decline in democracy.

Last year also proved to be yet another reminder of the ongoing impacts of climate change, a topic which was at the centre of debates throughout the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (or ‘COP26’). The effects of climate change were felt all around the world; 2021 saw Australia ravaged by bushfires, Europe flood due to excessive rainfall, and California record the single highest temperature reading on Earth, 54.4°C. The extent of these impacts was summarised by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service who, in a damning report, officially declared that 23 different species of animal had become extinct in 2021 alone.

Whilst the world faced a number of aforementioned political and environmental challenges last year, it seems equally important for us to recognise all of the positive and promising developments that occurred throughout 2021.

One of the most significant (and perhaps overlooked) developments of the year was the historic corporate tax agreement reached by world leaders at the G20 summit in Rome. From 2023, this new legislation will hold large multinational companies like Apple and Amazon to a minimum tax rate of 15%, a move expected to provide governments around the world with a vital £1 billion boost.

To read Jack's article looking back at some of the key events that we saw around the world in 2021, turn to page 3.

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Escalation continues: Military troops from Russia and Ukraine have been ordered to gather along the Ukranian border. Source: Ministry of Defence in eastern Ukraine/Taras Gren (via Flickr)

Tensions rise as troops mass on Ukranian border George Gourlay Contributor

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long Ukraine’s Eastern border, the spectre of invasion by Russia is becoming more tangible. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to send more than 125,000 troops to the border of Ukraine is being closely monitored by neighbouring countries, and those across the Atlan-

Dydd Santes Dwynwen (St Dwynwen’s day) Alexa Price

Golygydd Taf-od

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ob blwyddyn ar y 25fed o Ionawr mae’r Cymry yn dathlu Dydd Santes Dwynwen, neu’r ‘Valentine’s Day’ Cymraeg.

Pam y byddech chi yn dewis i aros i fis Chwefror i roi cwtshes ac atgoffa’ch teulu, ffrindiau, neu’ch cariadon a dy gariad, pan mae Santes Dwynwen tair wythnos yn gynharach?

Er nid ydy pawb yn ei ddathlu ac yn aros tan mis Chwefror, mae dathlu diwrnod Santes Dwynwen yn cynyddu o ran ei phoblogaidd.

I ddarllen am yr hanes a’r diwylliant y tu ôl i ddiwrnod Santes Dwynwen, trowch i dudalen 11.

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tic, for the possibility of war between the former Soviet states.

Ukraine is currently surrounded by Russia’s military along its eastern border as well as in the southern peninsula of Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.

Russia has also sent troops to Belarus, Ukraine’s neighbour to the north, for military exercises and there are reports that its proxy

forces in the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk have been supplied with tanks and artillery in preparation for combat.

The growing number of soldiers now await their next move while Russia denies it has any intentions to invade its neighbour.

To read more about the recent military action taking place on the Ukranian border, 13 turn to page 13.

'Men Who Hate Women' Sight restored using

by Laura Bates new technology Alice Moore Contributor

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he vast accessibility of the online world within the twenty-first century has accommodated the rapid dissemination of misogynistic attitudes and practices. ‘Men Who Hate Women’, a work of political non-fiction

by Laura Bates, delves deeper into the dark side of the web, exposing numerous distinct categories of extreme sexism that the media fails to shed light upon.

Bates’ comprehensive exposé focuses its narrative upon online extremist subcultures that seek to attack women.

To read Alice's full review of 'Men Who Hate Women' by Laura Bates, turn to page 24.

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Umaima Arif Contributor

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n 88-year old woman has just become the first patient in the United Kingdom to have her sight restored with new, cutting-edge technology: a microchip-computer system that stimulates natural vision when operated.

Prior to this, the woman suffered from dry age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, which is a progressive disease that kills the cells in the retina. When the cells in the retina are destroyed, they cannot be renewed.

To read about this revolutionary, sight-restoring technology, turn to page 28.

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EDITORIAL Gair Rhydd 2021/22 Coordinator Elaine Morgan

Editor-in-Chief Jack Robert Stacey

Deputy Editors Anurag Hegde Vicky Witts Zoe Kramer

News

Zoe Kramer Alex Hughes Beth Williams George Symonds Shivika Singh

Features

A note from the Editor Nodyn gan y Golygydd Can we expect a return to A allwn ddisgwyl dychwelyd ‘normality’ in 2022?

I ‘normalrwydd’ yn 2022?

Eva Rodericks Jasmine Edge Sophie Revell

Taf-od

Nel Richards Alexa Price Gracie Richards Nansi Eccott

Politics

Luthien Evans Darcy Arnold Ella Lloyd Katherine Seymour Manal Ahmed

Comment

Vicky Witts Catarina Pinto Vicente Eirian Jones Katherine Wheeler

Advice

Harriet Lowbridge Megan Shinner Ruth Hoey

Review

Iris Knapman Atreya Mukerjee Caz Love

Science and Technology Mia Becker-Hansen Anna Thomas Elie Gould Jemma Powell Theodore Tadros

Sport

Anurag Hegde Adam Brown Joe Edgar-Smith Tom Hawkins Sam Joseph

Head of Digital Media Sophia Grace

Social Media Manager Ella Lloyd

Digital Media Editors Cinzia Appetecchia Emily Smith Joseph Liu

Copy Editors

Beca Fflur Williams Bonnie Wileman Emily Bryant Jess Henderson Libby Griffiths Lois Campbell Maisie Granger Sam Joseph

Write to the editor 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.

The new year: For many people around the world, 2022 represents a potential return to ‘normality’ . Source: PeggyMarco (via Pixabay)

Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

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s we move on from the events of the last year, we find ourselves surrounded by a natural sense of uncertainty for what 2022 may hold in store. This understandably raises doubts about what we can expect to see from the next twelve months; namely, will life return to a familiar sense of ‘normality’ or, alternatively, will the new year mark something entirely different?

Even from the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, back in early 2020, this question of what life after the pandemic might look like remained at the centre of numerous discussions involving both experts and the public.

This has been explored in a recent report published by The University of Western Australia, a report which has identified four possible outcomes for the world at large after the pandemic. As outlined in the article itself, whilst it is possible for life to return back to how it was before the pandemic, it is also likely that our collective experiences with COVID-19 acts as a catalyst for wider, more significant social change.

Throughout these discussions, another key topic of debate involves

what role COVID-19 will play in the future, especially after vaccinations become increasingly widespread.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, Director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has spoken about this extensively and suggests that the virus is likely to become an endemic disease – a disease that has become locked to a specific geographical area, rather than the entire world.

This has been reflected in a recent blog post by Bill Gates, who highlights that there is indeed a chance that COVID-19 will become becomes a footnote in history by the end of the new year: “I am hopeful, though, that the end is finally in sight. It might be foolish to make another prediction, but I think the acute phase of the pandemic will come to a close some time in 2022.”

Regardless of the difference in the ways that people have experienced the last year, life after the pandemic is set to provide us with new opportunities and ways of engaging with the world around us.

Whilst people around the world are still facing the increasing impacts of climate change and political unrest, it is important to recognise that the new year provides us with an opportunity for change and to do better.

Y flwyddyn newydd: I lawer o bobl ledled y byd, mae 2022 yn cynrychioli dychweliad posibl i ‘normalrwydd’. Tarddiad: PeggyMarco (via Pixabay)

Jack Robert Stacey Prif Olygydd

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rth i ni symud ymlaen o ddigwyddiadau’r flwyddyn ddiwethaf, rydyn ni’n cael ein hamgylchynu gan ymdeimlad naturiol o ansicrwydd ynghylch yr hyn y gallai 2022 ei gynnwys. Mae hyn yn ddealladwy yn codi amheuon ynghylch yr hyn y gallwn ddisgwyl ei weld o’r deuddeg mis nesaf; sef, a fydd bywyd yn dychwelyd i ymdeimlad cyfarwydd o ‘normalrwydd’ neu, fel arall, a fydd y flwyddyn newydd yn nodi rhywbeth hollol wahanol?

Hyd yn oed o ddechrau’r pandemig COVID-19, yn ôl yn gynnar yn 2020, roedd y cwestiwn hwn o sut olwg allai fod ar fywyd ar ôl y pandemig yn parhau i fod yn ganolog i drafodaethau niferus yn cynnwys arbenigwyr a’r cyhoedd.

Mae hyn wedi cael ei archwilio mewn adroddiad diweddar a gyhoeddwyd gan Brifysgol Gorllewin Awstralia, adroddiad sydd wedi nodi pedwar canlyniad posibl ar gyfer y byd yn gyffredinol ar ôl y pandemig. Fel yr amlinellwyd yn yr erthygl ei hun, er ei bod yn bosibl i fywyd ddychwelyd yn ôl i sut yr oedd cyn y pandemig, mae hefyd yn debygol bod ein profiadau ar y cyd â COVID-19 yn gweithredu fel catalydd ar gyfer newid cymdeithasol ehangach, mwy arwyddocaol.

Drwy gydol y trafodaethau hyn,

mae pwnc dadl allweddol arall yn ymwneud â pha rôl y bydd COVID-19 yn ei chwarae yn y dyfodol, yn enwedig ar ôl i frechiadau ddod yn fwyfwy eang. Mae Dr. Anthony Fauci, Cyfarwyddwr Sefydliad Cenedlaethol Alergedd a Chlefydau Heintus yr Unol Daleithiau wedi siarad yn helaeth am hyn ac yn awgrymu bod y firws yn debygol o ddod yn glefyd endemig - clefyd sydd wedi’i gloi i ardal ddaearyddol benodol, yn hytrach na’r cyfan byd.

Mae hyn wedi’i adlewyrchu mewn blogbost diweddar gan Bill Gates, sy’n tynnu sylw at y ffaith bod siawns yn wir y bydd COVID-19 yn dod yn droednodyn mewn hanes erbyn diwedd y flwyddyn newydd: “Rwy’n obeithiol, serch hynny, fod y diwedd o’r diwedd yn y golwg. Efallai ei bod yn ffôl gwneud rhagfynegiad arall, ond rwy’n credu y bydd cyfnod acíwt y pandemig yn dod i ben rywbryd yn 2022.”

Waeth beth fo’r gwahaniaeth yn y ffyrdd y mae pobl wedi’u profi yn ystod y flwyddyn ddiwethaf, mae bywyd ar ôl y pandemig ar fin rhoi cyfleoedd a ffyrdd newydd i ni ymgysylltu â’r byd o’n cwmpas.

Tra bod pobl ledled y byd yn dal i wynebu effeithiau cynyddol newid hinsawdd ac aflonyddwch gwleidyddol, mae’n bwysig cydnabod bod y flwyddyn newydd yn rhoi cyfle i ni newid ac i wneud yn well.

GOLYGYDDOL

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A retrospective on the events of 2021 Ôl-olwg ar ddigwyddiadau 2021 Gair Rhydd takes a look back at everything that happened over the last twelve months in the world of politics, climate change, technology, television and film, sport and more Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

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ooking back over the last twelve months, it seems safe to say that 2021 was an ‘interesting’ year to say the least.

People in all corners of the world seemed to usher in the new year with good cheer and an initial sense of optimism, much of this in anticipation for what many hoped would be a swift return to normality. As the months continued to progress, it became increasingly obvious that 2021, like any other year, would not be without its fair share of controversy, strife and civil disorder.

With this in mind, it’s important for us to take a retrospective look back over the events of the last year and reflect on everything that happened in the worlds of politics, science, media, sport, and elsewhere.

COVID-19, perhaps unsurprisingly given the disruption the virus has caused over the last two years, remained to be one of the most significant ongoing events of 2021. Whilst it is difficult to gauge the true extent of the impact of the pandemic so far, statistics published by WHO estimate that there have been over 350 million confirmed cases of the virus worldwide – This uncertainty has been reflected in the UK with the significant disparity between the statistics reported by the Government and The Office for National Statistics.

In spite of this, the UK has received widespread praise for its nationwide rollout of the COVID-19 vaccines, a rollout which saw the NHS become the first health service in the world to deliver a dose of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.

A year later, now that over 71% of the UK population is fully vaccinated, the UK Government is set to continue its process of gradually easing restrictions as cases of the virus begin to fall.

it’s important for us to take a retrospective look back over the events of the last year.”

Stepping back from the COVID-19 pandemic, 2021 was also rocked by a series of political events which held the future of democracy in the balance.

These events began as early as January, a month which saw a group of insurrectionists lead an attack against the U.S. Capitol Building in protest against Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election. Alongside this, the Chinese Government increased its attempts to crackdown on political dissent by detaining and arresting 50 pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong. These restrictions on free speech were also reflected in Russia months later when Alexey Navalny, the leader of the Russian opposition and an outspoken critic of Vladimir Putin, was arrested just five months after he was targeted in a nerve agent attack – These events, according to European Think Thank IDEA, were emblematic of a trend that “really raised the alarm bells” for a growing decline in democracy.

Last year also proved to be yet another reminder of the ongoing impacts of climate change, a topic which was at the centre of debates throughout the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (or ‘COP26’). The effects of climate change were felt all around the world; 2021 saw Australia ravaged by bushfires, Europe flood due to excessive rainfall, and California record the single highest temperature reading on Earth, 54.4°C. The extent of these impacts was summarised by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service who, in a damning report, officially declared that 23 different species of animal had become extinct in 2021 alone.

Whilst the world faced a number of aforementioned political and environmental challenges last year, it seems

A turbulent year: There were a number of events in 2021 that stood out, many for controversial reasons. Source: eliza28diamonds (via Pixabay)

A retrospective: Gair Rhydd takes a look back over the events that shaped the last year in politics, climate change, technology, television and film, sport and more. Credit: Jack Robert Stacey.

equally important for us to recognise all of the positive and promising developments that occurred throughout 2021.

One of the most significant (and perhaps overlooked) developments of the year was the historic corporate tax agreement reached by world leaders at the G20 summit in Rome. From 2023, this new legislation will hold large multinational companies like Apple and Amazon to a minimum tax rate of 15%, a move expected to provide governments around the world with a vital £1 billion boost.

There were a variety of other exciting developments in the technology industry, none more so than the announcement that several tech companies, including Mark Zuckerberg’s newly re-branded ‘Meta’, are beginning work on ‘The Metaverse’ – an immersive digital environment that is expected to mark “the next chapter of the internet.” Closer to reality, NASA achieved a successful landing of its ‘Perseverance’ Rover on Mars, a feat that allowed its ‘Ingenuity’ Drone to complete the first powered, controlled flight by an aircraft on another planet.

The year also saw El Salvador become the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, outlining its plans to begin the construction of a geothermally powered ‘Bitcoin City’ at the base of a volcano.

In the realm of television and film, Netflix drew international acclaim with the South Korean survival drama ‘Squid Game’, a series which briefly became the one of the streaming platform’s most-viewed shows with a worldwide audience of over sixteen-billion viewers.

‘Squid Game’ was commemorated at the 78th annual Golden Globes, an event in which the late Chadwick Boseman posthumously received the award for ‘Best Actor in a Motion Picture Drama’ for his role in ‘Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom’.

2021 was also a significant year for black artists; Beyoncé broke the all-time record for the most Grammys won by a

singer whilst RuPaul became the most decorated black artist in Emmy history with his 11th award for ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’.

The recognition that Beyoncé and RuPaul received coincided with the gains made by the ‘Black Lives Matter’ movement last year, a movement which saw significant growth all around the world.

Of these gains, one of the most impactful was the sentencing of former police officer Derek Chauvin to 22 years and six months in prison for the murder of George Floyd back in May 2020.

Similar advancements were made by the LGBTQ+ community when both Chile and Switzerland voted to legalise same-sex marriage, officially making the act legal in 30 countries around the world - As same-sex marriage is still illegal in over 85 countries, however, many LGBTQ+ activists assert that more work is needed.

In July, Japan officially opened the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo after the worldwide sporting event was postponed due to COVID-19. For Team GB, the games offered a chance for athletes like Tom Daley, Holly Bradshaw and Matt Walls to compete at the highest possible level and break a number of existing sporting records. Despite occurring at a time of worldwide emergency, the Tokyo games proved to be a success in an otherwise turbulent year, if only to provide a brief reflection of ‘normality’ for viewers around the world.

Elsewhere in sport, Emma Raducanu manged to bring Britain’s 44-year wait for a women’s Grand Slam singles title to a close after beating Leylah Frenandez at the Women’s US Open. 2021 also featured a number of controversial stories from the world of sport, including Max Verstappen’s upset victory over Lewis Hamilton in the final lap of the Abu Dhabi GP. Cristiano Ronaldo also made headlines at the European Championships af-

ter removing a Coca Cola bottle from his press table, an act that caused the share price of the so-called ‘soda giant’ to drop a staggering £3 billion pounds.

With Simone Biles choosing to withdraw from events at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games on mental health grounds, one of the other key themes of 2021 proved to be the importance of mental health awareness. This was echoed back in March during Oprah Winfrey’s interview with Prince Harry and Megan Markle; both the Duke and Duchess of Sussex alleged that they had suffered abuse and been mistreated by other members of the Royal Family.

Whilst these claims have been disputed, recent events nonetheless highlight that mental health, an often overlooked and stigmatised topic, remains to be one of the most salient issues that society is currently facing.

For many people around the world, the last year was a turbulent and uncertain time to say the least. Throughout 2021, there were numerous opportunities for us to reflect on the current state of democracy alongside the ongoing climate crisis, two areas that represent a significant challenge for future generations. In spite of this, however, the year featured numerous causes for celebration, especially for members of BAME and LGBTQ+ communities who made noticeable gains for inclusivity and equity on several fronts.

With 2022 now in full swing, it remains to be seen whether the new year will be a repeat of everything that we have seen over the last twelve months or, alternatively, something new entirely. As always, only time will tell.

For many people around the world, the last year was a turbulent and uncertain time to say the least.”

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NEWS

NEWS COVID-19 restrictions lifted in Wales

Night Time Industries Association, told BBC Radio Wales that the nightclubs were “astounded” by the restrictions, adding that “There is a lot of anger and frustration.”

However, First Minister Mark Drakeford hit back against critics of restrictions, claiming that the Welsh Government is “determined to act when that is necessary to protect our population”. He accused Boris Johnson’s government of being “politically paralysed” in comparison, calling England a “global outlier” in efforts to protect the population from Coronavirus.

The data would appear to vindicate

the cautious approach to restrictions taken by the Welsh Government. Following their implementation, new daily COVID-19 cases in Wales have dropped back to early December levels, after reaching over 16,000 before the new year.

Easing of restrictions has been welcomed by many. With the Six Nations tournament approaching, anxiety had been building around the impact on Wales’ home fixtures. After the Welsh team’s victory behind closed doors last year, fans expressed concern at reports that the Welsh Rugby Union was considering staging home matches

at Twickenham. Welsh Rugby stars weighed in to express their discontent, with Jonathan Davies describing the potential of having no fans as “absolutely terrible”, claiming “you’re going to be at a disadvantage if you’re playing in an empty stadium for your home games.”

Even with the worst of the Omicron variant seemingly overcome, government advice continues to urge caution.

Face masks remain mandatory on public transport, working from home is still strongly advised and COVID-19 passes are still required for many venues. The First Minister said “We have passed the peak of this omicron wave and there are encouraging signs that cases of coronavirus may be starting to stabilise. But we all need to continue taking steps to stay safe – unfortunately the pandemic is not over yet.” Restrictions are set to be reassessed on the 10th of February, with Health Minister Eluned Morgan claiming on BBC’s Sunday Politics “we will continue to be driven by the data and the science.” With 75% of Wales doublejabbed, and the rapid uptake of booster vaccines, it seems likely that more easing is due to follow.

Portugal and Cyprus; countries who had previously struggled with their lack of UK tourism in the last two years. However, not only is this a positive outcome for UK residents hoping to go abroad but it will also show a return to a pre-pandemic booming tourism trade within England, Scotland and Wales. Johan Lundgren of EasyJet spoke with The Guardian and predicted a “strong summer ahead, with pent-up demand that will see easyJet returning to near 2019 levels of capacity, with UK beach and leisure routes performing particularly well,”.

This well-needed closure of travel restrictions has propelled the UK to the forefront of holiday bookings allowing “The UK to lead in bookings versus the

rest of Europe for the first time since 2020” , stated Lundgren.

This increase of tourists booking flights to the United Kingdom helps the prediction that Welsh tourism will once again return to its pre-pandemic success. Mark Drakeford, first minister of Wales, will “reluctantly retain alignment with the UK government to also remove tests.” However, Drakeford has decided that tourists entering Wales will have to provide a negative lateral flow test to enter, a contrast to its English and Scottish counterparts.

Wales, a popular holiday destination for European tourists, had reported in January 2020 that over half of all international visits were from Europe spending over 6.3 billion pounds.

Since the prevalence of CoronaVirus and consequential restrictions there was an understandable decrease in visitor spending and therefore the Welsh economy taking a hit. In consequence to the reducing of the restrictions there will be a presumed boom in Welsh tourism. Tour operator Tui told the BBC it had also seen a “big increase in bookings” allowing a “return to normal” in time for the upcoming holidays.

The slow end to these travel restrictions is part of the first steps towards a ‘normal’ United Kingdom; tourists, holiday companies and British citizens seem to be in unison in readiness and excitement for the holidays ahead of them.

Aidan McNamee Contributor

M Zoe Kramer

Alex Hughes

ost COVID-19 restrictions in Wales have now been lifted as of January 28th, following earlier easing in the weeks previous, marking the end of restrictions brought in after Christmas in response to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant.

The main benefactors of this relaxation are hospitality and service industries, as well as Welsh sport. From the 21st of January, sporting events in Wales can once again welcome spectators. From the 28th of January, nightclubs are allowed to reopen, and restaurants are no longer required to abide by the rule of six and offer table service.

The Welsh Government has also announced that the self-isolation period has been reduced to five days, following 2 negative lateral flow tests.

Many had stepped forward to criticise the rules when they were announced. UK Health Minister Sajid Javid questioned whether restrictions were “justified or proportionate”, and Michael Kill, chief executive of the

Covid-19: Many restrictions have been lifted. Source: Felipe Esquivel Reed (via Wikimedia Commons)

Holiday bookings on the rise as travel opens up George Symonds News Editor

Beth Williams

George Symonds

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rom the 11th of February 2022 you will no longer need to take a COVID test when entering the United Kingdom; this has caused a significant increase in flights and trips being booked for the upcoming Easter and Summer breaks. As long as the hopeful holiday-goer is fully vaccinated with two jabs they are able to have a stress-free return from their trips with no need to complete a PCR test.

Jet2 Holidays chief executive Steve Heapy told the BBC in a recent report that they had received a substantial rise of bookings upwards of 30% to the popular destinations of Spain,

PM considers cancelling NHS vaccine mandate Alex Hughes News Editor

Shivika Singh

ELSEWHERE IN NEWS Calls for Wales to adopt UK council tax rebate Welsh Ministers are set to consider this new proposal “in due course”

news@gairrhydd.com

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ecent reports suggest that the government is on the brink of scrapping its legislation on mandatory vaccination for front-line NHS workers.

The proposal would mean that to avoid dismissal, all staff need to have received both vaccine doses by April 1, placing the effective deadline for the first dose as Thursday 3.

In practical terms, the loss of tens of thousands of staff would present a major challenge to a healthcare system already in need of a lot more personnel; 100,000 job vacancies are open as things stand.

The Royal Colleges of Midwives, GPs and Nurses have each expressed serious concerns over the policy.

Ethically, many are questioning the soundness of forcing staff – including those who already possess comparable protection from a past Covid-19 infection – to get vaccinated. The benefits in terms of muffled transmission are clear, but as the BBC’s health correspondent Nick Triggle asks, ‘if staffing levels drop further because of the mandate could the risks that pose outweigh the benefits

the vaccine brings?’

In Europe, the issue of mandates is quickly becoming a central front in the continent’s roiling left-right divisions.

Facing the surge in omicron cases, many governments have recently gone much further than the UK has considered, imposing steep fines on the unvaccinated.

As of this month, all over-sixties in Greece who haven’t yet had a first dose are now being fined 100 euros each month.

Starting in February, all non-exempt Austrians over the age of eighteen will be fined around 600 euros, although people’s vaccine status won’t be checked until the middle of March.

In Germany, the parties of the governing centrist-liberal coalition appear to be considering similar measures, while Alternative for Germany, the small national conservative party that holds 11 percent of seats in the Bundestag, is calling for a ban on any such move.

In Italy, the second hardest hit country in Europe after the UK, all unvaccinated public and private sector employees over the age of 50 now face fines of at least 600 euros.

Across Europe, the wave of mandates

has only slightly shrunk the unvaccinated proportion of populations, while the resistance of the unfazed appears to be stiffening. In Brussels, a 50,000-strong protest on January 23rd turned violent as protesters attacked EU office buildings. In Germany, where support for a mandate remains widespread, those opposed are becoming increasingly vocal, with 400,000 attending protests in January.

The most ardent resistance, however, lies in the post-Soviet states. In Romania and Bulgaria, ruled as totalitarian satellite states under Moscow from the end of World War Two until 1989, suspicion of centralised government power remains strong. In the Covid-19 pandemic, that undercurrent – combined with a lot of pre-existing scepticism towards all forms of vaccination – has so far doomed government vaccine campaigns, with less than a third of Bulgarians and less than half of Romanians having had both doses.

Outside Europe, there is still enormous variation between countries. In Canada, a major anti-mandate protest is ongoing in the country’s capital. Protesters are focused on the compulsory quar-

antine faced by unvaccinated truckers returning from the United States.

Meanwhile in China, where authorities are rushing to develop an mRNA vaccine capable of reliably preventing breakthrough infections in patients with the omicron variant, the government has reportedly been dragging unvaccinated residents into cars and forcibly injecting them.

Western governments are very unlikely to consider draconian measures on this level, but experts have warned that even financial mandates risk backfiring.

The director of the Vaccine Confidence Project at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Heidi Larson, told The Lancet that blanket measures risk alienating those whom improved messaging might reach.

Indeed, the narrative of popular Covid-19 vaccine sceptics like Robert Malone centres around the suppression of debate and the enforcement of mass injections from high above. Many of their fans are willing to listen if more mainstream voices will enter into an honest dialogue, rather than to simply dismiss their concerns and fine them for non-compliance.

NEWYDDION The reality of student mental health during the pandemic Shivika Singh News Editor

M

ental health and well-being concerns are a common issue facing university students. These concerns have been further worsened by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic as it has played a significant role in eroding student’s well being. A report presented by Accenture claims 80% of students admitted to the pandemic contributing to their poor mental health.

Hence destigmatizing mental health and supporting students has become more important than ever. As per UCAS estimates, over 70,000 students may enter Higher Education every year with a mental health condition, but 49% told a UCAS survey of first year students that they had not shared

this information. This estimate shows how widespread wellbeing issues are among students but it is the stigma that makes them refrain from seeking help or admitting in the Higher education space a need for help.

Cardiff University has taken student wellbeing concerns with seriousness and has responded promptly to mitigate the ongoing wellness issues facing students. Student Health and Wellbeing service, situated at the of the new Center for Student’s Life, offering a range of support services dedicated to helping students make the most of student life. The Student Health and Wellbeing team is dedicated to supporting student life by offering counselling, health and wellbeing services and events to the highest professional standards, focused on individual needs.

The team recognizes that every wellbeing issue is not a mental health con-

cern requiring medical help and hence counselling and wellbeing teams offer a range of support services including one-to-one wellbeing and counselling appointments, daily wellbeing drop-in sessions, self-help resources, interactive workshops, courses and groups such as Therapeutic groups.

It is also important to realize that health and wellbeing issues can often be heightened because of the people’s identity. To ensure that everyone is being heard and help reaches everyone irrespective of the additional barriers that they face- the Wellbeing team offers specific help to LGBTQ +, BAME, and postgraduate students. The service works with a team of dedicated student wellbeing Champions who offer peer support and organize events to educate and help their fellow students.

Black Asian and Minority Ethnic Wellbeing team is one such team

that provides peer support specifically for other students who belong to the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic community. It is evident through various reports that people belonging to different ethnic backgrounds struggle with student life more as compared to their peers.

This difference in educational outcomes is often referred to as the ‘BAME attainment gap’, Universities UK Report, May 2019. UCAS research suggests the most common reason is due to a lack of understanding about what the data will be used for, and the belief it will impact on their chances of receiving a university offer. people belonging to different ethnic backgrounds struggle with student life more as compared to their peers.”

Velindre development sparks new protests

Zoe Kramer

Head of News

T

he controversial Velindre Cancer Centre development has seen a new wave of protests.

Having begun developments on the Northern Meadows site, The Velindre NHS Trust has sought an injunction against certain protestors who have “impacted [their] ability to deliver the works.” Protestors are concerned about pollution, flooding, and the destruction of biodiversity, calling the circumstances a “Nature Emergency.”

In the latest wave of protests, activists have maintained a community camp on Pendwyallt Road, as well as blocking lorries from entering the site. Police officers initially attempted to drag protestors out of the way. The blockade lasted for an hour before police were able to escort the individuals off the road.

Local artist Lynette Mar put up an installation of white crosses at the Northern Meadows, the site where the Centre is due to be built. Written on each cross is the name of a different species of plant or animal for which the area is a home.

Lynette told The National, “This is a spiritual art installation that I hope will cross religious boundaries and remind us of what or rather who are losing on a

Local activists: The proposed develpment has led to a new wave of protests. Source: Gareth James (via Geograph)

daily basis…To commemorate all those small lives that will be lost with the development at the Northern Meadows.

“There are names of many creatures that live here, Mistle Thrushes, hedgehogs, coal tits, orb spiders, grass snakes, ermine moths, heron skylark etc. Many of these lesser known creatures most us have not seen for years and those who are younger will not even know what they look like.

“Each lost habitat does not mean that these creatures can or will move elsewhere. This is part of one of the vital green avenues that provide breathing space within the urban sprawl of the city

of Cardiff.”

The Velindre NHS Trust stated: ”Following the works on site at the tail end of last year, we are planning to start the next phase of works on the site for the new Velindre Cancer Centre from 24 January. The work will last approximately eight weeks.

“It is planned that contractors will begin setting up the works areas on site from later this week, but we will not be implementing agreed changes to the Public Rights of Way until next week.

“Tree clearance, in line with the seasonal wildlife and habitat restrictions, will follow. No Category A trees, which

are defined as trees of high quality and value capable of making a significant contribution to the area for 40 or more years, will be affected. We will not touch trees that have Tree Protection Orders and are committed to planting two trees for every tree cleared as part of the new development.

“As with the previous works, access to the railway cutting will be unavailable to the public and there will be a footpath diversion in place to ensure public and contractor safety; the diversion signage and maps will be clearly signposted for all users.

“All the relevant permissions have been obtained and as with the previous phases, these works will be undertaken under ecological and arborist supervision.”

Protests at the site have been ongoing since the development was granted planning permission in 2017.

Activists set up a camp on the land last October, and two individuals were arrested following clashes with the police.

Some advocate for the £500 million development to be built elsewhere, such as next to the University Hospital of Wales. However, as it stands currently, the Velindre Cancer Centre is expected to be completed in 2025.

The Urdd become world record breakers at 100 years old Beth Williams News Editor

U

rdd Gobaith Cymru has celebrated its centenary by breaking two Guinness world records on January 25th. Coinciding with Santes Dwynwen Day, the organization successfully obtained the record for the highest number of videos uploaded to both Facebook and Twitter in an hour.

The Urdd is a Welsh national youth organization which provides opportunities for its members to take part in events and experiences through the medium of Welsh. The organization was set up by Sir Ifan ab Owen Edwards in 1922, who feared for the future of the Welsh language. Since its establishment, the Urdd has helped over 4 million Welsh children access sporting, cultural, humanitarian, residential and volunteer-

ing opportunities. Yearly, over 55,000 young people are members, making it one of the largest youth organizations in Europe.

For the world record attempt, individuals or organizations had to record themselves singing the full version of “Hei Mister Urdd”, the theme song of the organization’s mascot, Mr Urdd.

All attempts had to be posted to Twitter and/or Facebook between 10:45am and 11:45am under the hashtag #ymgaisrecordbydyrurdd, Welsh for The Urdd’s world record attempt. Discussing the reason behind the attempt, the Urdd’s Chief Executive Sian Lloyd said: “We wanted to do something really significant to mark and celebrate the Urdd’s centenary, and it needed to be something that could involve all our members, past and present”.

The first record broken was for the largest number of videos of people sing-

ing the same song uploaded to Twitter in one hour. The 1176 successful attempts beat the previous record of 250 by a significant amount. With 461 successful attempts, the organization also beat the record for the largest number of videos of people singing the same song uploaded to Facebook.

The centenary and new world records were celebrated over a virtual zoom party featuring schools from across Wales. Over 95,000 people participated in the event, which was broadcasted live on BBC Radio Cymru and BBC Radio Wales.

First Minister Mark Drakeford took to twitter to show his gratitude towards the organization for “helping to promote our language and culture, offering unique opportunities to our young people”. He also encouraged others to take part in the world record attempt through posting under the hashtag

#ymgaisrecordbydyrurdd. This follows the Welsh government’s announcement that the Urdd would receive £527,000 towards its 2022 Eisteddfod in Denbighshire. This is in an attempt to provide free access to all for the week-long festival, which is a celebration and competitive festival of Welsh literature and creative arts.

A range of famous faces took to social media to congratulate the Urdd on its milestone birthday. Singer Bonnie Tyler, as well as actors Matthew Rhys and Iwan Rheon, thanked the Urdd for all the opportunities it had provided to generations of young people in Wales, themselves included. American actor Rob McElhenney, who co-owns Wrexham football club with Ryan Reynolds, even attempted to sing the mascot’s famous theme song on the Urdd’s twitter account.

So, Penblwydd Hapus Mister Urdd!

5

Cardiff mural replaced with McDonald’s advert Lowri Davies Contributor

F

ood Chain McDonald’s has caused outrage for painting over the popular diverse mural known as “Mona Lisa” The mural originally designed to be a part of the My City, My Shirt project last spring featured a mother of two Maimuna Yocana, originally from GuineaBissau in West Africa but moved to the city five year ago wearing a Cardiff City shirt. With its aims to celebrate the diversity of the city and support the minority communities.

The ‘My City, My Shirt’ mural originally located on the side of Mischief’s on James Street in Butetown was painted by creatives Yusuf Ismail and Shawqi Hasson as part of a wider project.

However, On Saturday January 22nd, the painting was painted over in order to advertise McDonald’s burger advert.

Cathy Owens, who lives near the painting first posted about the painting being replaced, “I doubt McDonald’s is even aware of this happening and the sensitivities of painting over such an amazing mural.”

With many individuals taking to Twitter to express the horror of the burger advert replacement, The Black Lives Matter Cardiff &Vale share “This is exactly how the capitalist system works, it dehumanises Black lives, Black art and Black culture.”

Citizens also tweeting their thoughts “Sad to see a #FansForDiversity inspired projects wiped out”, whilst others shared “This is absolutely criminal and a complete travesty”.

With the disgust of this matter, Cardiff South and Penarth MP Stephen Doughty took to Twitter who asked “What on earth are you thinking @McDonaldsUK?? Please contact me asap.”

Whilst Economy Minister Vaughan Gething unimpressed with McDonalds tweeted that this was “staggeringly insensitive”.

The fast-food chain responded that they were unaware of the site prior to the installation due to the site unfortunately being hired by a third party “We were unaware of what was on the site prior to our installation”.

However, with the disgrace of many and the public outcry during the last week, McDonald’s confirmed on Twitter that the Butetown’s “Mona Lisa” will be repainted in the same form by the original artists.

Despite this, the whole decade has been saddened by this act and highlights the larger problems and issues within society. Yusuf Ismail part of the team behind the mural, says “Restoration is not where it ends” during BBC Radio 5 Live. Ismail also claims that the agency involved were made aware of the moral and it’s significance to the community but were “dismissive”.

“I doubt McDonald’s is even aware of this happening and the sensitivities of painting over such an amazing mural.”

Cathy Owens, Local Resident

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FEATURES

FEATURES

Feature: How do you feel on hormonal birth control?

Jasmine Edge breaks down a number of the physical and mental struggles that young people face on hormonal contraception.

Jasmine Edge Contributor

Eva Rodericks

Jasmine Edge

Sophie Revell features@gairrhydd.com

99%

effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly

Users 15-31

are more likely to be prescribed an antidepressent

Day 14

the effects are most reported at the peak of the menstral cycle

H

ave you ever stopped to consider how you feel on hormonal contraception?

There’s often more focus on the visible side effects of birth control and less on the impact it can have on a person’s mental health—more specifically how people feel when they’re on it compared to off it.

Put very simply, hormonal contraception works by thickening the cervical mucus or preventing ovulation (and sometimes both!).

It does this by introducing synthetic versions of both oestrogen (ethinylestradiol is most common) and/or progesterone (progestins) into the body.

However, as Dr Sarah Hill points out in her book, How the Pill Changes Everything, although contraception was originally designed to be used as a form of birth control, its effects are not limited to this single goal: “The brain and the rest of the body are too flush with hormone

receptors for the pill not to change women. And it’s not just the areas of the brain and body that are directly responsible for orchestrating your cycles and coordinating pregnancy. We’re talking about areas of the brain that are responsible for things like emotional processing, social interactions, attention, learning, memory, facial recognition, self-control, eating behaviour, and language processing. And we’re also talking about non-brain body parts like the immune system, the stress response, and your gut hormones.

This means the pill will have a ton of different effects on your body, from top to bottom.”

It’s useful to look at pregnancy prevention as one of many side effects of contraception—one that is obviously desired by millions across the world.

However, after speaking to a handful of people it’s fair to surmise that, whilst there are an array of reasons to use contraception, its side effects aren’t always the ones desired.

Below, are some of the stories shared with me which demonstrate

Hormonal Contraception: Source: GabiSanda (via Pixabay.com) a broad range of experiences on hormonal contraception.

As you will see, a pattern seems to emerge where individuals are fac-

ing similar struggles when trying to manage and understand how contraception influences the way they feel.

What are the side effects of hormonal contraception?

P

hysical side effects of hormonal contraception tend to receive more focus than the mental health impacts, likely because more is known about the physical effects to date. However, ignoring a problem does not make it go away, as is demonstrated below.

Alice Moore tells me how she expected the physical, but not mental side effects of birth control, “The negative effects on my mood, however, were not as expected; I feel like I felt worse gradually over the 3 years I’ve been on contraception rather than all in one go, so it was harder for me to pinpoint that my contraceptives were the thing causing this.”

Another interviewee, who preferred to remain anonymous, recalls that, “I’ve had conversations with friends on similar hormonal contraception and we all say we don’t really know our own

moods anymore, we can’t differentiate between our own natural emotions and ones perhaps bought on by the contraception” “I’ve had an overall negative experience with the implant/progesteronebased forms of contraception. Since insertion I’ve bled lightly near enough everyday (nearing 3 years of being on it) with only a handful of breaks. This is obviously quite debilitating when it comes to having sex, exercising […] and even just affecting what I feel I can wear”.

They rightly point out the added cost of buying extra tampons, and additionally highlight that the physical side effects of birth control can also contribute to the way a person feels daily.

Therefore, although indirectly, this impacts their mental health.

Lydia Bourton notes how she initially

I

Edie Halstead adds, “[I] worry that birth control has altered my personality and sense of self […] having been on birth control my whole adult life, I feel like some side effects may have become my ‘normal‘”.

Furthermore, Anna Evans struggles to find the words to explain how she feels on hormonal contraception, “I think the best way to describe how I feel is very emotionally unstable. I have constant mood swings, one minute I’m really happy and energetic and the next I’m really sad and tired.”

She also shines light on how hormonal contraception can impact pre-existing health conditions, “I’m currently recovering from an eating disorder and it [has] become clear that the implant is causing my appetite to fluctuate which isn’t ideal for someone who’s recovering from an ED.”

"Stick with it, it will get better"

t is hard to foresee the individual effects hormonal birth control can have, but if patients are unhappy, why are they reluctant to reach out for help and feel like they have nowhere else to turn? “[T]he doctors gave me a lot of unwanted advice like weight gain and pregnancy difficulties, which felt a bit misogynistic.” A comment from someone, who also preferred to remain anonymous, sharing their experience at the doctors. They touch upon the often-skewed approach to [T]he doctors gave me a lot of unwanted advice like weight gain and pregnancy difficulties, which felt a bit misogynistic.”

Anna Evans

Sticking with the side effects: Source: RyanMcGuire (via Pixabay.com)

started considering her contraceptive options at 15 to help with painful periods; however, after hearing about issues others had faced with the combined pill, which she had been prescribed, she delayed taking them until she was older.

After unfortunately having a negative experience on the pill when she finally made the decision to trial it, Bourton tells me that she had the implant fitted in October 2020. Since, her cycle (characterised by long periods of bleeding and sudden breaks), sex drive and anxiety have been in a constant state of unpredictability. “[O]verall, as cliché as it sounds, I’ve been on an emotional roller-coaster.

I’ve not felt completely myself in the past two years, but I don’t know what to turn to next. I’m currently in the process of getting in touch with the doctor, again.”

women’s health, where people frequently make their own assumptions about what is important to a woman, without first asking them.

Moreover, Bourton explains how her worst fear of being told to put up with the difficulties she was facing came true when she reached out to her doctor for help, “[I] explained my situation but he replied with ‘stick with it, it will get better’. But I went off the pills immediately.”

Evans’s response is consistent with the feelings of others—that raising her concerns will only lead to the trivialisation of the side effects she’s experiencing, “I’d be conscious that people would just dismiss my experiences as side effects that should wear off as my body adapts more”.

Additionally, another interviewee says, “[I] was told to wait at least 9

months for my body to adjust to it [the implant], and after this I would be fine. This was not the case and have had a nightmare trying to make my frustrations be taken seriously.”

The consensus is that sexual health products and services don’t seem overall catered to the people using them, and when users raise their concerns, rather than being supported in trialling another option (which itself, is often exhaustive) they are told, for a lack of better term, to suck it up.

[I] explained my situation but he replied with ‘stick with it, it will get better’. But I went off the pills immediately.”

Lydia Bourton

NODEWEDDION

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'The Lowdown': The world's first contraception review platform

A

Alice Pelton is the founder behind 'The Lowdown', an independant online site which allows people to anonymously comment about their experiences with a range of different contraceptives

lice Pelton who founded The Lowdown in 2019, the world's first online reviewing platform for contraception, has made it her mission to provide a resource for people which she didn’t have when she first started using birth control: “[M]y decision making process early on was very much influenced by just an absolute fear of being pregnant. So, I sort of put that above everything else and that's why I suffered with side effects for so long.”

She tells me how as she got older her priorities changed, “I really started to think more about the impact that my contraception was having on my mental health.”

[M]y decision making process early on was very much influenced by just an absolute fear of being pregnant.”

Alice Pelton, Founder of 'The Lowdown'

I really started to think more about the impact that my contraception was having on my mental health.”

Alice Pelton, Founder of 'The Lowdown' The Lowdown website offers a reviewing feature, that currently has over “5,000 reviews for every method and brand”, offering users the option to read up on other’s experiences, or write about their own.

The website also features a contraception recommender that can help people understand what method might be best for them, an advice service where you can book an appointment to speak with a GP who all have a diploma in sexual and reproductive health, a prescription service that offers the delivery of the pill or patch, and there’s a selection of blogs covering a variety of sexual health topics.

“I guess we're kind of like sex ed.

But, you know, for people who are

out of school, because as women get into their twenties, they really start to learn more about their reproductive and sexual health.”

Pelton urges people not to give up, “it's worth trying things out, and what works for you at one age might not necessarily work for you at another—really listen to your body, like you know [it] better than anyone else, and really learn how to advocate for yourself with healthcare professionals to push for any tests, or changes, or brands or things that you want to try.”

It’s clear that people are fed up with waiting for doctors, researchers, and pharmaceutical companies to listen to them. Instead, they are creating their own solutions. it's worth trying things out, and what works for you at one age might not necessarily work for you at another.”

Alice Pelton, Founder of 'The Lowdown'

A Contraception Review Platform: Source: MarcoVerch (via Flickr)

What might the future of hormonal birth control look like?

With all of this in mind, it is important to consider what contraceptives may be avaliable in the future and, perhaps more importantly, what impact they may have on young people specifically

T

he experiences of those mentioned in this article may seem overwhelmingly negative. However, I did get to hear the positive impacts birth control has had in people’s lives, such as the relief it provides by protecting people from pregnancy, as well as the necessity of contraception in the lives of others as it helps keep debilitating period pain at bay. Some people feel the best versions of themselves on hormonal birth control!

Moore highlights that she did eventually find the right method for her, “My initial experience with oral contraception was a bit worrying […] However, I was so relieved when Lucette [oral contraceptive] was successful that I didn’t mind the initial blips of being on the pill (acne flair ups, unstable mood etc.).”

Additionally, whilst some people had a negative experience at their doctors’ (sadly this was commonly the case) others had a positive one.

It’s important not to dismiss the I was so relieved when Lucette [oral contraceptive] was successful that I didn’t mind the initial blips of being on the pill."

Source: kkolosov (via Pixabay.com)

U

Alice Moore

negative or positive experiences, but rather ensure there is a line of support and communication there to help people when these negative experiences occur, which unfortunately doesn't seem to have been set up in a broad and accessible way.

Hormonal contraception has allowed people autonomy over their bodies, which is amazing—but it remains strikingly obvious that the same people are fed up with the trade-offs they are often required to make to have this freedom.

Additional non-hormonal birth control options, and an increased range of birth control options for men were common answers from individuals when asked what improvements they wanted to see in the future: Anonymous “For girls like myself, who can only use specific types of contraception, I think there can be more advice offered on what types of nonhormonal contraception can also be used. I remember being around 15/16 and it seemed like the only viable or ‘safe’ method of birth control was hormonal, which just isn’t an option for some people.”

Bourton “I hope in the future there will be more readily available contraceptive methods that don’t include the use

of artificial hormones.”

Revell “I’d like to normalise contraception not being a women’s issue, and [rather] something that only women have to take responsibility for in a relationship” Perhaps it’s time to consider if ‘birth control’ is an outdated phrase.

It has led to the damaging idea that suggests the various methods on offer have a single targeted effect— when in reality this is far from true; resulting in young people taking hormonal birth control unaware and unequipped to manage the effects it can have on their mental health, either directly or indirectly (as a result of physical side effects).

Rather, the term ‘contraception’ could be reclaimed to encompass a whole range of uses and effects enabling a new perspective to emerge that allows people to view contraception as a tool to take control over their sexual health as informed individuals.

I hope in the future there will be more readily available contraceptive methods that don’t include the use of artificial hormone.”

Lydia Bourton

Source: jarmoluk (via Pixabay.com)

A few considerations on the physical and mental effects of hormonal contraception

nfortunately, there is no alarm that goes off in our heads to tell us we’re feeling happy, or sad because of our birth control.

The cause of these thoughts and feelings can be difficult to understand and are often overwhelming.

Mood trackers are a great form of self-help when starting contraception.

Implementing a mood tracker into your daily routine before and after you start a new method of contraception can help you monitor any changes in the way you feel

and recognise the source of these changes.

It also gives you physical evidence of the problems you might be experiencing to show your doctor to help you advocate for yourself.

Telling friends and family that

you are starting a new form of hormonal contraception can also be helpful, so they can keep an eye on how you are doing and speak to you if they spot you struggling.

The aforementioned book by Dr. Sarah Hill is also a great resource and is written in a friendly and

often satirical style, which makes it an accessible read for anyone wishing to understand what is and might be (as research is still ongoing), happening to their brain on hormonal contraception.

Additional support is avaliable from a variety of online sources.

Thanks to funding received from the Welsh Government, the Students’ Union is making Give it a Go events and activities FREE until the end of March CARDIFFSTUDENTS.COM/GIVEITAGO

Got questions about Academic We Issues? visited Student Advice cardiffstudents.com/advice

10

TAF-OD

TAF-OD

Cronfa iaith Gymraeg: £1 miliwn i hybu’r Gymraeg

Bydd Llywodraeth Cymru yn defnyddio’r gronfa newydd hon i hybu’r Gymraeg yng Nghymru Nansi Eccott

Golygydd Taf-od

A Nel Richards

Alexa Price

r y 19eg o Ionawr, cyhoeddodd Llywodraeth Cymru £1 miliwn ar gyfer prosiectau newydd dros hyd a lled y wlad er mwyn hybu’r defnydd o’r Gymraeg a Chymreictod.

Dywedodd Jeremy Miles, gweinidog Llywodraeth Cymru dros y Gymraeg ac Addysg, bod y Llywodraeth yn gobeithio y bydd yr arian yn eu “helpu i ddyblu’r defnydd dyddiol” [o’r Gymraeg] a chyrraedd eu targed o filiwn o siaradwyr erbyn 2050.

Mae’r gweinidog yn awyddus i annog holl drigolion Cymru i ddysgu, siarad a defnyddio’r Gymraeg, dywedodd, “mae’r Gymraeg yn perthyn i ni gyd, p’un ai bod ni’n siarad Cymraeg ai peidio.” Gobeithiai y bydd yr arian yma’n creu cyfleoedd i bobl o bob cefndir ddysgu’r iaith pa bynnag eu lefel o Gymraeg ar hyn o bryd.

Hybu’r Gymraeg ledled Cymru; Caiff cyllid ei ddarparu i’r Ganolfan Addysg Genedlaethol ar gyfer prosiectau i gynyddu hygyrchedd ac addysg y Gymraeg. Fe fydd hyn yn cynnwys darpariaeth o gyrsiau i ffoaduriaid a cheiswyr lloches yng Nghymru wrth

iddynt weithio mewn partneriaeth â ‘Say Something in Welsh.’ Ni fydd yn rhaid i’r mynychwyr allu siarad Cymraeg yn rhugl gan fydd y cyrsiau ar gael yn yr ieithoedd a siaredir fwyaf gan ffoaduriaid a cheiswyr lloches yng Nghymru.

Yn ogystal, fe fydd arian yn cael ei rhoi i’r mudiad ‘Rhieni dros Addysg Gymraeg’ (RhAG) gyda’r nod o ddatblygu gwybodaeth am addysg cyfrwng Cymraeg mewn ieithoedd lleiafrifol. Dywed Llywodraeth Cymru mai’r “nod yw cefnogi teuluoedd y mae eu plant yn cael addysg cyfrwng Cymraeg, ond nid Cymraeg na Saesneg yw’r prif ieithoedd sy’n cael eu siarad gartref. Yn ogystal â hyn, y nod yw hyrwyddo addysg cyfrwng Cymraeg ymysg cymunedau ethnig lleiafrifol.” Dywedodd Wyn Williams, cadeirydd cenedlaethol RhAG, wrth BBC Cymru Fyw y byddai’r nawdd yn mynd at brosiect sy’n “torri tir newydd o ran cyflwyno’r iaith i gymunedau newydd.” Bwriad RhAG a’u prosiectau fydd “rhannu neges gadarnhaol am yr iaith fel pont i gysylltu diwylliannau a chreu’r teimlad o berthyn.”

Buddsoddiad i Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru:

Gracie Richards

Nansi Eccott

taf-od@gairrhydd.com

Cyllid newydd: Bydd y gronfa yn helpu i hyrwyddo’r Gymraeg.

Source: fill (via Pixabay)

Cyhoeddiad newydd: Mae’r gronfa iaith Gymraeg newydd hon wedi derbyn canmoliaeth gan lawer hese. Source: .Martin. (via Flickr)

Fel rhan o’r cyllid sydd ar gael, mae’r Llywodraeth wedi cyhoeddi y bydd £600,000 yn cael ei roi i’r Eisteddfod Genedlaethol a fydd yn Nhregaron eleni.

Yn ôl y Llywodraeth- “Bydd y cyllid yn cefnogi’r sefydliad i baratoi r gyfer y digwyddiad eleni, sydd am gael ei gynnal rhwng 30 Gorffennaf a 6 Awst. Bydd yn helpu i gyflawni ei nodau o wneud yr Eisteddfod yn agored i gynulleidfa ehangach.”

Dywedodd Betsan Moses, Prif Weithredwr Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Cymru, wrth Newyddion S4C ei bod hi’n “ddiolchgar iawn i’r Gweinidog a’r Llywodraeth am eu cefnogaeth, a’u hawydd i weithio gyda ni i sicrhau llwyddiant Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Ceredigion eleni. Wrth ddychwelyd at gynnal Eisteddfod ar faes, ry’n ni wedi gweld ein costau ni’n cynyddu’n aruthrol ers 2019, gyda chwyddiant, effaith y pandemig a phris yswiriant ymysg y costau sydd wedi codi’n arw... Ond yr hyn

sy’n bwysig yw bo’ ni wedi cymryd rhai elfennau a weithiodd yn ystod Covid a’i ymgorffori nhw fewn i’r Eisteddfod fodern ‘ma.”

Dywedodd Jeremy Miles, sy’n cynrychioli rhanbarth Castell-nedd, mai “Diben y cyhoeddiad heddiw yw ei gwneud hi’n haws nag erioed defnyddio ein hiaith a’n diwylliant.”

“Rydyn ni wrth ein boddau i weithio gyda’n partneriaid ar brosiectau mor amrywiol, sydd i gyd yn cefnogi ein nod o gael miliwn o siaradwyr Cymraeg a dyblu’r defnydd dyddiol o’n hiaith erbyn 2050.”

Diben y cyhoeddiad heddiw yw ei gwneud hi’n haws nag erioed defnyddio ein hiaith a’n diwylliant.”

Jeremy Miles MS, Member of the Senedd

Peintio dros murlun Bae Caerdydd gydag hysbyseb McDonalds

Mae murlun Butetown wedi cael ei beintio gan sbarduno adlach gan drigolion lleol Nel Richards

Pennaeth Taf-od

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ae’r bwyty prydau cyflym McDonalds wedi achosi drwgdeimlad i drigolion Caerdydd a thu hwnt.

Mae’r murlun ‘Mona Lisa’ sy’n rhan o brosiect ‘My City, My Shirt’ wedi’i leoli ar James St yn Nhref Bute a gafodd ei beintio mis Ebrill 2021 fel rhan o brosiect sy’n hybu pobl o gymunedau lleiafrifol i gysylltu gyda’i hunaniaeth, dinas a thîm pêl droed. Yr artistiaid oedd yn arwain ac yn arlunio’r prosiect oedd Yusuf Ismali a Shawqi Hasson.

Dathlwyd amrywiaeth y brifddinas gan arlunio Maimuna Yoncana, sy’n fam, yn wreiddiol o Guinea-Bissau, yn gwisgo crys pêl-droed Caerdydd.

Ymunodd Unify Creative ag Adidas i gomisiynu’r gwaith celf i gyd-fynd â chystadleuaeth pel-droed yr Ewros yn ogystal ag ysgogi sgyrsiau am amrywiaeth a chynrychiolaeth o fewn cymunedau.

Ond ar Ionawr 22ain, cafodd y murlun eiconig ei baentio drostodd gyda phaent melyn i wneud lle ar gyfer hysbyseb byrgyr McDonalds.

Ar ôl nifer o drydariadau ar y mater, fe ddywedodd y cwmni byd-eang; “Cafodd y safle ei logi gan drydydd parti a oedd yn gweithio gyda’r arlunydd a beintiodd y murlun gwreiddiol. Nid oeddem yn ymwybodol o’r hyn oedd ar y safle cyn ac rydym wedi cyfarwyddo’r artist i ail-baentio ei furlun gwreiddiol ar unwaith.”

Ond dywedodd trefnydd y prosiect celf, Yusuf Ismail, wrth y BBC fod yr asiantaeth dan sylw wedi cael gwybod am arwyddocâd diwylliannol y murlun, ond ei fod yn “ddiystyriol” ac wedi bwrw ymlaen â’r “hyrwyddiad hamburger” beth bynnag.

Ychwanegodd, “cafodd yr asiantaeth yr holl wybodaeth am y safle sensitif, nid yn unig y ffaith bod ganddo ddarn anhygoel o waith celf arno, ond ei fod wedi’i fandaleiddio, gyda chymhelliant hiliol yn ôl pob tebyg”. “Felly roedd ganddyn nhw’r holl wybodaeth

GoFundMe i helpu i’w hadfer.

Trydarodd Gweinidog yr Economi, Vaughan Gething fod cael gwared ar y murlun yn “hynod o ansensitif” tra gofynnodd Gweinidog yr Wrthblaid dros Faterion Tramor, y Gymanwlad a Datblygu, Steven Doughty i McDonalds: “Beth ar y ddaear ydych chi’n ei feddwl?”

Roedd y murlun yn ganolbwynt i’r ddinas, a threfi ehangach. Mae llawer yn gobeithio fe fydd yn cael ei hadfer, ei gynnal a chadw.

Yn ychwanegol, symbol o amrywiaeth amlddiwylliannol ydyw gan arwain y ffordd i Gaerdydd i fod yn ddinas sydd yn dathlu hwnnw.

Dinas o furluniau: Mae nifer o furluniau eraill o gwmpas Caerdydd.

Tarddiad: Jeremy Segrott (via Flickr)

yna, mae hyn yn rhywbeth roedden nhw’n amlwg yn gwybod amdano, ac maen nhw’n dal yn bwrw ymlaen ag ef.

Doedd gan yr artist ddim i’w wneud ag ef.”

Dywedodd hefyd nad yw “ond adfer y murlun yn ddigon” a bod angen “rhy-

wbeth gydag ychydig o etifeddiaeth y tu ôl iddo”.

Ym mis Hydref, achoswyd difrod i’r murlun mewn trosedd o gasineb, gyda phaent gwyn yn cael ei daflu drosodd o’r palmant. Lansiwyd ymchwiliad heddlu, yn ogystal â sefydlu tudalen

ond adfer y murlun yn ddigon [...] rhywbeth gydag ychydig o etifeddiaeth y tu ôl iddo.”

Yusuf Ismail, Trefnydd prosiect celf

CHWARAEON

Hanes Santes Dwynwen: Dydd San Ffolant Cymreig

Pam ydym ni’n dathlu’r digwyddiad cenedlaethol hwn yn Cymru?

Alexa Price

Golygydd Taf-od

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ob blwyddyn ar y 25fed o Ionawr mae’r Cymry yn dathlu Dydd Santes Dwynwen, neu’r ‘Valentine’s Day’ Cymraeg. Pam y byddech chi yn dewis i aros i fis Chwefror i roi cwtshes ac atgoffa’ch teulu, ffrindiau, neu’ch cariadon a dy gariad, pan mae Santes Dwynwen tair wythnos yn gynharach? Er nid ydy pawb yn ei ddathlu ac yn aros tan mis Chwefror, mae dathlu diwrnod Santes Dwynwen yn cynyddu o ran ei phoblogaidd.

Beth bynnag yw eich statws ynglyn Er nid ydy pawb yn ei ddathlu ac yn aros tan mis Chwefror, mae dathlu diwrnod Santes Dwynwen yn cynyddu o ran ei phoblogaidd.”

â pherthynas y flwyddyn yma, mae Dydd Santes Dwynwen yn rheswm i ddathlu, yn enwedig fel myrfyriwr!

Mae’n gyfle i ni cymryd diwrnod i ffwrdd o’n hamserlenni prysur i ddathlu ein hun, a nhw sydd ein amgylchynu. Yn ogystal â hynny, mae gennych chi nawr rheswm i ddathlu ddwywaith!

Yn union fel rhan fwyaf o draddodiadau’r wlad, mae gwreiddiau Dydd Santes Dwynwen yn dod o hanes hir, hir y Cymry. Ffigwr hanes y 5ed canrif ydy’r Santes Dwynwen, ac er y mae hi wedi rhoi rheswm i ni ddathlu pob-peth-cariad, mae’r chwedl wir yn un drist! Y Santes Dwynwen oedd un o dau-ddeg-pedwar o ferched y Brenin Brychan Brycheiniog, ac yn ôl son hi oedd y harddaf.

Cwympodd Dwynwen mewn cariad gyda’r tywysog Maelon Daffodril, ond yn anffodus doedd dim opsiwn gan Dwynwen i’w briodi gan fod ei thad wedi dewis gwr iddi yn barod.

O ganlyniad i hyn, roedd Dwynwen eisiau anghofio pob atgof o Maelon, a dyna beth digwyddodd! Ar ôl cael ymweliad gan angel â diod hudol i gael gwared o’r holl atgofion ac i rhewi Maelon, bu Duw yn rhoi tair dumuniad iddi.

Yn gyntaf, gofynodd Dwynwen bod Maelon yn cael ei ddadmer. Yn ail, dymunodd bod Duw yn cwrdd â breuddwydion a dymuniadau cariadon Cymru. Yn olaf, gofynnodd bod hi byth angen i briodi yn ei bywyd.

Cafodd y dymuniadau eu cyflawni, ac o ganlyniad i hyn ymroddodd Dwynwen ei bywyd i Dduw a chrefydd.

Diolch i aberthau Dwynwen, rydym yn dathlu cariad o bob math heddiw!

Mae modd i chi dal gweld y gweddillion yn Eglwys Santes Dwynwen yn Landdwyn, lle mae hefyd ffynnon a chafodd ei enwi ar ei hôl. Yn ôl son mae’r ffynnon yn gallu datguddio os ydy’ch cariad yn wir neu yn beidio.

Does dim ots sut ydych chi yn dewis dathlu, ond eich bod chi yn cofio i rannu’r cariad!.”

Er y tristwch fod Dwynwen byth i briodi, mae ei stori yn un pwysig ac yn ein hatgoffa bod dim angen i ni cael un cariad, achos mae yna cymaint o fathau gwahanol o gariad y gallwn ddathlu.

Rydw i wedi dewis dathlu cariad teuluol a chariad ymhlîth fy ffrindiau’r prifysgol y blwyddyn yma. Efallai rydych chi wedi dewis prynu llwyau pren (traddodiad arall y Cymry), coginio rhywbeth neis i’ch hun amser yma’r flwyddyn, neu hyd yn oed yn cymryd eich hun am dro yn yr amrywiaeth o barciau yng Nghaerdydd.

Does dim ots sut ydych chi yn dewis dathlu, ond eich bod chi yn cofio i rannu’r cariad!

Pryd o Daf-od Lois Campbell : Urdd yn 100 Lois Campbell Cyfrannydd

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r y 25ain o Ionawr roedd Urdd Gobaith Cymru, mudiad ieuenctid mwyaf Cymru, yn dathlu canmlwyddiant.

O eisteddfodau a chystadlaethau chwaraeon i dreulio amser yng ngwersylloedd yr Urdd a mynd ar dripiau tramor, mae’r mudiad yn cynnig llu o gyfleoedd i blant a phobl ifanc, i gyd drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg.

Yr Hanes; Sefydlwyd Urdd Gobaith Cymru yn 1922 gan Syr Ifan ab Owen Edwards gyda’r bwriad i greu mudiad i warchod y Gymraeg rhag dylanwad y Saesneg.

Yn ôl gwefan yr Urdd, meddai Syr Ifan ab Owen Edwards, “yn awr mewn llawer pentref, a bron ym mhob tref yng Nghymru, mae’r plant yn chwarae’n Saesneg, yn darllen llyfrau Saesneg ac yn anghofio mai Cymry ydynt”. Ei fwriad

oedd creu mudiad byddai’n annog plant a phobl ifanc Cymru i ddefnyddio’r Gymraeg tu allan i’r ysgol fel iaith gymdeithasol. Dyma’r dechrau i ddyfodol llewyrchus yr Urdd, mudiad sydd wedi llwyddo i ddylanwadu’n fawr ar iaith a diwylliant Cymru.

Beth mae’r Urdd yn cynnig?

Ers canrif bellach, mae’r Urdd wedi arwain y ffordd drwy gynnig profiadau unigryw i blant a phobl ifanc Cymru. Mae’n siŵr fod gan y rhan fwyaf ohonom atgofion melys o ymweld â gwersylloedd yr Urdd yn Llangrannog, Glan-llyn a Chaerdydd tra’n ddisgybl yn yr ysgol neu fel swog.

Mae penwythnosau preswyl yng ngwersylloedd yr Urdd yn cynnig gweithgareddau hwylus ac ysgafn megis dringo ar yr her rhaffau, sgïo, gwibgartio a digonedd o weithgareddau adeiladu tîm fel adeiladu rafft ar Lyn Tegid neu gwblhau’r cyrsiau antur! Mae’r Urdd

hefyd yn parhau i gynnig cyfleoedd chwaraeon i bobl ifanc drwy gynnal cystadlaethau o bob math gan gynnwys rygbi, pêl-rwyd, pêl-droed a gymnasteg. Ond, yr enwocaf o’u plith mae’n siŵr yw Eisteddfod yr Urdd. Mae’n ŵyl flynyddol sy’n cael ei chynnal i ddathlu diwylliant Cymreig, gan roi cyfle i blant a phobl ifanc o bob cwr o Gymru i ddangos eu doniau yn y byd cerddorol, dawns, perfformio a chelfyddydol.

Mae’n wythnos o ddathlu, heb gynnwys y misoedd o ymarfer a pharatoi, i roi llwyfan i ddiwylliant Cymreig.

Dathlu’r 100; Er mwyn nodi’r canmlwyddiant fe benderfynodd yr Urdd geisio torri 2 record byd. Yr her oedd uwchlwytho’r nifer mwyaf o fideos o bobl yn canu ‘Hei Mistar Urdd’ ar Trydar a Facebook o fewn awr. Gyda help dros fil o bobl, fe lwyddodd yr Urdd i dorri’r ddwy record byd!

Roedd hwn yn gyfle gwych i roi

nôl i’r Urdd a diolch iddynt am ddarparu cymaint o gyfleoedd i filoedd o bobl dros y ganrif ddiwethaf. Mewn cyfweliad â BBC Cymru Fyw meddai Siân Lewis, Prif Weithredwr yr Urdd, bod “cyrraedd y garreg filltir arbennig hon yn gyfle inni ddathlu stori’r Urdd ac edrych tua’r dyfodol”. Dwi’n siŵr bydd y dathliadau’n parhau wrth i ni ddychwelyd i faes yr Eisteddfod eleni, am y tro cyntaf wedi’r pandemig, yn Ninbych.

Mae’n dyled a’n diolch ni fel Cymry yn fawr i’r Urdd. Heb yr ymdrech ddiflino dros y 100 mlynedd diwethaf, y cyfleoedd di-ri a’r profiadau amhrisiadwy, byddai sefyllfa’r Gymraeg yn llawer duach.

Mae’r Urdd wedi sicrhau bod y cenedlaethau sydd i ddod yn medru gwerthfawrogi traddodiadau diwylliannol Cymreig a mwynhau cael cymdeithasu drwy gyfrwng y Gymraeg. Penblwydd Hapus Urdd Gobaith Cymru!

Trafod gyda’r Taf-od Elan Jones 1. ​​Pwy wyt ti a beth wyt ti’n astudio?

Fy enw i yw Elan Jones a dw i’n astudio Cymraeg.

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

Mae ‘na ddigonedd ohonyn nhw i ddewis ond rhaid cyfaddef mai rhwng torri bys bawd fy nhroed tra’n neidio bant o fainc gymnasteg o flaen fy nosbarth a chwympo ar lawr ddawnsio Clwb Ifor Bach tra’n dawnsio’n wyllt sy’n codi’r mwyaf o embaras arna’ i – fel y gwelwch chi, dw i’n berson

lletchwith ac yn wyneb cyfarwydd yn A&E!!

3. Beth yw dy hoff albwm?

Dwi’n meddwl bod llais a chaneuon Dua Lipa yn anhygoel a fy hoff albwm ganddi yw “Future Nostalgia (The Moonlight Edition)” 4. Oes hoff ddiod feddwol gyda ti?

Naill ai pinc jin, jagerbombs neu cosmopolitan sy’n mynd â’m bryd!

5. Pwy yw dy arwr?

Mam - mae hi’n ‘superwoman’ ac yn gallu dod i ben â gwneud pop-

eth ac yn cynnig y cyngor gorau bob tro!

6. Beth yw dy hoff brofiad?

Mam - mae hi’n ‘superwoman’ ac yn gallu dod i ben â gwneud popeth ac yn cynnig y cyngor gorau bob tro!

7. Beth sy’n cadw ti’n effro gyda’r nos?

Popeth – dw i’n dderyn y nos!

8. Disgrifia dy hun mewn 3 gair.

Hapus, Caredig a Chymdeithasol 9. Pam dewis Caerdydd?

Dwi’n caru Caerdydd! Prif ddi-

nas Cymru sy’n llawn bwrlwm â digonedd o gyfleoedd a gweithgareddau i gymdeithasu – a’r holl gyfleoedd dw i wedi eu derbyn hyd yn hyn yn profi fy mod i’n bendant wedi gwneud dewis doeth!

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

Cynnal parti mawreddog yng Nghlwb Ifor Bach ac ymgynnull pob un o fy nheulu a ffrindiau at ei gilydd gan ddawnsio’n ddiddiwedd a chanu karaoke drwy’r nos hyd y bore bach.

11

Barn y Bobl: Ydy Boris Johnson am ein gadael ni?

Deio Jones Cyfrannydd

AIl flwyddyn Cwrs: Cymraeg a Gwleidyddiaeth

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westiwn da. Yn sicr, os edrychwch ar y datguddiadau mwyaf diweddar, teg bysai dweud ei fod ar ei ffordd allan, ond ai hynny yw barn ei gyfoedion ceidwadol?

Yn anffodus, dwi o’r farn na fydd Johnson yn gweld y drws am gyfnod hir, ond efallai y bysai’n haws gofyn os yw Boris yn ein gadael i lawr?

Fel arweinydd yr ynys hon ac un o’r arweinwyr mwyaf pwerus, tydi’r agwedd, hiwmor na’r ymddygiad diweddar yn ddim i’w fod yn falch ohono ond yn embaras cenedlaethol.

OS yw Prydain am oroesi, mae angen capten newydd ar y llong cyn iddi suddo.

Yn anffodus, dwi o’r farn na fydd Johnson yn gweld y drws am gyfnod hir, ond efallai y bysai’n haws gofyn os yw Boris yn ein gadael i lawr? ”

Gracie Richards Golygydd Taf-d

Yr ail flwyddyn Cwrs: Newyddiaduraeth, cyfryngau a diwylliant

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rs iddi ddod i’r amlwg bod Boris Johnson wedi’i ddal yn cynnal nifer o bartis yn Downing Street, y cwestiwn yw, bydd e’n ymddiswyddo neu beidio?

Gan ystyried y ffaith bod llawer o’i gyd-weithwyr gan gynnwys y cyn Ysgrifennydd Iechyd, Matt Hancock a Chyn Maer Llundain, Shaun Bailey wedi gorfod ymddiswyddo am dorri rheolau covid, rwy’n meddwl bod ên ddryslyd i’r cyhoedd weld Johnson yn peidio cael ei ddal yn atebol yn syth.

Rwy’n credu mae’n bosibl y bydd Johnson yn cael ei orfodi i ymddiswyddo ond sai’n siŵr pa mor debygol yw hyn.

Mae adroddiad a gyhoeddwyd gan Sue Gray yn nodi bod cyfanswm o un ar bymtheg o ddigwyddiadau cymdeithasol ym mhreswylfa’r Prif Weinidog wedi bod tra roedd cyfyngiadau covid llym.

Mae’r adroddiad hefyd yn dangos bod parti anghyfreithlon wedi’i gynnal ar gyfer pen-blwydd Johnson yn ei fflat preifat ac mae Scotland yard yn ymchwilio.

O ystyried hyn i gyd rwy’n credu bod nifer o bobl yn meddwl bod yn amser iddo fynd, er hyn sai’n meddwl bydd e yn ymddiswyddo heb ymladd yn gyntaf.

Yn anffodus, dwi o’r farn na fydd Johnson yn gweld y drws am gyfnod hir, ond efallai y bysai’n haws gofyn os yw Boris yn ein gadael i lawr?”

12

POLITICS

POLITICS

Wales set to take part in ‘levelling up’ agenda

What will the new ‘levelling up’ scheme represent for people living in parts of Wales?

Katherine Seymour Politics Editor

T Luthien Evans

Darcy Arnold

Ella Lloyd

Katherine Seymour

his week the UK government found themselves in hot water after it was found that ‘new’ levelling up funds for 20 areas were actually the funds which were already pledged in the budget. But how does levelling up impact Wales?

Wales’s developments as a nation have historically been highly funded

by EU membership before Brexit. Although it voted for leave in the EU referendum with a 52% majority, the nation had previously received approximately £375million a year from membership of the EU. In December, the IWA (Institute for Welsh Affairs) published a report on the impact of levelling up funding in Wales which concluded that the levelling up fund wouldn’t come close to the EU funding which Wales received under the European development fund, the fund which is distributed for developments in the EUs poorest countries based on GDP. In comparison with other UK proposed funds to reduce the impact of Brexit, the levelling up fund has had very little details, particularly on its budget and its allocation, which prompted devolved governments to begin asking questions. The answer was that the funds would be managed centrally rather than through devolution as they had expected. The white paper with final answers has not yet been published despite it being due in December.

In terms of the United Kingdom, the levelling up agenda was created in one way to address regional inequalities and in doing so prevent the rapid migration to the South East of England. This migration then makes areas outside of London, and particularly outside of England, feel cut off and as though the government

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Wales trials longer school day scheme 13 schools across Wales will add an extra 5 hours a week for lessons in art, music, and sport

politics@gairrhydd.com

Minister for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities) would design and administer the UKSPF directly in all countries of the UK. This undermines the idea that the fund would protect devolution as it is acting in a way which is counter-productive to this goal.

The IWA confirmed that in terms of funding to Wales, it will mean a “clear and significant” decrease in funding in 2021-2, from £375 million the previous year under ESI (European Structural Investments) to around £153 million (including £110 million from the LUF (levelling up fund) and £43 million from the CRF). This represents a cut of more than 50%.

Wales will therefore face a huge funding cut under current levelling up plans which it will have to learn to

adapt to. Furthermore, there is a conflict in leadership now with a Westminster government who want to govern from the centre and devolved governments which want to have the ability to determine their country’s role within the UK. The levelling up fund will be huge in terms of its role in this shift in ideologies aiming to promote the unity of the UK. The way in which countries use this fund can say a lot with regards to how the UK will come to be structured through its changes over time.

The levelling up fund will be huge in terms of its role in this shift in ideologies aiming to promote the unity of the UK.”

Conservative MP William Wragg will speak on allegations against Downing Street Contributor

ELSEWHERE IN POLITICS

within the central London bubble can’t relate to their struggles. These conditions are said to have acted as a catalyst for the eventual Welsh vote in favour of devolution and the Westminster government don’t want to see this repeated with leaving the United Kingdom in either Scotland or Wales.

The UKSPF (UK Shared Prosperity Fund), the fund designed to replace EU funding, has caused issues in terms of devolution. The Welsh government pre-empted that the fund would be carried out in a way where devolved governments would have control over the funds. However, it was later confirmed by the UK government that the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Communities (later renamed the

MP to meet with Met Police over blackmail claims Annabelle Martin

Manal Ahmed

‘Levelling up’: The new scheme has recieved praise alongside criticism for representing a potential cut in funding for investment in Wales. Source: photoeverywhere (via FreeImagesLive)

Conservative backbencher, William Wragg, has accused Downing Street of trying to “blackmail” MPs seeking to oust Boris Johnson. He is to meet with the police to discuss these allegations despite Number 10s denial of such behaviour.

William Wragg announced in the House of Commons that he will be speaking to a Met Police Detective, regarding the issue. Mr Wragg raised these concerns about blackmail and intimidation on Thursday 20th January. He said he had been told that ministers, advisers and staff at No 10 were “encouraging the publication of stories in the press seeking to embarrass” MPs who were calling on Mr Johnson to resign.

However, on Thursday a separate group of MPs met to discuss going public with their own complaints “[ministers, advisors and staff at No 10 were] encouraging the publication of stories in the press seeking to embarrass.”

William Wragg, Conservative MP

regarding intimidation by the whips – who are the MPs in charge of party discipline. This group has been meeting regularly to discuss whether to oust Mr Johnson, over revelations he attended a drinks party and fostered an after-hours drinking culture during lockdown.

Labour called for an inquiry after Wragg said threats that would “seem to constitute blackmail” had been made to colleagues. The Labour MP added that he believed this had happened much more over the past 10 years.

Number 10 has stated that it had not seen any proof of such behaviour. Mr Wragg told the Daily Telegraph “The offer of No 10 to investigate is kind but I shall leave it to the expert” while warning that he would outline “several” examples of bullying and intimidation when he speaks to the police. A Met. Police spokesman said “As with any allegations, should a criminal offence be reported to the Met, it would be considered.”

The BBC has been told by an MP that they had been threatened with losing their seat under changes to constituency boundaries. One of the ‘rebel’ MPs told the BBC that Johnson’s team were now reaching out to try to get them back on board, rather than just using the party whips as they had done previously.

The Prime Minister has been un-

Blackmail claims: William Wragg MP will meet with Met Police.

Source: David Woolfall (via Wikimedia Commons) der pressure since he admitted attending a drinks event during the first lockdown, although he says he believed it was to be a work event.

The report by senior civil servant Sue Gray into 16 such events pointed to “failures of leadership and judgement”, however it contained only limited information on events which are currently being investigated by the Met Police. Mr Johnson

has so far refused to resign, however whether he can survive the fallout of the Met’s investigation is yet to be seen.

The report by senior civil servant Sue Gray into 16 such events pointed to “failures of leadership and judgement.”

GWLEIDYDDIAETH

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Tensions rise as Russia sends troops to Ukranian Border Countries around the world watch intently as Russian forces rally at the border with Ukraine George Gourlay

I don’t consider the situation now more tense than before [...] I am not saying an escalation is not possible.”

Contributor

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long Ukraine’s Eastern border, the spectre of invasion by Russia is becoming more tangible. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to send more than 125,000 troops to the border of Ukraine is being closely monitored by neighbouring countries, and those across the Atlantic, for the possibility of war between the former Soviet states.

Ukraine is currently surrounded

by Russia’s military along its eastern border as well as in the southern peninsula of Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014. Russia has also sent troops to Belarus, Ukraine’s neighbour to the north, for military exercises and there are reports that its proxy forces in the Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk have been supplied with tanks and artillery in preparation for combat. The growing number of soldiers now await their next move while Russia denies it has any intentions to invade its neighbour.

Putin’s encroachment on Ukraine stems from his vision of uniting the two former Soviet states, given their shared history of culture, language and politics. Since the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, Russia has been piqued by its former satellite states as they have drifted towards relations with the West. The possibility of Ukrainian entry into the European Union was curtailed by Putin in 2013 but the admission of former satellite state Poland as well as the Baltic countries of Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, brings NATO’s border right up to that of Ukraine, a move that has made Moscow paranoid.

Ukraine is currently surrounded by Russia’s military along its eastern border as well as in the southern peninsula of Crimea.”

Volodomyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine

The Ukranian Border: A Military troops from both sides are preparing to meet at Russia’s border with Ukraine as deescalation talks continue. Source: U.S. Army Europe (via Flickr)

Ukraine’s flirtation with the West has already caused Moscow intervention in 2014 when Russia annexed the peninsula of Crimea and backed anti-government separatist groups during the subsequent conflict in the Donbas region which led to the deaths of an estimated 14,000 people. The conflict pushed Ukrainian president Volodomyr Zelensky into urging NATO to accelerate Ukraine’s entry into the military alliance.

The current intimidation by Russia follows an unsuccessful attempt at diplomacy between Putin and his counterparts in the West during a conference in Geneva in early January. Russia had previously set a list of demands for the West including the cessation of NATO’s

expansion with a direct guarantee that Ukraine will not be added as a member of the alliance. Putin has also demanded a rollback of NATO troops in former Soviet states.

The Biden administration has expressed its concerns over Russia’s military presence, calling for UN Security Council interjection.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has confirmed that the US has offered $650m in military assistance to Ukraine.

Blinken has also been meeting continuously with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, where it appears the administration is considering its options, including appeasement of Russia’s demands for the sake of peace.

US President Biden has stated

that he intends to move US troops to eastern Europe within the coming weeks as 8,500 remain on standby for deployment.

This follows the removal of all American embassy staff and their families from Ukraine.

The EU’s response has been mixed. While European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assures: “Should Russia take further aggressive action against Ukraine, the costs will be severe and the consequences serious”, there hasn’t been much support from individual states. Germany, who are fairly dependent on Russia for energy, has been notably withdrawn from the situation and has not provided any military aid to Ukraine, dividing NATO’s response.

The UK has considered sanctions against Russia and both PM Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Liz Truss are expected to meet with Putin in Moscow in the coming weeks.

Ukrainian president Volodomyr Zelensky has remained relatively unperturbed by Russia’s aggressions even accusing Washington of generating too much ‘panic’ over the situation. Speaking at a news conference for foreign media, he stated: “I don’t consider the situation now more tense than before,” emphasising that, “There are no tanks in the streets.” However, Ukraine’s leader did cautiously add: “I am not saying an escalation is not possible.”

Renowned for his unpredictability, Putin has stated that there is “little ground for optimism” following talks between Washington, the EU and Moscow, with the latter claiming their demands have not been sufficiently met.

The White House remains apprehensive as National Security Council spokesperson Emily Horne alludes to a “distinct possibility” of a Russian invasion within the next month.

Further talks have been scheduled while, in the meantime, the soldiers on the ground standby in the snow.

The UK has considered sanctions against Russia and both PM Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Liz Truss are expected to meet with Putin in Moscow in the coming weeks.”

The ongoing conflict in Yemen worses following recent attack A Saudi-led airstrike on a prison has left 60 people dead and many more injured in Sa’ada city Ryan Harris-Jewell

[this continual] escalation needs to stop.”

Contributor

O

ver 80 people have been killed alongside over 200 wounded following a Saudi-led airstrike on a prison in Northern Yemen.

The airstrike, which occurred at 2:30 AM, was carried out on a Houthi rebel held prison located in Sa’ada city and caused significant damage to the complex which had been used as a detention centre for processing migrants.

The attack, led by coalition forces supporting the war ravaged nations central government, occurred at the same time as a similar attack on a telecommunications centre in the port city of Hodeidiah, located in the Houthi controlled north. With the strike temporarily knocking out internet servers across the country.

Over 80 people have reportedly been killed in the attacks, including three young children who were The airstrike, which occurred at 2:30 AM, was carried out on a Houthi rebel held prison located in Sa’ada city.”

General Antonio Guterres, U.N. Secretary General

Yemen: The ongoing conflict has seen a number of buildings destroyed through high velocity airstrikes targeting urban areas of the country. (via Wikimedia Commons)

playing near the telecommunications centre just prior to the airstrike.

Many more have been injured with nearby hospitals being unable to fit in the over 200 wounded patients needing treatment.

The airstrikes come after a Houthi drone attack on the United Arab Emirates earlier in the week. Which saw three people killed after the rebels targeted oil production plants

and the international airport located within the country’s capital of Abu Dhabi.

The recent airstrikes are one of many that have occurred over the past few years in a nation that has endured 7 long years of conflict, which has seen over 337,000 killed through deadly clashes and starvation from the disruption to food supplies caused by the instability. Whilst millions more

have been displaced from their homes in the process of fleeing the violence.

The ongoing civil war began in 2014 between the Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi-led Yemeni government and the Houthi movement, an Islamic armed movement led by members of the Houthi tribe. And has turned into a geopolitical playground, with a Saudi Arabian led coalition group made up of several Arab nations including the

United Arab Emirates supporting Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi’s government against the Iranian backed Houthi rebel group.

The attacks have come under a significant amount of international condemnation, with the U.N Secretary General Antonio Guterres quoted as saying that the “escalation needs to stop”.

The airstrikes have also received criticism from various human rights groups. Ahmed Mahat, Doctors Without Borders’ head of mission in Yemen, described the attacks as “a horrific act of violence”.

However the Saudi-led coalition has looked to scale down the criticism aimed at them following the strikes.

With the official Saudi news agency SPA denying that the prison had been bombed by coalition forces.

They also reported that both facilities were not restricted from being targeted by airstrikes as they had not been included on the “no-strike” list agreed upon by the U.N.

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16

COMMENT

COMMENT Euphoria and the problem with television portrayals of teenagers

Lucy Matthews Contributor

H

Vicky Witts

Catarina Pinto Vicente

Eirian Jones

Katherine Wheeler comment@gairrhydd.com

eroin addiction, a teen dominatrix and revenge porn. Euphoria season two is back and has already captured the attention of its die-hard viewers with its rapturing, fast-paced content. The second season of the Emmy-award winning show continues to be set in southern California and revolves around the lives of the perplexing pupils at east highland high school as they navigate an intoxicated youth of partying, drugs and violence. The cast of the show remains the same with audience favourites Zendaya and Alexa Demie returning to their complicated yet highly captivating characters.

Whilst being applauded for its unique imagery and its portrayal of finding yourself as a teen in a dark world where demons come and go, Euphoria’s ‘realistic’ perception of what exactly being a teenager is like cannot help but be doubted.

Take for example the character of Kat Hernandez. Kat is a self-conscious sixteen-year-old smut writer who uses tumblr to secretly divulge her mythical sexual fantasies to her large fan base. From first glimpse of Kat’s character she represents teen girls that are overwhelmed by the pressures of society and turn to creative pathways to escape the real world. Yet when Kat turns to performing as the dominatrix ‘kittiekween’ on sex websites to satisfy the masochistic desires of older men, this

The older actor who plays the vulnerable, troubled teen has become a statement of fine Hollywood filming.”

Troubled Teenagers: Film and TV have frequently been accused of creating unrealistic portrayals of life as a teenager in the 21st Century. Source: MicheleLF (via Wikimedia Commons) previous universal relatability gets lost in a storyline that is utterly farfetched and highly strung for a sixteen-year-old high schooler. Whilst teenagerhood is a recognisably complex and distorted journey, Euphoria and Kat’s storyline in particular is not a normalised experience for one single teenager. Whilst the show attempts to speak to the realities of the younger generation growing up with pressure from peers and the temptation of destructive pathways, the desire to be ‘edgy’ and have shock factor gets in the way of the vast and varying character storylines.

The older actor who plays the vulnerable, troubled teen has become a

statement of fine Hollywood filming.

The average age of the euphoria cast rounds up to twenty-six, making the adult circumstances the characters are depicted in seem more realistic to the avid viewer. If the explosive male antagonist Nate Jacobs, played by twenty-four-year-old Jacob Elordi was portrayed by someone closer in age to his violently abusive fictional character, not only would this help the acclaimed realism of the show, but would bring it closer to its target audience.

Euphoria is not the only show that provides viewers with exaggerated representations of teenagerhood. The iconic high school tale ‘Mean girls’

Euphoria is not the only show that provides viewers with exaggerated representations of teenagerhood.” has fallen victim of over-prescribing entirely quixotic and improbable storylines into its adult cast, contributing towards the media’s inclination to dismiss the actual teen experience in return for an extravagant, inflated version. Surely it is time to provide teen audiences with more relatable plots and characters going forward for the sake of accurate representation?

Prescription-Free Contraception

What are the implications of the newly available ‘over-the-counter’ birth control?

Erian Jones

Comment Editor

A

ccording to the NHS Confederation, “unsustainable numbers of people are not visiting A&E, seeing their GPs and calling ambulances. Overwhelming demand is putting severe and unprecedented strain on the urgent care systems.” In other words - if making a GP appointment was difficult pre-Covid-19, it’s next to impossible nowadays. With many GP’s resorting to randomly scheduled phone calls and the completion of an online questionnaire – the theory behind an over-the-counter prescription free contraception pill, such as Hana or Lovima 75 has never been more desirable.

Launched on the NHS 60 years ago, the Pill remains the most popu-

there had been 553 deaths in the UK with suspected links to the Pill since 1963 ”

lar form of female contraception in the UK, taken by around 3.5 million women. In a bid to ‘increase choice for women’, similar to New Zealand, it is being made available over-thecounter at pharmacies, rather than solely via prescription. This is a ground- breaking change after years of campaigning against ‘unnecessary barriers’ for women and girls and has made obtaining basic women’s health services much more convenient and accessible. These progestogen pills reduce the ‘stress’ behind acquiring the pill; no scheduling appointments, no more awkward sex life talks with the doctor, no more panicking if you’ve lost a pack… all that would need to be done is a trip to the local pharmacist, answer a few questions and you now have your pill!

However, the side effects of taking contraception have a long history of not being taken seriously by medical professionals. According to research, the combined pill has long been associated with an increase in risk for cervical and breast cancer, but it also has

Problems with prescriptions: easier accessibility to contraceptive pills is causing concern for many people. Source: _Alicja_ (via Pixabay) been seen to contribute to a rise in suicidal thought. The less severe but still serious side effects of acne, fatigue, nausea, weight gain and fluctuating libido have caused more that 46% of people to stop taking the pill due to the side effects alone. Figures from the MHRA in 2017 showed there had

been 553 deaths in the UK with suspected links to the Pill since 1963.

It is not surprising then that the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Australia decided against allowing contraceptive pills to be sold over the counter for the second time since 2015, stating that the risks of the pro-

posals outweighed the benefits. They believe that medical practitioner involvement is required. Although women must answer a short online questionnaire, reviewed by a pharmacist, it is generally thought that they are not fully trained to deal with the severe potential side effects such as depression and suicidal thoughts that may occur. Most importantly, pharmacists do not have automatic access to a person’s medical history, which could be extremely dangerous if a woman is unaware about certain family history or if she is particularly susceptible to certain side effects (such as increase in blood clots).

The easier accessibility to the contraceptive pill will ultimately reduce the number of unplanned pregnancies and increase safety for women and girls, it also means not visiting a GP with repeat prescription requests during a post-pandemic NHS. However, questions will always remain over the pill’s safety. Time will only tell if this newfound accessibility is an overall positive or negative decision.

SYLWADAU

Ashling Murphy and the ‘Femicide’ wave

What needs to be done to address the global issue of violence against women?

Vicky Witts

Head of Comment

S

arah Everard, Sabina Nessa, and now Ashling Murphy. Women’s names are increasingly appearing in the headlines of newspapers in reports of almost unspeakable violence and tragedies.

Ashling Murphy, a 23 year old teacher and folk musician, was fatally attacked while jogging by a canal in her hometown of Tullamore in the Republic of Ireland, on the 12th of January.

While a man has now been charged in connecting with her death, this tragic case has sparked a wave of support online, with the hashtag ‘#SheWasJustGoingForARun’ trending across social media platforms to raise awareness of the increasing reports of violence against women who were doing nothing more than an ‘everyday’ activity.

Sadly, Ashling Murphy’s case is not an isolated incident, and the safety of the streets for women is constantly being brought into question with new cases horrific situations. In her new 2-part documentary series ‘Stalkers’ for the BBC, Stacey Dooley shines a light on just one of many crimes women are facing in the UK and globally- stalking.

1 in 5 women in the UK will report being stalked in their lifetime, while 50% of those charged with stalking reoffend.”

The ‘Femicide’ Wave: Violence against women is an ongoing problem both in the UK and globally. Source: Thomas Hawk (via Flickr) Throughout her investigation, Dooley interviews victims, members of law enforcement, and even individuals charged with stalking, to better understand the terrible situations that victims face.

There were many statistics and facts cited within her series, but perhaps the two most shocking were that 1 in 5 women in the UK will report being stalked in their lifetime, and of those arrested for stalking, 50% will likely reoffend.

The fact that so many women experience these often life-changing situations, and punishment for perpetrators is seemingly ineffective, it is almost no surprise that many women are feeling unsafe doing things as simple as walking home from work, or going for a run in their

own neighbourhood.

This is not to say that crimes against men are not also a pressing issue. In fact, Stacey Dooley also acknowledges that 1 in 10 men report being stalked, which is still a jarringly large number. However, with an average of one woman being killed by a man every three days according to the Femicide Census, it is clear that more needs to be done to make our streets safer for groups which are statistically more at risk, such as women, as well as more generally across society.

The main issue is that places which should be safe: city centres, housing estates, and even our own homes, are becoming daunting potential crime scenes, as tragedies like that of Ashling Murphy are more

frequently being brought to our attention in the news.

Male violence against women one of the leading causes of premature deaths of women across the globe, but the recent wave of gender-related crime is not limited to the tragically fatal cases of Sarah Everard and Ashling Murphy, as Stacey Dooley’s ‘Stalkers’ shows.

Often crimes such as stalking and domestic violence against women goes unreported but are just another demonstration of how more needs to be done on a global and national scale to reduce crime, whether specifically gendered or not.

Even recently, on the 30th of January, Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood was arrested following accusations of domestic violence from his girlfriend, as images and videos surfaced online. This case specifically suggests the undeniable need for change throughout society in terms of the protection of women and the increasing need for new actions to tackle cases of domestic violence.

Following the case of Sarah Everard back in March 2021, the Government launched a new strategy focusing on ‘tackling violence against women and girls’ with the aim of increasing victim support and reducing violence against women on a large scale. However, as the tragic death of Ashling Murphy shows, none of the current measures are enough to protect women while doing even ‘everyday’ tasks.

Something clearly needs to be done to keep streets safer.

Downing Street and the Freshers Experience

17

Netflix and the rise of the mockumentary trend Catarina Pinto Vicente Comment Editor

I

f you browsed Netflix at any point during New Year’s Eve (whether in 2020 or 2021), you might have stumbled across Death To 2020/2021. In these Netflix original mockumentaries, a narrator summarizes the year by revisiting important events through satirical comedy skits acted out by famous actors.

So much happened during these two years, so the mockumentaries were a good refresher. In both, however, I found the same problem: the American-centric view that determined which events were ‘important’ enough to mention.

The two mockumentaries focused mostly on events that happened within the US, paying little attention to equally important events that happened in other places. Death to 2020 had the most distinct example of this, using footage of the August 4th explosion in Beirut in its intro while never mentioning or discussing it. In Death to 2021, this improved slightly, with mentions of the Korean series Squid Games and the COVID situation globally.

However, certain events were omitted entirely, as the situation in Afghanistan, COP26, and the Suez Canal blockage; even if Netflix did not want to tread into political territory with the first two, the latter was the result of many online memes and thus the perfect mine for comedy material.

The US is an important player worldwide, and its internal events, such as the US elections, were certainly important worldwide. But focusing on the US presents a bias in the choice of events to discuss that indicates an American-centrist view.

There is the argument that Netflix, as an American broadcaster, would obviously uphold an Americancentric perspective. However, the mockumentary’s selling point in the revisiting of the year through the eyes of the ‘average viewer’; by portraying this through an American centric lens, it reinforces the harmful notion that the ‘average’ person is American or, at least, from a Western country. As the most popular streaming platform, Netflix has a duty to be fair - or at least fairer - in its depiction of global events.

Overall, the mockumentaries still have valuable commentary but there is room for improvement.

As a streaming platform aiming to increase its catalogue of international content, Netflix has a duty to present the year in an unbiased and fair way.

A Saudi-led airstrike on a prison has left 60 people dead and many more injured in Sa’ada city Katherine Wheeler Comment Editor

A

t the time of writing, eighteen parties have allegedly occurred in both Downing Street and government offices. An investigation by the Metropolitan Police is ongoing and no full report pertaining to the incidents has been released, though a civil service report has concluded that within government ‘leadership structures are fragmented and complicated’ occasionally leading to ‘blurring of lines of accountability.’

UK lockdown restrictions fluctuated over the course of 2020, though during the year’s autumn semester Wales entered a firebreak lockdown.

This meant the shutdown of all nonessential retail, a mandatory stay-athome order and fixed penalty notices for straying out of your bubble set at a £60 starting rate.

In Universities across the UK, first year students moving into accommodation in 2020 faced a much different University experience than their seniors. With COVID restrictions firmly in place and rapid testing still being developed, students were told to shut down, restrict social gatherings and ultimately not to meet inside. At one point, this was even extended to oth-

er flatmates. Other restrictions such as fines for not reporting parties inside your own flat were put in place before being removed after protests.

Though compensatory measures were put in place, many students still felt short-changed and cheated out of an authentic University experience.

One student said, ‘I literally felt like a criminal… we couldn’t even play music as a flat without security busting in without notice.’ They said security waited outside the doors throughout Friday and Saturday, any time they wanted to leave their flat they felt like they were being treated like they were already guilty.

Another told me that even though she didn’t class herself as a party person ‘the whole atmosphere of student accommodation seemed ruined by the presence of security. Every weekend we would have police vans circling all four Taly halls.’ She recalls one occasion where, after going out with her female friends for a meal, one friend was forced by security to walk along the dark public path next to the halls alone. ‘It’s almost like they couldn’t see past the COVID restrictions and didn’t care about student safety in other areas.’

As a first year during 2020, it’s a story I’ve heard many times. My own experiences with being locked down consisted of both loneliness and a

Downing Street Parties: Students living in halls in 2020 missed out on crucial first year experiences. Source: Global Panorama (via Flickr) fear of consequences. Though I never attended any, there were real consequences involved in being caught even near to a party. On one evening, I can remember going to the shops for food and having to walk behind two police horses on patrol just beside my window. People I knew were quarantined in tiny rooms, there were some whose housemates were partying in the kitchen whilst they tried to sleep, others who had to work out how to divide up fines between housemates,

some even faced expulsion from University.

As the UK heads out of winter with both rapid tests and a vaccine available, future restrictions in halls seem (fingers crossed) very unlikely. The government may need to thoroughly acknowledge the hardships faced by many under the first lockdowns as well as brave the consequences of an investigation by the Met. Wales currently faces alert level zero, but social distancing is encour-

focusing on the US presents a bias in the choice of events to discuss that indicates an Americancentrist view.”

16

MEET THE TEAM

Meet the Gair Rhydd Editorial Team 2022

EDITORIAL Jack Robert Stacey Editor-in-Chief

Anurag Hegde Deputy Editor

Vicky Witts

Zoe Kramer

Deputy Editor

Deputy Editor

From all of us here at Gair Rhydd, we’re pleased to introduce you to our new Editorial Team for 2022:

FEATURES Eva Rodericks Head of Features

Jasmine Edge Features Editor

TAF-OD Nel Richards

Alexa Price

Gracie Richards

Nansi Eccott

Pennaeth Tafod

Golygydd Tafod

Sophie Revell Features Editor

Contact the Editor-in-Chief via email at: editor@gairrhydd.com

Contact ‘Features’ via email at: features@gairrhydd.com

NEWS

POLITICS

Golygydd Tafod

Golygydd Tafod

Cysylltwch â ‘Taf-od’ trwy e-bost: tafod@gairrhydd.com

COMMENT Zoe Kramer

Luthien Evans

Head of News

Head of Politics

Vicky Witts

Alex Hughes

Beth Williams

Darcy Arnold Political Editor

Political Editor

George Symonds

Shivika Singh

Katherine Seymour

Manal Ahmed

News Editor

News Editor

News Editor

News Editor

Contact ‘News’ via email at: news@gairrhydd.com

Political Editor

Eirian Jones

Head of Comment

Comment Editor

Catarina Pinto Vicente

Katherine Wheeler

Ella Lloyd

Political Editor

Contact ‘Politics’ via email at: politics@gairrhydd.com

Comment Editor

Comment Editor

Contact ‘Comment’ via email at: comment@gairrhydd.com

CYFARFOD Y TÎM

Cyfarfod â Thîm Gair Rhydd 2022

O bob un ohonom yma yn Gair Rhydd, mae’n bleser gennym eich cyflwyno i’n Tîm Golygyddol newydd ar gyfer 2022:

ADVICE

REVIEW

Harriet Lowbridge

Iris Knapman

Head of Advice

Megan Shinner

Ruth Hoey

Advice Editor

Advice Editor

Head of Review

Atreya Mukerjee

Review Editor

Contact ‘Advice’ via email at: advice@gairrhydd.com

Contact ‘Review’ via email at: review@gairrhydd.com

SCIENCE & TECH

SPORT Anurag Hegde

Head of Science

Anna Thomas Science Editor

Elie Gould

Technology Editor

COPY Beca Fflur Williams

Bonnie Wileman

Copy Editor

Copy Editor

Jess Henderson

Emily Bryant

Copy Editor

Copy Editor

Libby Griffiths

Lois Campbell

Copy Editor

Copy Editor

Maisie Granger

Sam Joseph

Copy Editor

Copy Editor

Caz Love

Review Editor

Mia Becker-Hansen

17

Head of Sport

Adam Brown Sport Editor

Joe Edgar-Smith Sport Editor

Direct any ‘Copy’ inquiries to: editor@gairrhydd.com

JOIN THE TEAM Jemma Powell Science Editor

Theo Tadros Science Editor

Contact ‘Science’ via email at: science@gairrhydd.com

Tom Hawkins Sport Editor

Sam Joseph Sport Editor

Contact ‘Sport’ via email at: sport@gairrhydd.com

If you would like to be part of Gair Rhydd, Cardiff University’s award-winning student newspaper, send an inquiries to: ‘editor@gairrhydd.com’

20

ADVICE

ADVICE

How you can avoid the dreaded 'January Blues'

The importance of ushering in the new year in a postive, optimistic way for yourself Darcy Wolfe Jones Contributor

A Harriet Lowbridge

Megan Shinner

s the festive period draws to a close and the first days of January loom quietly in the not-toodistant future, it can feel difficult to think positively. A 2020 poll found that over one quarter of Britons feel more miserable during January than at any other point in the year.

January often brings an onslaught of deadlines, the pressure to maintain a new fitness regime and the crushing feeling that if you don’t manage at least one detox this month For many people, last year was essentially a ‘write off’. We tend to be so busy over the weeks of December that by the time January creeps in, our lives seem chaotic. Whilst being the peak season for Seasonal Affective Disorder and home to the most depressing day of the year, Blue Monday, January can feel daunting — but it doesn’t need to be.

Less time on screens Feeling lacklustre in the new year is natural. Understanding this is the first

The 'January Blues': Whilst the new year can be a time of joy, it does bring new challenges. Source: 1388843(via Pixabay.com) step toward combating the January reams of content we see online, espeblues. As much as it may seem like your cially at the beginning of a new year. peers have their lives together in JanuSocial media, for all of its merits, can ary, it’s likely that many of them share be divisive in its ability to create comyour sentiments. petition between our own online image Remember that this mood is no re- and that of our peers. flection on how your year will pan out Taking a break — whether this be for — it’s all still to play for. an hour or for a week, hosts a wealth of Take a break from social media benefits for your own wellbeing.

It's easy to be overwhelmed by the Set your intentions

Setting yourself a series of goals for the month is an opportunity to think about the future and create small wins for yourself. Even if it’s simply getting out of bed each morning, or reading two pages of a book, these achievable goals will encourage a positive outlook — so you can face any fears January may bring.

Things that make you happy Surround yourself with others and dedicate time toward the activities that make you feel your best.

Whether this be exercising, picking up a new book — or even spending a bit of time doing nothing, it’s important for your own wellbeing to create a space where you feel safe.

The feeling will eventually pass We’ve all been there. When times seem to be especially bleak, there’s still a silver lining ahead. Soon, the evenings will be lighter and January deadlines will be a distant memory.

Nightclubs in Wales will reopen on the 28th and the Six Nations are just around the corner. A new term brings with it new possibilities — and they’re all yours for the taking.

The importance of getting involved over the new year

A few of the ways that you can engage with the 'university lifestyle' this semester Ruth Hoey

Advice Editor

Ruth Hoey advice@gairrhydd.com it’s not too late to get involved in what the university has to offer. With this being the start of a new semester, now is a great time to have a look into starting something new."

G

etting involved in the university lifestyle is something that most of us assume will happen naturally the moment we arrive in our first year. But I think it’s safe to say that for some of us those expectations never come to be.

Maybe you’re a final year student who never joined any societies. You just got swept away by the busyness of deadlines. Or maybe you haven’t had the opportunity to get involved because covid has been around for your entire university career. Maybe even you’re a first year who was still

settling in during freshers week. You never got the opportunity to try out the different societies and activities which Cardiff university has to offer.

All of these situations are very common. But it’s not too late to get involved in what the university has to offer. With this being the start of a new semester, now is a great time to have a look into starting something new.

From trips around Wales and England to sports clubs and societies, there are so many different activities to try. It’s definitely worth trying out a few different things, which is what makes the ‘give it a go’ sessions so helpful.

These sessions are running at the

start of this semester to allow you to get a glimpse of what the societies have to offer without having to make any commitments.

There are a number of different ways that you can get involved: Meeting with new people Societies and trips are a great way to meet other students not on the same course as you.

You can broaden your friendship groups and meet new people. Joining a society which interests you allows you to find people with similar passions.

Less time on screens With covid still having an impact on our studies we often spend a lot of time in our bedrooms staring at

our laptop screens. Joining a new society can offer a form of relaxation. It's a scheduled opportunity to get out of the house for a while.

Keeping yourself active Similarly, joining one of the many sports clubs is a great way to get active. You can burn off some stress by doing some physical activity.

Building up your CV An added bonus of getting involved with societies is the CV enhancement. Joining societies allows you to learn new skills and hobbies which show off your personality to employers.

This can also demonstrates many transferable skills such as commitment and time management.

Making your preperations for life after Cardiff University

As many students get ready to graduate, it is important to consider what your post-university life might look like Angharad Roberts

Now is the perfect opportunity to think about how you want to spend your time and who you want to be."

Adivce Editor

I

t’s the thought that consumes every final year student; what am I doing after my degree?

You’re probably bombarded by this question with ads on Facebook, friends, family with the one question also trapped in your mind, so what are your plans after uni?

As a fellow final year student I just want to emphasise, there’s no need to panic. That’s easier said than done, believe me; we’ve all become so accustomed to the student way of living, our courses, living in the same area for three years, being able to go out on weeknights and eating cereal three times a day. Although, I was recently told that told everything will fall into place if you let it, and I will continue the rest of the year with that philosophy, while keeping my goals in mind.

Whether you have a set plan or no plan at all, perhaps you’re in the middle, or you keep changing your I was recently told that told everything will fall into place if you let it."

Life after university: It is important to prepare in advance for what life may throw at you after graduation. Source: actaylorjr (via Pixabay.com). mind, wherever you are in deciding what to do after uni, that is perfectly fine, there is still time.

Now is the perfect opportunity to think about how you want to spend your time and who you want to be.

For many that will be getting a graduate job or getting on to a graduate scheme. If that’s so, make a list

of companies you would like to work for, start a social media account and follow these companies to gain connections.

Speak to a careers adviser to see if they can assist you with finding any jobs/schemes in particular. I recommend using the Cardiff University careers pages to help find some

positions, these tend to cater more towards students looking for starting positions. Online job sites like LinkedIn are also good resources for filtering jobs that you would enjoy when you give information of your hobbies and aspirations.

Despite many students wanting to get out there in the work world, maybe that’s not for you yet.

If you personally feel like this it could be worth looking into Masters applications, you might want to continue your studies and further your skills in the degree you have just done, or you could do another subject. Doing a Masters can have a magnification on what you really want to focus on, and is great for helping you decide how you want to go forward. You can do a Masters degree full time or part time, after doing a degree full time you might want to gain some work experience or focus more on your hobbies, therefore it’s comforting to know a part time option exists.

These options could apply to you, or maybe they don’t at all.

Remember there are so many options out there; it could be you want ing to see the world and travel, maybe you want to prioritize spending time with family, maybe you’re planning on starting your own business.

Whatever that option may be, now is the time to think about how you wish to go forward. Finishing university may be the end of an era, but it also opens a door to the beginning of the rest of your adult life.

What matters most is that you are following a path you have set out for yourself, try not to compare yourself to your peers, because no one’s path of life looks the same.

So, whether you are graduating at the end of this semester, or if you still have a few years left at university, it's never to late to have a think about your own future - something that can help you to reflect on your actions in the present.

Whatever that option may be, now is the time to think about how you wish to go forward."

CYNGOR

21

Reading with purpose: How to avoid 'Book Fatigue'

Help from Harriet Advice Column

Megan Shinner Advice Editor

A

Managing your space: Whilst studying at university, it is important to make sure that you have your own personal space that is both well structured and, perhaps more importantly, personalised around you. Source: Jennie (via Flickr).

How to manage your university household The importance of structuring and personalising the space around you

Harriet Lowbridge Head of Advice

R

unning a household can be a big challenge for many of us, whether you are starting out in your first shared accommodation, striking out into your own private housing, or buying your first home. Oftentimes we are expected to already know how to manage and organise our lives.

With a little forethought, however, it is not hard to turn your house into an efficiently running home.

Set realistic expectations Be realistic and set your expectations to match the free time that you actually have. This has been the hardest thing I have ever had to learn. If you are employed, have coursework, sports, societies, or any other commitments, then it is going to affect how much time you can spend organising your home. Set yourself realistic goals and be gentle with yourself about them.

Make clear goals Set yourself goals. What is it that you want to accomplish from organising your home? Is it to be pristine and tidy?

Is it to make sure you just do one task a day to keep on top of your chores?

Keeping track of why you are setting these goals will also help you sustain your efforts in actually keeping your home organised.

Keep track of your progress Keep a tracker of what jobs you need to accomplish. Keep a planner, a schedule, a calendar, or even a magnetic fridge whiteboard to record what tasks need accomplishing and when.

Planning your chores in, rather than constantly putting them off for ‘tomorrow’ will manage your expectations and allow you to plan around your tasks whilst still ensuring that they are done.

Structure your space Give everything a home. Your house will eventually become cluttered and chaotic if your belongings do not have a home. Keep your cleaning supplies together, your clothes in a dedicated space. Do not forget to allow for spaces for dirty items too. If you do not have time to do your dishes or wash your clothes, then have a basket or dedicated space that allows you to work around them. Other jobs will thank you for this also. Hoovering or mopping is made so much easier when you do not have 30 items to move from your floor beforehand.

Set clear rules Give yourself rules. One example of this is that once you have picked something up, do not allow yourself to put it back down until it is in its intended home. Another example is that you get your most hated jobs done first, like washing your dishes before you do anything else in your day. Unfortunately, rules do sometimes have a meaningful impact on how smoothly your day goes.

'Doom boxes' Invest in ‘Doom boxes’. These are empty baskets or bins around your house that are for the objects that do not have a space in your home. Alternatively, if you have things to go upstairs but do not need to go up yet, then they can live in a doom box at the bottom of the stairs. These can be emptied as you go, but a key rule to ensure they work is to make sure you empty them as soon as they are full. Doom boxes can help you avoid cluttering up your flat surfaces and still give the illusion of a pristine home even if everything isn’t properly away.

Clear out the clutter Similarly, do not leave a room without something that should not be there.

If you are moving from your bedroom

to the kitchen, take out your dirty cups while you go. If you know you are passing your bin, pick up some rubbish on your way. This way you are organising as you go about your daily business.

Delegate with others Delegate your jobs. If you live with others, ensure that the chores around your home are balanced evenly. Do not try to clean the entire house yourself, or expect others to clean up after you. A small amount of communication now will help keep your home and relationships happy. Do remember that work does not have to be split 50/50 to be an even share. If one of you pays more towards the bills, the other can pick up one or two more jobs. Find a balance that is healthy and balanced for your lives.

Keep track of your spending Budget and re-budget often. Keeping track of your finances is a big part of managing your household. Create a list of all your outgoings- what you spend your money on like phones, food, heating, water, internet, to name a few. Then track how much money you bring in, this can include your student finance as well as personal earnings. Keeping track of how much spare money you have left over can be the difference between creating a nest egg of savings and living pay cheque to pay cheque. Ensure you re-draft this budget every month or bi-monthly to ensure that your spending is still financially stable for your income.

Prepare in advance Prepping your life. Meal prepping is one of the most common ways of preparing yourself for the next day or week, but you can also utilize this for other aspects. Set out clothes and pack your bags the night before you go somewhere. If you know you are going to be late home from work, cook or pre-

pare your food in the morning. When you find yourself with spare time, see what jobs you can get out of the way now so that in the future you can have more time to relax.

Get your documents in order Invest in a paper shredder and an organiser or binder. Protect your private information whilst avoiding that constant document clutter that accumulates around your house. Set aside some time occasionally, to shred unnecessary documents that contain sensitive information, like your address or financial records. For the ones you need to keep like passports, rental contracts, or medical information, keep those in a labelled binder. Everything is then kept together, and you will not need to search every drawer in your home to find that single letter that came in three months ago.

Stock up on the essentials Keep overstock packs, if you can, with items that you might need for when you get caught out. A tub with spare toiletries for that unexpected visitor. A bag of spare clothes and non-perishable food in your car for that unexpected night away. A couple of quick meals to keep in the back of your cupboard, like soup tins, instant noodles for the nights that you are out of money and food, or simply late from work and need something quick.

Reflect on your successes Be proud of what you have accomplished, this is another that I have struggled with. You have still accomplished one task, even if the only thing you have done today is empty the dishwasher.

You do not have to clean the whole kitchen for it to count as one job. Be proud that you are independent and running your own household, sometimes that pride in yourself is the only thing pushing you forward to do more.

s January assessments are (hopefully) coming to a close, you’ve found yourself with a bit more free time on your hands. You’d like to get back into reading but you’re feeling so drained from all those sources you’ve just read for your essays. The TBR pile is getting bigger by the day from your impulse book buys after promising yourself that this is the book that would get you back into your old reading habits.

Below are some tips to finally break that reading slump!

Start off small Books can seem quite overwhelming and such a commitment when we look at the outside, which is probably half the battle you’re facing. It takes time to get to grips with the characters, plot, location – it’s quite an exhausting thought sometimes. If the whole process of reading a book seems a little too much - just start smaller! There are plenty of brilliant books out there for less than 200 pages, from classics to comedies. However, if a book is still feeling too long, try reading a magazine or an online blog about a topic you like. Once you’ve got the ball rolling, you’ll be away!

Get to grips with 'mood reading' As daunting as that ever-growing tower of TBR books may look, the last thing you want to do is try and force yourself to read something just because the 3-month-ago version of you thought it was interesting. By all means, if there is something there that you want to read – go for it! If not, perhaps it's time to change your genre? If you’re fed up with crime thrillers, try a romance. If you don’t want to delve into fiction just yet, try a psychology book or an autobiography by one of your favourite celebrities.

Reading shouldn’t be a chore, and you should enjoy what you are committing to. Find something fun and engaging and you’ll be good to go.

Try using audiobooks If you are struggling to focus seems to be the issue, try an audiobook. This way, you don’t have to sit down and dedicate a chunk of time to one thing. Audiobooks give you the freedom to potentially go on a walk or clean your room whilst also diving into a book. One thing is for certain – your multitasking skills will be put to the test! There are some great sites and apps that offer free trials or the first few books for free so you can see if audiobooks are more your thing.

Set regular goals for yourself You know what they say – practice makes perfect! Set yourself a daily reading goal to get back into the habit.

A good starting place could be just 10 pages, or a chapter a day. A good time to do this could be just as you wake up or just before you head off to bed, to either create a relaxing start to the day or to wind down from a very busy one! You may even want to head to a park (if it's not too cold!) and set a 30-minute timer so you’ve hit your reading goal and managed to spend some time outside that day.

Discipline is the best way to solidify a habit and by starting small, you are sure to get to where you want to be.

Discipline is the best way to solidify a habit and by starting small, you are sure to get to where you want to be.”

A series of inclusive talks for all.

10th of February - 6pm Graham Findlay

Disability activist and campaigner within Wales.

Studied MA in Critical Theory in 1981 and a Diploma in Social Work in 1990 at Cardiff University.

Nancy Cameron

Speech and Language Therapist at a secondary school for Autistic students.

Studied English Language at Cardiff University.

Vince Mullin

Data & AI Sales Specialist at Microsoft. Studied Politics & History at Cardiff University between 2014-2018.

Looking to develop your professional skills, confidence, CV credibility and making yourselves attractive to employers?

The Skills Development Service might be just what you’re looking for.

Courses available in Leadership, Presentations, Time Management, Your Positive Image, Wellbeing, Self Defence, 1st Aid and much more.

Most sessions are offered virtually and in-person.

Don’t wait until you graduate.

Since experiencing a substantial set back in the rejection from what I had considered to be my dream job, I feel as though the SDS has given me access to training which has truly enabled me to evaluate my strengths and weaknesses and allow me to reconsider how I can use my capabilities to suit me best.

The teaching was outstanding. SDS Staff were fantastic in helping and supporting me with any problems. They created an environment where each student could flourish at their own pace in an effective way.

BOOK ONLINE AT CARDIFFSTUDENTS.COM/SDS

24

REVIEW

REVIEW

BBC’s ‘The Tourist’ - “an entertaining thriller”

Matt Jones Ruiz recommends Harry and Jack Williams’ dark and comedic thriller series Matt Jones Ruiz Contributor

T Iris Knapman

Atreya Mukerjee

he Tourist made its way to our screens during the once-a-year food hangover period that follows the collective overindulgence we call Christmas. For me this was the perfect opportunity to nurse the holiday hangover and sit down to enjoy some quality television.

The Tourist is a six-part miniseries and an entertaining thriller infused with some drama and a healthy dose of (sometimes dark) comedy to take the edge off its arguably over-the-top premise. Its six episodes focus on the story of a man (played by Jamie Dornan) referred to simply as The Man, who, caught up in a car “accident” is now stuck in the unforgiving Australian outback for reasons entirely unknown to him.

T Men Who Hate Women’ ... delves deeper into the dark side of the web, exposing numerous distinct categories of extreme sexism that the media fails to shed light upon”.

to form a highly engaging action-driven thriller punctuated by funny quips and humane moments that provide relief, making the plot a little more believable and the characters all that more relatable.

Written by acclaimed writers Harry and Jack Williams (The Missing and One of Us), The Tourist boasts some very strong acting and is an all-round joy to watch. Some are hoping for a second season, but I honestly don’t see how they could take it further without compromising the quality of the show.

If they leave it at this I, for one, would be perfectly happy with a rewatch of the first and only brilliant set of episodes.

All six episodes come together to form a highly engaging action-driven thriller punctuated by funny quips and humane moments”

Alice Moore discusses Laura Bates’ latest novel on the nature of misogyny and extremism Contributor

review@gairrhydd.com

bles in the room introducing herself as the police officer in charge of his case before inadvertently flinging a pen across the room in an awkward attempt to take notes from a man whose mind resembles a near-blank slate. After the pre-hospital car chase and a post-hospital explosion at a diner, it becomes pretty clear that there is somebody out there who wants The Man as unalive as humanly possible. All sorts of weird and wonderful characters from The Man’s past erupt into the storyline, on many occasions to finish the job the truck driver started (the man driving the truck turns out to be a ruthless cowboy-like figure with a firearm and a whistling habit).

Although episode five takes an experimental turn veering away from the more confidently written first four episodes, proving mildly unsatisfactory for some viewers (“wait where is this going?”), all six episodes come together

‘Men Who Hate Women’ - “a comprehensive exposé” Alice Moore

Caz Love

In episode one we are acquainted with The Man while he’s leaving a petrol station and cruising down a dusty road in the middle of nowhere singing along to an 80s classic — seemingly carefree. In a matter of seconds though, the mood turns dark and a large truck hurtles its way into sight speeding after our protagonist who, in the first few minutes of the show, has almost instantly earned our sympathy.

The Man is alarmed (as you would be) but he doesn’t seem entirely surprised about the fact that he’s being chased by a speeding truck attempting to push him off the road — a clue that The Man may have got himself into a little trouble before the collision renders him an unidentified amnesiac who no longer remembers Simon and Garfunkel.

Cut to The Man waking up in a hospital bed — somehow still alive. Probationary constable Helen Chambers (played by Danielle Macdonald) stum-

he vast accessibility of the online world within the twentyfirst century has accommodated the rapid dissemination of misogynistic attitudes and practices.

‘Men Who Hate Women’, a work of political non-fiction by Laura Bates, delves deeper into the dark side of the web, exposing numerous distinct categories of extreme sexism that the media fails to shed light upon.

Bates’ comprehensive exposé focuses its narrative upon online extremist subcultures that seek to attack women – collectively referred to as the ‘Manosphere’. The ten chapters, each titled with a variant of “Men Who _____ Women” (the gap filled by

descriptors such as hound, harm and blame), each target a prolific male group. From incels, to Men’s Rights Activists, to ‘Men Going Their Own Way’, each section is filled with detailed accounts of who these people are, and the complex rhetoric behind their actions. However, in a scathing twist, Bates additionally recounts experiences of herself and other women at the hands of the same misogynists.

The inclusion of quotations directly from Bates’ email of men explicitly describing the ways in which they seek to harm her is enough to physically disgust any reader.

The twisted world that ‘Men Who Hate Women’ uncovers highlights the strikingly similar yet clearly distinct thought process behind each Manosphere faction. This logic functions as the foundation for their ideologies,

creating a falsely factual base for followers to take as gospel.

Incels, a portmanteau of ‘involuntary celibates’, take a sexual perspective within their hatred.

They blame women for their personal lack of sexual intimacy and maintain that adult females should not be given autonomy over whom they sleep with. The only remedy for this is through assault and violence, whereby incels force ‘unobtainable’ women into having sex in order to make them ‘pay’ for rejecting people like them.

Pick Up Artists function in a comparable way, but instead of perceiving women to be unobtainable, they believe that, regardless of who he is, every man has the ability to trick a woman into sex. Unfortunately, this consists of similar practices of harass-

ment and assault.

As former Pickup Guru Daryush Valizadeh preaches: “No means No… until it means yes”.

Laura’s commitment to witnessing the dark web first-hand is an act of true bravery. Her task of going undercover as a young, feeble boy and immersing herself within the unfiltered wasteland of anti-female forums is a feat that many would refuse.

The danger involved in her research methods is unfathomable, especially due to her prominence within the feminist sphere. Like many others, I find the ability for these communities to continue to thrive is beyond disgraceful. ‘Men Who Hate Women’ has informatively exposed an entirely new threat to the modern world, and we can only hope that it is to be eradicated in years to come.

The city of Bath - “the perfect day trip”

Atreya Mukerjee takes a tour of Bath and recounts her experiences exploring the streets of this historic UK city Atreya Mukerjee Review Editor

K

nown as one of the most important cities in the UK that justifies Britain’s cultural identity, visiting Bath will transport you to a glorious era gone by. I walked on cobbled streets through narrow alleys and saw the fine craftsmanship of both Roman and Georgian architecture. If that wasn’t enough, there are also several quaint cafes to grab quick bites when you’re tired from all that exploring. The atmosphere of this place is quite unreal, almost like the landscapes you read about in books. Contrary to popular belief, your visit won’t hurt your wallet.

So, here’s how you can have the perfect day trip to Bath from Cardiff.

I began planning the trip a few days in advance because this helped me get cheap tickets and do some reading about the place. The train ride to Bath Spa (station) is just an hour-long from Cardiff’s Central Station. If you’re someone who doesn’t like crowds, I suggest visiting on a weekday because on the day I went, Monday, there were very few queues anywhere I went. The The atmosphere of this place is quite unreal, almost like the landscapes you read about in books.”

entire city of Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one can easily explore it on foot. The first place on my list was to check out the Roman Baths.

There are only two Roman baths in the world that still have hot mineral water flowing into them, and this is one of them, built between 60-70AD in the first few decades of Roman Britain. Is it worth visiting? If it’s your first visit to Bath, you cannot miss this out! Some of the rooms inside have projection displays that give you a realistic vision of how the Romans utilised the space you’re standing in. Expect to spend at least two hours here. Originally used for public bathing, entering the water is sadly not permitted, but many hotels in the vicinity offer a similar experience.

Once done, I trotted over to the Bath Abbey, roughly two minutes away from there. Entry to the cathedral is free, so you can admire the stained-glass windows and spend some time seeing the unique fan-shaped ceilings.

I highly recommend doing the clock tower tour wherein I climbed 212 steps up the clock tower to get amazing 360-degree views of the entire city. You can buy tickets at the reception inside the cathedral for a nominal charge.

The tour lasts for an hour and is one of my fondest memories from the trip.

The stairs are narrow and almost in their original state, so all you have is a piece of rope to latch onto for support!

Climbing up was easy, but getting back

The city of Bath: “an enchanting, intriguing, and unusual place to explore.”

Source: Pedro Szekely (via Wikimedia Commons). needed some concentration.

The Avon River flows through the city, and I had the best views of it from a tiny coffee shop (Pulteney Bridge Coffee) on the Pulteney Bridge, located upon the river. Grab a window seat and sip a frothy coffee while you watch the water flowing just beneath you. The splashing sound of the water flowing

is very much audible till your seat.

Pulteney Bridge is significant because it is one of only four bridges in the world to have shops on it. You’ll find everything from designer outlets, craft shops to unique bookshops. Alternately, you can also try the Sally Lunn bun, an age-old local delicacy.

If you fancy living like the women

in the 18th century did, head to the Pump Room to try some delicious afternoon tea. Its opulent interior design speaks volumes that it was once the centre of where the elites socialised. You can also visit the Jane Austen Museum and get a chance to dress up in Regency attire for some Instagram-worthy pictures. The old man in costume at the front door was a great character and believed to be the most photographed man in England. Sadly, I missed out on this.

Everything mostly shuts by 4-5 pm. You can stroll over to the city centre for some bites before heading back to Cardiff. If drinks are what you’ve got on your mind, a visit to Saracens Head, the oldest pub in Bath, is a must! Located between Pulteney Bridge and the Jane Austen Museum, it was frequently visited by Charles Dickens, who wrote a few pages of his novel Pickwick Papers here.

As I hopped onto the train and watched the city recede into the distance, I couldn’t help but feel satisfied. Bath is an enchanting, intriguing, and unusual place to explore, with so much history, culture, and gastronomic pleasures.

It truly has something for every curious mind. Just one visit hasn’t done enough justice, and I will plan another trip here soon.

C I M N E P O

T H G I N Monday 7th February From 8pm Prizes for the best performers!

26

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY James Webb Space Telescope Reaches ‘L2 Orbit’

SCIENCE

The recently launched telescope has reached a new milestone as part of its scientific expedition Mia Becker-Hansen

Head of Science & Technology

A Mia Becker-Hansen

Anna Thomas

Elie Gould

fter a tense few weeks, the James Web Space Telescope has successfully reached its final destination, known as the second Lagrange point, or L2, which is located 1 million miles from Earth.

The telescope is not orbiting the Earth like the Hubble Space Telescope, but is instead orbiting the Sun. What is so special about this orbit path is that it allows the telescope to stay in line with the Earth as it moves around the Sun, allowing the satellite’s large sunshield to protect the telescope from the light and heat of the Sun, and Earth.

This is important as the telescope will be observing in infrared, and requires to be operated at freezing temperatures. This results in the temperature difference between the hot and cold size to be huge, you could almost boil hot water on the hot side, and freeze nitrogen on the cold side!

The travelling to L2 also had to be done in conjunction with the deployment on the telescopes instruments. James Webb was designed to be compact for its launch, with its full-size mirror and sun-shield effectively ‘folding out’ when in space.

The process required a series of highly delicate and complicated manoeuvres, a choreography that has not been performed by any other spacecraft in astronomic history, and it was completely successful.

“We’re one step closer to uncovering the mysteries of the universe.

We’re one step closer to uncovering the mysteries of the universe. And I can’t wait to see Webb’s first new views of the universe this summer! ” Bill Nelson, NASA Administrator

Jemma Powell

Travelling Complete: The recently launched James Webb Telescope is yet to start its calibration procedure.

Source: James Webb Space Telescope (via Wikimedia Commons)

And I can’t wait to see Webb’s first new views of the universe this summer!” the Nasa administrator, Bill Nelson, said in a statement.

The telescope has been dubbed as a ‘time machine’ by scientists, allowing us to look further back in time than ever done before, even as far back as when the first stars and galaxies were forming 13.7 billion years ago, only 100 million years from the Big Bang.

It also has the potential to look at the atmospheres of distant plants, allowing us to glimpse the possibility of discovering life on a planet other than our own.

However, the telescope is still months from taking its first official images. It has to cool down first and undergo weeks of calibration work, in order to ensure the eighteen segments of the main mirror work as one efficiently.

NASA released on their Twitter that the first object the telescope

will be pointed at is HD 84406, a Sun-like star which resides around 260 light years away in the constellation Ursa Major.

They said, ‘While it [the chosen star] will be too bright for Webb to study once the telescope is in focus, it’s a perfect target for Webb to gather engineering data & start mirror alignment.’.

They also announced that all this calibration data will be made public at the end of commissioning.

Once James Webb completes its first round of calibrations, it will move onto other observations which will test other aspects of the telescope.

The first ‘official’ scientific observation will be in May, though the target has not yet been revealed.

When the telescope begins observations properly in mid-summer this year, the high-gain antenna will transfer at least 28.6 Gigabytes of data to Earth twice daily.

While it will be too bright for Webb to study once the telescope is in focus, it’s a perfect target for Webb to gather engineering data & start mirror alignment.’. ” NASA Twitter, on the first target of James Webb Astronomers worldside sit in anticipation for the first data release from the James Webb telescope.

It has the potential to completely change how what we know about our Universe, and is giving us the potential to discover how galaxies like our own and stars like our Sun first came into existence.

You can track the live location and statistics of the James Webb Telescope online on NASA’s website.

The importance of cervical cancer screening

Public Health Wales sparks backlash after decreasing the frequency of so-called ‘smear tests’ Anna Thomas Science Editor

Theo Tadros

ELSEWHERE IN SCIENCE UK Plants Flower a Month Early Gradual increases in temperature are representing new challenges for farming in the UK

science@gairrhydd.com

P

ublic health Wales have faced backlash following their decision to decrease the frequency of cervical cancer screening.

At the beginning of January, Public Health Wales announced that the routine cervical screening interval amongst 25-49 year olds would be reduced from three to five years.

The changes have arisen due to the development of a new test which is more accurate than previous screening techniques. Whist the old system sought to detect unusual cervical changes, new screening looks to identify high risk strains of HPV. Virtually all cases of cervical cancer are a consequence of HPV infection with at least one high risk strain being identified in 99.8% of cervical cancers. HPV is extremely prevalent

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in people with cervixes around the world.”

Early Screening: These screenings remain to be key in identifying signs of cervical cancer. Source: Project Pink Blue (via Wikimedia Commons)

in the population with around 8 in 10 people being infected at some point in their lives. However, most of these cases are entirely asymptomatic with only certain strains of HPV having the potential to cause cancer. Therefore, identification of these strains through the new cervical screening test can mitigate the risk of cervical cancer developing.

Unfortunately, the announcement has been poorly received by the public.

Many expressed concerns that the increased interval between tests was too long and could have fatal ramifications for people with cervixes. The issue has gained significant traction following the circulation of a UK wide petition requesting that the

Welsh Government reconsider their position which attracted more than 1.2 million signatures.

A myriad of reasons for opposing the change have been cited including testimonials of cancer near-misses and fears that extending the interval could send out the false narrative that cervical screening is not important.

Notably, many believed this decision was made in the interest of the NHS saving money as opposed to lives. Fortunately, the converse is true as healthcare professionals believe that, given its increased accuracy, this test will offer improved outcomes for patients.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in people with cervixes around the world. However, following the 2008 implementation of the HPV vaccine in school age children, there has been an almost 90% reduction in the number of people with pre-cancerous cells.

This data, coalesced with the new HPV screening test suggests encouraging evidence that there might be a significant decline in the incidence of cervical cancers in the near future.

GWYDDONIAETH A THECHNOLEG

Bioluminescence - Beautiful or dangerous?

Bioluminescence spans throughout nature, but are glowing algae dangerous?

Jemma Powell Science Editor

A

lgae is an informal term for a diverse group of photosynthetic, eukaryotic organisms. They mainly exist in water-based environments, such as oceans, lakes and even snow. There are an estimated 72,500 different species of algae. Under the right conditions, some species (dinoflagellates) appear to glow. Bioluminescence is defined as “light produced in an organism by chemical reactions”. Examples span throughout nature, from deep sea fish to fireflies, in a range of different colours (most commonly blue).

The eerie and hypnotic glow is caused by oxygen reacting with luciferin. This reaction is accelerated by the enzyme luciferase, and excess energy is released as visible light. This process only occurs when the algae are disrupted by movement, which is why only the edges of waves or the water around fish are illu-

minated. It’s a natural defence mechanism, described by Biologist Rebecca Helm as “luminous little panic attacks”.

The intensity, duration, and colour of the light varies depending on what species are present, and makes for some impressive photos after nightfall.

Though the phenomenon is quite rare, it can be found across the globe. The most spectacular displays are in Puerto Rico and Australia, but you can see glowing waves in the UK too! Caswell bay (Gower) and Penmon point (Anglesey) are particularly good Welsh spots.

In the dark, bioluminescence is undeniably beautiful and unequivocally spectacular. But these dinoflagellates do not produce light for human admiration. In high concentrations, frequent and harmful algal blooms (HAB) can occur. In humans, exposure to these phytoplankton can cause skin irritation, sickness, and even death, and can wreak havoc on ecosystems.

Because of their abundance on the surface of water bodies, HAB can ap-

pear to discolour water to green, brown, or purple colours. ‘Red Tides’ are the most infamous bioluminescent algal blooms. Named after their reddish oil spill appearance in water, these colonies are made of the same sparkling algae adored on Instagram.

Red tides can occur naturally, but only ever infrequently. Over the last decade we’re seeing larger and longer lasting red tides more often. Scientists theorise this could be due to a cocktail of factors such as water pollution (from sewage, agriculture etc), rising ocean temperatures, and severe weather events.

Algal blooms can be dangerous to humans (e.g. if ingested or infected), but the most damage occurs at lower trophic levels. Filter feeders such as shellfish collect their food by pumping water through them. In areas of red tides and other HAB, they accumulate the algal toxins in higher and higher concentrations. This often kills the shellfish outright, but those toxins can then be passed up the food chain when

they themselves are eaten. Fish, birds, animals and humans can be poisoned by the contaminated organisms.

This can result in wide spread deaths (especially of fish), causing a dangerous domino effect across ecosystems already fragile from exploitation and climate change. There are also economic impacts, with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution calculating that harmful algal blooms cost America roughly $500 million in the year 2000.

This number will increase with the blooms.

Seeing or swimming in bioluminescence can be a magical experience. The neon blues and greens are a wonder to behold, but they have been twisted into something toxic and deadly by human negligence and ignorance. Scientists worldwide are working on ways to predict and minimise the most dangerous effects of HAB. In the meantime, bioluminescence serves as a reminder that beautiful things can quickly become deadly.

10-metre-long Ichthyosaur fossil discovered in Rutland Palaeontologists have unearthed what is believed to be the largest ‘Sea Dragon’ fossil in the UK Caitlin Rider Contributor

T

he largest and most complete Ichthyosaur fossil to be found in the UK was discovered during the annual draining of a lagoon island at the Rutland Water reservoir. Spanning a massive 10 metres in length, the fossil was found by Joe Davis (from the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust) in February 2021. This exceptional discovery has been considered a once in a lifetime experience for many. Dean Lomax, a palaeontologist with experience studying the species, claimed ‘it is a truly unprecedented discovery and one of the greatest finds in British palaeontological history’.

This Ichthyosaur was not the first to be discovered at Rutland with two much smaller, incomplete fossils being discovered during the reservoirs construction in the 1970’s.

However, the history of fossils of the species being found stretches all the way back to the early 19th century.

It was at this time the renowned palaeontologist Mary Anning, at the age of only 12, discovered the first Ichthyosaur fossil. The skeleton she found was 5.2m compared to the immense 10m discovery in Rutland.

This particular Ichthyosaur roamed our oceans 180 million years ago; the species in general has been found to have an extremely wide geographic distribution and remains have been found from the entire Mesozoic Era (between 251 million and 145.5 million years Spanning a massive 10 metres in length, the fossil was found by Joe Davis in February 2021.

‘Sea Dragons’: The fossilised remains of Icthyosaurs have been found all around the world due to a number of different scientific and geological factors. Source: kordi_vahle (via Pixabay) ago). Due to their large teeth and eyes, Ichthyosaurs have coined the name of ‘sea dragons’. The size of these features is also reflected in the enormity of the reptile’s body which could reach up to 25 metres in length, therefore also resulting in a large weight- the Rutland discovery’s skull alone weighed a tonne!

Due to their extinction tens of millions of years before the mass extinction 65 million years ago, scientists have often wondered what caused the end of the species. It is now thought to have been due to intense climate changes during the period and a rate of evolution too slow to survive the changes. Around the fossil they also found another

Ichthyosaur tooth which, along with one of the rear fins facing the wrong way and a kinked spine, led experts to believe the corpse was scavenged by its own species.

The excavation of the fossil proved to be a challenge due to the area being a bird sanctuary accessible to members of the public. In order to protect the remains, the bird watching hides nearby had to be closed as a precautionary measure and the find was kept secret. Nigel Larkin, a conservator working on preserving the 10m fossil, said “We knew as soon as people got to hear about this, there was a possibility it could get raided” and that “Unscrupulous people might trophy hunt”.

He also said, “The bones were the consistency of a biscuit”, therefore they were extremely fragile and extra care would be needed when moving them. After being protected with layers of plaster of Paris, the Ichthyosaur was moved using machines and taken to an industrial unit in Shropshire where it could be further examined.

We knew as soon as people got to hear about this, there was a possibility it could get raided.”

Nigel Larkin, Conservator of Natural History

Word of the week: Cervical Cancer • • •

‘Cervical cancer’ refers to cancer of the cervix, the opening of the womb from the vagina.

Cervical cancer is most common in people under 45, especially those with weakened immune systems.

Whilst cervical cancer cannot always be prevented, using condoms and quitting smoking alongside taking part in cervical screenings and HPV vaccinations can help to protect the body from cervical cancer.

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How long before humans are able to colonise Mars and beyond?

Theodore Tadros Science Editor

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lon Musk has become a global superstar in recent years with companies such as Tesla and PayPal; and his private space travel company, SpaceX has accomplished some of the most groundbreaking advancements in aerospace technology that we’ve seen this century. All this buzz has left the general public in eager anticipation for an answer to the question: when will we colonise mars?

The discovery of Polar caps (and thus water) on the red planet meant that scientists and astrophysicists have been theorising potential colonies on the planet for several decades, as it would be possible to drill into the planet and extract water to subsequently get fuel, crops, and electricity functioning on the planet.

Musk certainly wasn’t the first to begin active research and experiments into the colonisation of mars, with public space agencies such as NASA and CNSA having billions of dollars invested into it; and the United Arab Emirates’ space program pledging to have a settlement on Mars by the year 2117.

Current research suggests that we may not have to wait 100 years to get a settlement on Mars, with new data from one of the Mars rovers indicating that there could be a settlement on Mars as early as 2050. Professor Saydam from UNSW Sydney said it’s all dependent on the advanced mining equipment necessary to drill into the polar caps becoming commercially available in the near future.

“You use water as a life support, plus also being able to separate out the hydrogen to use as an energy source. The process for having humans on Mars will be to set up operations, go there and produce water with robots first, and then be able to extract the hydrogen to make the energy ready before people arrive.Innovation in robotics and autonomous systems are clearly important so that we have the water ready and the hydrogen separated and ready for when human beings land.”

Conflicting opinions about the scale of any soon to be settlements on Mars make it hard to pinpoint how many people will be living on the planet in this century. Entrepreneur Elon Musk claimed that we could comfortably have a million people living there by 2050, using 1000 of the SpaceX ships to transport them. This claim has been met with a lot of criticism from other astrophysicists who say this number is just unrealistic.

It seems that the first colonisation of a foreign planet may very well be our lifetimes, but the current hurdle that needs to be overcome is cost; currently there is little support from big companies as there’s no place to profit commercially from a colony on another planet.

If this problem is sorted, then there’s no reason why there couldn’t be colonies on mars as well as the moon by 2050.

Innovation in robotics and autonomous systems are clearly important so that we have the water ready and the hydrogen separated and ready for when human beings land.”

Professor Saydam, UNSW Sydney

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Technology restores sight to 88-year old blind woman Umaima Arif Contributor

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n 88-year old woman has just become the first patient in the United Kingdom to have her sight restored with new, cutting-edge technology: a microchip-computer system that stimulates natural vision when operated.

Prior to this, the woman suffered from dry age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, which is a progressive disease that kills the cells in the retina. The retina is the layer of tissue in the eye that receives light, turns it into electrical signals, and sends these signals to the brain to be turned into images. When the cells in the retina are destroyed, they cannot be renewed. Consequently, this disease can have hindering effects on the lives of elderly patients above the age of 60, the most prominent effect being complete vision loss in one or both eyes.

AMD currently has no treatment.

The procedure involved surgically implanting the microchip beneath the retina before fitting it with special glasses connected to a computer carried on their waistband. The chip works by transmitting visual data from the glasses to the computer, where the data is processed by AI algorithms and sends instructions back to the glasses on which image to focus on. Upon focusing on the image, the glasses send the data back to the chip, which receives it in the form of electrical signals.

Finally, the chip sends these signals to the brain for interpretation as the retinal cells normally would if they had been alive.

Patients should be able to see signals from four to six weeks after the microchip has been inserted, after which they may be referred to a rehabilitation program to help them resume or perform new activities with their newly restored vision.

The unnamed recipient has reported positive results within the first few weeks of using the system and expresses joy at being able to resume activities she struggled with due to her vision loss. She states: “Losing the sight in my left eye through dry AMD has stopped me from doing the things I love, like gardening, playing indoor bowls and painting with watercolors.

I am thrilled to be the first to have this implant, excited at the prospect of enjoying my hobbies again and I truly hope that many others will benefit from this too.”

Honorary lecturer at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and consultant vitreoretinal surgeon, Dr. Mahi Muqit, claims that this technology may offer the hope of restoring sight to many people suffering from vision loss due to AMD. The transplant is currently undergoing clinical trials in Europe, and scientists are hopeful that further successful research regarding vision restoration will benefit more patients like her around the world.

I am thrilled to be the first to have this implant, excited at the prospect of enjoying my hobbies again and I truly hope that many others will benefit from this Unnamed Recipient, 88-year old blind woman

Microsoft to aquire Activision Blizzard Elie Gould Tech Editor

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ast Tuesday over lunch, techheads and gamers were brought the news of Microsoft’s most recent transaction. Valued at $68.7 billion, Microsoft paid entirely in cash and acquired Activision Blizzard along with its numerous game titles.

The news was met in many different ways. As someone who owns a PS5, I got messages from friends, most of whom game on PC, foretelling the downfall and end of Playstation at large. Other’s were excited about the transaction, hoping that this would be the catalyst for change within the infamous company. But most were standing at the sidelines, hoping that many beloved games like Call of Duty (CoD) would finally receive some care and cash.

However, the biggest question at the time was would Microsoft make Activision Blizzard’s titles Xbox exclusives? The hordes on Twitter predicted this action. Many concluded that it would finally boost sales of Xbox consoles and equal competition for Playstation exclusives.

This being said, making widely played games like CoD, Overwatch, and World of Warcraft exclusive to the Xbox would inevitably hurt the brand instead of strengthening it.

According to Active Player, dur-

A Historic Deal: Microsoft has bought Activision Blizzard along with its numerous game titles. So what does this mean for Playstation and Xbox gamers? Source: Sergey Galyonkin (via Wikimedia Commons) ing 2021, Overwatch saw an average of 5 million players each month.

In comparison, 80 million players have downloaded CoD Warzone since March 2020 while contributing $1.59 billion in digital revenue during 2020.

Therefore, making these titles exclusive would effectively halve the player count and market. Microsoft would not only be antagonising disgruntled fans but could also expect a severe drop in revenue. In a sense, it makes more sense to take the same course with Activision Blizzard as

they did with Mojang in 2014, paying $2.5 billion for the Swedish firm.

After acquiring Minecraft, Microsoft still made the game widely accessible on all platforms. It was arguably the best move to make, seeing as Minecraft had 141 million active monthly users at the end of 2021.

However, after Microsoft acquired Bethesda Softworks for $7.5 billion two years ago, they recently announced their intentions to make The Elder Scrolls VI and Starfield Xbox exclusives. This potentially

means that future titles developed

by Microsoft will be done so under the Xbox exclusive banner, further down the road.

But for the time being, the nail in the coffin for any rumours came as Phil Spencer, CEO of Xbox, tweeted that “our desire is to keep Call of Duty on Playstation”. At least for the foreseeable future.

This being said, most of the evidence points toward the end of or pause to the console wars. At least while Microsoft gears up for a content war instead.

‘Back from the Dead’: New titles coming to Xbox

With Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, a number of games may be returning to our screens Edward Sutton Contributor

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any people are talking of Microsoft’s newest buy, Activision Blizzard.

The recent $68.7 billion transaction has brought iconic franchises like Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, and Overwatch into the Xbox fold. This acquisition now makes Microsoft the third-largest game publisher, behind Tencent and Sony.

We will soon see many new games added to Xbox’s Game pass, which recently passed 25 million subscribers. However, there may be more than the usual suspects coming to our screens, with plenty of retired Activision Blizzard games coming out of the woodwork.

This deal doesn’t just impact consoles and PC’s; Activision Blizzard also owns the popular mobile developer King, creators of the smash game Candy Crush. With nearly 95% of gamers playing a game on their mobile phone.

The mobile gaming industry is and will be a crucial part of Microsoft’s plan to monopolise the industry. There were 213 million mobile phone gamers in the US alone in 2020. Therefore, it’s an opportunity for Xbox to make more games for mobile.

For many emerging markets, mobiles are the only option for playing games. This means it’s a Just the sheer amount of cash Xbox and Microsoft can pour into the old and muchbeloved franchises means that we may be seeing some great new iterations to the games.”

Familiar faces: The new deal could mean characters such as those from the ‘Skylanders’ Franchise could be coming to Xbox systems soon. Source: DavidReed (via Pixabay) significant customer base for the future.

There is also hope that Microsoft will revive some beloved Activision Blizzard franchises from the acquisition. Guitar Hero and Skylanders both had over $1 Billion in sales but were still discontinued around 2016.

Some less well-known franchises like HeXen and Singularity also might hope to be received under the new management of Microsoft.

The broad consensus is; Microsoft has capabilities and resources that Activision Blizzard never had.

Just the sheer amount of cash Xbox and Microsoft can pour into the old and much-beloved franchises means that we may be seeing some

great new iterations to the games.

Adding fuel to the fire, current CEO of Activision Blizzard Bobby Kotick has stated that he too hopes Microsoft revives some of these beloved franchises. While also expanding on the ones they already have with new features, like adding multiplayer to Candy Crush.

During a Washington Post interview, the CEO of Xbox Phil Spencer highlighted the incredible IP list Activision Blizzard has under their belt, “I mean, let’s go! King’s Quest, Guitar Hero…I should know this, but I think they got Hexen”. Other games that could be revived include Prototype, Singularity, and Spyro the Dragon.

As with many things in tech re-

cently, Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft) mentioned the Metaverse and how this deal would provide them with the building blocks to tap into this new market. What this will mean may only come to light in the future, but this new frontier of technology is gaining traction throughout the world as the next step in gaming.

I mean, let’s go! King’s Quest, Guitar Hero…I should know this, but I think they got HeXen.” Phil Spencer, CEO of Xbox

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CHWARAEON 31 Premier League to introduce new COVID-19 guidance

Clubs have agreed to take on and abide by new guidance after several recent controversies

Sam Joseph Sport Editor

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remier League clubs have agreed to new guidance issued by the league after the recent controversy concerning the postponement of fixtures.

From now on, Premier League clubs will have to provide evidence of four positive COVID-19 cases in order to place a request for their match to be rescheduled.

The surge of the Omicron variant in the UK saw a spike in the number of COVID-19 cases amongst both players and staff at English clubs and caused twenty-two matches to be postponed since mid-December.

Under previous guidance, teams were able to apply for a postponement if, for any reason, they had fewer than 13 outfield players and a goalkeeper available. However, after a string of fixtures were postponed and the validity of certain clubs’ COVID-19 crisis was called into question, the rules have now changed in order to prevent any teams from exploiting this loophole.

The change comes after a debate regarding the rearrangement of the North London Derby between Tottenham and Arsenal, initially slated My feeling is that when there is a situation to play, we have to play and not postpone games for injuries or for international duty.”

Antonio Conte, Tottenham Manager

to take place on the 16th of January, where Arsenal’s application for a postponement was accepted by the PL despite the Gunners reportedly only having one confirmed positive case in their squad.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta asserted that his team was unable to play the fixture as a result of having a plethora of players unavailable due to a combination of COVID-19, injuries and players being away in Cameroon and representing their countries at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.

Tottenham issued a statement expressing that they found the league’s decision to move the game “very surprising”, with manager Antonio Conte adding that he believed that injuries and international call-ups should not be taken into consideration when investigating whether a match should be postponed.

“My feeling is that when there is a situation to play, we have to play and not postpone games for injuries or for international duty,” said the Italian.

“We have a big problem to solve with COVID-19 but only about this situation can you decide to postpone.”

“This is the first time in my life - and I have a bit of experience in football - to see this decision. In this way, anything can happen.”

This controversy around this issue went beyond league football as well – the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Arsenal was postponed after Liverpool notified the competition of a Covid outbreak at the club, only for it to be reported days later that a number of the cases had been registered as false positives.

Former England defender Gary Neville took issue with the increasing

Anurag Hegde

Football: Premier League clubs have agreed to take on the new guidance. Source: Kelvin Stuttard (via Pixabay)

frequency of these postponements and the apparent illegitimacy of the reasoning behind them.

“If it was purely down to COVID-19 in extraordinary circumstances where there was ten or fifteen players out, but we’re now talking about teams for the last few weeks where there’s no doubt they’ve been calling games off based upon whether they think they’ve got the best squad or team to win a game. It’s got to stop,” said the ex-Manchester United right back.

Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel was another to speak out about this suggestion, telling the media “I strongly, strongly hope that’s not the case, otherwise I would be very angry.”

Tom Hawkins Sport Editor

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Wales will be looking to replicate the success they had in last year’s competition in retaining the title.”

Rugby: The Six Nations will kick off later this month with Wales facing Ireland. Source: Marc (via Flickr)

Wales head coach Wayne Pivac said: “With the experience missing we wanted someone who had experienced the competition on a number of occasions and knows the rigours of it.

“He (Biggar) gives us that - he has 95 Wales caps and he’s toured with the British and Irish Lions.”

The injury list also includes the likes of Ken Owens, Taulupe Faletau, Josh Navidi, Justin Tipuric, George

North and Leigh Halfpenny.

In replace of the absentees Wayne Pivac has called up Ross Moriarty, who suffered a shoulder injury against New Zealand towards the end of 2021. Jonathon Davies and Ellis Jenkins who have captained Wales in the past have also been included.

New players to the squad include Dewi Lake, Jack Morgan and Jack Ratti.

For Ireland they extended their

Adam Brown

While the Premier League has only officially changed the guidance, and not the rules, regarding the rescheduling of fixtures for COVID-19-related purposes, it is hoped that clubs will now be deterred from taking advantage of the impact the pandemic continues to have on football. there’s no doubt they’ve been calling games off based upon whether they think they’ve got the best squad or team to win a game. It’s got to stop.”

Joe Edgar-Smith

Gary Neville, Former England Defender

Six Nations 2022: A team-by-team preview nticipation has been building as one of rugby’s elite competitions demonstrating the best talent is due to start this weekend. The Six Nations action will kick off when Ireland host Wales at 3 O’clock at the Aviva Stadium in the first fixture of the tournament.

Wales will be looking to replicate the success they had in last year’s competition in retaining the title. Last time round the red’s achieved a Triple Crown Title by beating all other home team nations with young stars such as Louis Rees – Zammit emerging on the grand stage and scoring what was voted the try of the tournament against Scotland, earning him Man of the Match.

In terms of the squad there will be some big names absent. Wales will be without their regular captain, leader and rugby’s most capped player Alun Wyn Jones. Instead, the arm band will go to British and Irish Lions fly half Dan Biggar, 32, who will captain his country for the first time.

SPORT

unbeaten run to eight games beating Argentina, Japan and including a statement win against New Zealand. Head Coach Andy Farrell has called upon regular fly half Jonny Sexton to captain the side despite ankle and knee injuries. Hansen and Lowry have been included after being impressive for their club sides Connacht and Ulster. Other familiar names include Bundee Aki, Robbie Henshaw, Conor Murray, Cian Healy and Peter O’Mahony.

The later kick off on the opening day sees Scotland host England at Murrayfield at 16:45.

Regular captain Owen Farrell is absent due to injury meaning George Ford will take his place. Courtney Lawes is favorite to be skipper despite missing training. Jamie George, Mako and Billy Vunipola have all been re – called. Maro Itoje, Ellis Genge, Tom Curry, Joe Marler and Jack Nowell have been included also.

For Scotland Stuart Hogg has been named captain, Ali Price, Finn Russell, Jonny Gray and Hamish Watson have been included. Additionally, Allan Dell, Josh Bayliss, Cameron Redpath and Andie Christie make the squad as well.

For rugby fans the wait is almost over for the six nations to get underway. The tournament will be entertaining as ever and an interesting battle for the championship.

Tom Hawkins

Sam Joseph

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CHWARAEON England handed 4-0 battering by Australia

The England Cricket Team suffered a significant defeat as part of the recent 5-match Test series

Anurag Hegde Head of Sport

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ngland were handed a 4-0 battering by Australia as they retained The Urn on home soil. The 5-match Test series that concluded with an Australian victory at Hobart on Jan 14, 2022 turned out to be a one sided affair.

In what was a recurring theme throughout the series, England’s batting order faltered starting with the very first innings of the series. After winning the toss and electing to bat first in the first Test at Brisbane, England were bundled out for a paltry 147.

The Australians effectively won the game in their first innings as they posted a mammoth 425. With England only scoring 297 in their second innings, Australia were set a 20-run target and they chased it down in just 5 overs to claim a 9-wicket win.

Australia continued their domination in the 2nd Test at Adelaide with a massive 275-run win and handed England their most humiliating defeat with England losing by an innings and 14 runs in the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne. Australia also sealed the series with that win.

With The Urn already lost and being 3-0 down in the series, the England team and their captain, Joe Root, came under fire heading into the 4th Test at Sydney. This time, however, the England team showed a lot more resistance and played with passion.

This time, however, the England team showed a lot more resistance and played with passion.”

Joe Cullen claims first major title with Ladbrokes Masters win Joe Edgar-Smith Sport Editor

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Cricket: Australia led a one-sided contest against England. Source: Ben Sutherland (via Flickr) A heroic century from Jonny Bairstow provided England with some much needed confidence and despite conceding a lead in the first innings, England looked dominant for the first time in the series.

After being set a 388-run target, England’s batters came out to bat with a positive mindset and looked to score. However, a flurry of wickets left England in a precarious situation and they were once again forced onto the backfoot.

The game ended in a thrilling draw with tailenders Jack Leach, Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad holding onto dear life. They survived 64-deliveries on the evening of Day-5 and ensured that they wouldn’t be whitewashed in the series.

The relative highs of Sydney, however, came crashing down quite quickly for England at Hobart.

Despite making changes to their batting order, England looked extremely fragile yet again.

England bowled excellently in Australia’s 2nd innings and restricted them to just 155 and things looked quite good for England as their openers shared a 68-run stand en-route to a 271-run target.

However, Australia’s bowling attack proved to be too hot to handle for the English batters as they then went on to lose all 10-wickets for just 56-runs, ending up being bowled out for 124 to hand Australia a 146-run victory.

With Australia being under a

With Australia being under a new and relatively inexperienced leader, many thought this was England’s best chance to win The Ashes on foreign soil. new and relatively inexperienced leader, many thought this was England’s best chance to win The Ashes on foreign soil.

That, however, did not come to fruition as England’s batters failed miserably and consistently throughout the series.

Australia’s Travis Head, who scored a total of 357-runs in the series, including a couple of impressive centuries, was subsequently named the Man of the Series.

A look at all the action from the 2022 Australian Open Ashleigh Barty becomes a National Hero while Rafael Nadal affirms his spot at No. 21 Sam Joseph Sport Editor

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fter the tournament initially received a surge of attention as a result of a specific player’s absence rather than the abundance of talent on show Melbourne, 2022’s instalment of the Australian Open proved to be one to remember.

On the women’s side of the singles draw, home favourite Ashleigh Barty claimed her maiden Australian Open and her third Grand Slam after putting on a series of scintillating performances, with the 1st seed only losing three service games and not dropping a set throughout the entire competition. The Australian defeated American 27th seed Danielle Collins, who was making her Slam debut final.

The women’s tournament was highlighted by numerous upsets – Barty and Iga Świątek were the only players in the top ten to make it past the fourth round, as unseeded players made up half the quarter-final draw. Big-name seeds such as Garbiñe Muguruza, Anett Kontaveit and Emma Raducanu were all dealt second round exits, while defending

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Rafael Nadal: Nadal secured victory in the Australian Open back in 2019. Source: moerschy (via Pixabay.com)

champion Naomi Osaka was defeated

by Amanda Anisimova in round three.

It was also the first Australian Open without the Williams sisters since 1997.

Barty was presented with her trophy by her idol and compatriot Evonne Goolagong Crawley, the first indigenous woman to win the tournament.

“To be able to experience that together on such a big occasion, on such a beautiful court, and in a tournament

that means so much to both of us,” said Barty.

Meanwhile, on the men’s side, the political storm and media frenzy surrounding Novak Djokovic threatened to overshadow the competition, however a fairy-tale result banished these concerns.

Rafael Nadal clinched his twenty-first Grand Slam title, moving him ahead of his longstanding rivals and fellow all-

time greats, Djokovic and Roger Federer, who are tied at twenty apiece. The Spaniard bested second seed Daniil Medvedev, coming back from two sets down to win his second Australian Open in a gripping match that lasted more than five hours.

“One month and a half ago, I didn’t know if I was going to be able to be back on the tour playing tennis again, and today, I am here in front of all of you having this trophy with me and you really don’t know how much I fought to be here,” said Nadal after his victory. “I can’t thank you enough for all the support that I received since I arrived here.”

There were more familiar names in the latter stages of the men’s tournament, with Nadal and Medvedev conquering fellow top ten players Matteo Berrettini and Stefanos Tsisitpas respectively in the semi-finals, although Alexander Zverev, Cam Norrie and Andrey Rublev each suffered earlier than expected exits.

Also stealing the headlines at the Open, local favourites Thanasi Kokkinakis and Nick Kyrgios made history by becoming the first wildcard pairing to win the Australian Open men’s doubles title, defeating Matthew Ebden and Max Purcell in an all-Australian final.

n emotional Joe Cullen secured his first major title in his first televised final as he beat Dave Chisnall 11-9 at the Marshal Arena in Milton Keynes.

The 32 year-old, from Bradford, claimed the £60,000 prize and dedicated the victory to his late mother who passed away in October as he movingly celebrated his success onstage with his father “It’s bitter-sweet. I’d love my mum to have been here to see me do it but life’s not always fair. I miss my mum dearly so that’s definitely for her”.

Cullen looked to be cruising to victory until he missed four match darts in the 18th leg. Chisnall, 41, took advantage and narrowed the gap to 10-8. During the following leg, nerves appeared to strike again as Cullen missed a further six match darts and Chisnall edged closer with the scores now at 10-9.

Cullen then proceeded to rally as he pinned double 18 to claim his maiden big-stage triumph after also claiming a win over Portugal’s Jose de Sousa, 47, in their semi-final match as he emerged the 11-8 victor. Chisnall beat the defending champion Jonny Clayton in their semi-final bout with the St.Helens man achieving a solid 11-7 performance. In doing so, Chisnall ended a run of four TV title wins for the 47 year old – success that Cullen hopes to emulate as he continues to build on his progress of recent years as he said: “It’s a foot on the ladder and it’s something that a lot of players higher ranked than me haven’t done, so it can only be a positive going forward” “Hopefully this is the first of many. I’ve proved I can do it on TV and it’s even more pleasing because I played well” Cullen had claimed a debut televised win over Van Gerwen with a 10-7 quarter-final win, and was an 11-8 victor against De Sousa in the last four.

Dave Chisnall’s defeat means that his search big stage glory continues, as he took part in his ninth televised title of his career. After their match he spoke respectfully of his opponent, saying: “Joe deserved to win that” “It just wasn’t there tonight - I didn’t play that well but he let me in and I took my chances” “The crowd were brilliant and I’ll be back - I’ll keep trying to win my first major and get the big trophy.”

The crowd were brilliant and I’ll be back - I’ll keep trying to win my first major and get the big trophy.”

Joe Cullen, Professional darts player