Issue 1166 - Monday 22 February

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rhifyn 1166 issue 1166

22 Chwefror 2021 22 February 2021

gair rhydd Cardiff University’s student paper | Established 1972

Inside: LGBT+ History Month: Can sport actually be the platform we want it to be? (page 25) Welsh students unable to return to Erasmus scheme Tirion Davies

Editor-in-Chief

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he European Union has made the decision that Welsh students will no longer be eligible for international study under its Erasmus scheme.

During Brexit negotiation talks, the UK Government chose not to continue with the European Union’s Erasmus scheme. Although Welsh and Scottish Ministers hoped to reverse the decision in other UK nations, citing that education is a devolved power, the European Union declined.

Commission President of the EU Ursula von der Leyen stated that the only way Welsh students could continue to benefit from the Erasmus scheme was if the “whole” of the UK rejoined. Northern Ireland’s access to the scheme will continue.

Despite Welsh and Scottish access to Erasmus being revoked after the end of the Brexit negotiations, Northern Irish students are still able to participate, due to an arrangement made between the European Union and the Irish Government.

Following the news of the arrangement, more than 100 MEPs signed a letter in January 2020 asking that the EU Commission consider extending “the benefits of Erasmus programme to students and young professionals in Scotland and Wales”.

In a letter addressed to a Member of the European Parliament obtained by the BBC, Ms von der Leyen noted: “The EU offered the United Kingdom full association to the Erasmus programme in exchange for the standard financial contribution from third countries participating in union programmes.

“Following a year of constructive negotiations with the UK Government, the decision was made in London not to pursue UK association to Erasmus.

“As one constituent nation of the UK, association to Erasmus is not possible… separately.

“The only possibility for the UK is to associate as a whole, or not at all”.

German Green MEP Terry Reinke responded to the letter noting that,

although the response was not what MEPs “had hoped for”, they would continue to explore options of continuing to offer the Erasmus scheme to Welsh and Scottish students.

The Erasmus scheme was created in 1987, with the exchange scheme allowing students to study at institutions across more than 30 countries in Europe.

Millions of students in Wales have taken part in the Erasmus scheme since its inception, with continuous access to international exchange programmes an incentive for millions involved.

The Erasmus scheme celebrated its 33rd year at the Senedd in 2020, a month before the UK left the European Union.

In 2017, a year after the Brexit referendum, the founder of Erasmus noted that Wales would face “a mountain to climb” if European study opportunities were not secured after the end of the Brexit transition period. At the time, Dr Hywel Ceri Jones stated that the scale of Erasmus was “not widely appreciated” in the UK. Earlier this year, Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford addressed the issues faced by Wales due to the withdrawal of the Erasmus scheme as a result of Brexit.

Speaking in the Senedd, the First Minister accused the UK Government of a “small-minded approach” to withdrawing from the Erasmus scheme, claiming the scheme to be “one of the crown jewels of the European Union”.

In a result to the letter by the European Commissioner, a Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We continue to explore all options to ensure highly-valued partnerships with Europe, that have been damaged by the UK Government’s decision not to participate in Erasmus, are able to continue”.

The UK Government announced earlier this month, in response to the ongoing Erasmus debate, that they had given an initial £110m investment in the worldwide Turing scheme, a replacement for Erasmus.

Welsh Secretary Simon Hart told the BBC, “The Turing scheme will give students in Wales the support and opportunity to study and work abroad, no matter their background”.

COVID-19 vaccine goal: Welsh Health Minister Vaughan Gething has now announced Wales has begun phase two of its vaccine rollout, with mass vaccination goals achieved. Source: x3 (via Pixabay)

Phase two of vaccine rollout begins Luthien Evans News Editor

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elsh Health Minister Vaughan Gething has announced that phase two of the vaccination plan is now underway across Wales.

This is following the confirmation that the top four priority groupsthat being those over 70 years old,

Additional COVID funding for Wales Hallum Cowell

frontline workers and those who are clinically extremely vulnerable individuals- have all been offered the COVID-19 vaccine.

If figures are met and succeeded, as was the case with the first four priority groups, the age category for students and others over 18 who do not fit in prior categories, look to gain their first vaccination by Autumn.

The Government’s next vaccination goal is to have the over-50s vac-

Galileo Galilei Dathlu Mis Hanes LGBT+ and his inventions Nel Richards

Golygydd Taf-od

Head of Politics

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ales is to receive an extra £650m in funding from Westminster to help tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

The latest cash injection brings the devolved nation’s total extra coronavirus funding to £5.65bn.

In response to the funding a Welsh Government spokesperson said that this extra funding “comes at the 11th hour” and “just days before we are due to publish our final spending plans for the year.”

To read more about where this funding will go, and what it will mean for Welsh COVID-19 relief, make sure to turn to page 10

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cinated by the start of May. Following this, it has been suggested that police officers and teachers will be next to receive their jabs, with predictions stating that this may be the case from late spring, meaning that the phase two of the vaccine rollout across Wales brings us closer to students getting vaccinated en-masse.

To read more about phase two of the vaccine rollout across 3 Wale, turn to page 3.

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is Chwefror yw Mis Hanes LGBT+ yma yn y Deyrnas Unedig. hema’r mis yma yw’r ‘meddwl, corff ac ysbryd’. Cynhelir gweithgareddau sy’n ffocysu ar yr agweddau gwahanol o’r mudiad LGBTQ+.

Yn amlwg, gan fod trafod wedi bod yn ddigidol y flwyddyn hon, dyma gyfle i wrando ar farddoniaeth dros zoom, neu sgyrsiau ar lein o foethusrwydd eich cartref. Mae’r calendr yma wedi’i lenwi â llu o weithgareddau sy’n addas i bawb.

I ddarllen yn fwy am y pobl Cymreig yn rhan o Hanes y cymunedLGBT+ a'r hyn sydd ymlaen mis yma, trowch i dudalen 8.

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Rowenna Hoskin Science Editor

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alileo is a name many of us are familiar with - and we don't mean through Queen!

Galileo Galilei was a man of many talents, an astronomer, physicist and philosopher in the 1500s. His inventions lay the groundwork for many objects that have shaped our civilisation: the compass, the telescope and the theory of heliocentric solar system.

His inventions functioned as the building blocks upon which other scientists could create and improve and produce things we now use in our everyday lives.

To read more about Galileo Galilei, turn to page 21.

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EDITORIAL

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.

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 TEAM Coordinator

Elaine Morgan

Editor-in-Chief Tirion Davies

Deputy Editors

Hallum Cowell Holly Giles Molly Govus

Head of Digital Media Tom Leaman

Video Editors

Lottie Draycott Sophia Grace Scarlett Griffith Ellis Lloyd-Jones Daniel O’Callaghan

Graphics Editor

Ellie Hutchings

Copy Editors

Megan Newberry Amy Saunders Elle Speer

IN THIS ISSUE

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR The importance of LGBT+ History Month

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ebruary is LGBT+ History Month in the UK; a time where we can celebrate and amplify the voices of those within the LGBT+ community around us.

For those within the community, the struggle has spanned centuries, and their fight still continues to this day.

Section 28, a law passed in 1988 to stop councils and schools from “promoting the teaching of the acceptability of homosexuality as a pretended family relationship” was only abolished in 2003. For many, this law still feels as though it exists in many communities even in 2021.

Media, thankfully, has embraced the LGBT+ community, and we are beginning to see more representation on our screens. From Drag Race to Pose to It’s A Sin, the stories of those within the LGBT+ are beginning to be amplified.

Yet, shows like It’s A Sin, the Russell T. Davies drama which has been dominating headlines, and television screens for the past few months, are still gaining backlash. It’s A Sin revolves around a group of friends who identify as queer battling through the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and has been praised by many as not only an accurate depiction of the LGBT+ community, but also of the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS in the ‘80s.

Although, juxtaposing articles from tabloid newspapers have hit

social media recently, with many drawing comparisons between the discussion of sex scenes in Netflix’s hit show Bridgerton, compared with the discussion of Channel 4’s It’s A Sin sex scenes. Bridgerton shows mainly heterosexual sex scenes, whilst It’s A Sin has predominantly same-sex sex scenes.

Yet, hundreds of people noted that while Bridgerton’s sex scenes were branded ‘the hottest sex scenes ever’ by The Sun, the same tabloid newspaper called It’s A Sin sex scenes ‘explicit’ and ‘raunchy’, claiming that there was ‘So much sex’. It’s A Sin has become Channel 4’s most-watched drama series in its history, indicating that the stories of the LGBT+ community are stories millions want to see.

There are still stories which have yet to earn a platform, but as shows with LGBT+ representation gain in popularity, there will be more opportunity for these voices to be heard. As shows like It’s A Sin, Pose and many others continue to do well, it indicates to studios that these are the stories we want to see; amplifying these voices should not be a ‘risk’.

Changes still need to be made to the way the LGBT+ community is treated. During this year’s LGBT+ History Month, I implore you to use the time to learn about the LGBT+ community and to amplify their voices.

NEWS

Cardiff sees large drop in COVID-19 cases (p.3)

TAF-OD

Taf-od yn edrych ar Gwobrau Selar 2021 (t.6)

POLITICS

UK Government appoints “free speech champions” (p.11)

COMMENT

The COVID-19 impact on an independent Wales (p.15)

ADVICE

Top online mental health resources (p.16)

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Ancient sea shell instrument played for the first time (p.20)

@CAERDYDD

Welsh is the fastest growing language on Duolingo (p.22)

SPORT

LGBT+ representation in sport (p.26)

Mis Hanes LGBT+: Mae’n rhaid cofio’r mis hon i sichrau ein bod yn agor cyfleoedd i leisiau’r rhai yn rhan o’r cymuned LGBT+ derbyn platfform.

Tarddiad: Pride Cymru

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LGBT+ History Month: We need to make sure this month that we are amplifying the voices of those within the LGBT+ community and allowing their voices to be heard. Credit: Pride Cymru

Pwysigrwydd y Mis Hanes LGBT+ C hwefror yw mis Hanes y Gymuned LGBT+ yma yn y Deyrnas Unedig; cyfnod i ni gyd dathlu ac ehangu ar leisiau’r rhai yn rhan o’r gymuned LGBT+ o’n gwmpas.

I’r rhai yn rhan o’r gymuned, mae’r frwydr dros eu hawliau wedi parhau am ganrifoedd, a dal i barhau hyd heddiw.

Ond yn 2003 oedd Adran 28 wedi’i wahardd ym Mhrydain. Yr oedd y ddeddf wedi’i chyhoeddi yn 1988 i wahardd cynghorau ac ysgolion rhag addysgu am y gymuned LGBT+, ac yn ei wneud yn rhywbeth ffiaidd. Er wnaeth y ddeddf cael ei wahardd yn 2003, mae nifer yn teimlo fel ei bod yn parhau hyd heddiw yn nifer o lefydd.

Diolch byth ein bod yn dechrau gweld fwy o gynrychiolaeth ar ein rhaglennu, sydd yn dechrau newid barnau. Gyda rhaglennu megis Pose, It’s A Sin a Drag Race, ceir y cyfle nawr i weld lleisiau’r gymuned yn cael ei arddangos yn y ffordd y dylen nhw, gyda chynrychiolaeth.

Ond, mae rhaglenni megis It’s A Sin gan Russell T Davies am grŵp o ffrindiau yn y 1980au’n rhan o’r gymuned LGBT+, dal i dderbyn adlach. Mae’r rhaglen yn drafod cyfnod y 1980au yng nghanol yr epidemig HIV ac AIDS, ac mae wedi derbyn llawer o ganmoliaeth gan nid yn unig pobl yn rhan o’r gymuned LGBT+, ond hefyd pobl oedd yn

gwylio’r epidemig yn digwydd yn y 1980au.

Er hyn, mae erthyglau wedi ymddangos ar gyfryngau cymdeithasol gan The Sun, yn dangos dwy agwedd gyferbyniol i’r ffordd o adrodd am raglenni teledu gydag adrannau rhywiol. Yn achos It’s A Sin, yr oedd y papur yn defnyddio geiriau fel ‘raunchy’ ac ‘explicit’, tra’r oeddynt yn trafod rhaglen fel Bridgerton, gyda chymeriadau anghyfunrhyw fel ‘the hottest sex scenes ever’.

Gyda mwy o raglenni yn dangos bywydau LGBT+, ceir mwy o gyfle i ragor o leisiau’r gymuned yma derbyn llais. Daeth It’s A Sin i fod y rhaglen fwyaf poblogaidd Channel 4 ers ei ddechreuad, ac mae’n profi bod pobl yn awyddus i glywed gan y gymuned yma.

Ni ddylai bod rhoi’r cyfle i’r rhai yn y gymuned LGBT+ gallu dweud eu hanes yn ‘risg’.

Dylem hefyd wneud yn siŵr ein bod yn manylu ar fywydau’r aelodau BAME y gymuned LGBT+, sy’n aml yn cael eu hanghofio amdanynt yn y drafodaeth.

Mae’n dal rhaid i newidiadau ddod i’r ffordd ein bod yn weld cynrychiolaeth o’r gymuned LGBT+ a’r ffordd ei bod yn cael ei drin.

Yn ystod Mis Hanes LGBT+ eleni, hoffwn eich bod chi’n addysgu am y gymuned, ac ein bod ni gyd yn wneud yn fwy i’w helpu fel bod eu lleisiau’n cael ei chlywed.

NODYN GAN Y GOLYGYDD

NEWS

Vaccine phase 2 rollout commences

The vaccine will now be offered to individuals of 65 years or older Luthien Evans News Editor

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elsh Health Minister Vaughan Gething has announced that phase two of the vaccine distribution plan is now underway. This is following the confirmation that the top four priority groups- that being those over 70 years old, frontline workers and those who are clinically extremely vulnerable individuals- have all been offered the COVID-19 vaccine.

This goal of offering the vaccine was reached with more than 90% of over 70s accepting the vaccine offer. Statistics have shown that this equated to over 15 million people having been vaccinated with the first jab across the UK. Close to 540,000 people have received both doses of the jab, as of February 15 across the UK. According to the BBC, data from Public Health Wales shows that 27.1 percent of the Welsh popula-

COVID-19 vaccine: The vaccine will now be distributed to the second priority group. Source: x3 (via Pixabay)

tion have received one dose, with 1 percent of the population fully vaccinated. This is a stark contrast to when vaccinations began in December, and Wales was significantly behind other nations in the UK. Wales is now successfully implementing its vaccination system, with the rate of vaccinations rising each day.

22.1 percent of residents in Cardiff and the Vale have since received at least one dose of the vaccine.

The next steps, as laid out by the Welsh Health Minister, is to send letters to the next levels of priority groups inviting them to receive their initial dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

The next priority groups are those

aged over 65, as well as the clinically vulnerable. Across Wales, vaccination centers are beginning to reopen after a two-week closure period in which the vaccine supply was replenished.

Those who fall under the category of the clinically vulnerable, as stated by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, are people who have conditions like cystic fibrosis, severe asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

If figures are met and succeeded, as was the case with the first four priority groups, the age category for students and others over 18 who do not fit in prior categories could begin the vaccination process by late Summer in Wales.

The Welsh Government’s next vaccination goal is to have the over50s vaccinated by the start of May. Following this, it has been suggested that police officers and teachers will be next to receive their jabs, with predictions stating that this may be the case from late Spring.

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YOUR NEWS DESK

Zoe Kramer

COVID-19 infection rate has decreased since January Zoe Kramer

Head of News

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he number of COVID-19 cases in Wales has been falling steadily since January.

The infection rate stands at 91.6 per 100,000 members of the population, down from 95.1 last Sunday. This is the lowest it has been since September, and a significant drop from the 379.1 rate observed on January 13.

Rates are also dropping within the capital. Within a week, three areas of Cardiff reported 0-2 new cases. This indicates that tier 4 restrictions and their enforcement have been largely successful.

Between January 30 and February 5, Llandaff and Danescourt, Victoria Park and Rhiwbina all counted themselves among the 0-2 cases category, while on the upper end, the regions with the highest number of cases were Heath and Tremorfa and Pengam, which both had 15 cases.

COVID-19 deaths have also been falling. In the first week of February, there were 361 deaths, which was 86 fewer deaths than the previous week.

The total number of pandemic in Wales has reached 6,843.

North-east Wales has had the highest number of deaths recently, accounting for 2/3 of the 42 deaths in north Wales hospitals.

“Our community prevalence rates are down, they are down very significantly from where we were in December,” said NHS Wales Chief Executive Andrew Goodall, speaking with BBC Radio 4.

“We see the positivity rates and the reproduction values are well down within Wales now.

“Just over the last two or three weeks or so the number of patients in hospitals for coronavirus has actually reduced by about a quarter.”

He added, however, that these positive changes shouldn’t mean throwing caution to the wind.

“Although the data currently shows all-Wales numbers of cases are reducing and that the incidence is now below 120 cases per 100,000 population, the rates in some areas - particularly in north Wales - are still at nearly double that, and there have been small increases in others.

“It is encouraging to see that the numbers of people being treated for coronavirus in our hospitals is reducing, [but] there are still a large number of people who are extremely ill, which

Luthien Evans

Infection rate: While the rate has decreased, efforts must be kept in place to prevent the transmission of the virus. Source: Sionk (via Wikimedia Commons) means that the pressure on services is more than is possible at present. To see still very high.” if there are any marginal steps that we There were 84 patients being treated might be able to take for families, but it on invasive ventilated beds as of Febru- will depend,” said Mr. Drakeford. ary 9, with Betsi Cadwaladr having the “We will not be making those decimost people in critical care, 23. sions until Thursday (February 18), In light of the changing figures, First when we have the very latest informaMinister Mark Drakeford plans to an- tion. nounce an updated pandemic roadmap Schools remain our top priority. Geton Friday. ting our children back into school is the “We want to be clear to people that most important thing we can do and any changes will be marginal, but we then we will see if there is any marginal are always keen to see if there is any op- room for us to offer any other easeportunity to allow the outdoors to be ments” he added.

Cardiff Council to improve rented homes Dominic Williams News Editor

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ardiff Council have announced a new pilot scheme to provide better access to longer term affordable and good quality housing in the private rented sector in Cardiff.

Therefore, Cardiff Council is keen to work with landlords within the city who have properties available to lease to the authority for a period of five years, to increase the number of affordable homes available for tenants.

The scheme is funded by the Welsh Government and will be managed by Cardiff Council, offering a significant range of support services and benefits to private landlords and tenants.

These are set to include: financial assistance to improve a property, a guaranteed retail income even if the

Home improvement: The scheme is designed to provide support for landlords wanting to renovate their properties. Source: Jaggery (via Geograph) property remains empty, responsi- available for landlords interested in bility for repairs and maintenance the scheme, but whose properties are throughout the lease period and in need of renovation to meet Welsh tenancy management functions and Government standards for leasing. A ongoing housing support for the non-repayable grant of up to £2,000, resident. plus an interest fee loan of up to Financial assistance will be made £8,000 repayable over four years, are

on offer for necessary improvements.

Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Chancellor Lynda Thorne, said: “We’re really pleased to be working with Welsh Government on this new leasing scheme. The lack of enough good quality, affordable housing in the city is well-known and while we are building new council homes at pace across the city to help tackle this high demand, the private rented sector remains an important source of Cardiff ’s affordable housing market.

“We’re encouraging landlords with homes to rent in Cardiff to lease unfurnished properties to us for five years to provide homes for people in need of good quality, affordable accommodation. We’re looking for a range of different property types and sizes, particularly larger family homes, in all parts of the city.

“The Council will undertake the

Sam Portillo

Dominic Williams news@gairrhydd.com day-to-day management of the property, there’s a guaranteed income of 90% of the Local Housing Allowance rate paid direct to the landlord whether the property is occupied or not, regular inspections and full housing support to the resident to ensure the tenancy is a success for both parties.

“We believe this is a really attractive proposition for landlords in the city. Maybe you’ve inherited a property and you’re not sure if you want to sell right now but don’t want to leave it empty or you might be a landlord keen to scale back your involvement in letting and managing your property to have more time to yourself. Perhaps you’re a landlord looking for more stability with your rental income. We want to hear from you so please get in touch to help us create more affordable homes in the city for people who need them.”

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NEWS

Welsh Government receives £650m

Controversial Museum of Military Medicine The UK treasury has allocated the funds for COVID-19 relief A draft document published this Sam Portillo month sets out £9.2bn for health and to be built in News Editor social services, £6.0bn on housing and local government, and £2.7bn on eduCardiff Bay he UK Treasury has made an cation.

Zoe Kramer

Head of News

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he controversial plans for the Museum of Military Medicine to relocate to Cardiff have been confirmed.

Despite 70 formal objections, plans to build a new five storey building in Britannia Park were approved. These objections were made largely on the grounds that Britannia Park is one of the few remaining green spaces in the area, and that the building would obstruct the waterfront as well as block light and views.

Director Jason Semmens had explored moving the museum to Lichfield, York, Southampton and Liverpool before considering Cardiff. Only after being approached by Cardiff Council was Cardiff Bay considered.

“The impetus for the most recent re-evaluation of the Museum’s future direction was the removal of the Defence Medical Services Training Centre (DMSTC) from Keogh Barracks to Whittington Barracks, Lichfield, in 2013, rendering the longer-term prospects of Keogh Barracks and its continuing medical connexion open to doubt,” said Semmens.

“Initially the museum trustees sought to follow DMSTC and relocate to Lichfield, in what would have been a combined facility with the Staffordshire regimental and Yeomanry museums, and also explored sites in York, Southampton and Liverpool.

“An approach by Cardiff Council in summer 2015 encouraged the trustees to consider the city as a possible new venue for the museum, and they voted unanimously to pursue that option in January 2016.”

Cardiff Council bought the land in 2018, to keep it from being used for the Dolffin Quay development, a proposed 24 storey block of flats.

Museum estimates show that the Museum of Military Medicine is expected to be one of the top tourist attractions in Wales, second only to Cardiff Castle. They expect to attract 225,000 visitors every year by 2024.

A Cardiff council spokesperson said: “The current administration has set out its masterplan for Atlantic Wharf, which aims to see 30 acres of land re-developed, as we look to turn Cardiff Bay into a top-tier, UK-visitor attraction, delivering jobs and boosting the economy post the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The decision to make contact with the Military Medical Museum to relocate to Cardiff was made in 2015, by a previous administration, but it is important to make clear that it is common practice for any council to look to bring investment into its local area.

“The council’s main priority is to ensure that any new development or visitor attraction fits in with our masterplan for Cardiff Bay and the re-development of Atlantic Wharf.

“The council does support the project, but it is important to make clear that the council will not be providing any direct funding for it.

“It is worth noting that the Lock Keeper’s Cottage and the playground are to be retained within the park, and it is our hope that the museum will deliver jobs and bring visitors to the capital helping to boost the local economy.”

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additional £650m available to the Welsh Government, just before it releases its annual budget plan for 2021-22.

Worth over half a billion pounds to the Welsh economy, the package brings the total funding transferred from Westminster to Cardiff Bay since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to £5.85bn.

The devolved administration will be able to carry over any unspent funds into the next financial year, beginning in April.

Unless coronavirus infection rates demand a rescheduling, voters in Wales will head to the polls in May to elect a new government – either giving Welsh Labour another term, or electing an alternative.

A spokesperson for the Welsh Government said that the funding came at the “eleventh hour”, a matter of days before it released its spending plans for the upcoming financial year.

Secretary for Wales Simon Hart MP emphasised that the extra funding came in addition to other UK Government support packages, such as Eat Out to Help Out and loans to businesses.

“It should be noted that this is our Barnett share of funding allocated to tackle the pandemic in England,” he added.

The Barnett formula allocates public spending across the UK according to the population size and scale of devolution in each region.

Research from 2012 estimated that the current system short-changes Wales by £300m each year. Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts accused Chancellor Rishi Sunak of “wilful misrepresentation” after he allegedly announced the already-confirmed £650m as new money.

Business closures and health measures compelled by coronavirus took the UK’s borrowing to levels not

Welsh Government: Planning continues for a gradual recovery from the pandemic. Source: Ham II (via Wikimedia Commons) reached since the 1960s – 99 percent It came after Director for Public of gross domestic product, the total Health for Cwm Taf Morgannwg Kelvalue of goods and services in the echi Nnoaham claimed that the reeconomy. gion’s disproportionate COVID death In a recent report, the Senedd Fi- rate is “fundamentally about poverty nance Committee outlined concerns and health inequalities”. about the scale of the crisis, emphaRishi Sunak will announce the sising that the current state of public national budget for the year on 3rd and mental health, education, and the March in the House of Commons, bejob market, in particular, need exten- fore facing questions from Leader of sive spending to make a full recovery. the Opposition Sir Keir Starmer.

Some Transport for Wales train fares will rise in March Luthien Evans News Editor

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ransport for Wales have announced that from March 1 prices for regulated rail fares will be increasing by 2.6 percent.

Regulated rail fares makeup around 40 percent of all rail fares and include ‘Season tickets on most commuter journeys, some OffPeak returns tickets on long distance journeys and Anytime tickets around major cities’.

Outcries within the Welsh Government have been raised against this increase in train fares. This outcry is due to the Welsh Labour Government owning Transport for Wales, and thus set its objective.

When this increase in price was suggested to be upheld in England, the Labour party suggested this would discourage the public from using trains following the lifting of lockdown restrictions.

However, English train travel

fares will also rise in England and Scotland, as outlined by the Department of Transport on the same date, March 1.

A spokesman from Transport for Wales has stated: ‘We are aligning ourselves with the current DfT position of an RPI plus one increase in regulated fares from March 1, 2021, helping keep fares simple for people travelling between Wales and the rest of the UK rail network.’ It was stated, however, that there will be price freezes implemented on certain rail products, such as local railcards.

Furthermore, a spokesman for the Welsh transport minister has stated that the rise in prices will act as an investment for ‘vital infrastructure and services our economy and our communities need’.

This announcement comes after the Welsh Government has nationalised the Wales and Borders rail franchise, starting from February 7. Welsh Transport Secretary, Ken Skates, has stated that the nation-

Rail fares: Transportation is one of the many sectors facing an economic downturn during the pandemic. Source: Jaggery (via Geograph) alisation would allow for the pro- this better future for passengers’. tection of services, safeguard jobs, The increase of train prices makes as well as delivering infrastructure the idea of students travelling home improvements. Skates stated: ‘The using such transport, less accessible. need for greater public control is a Students may therefore feel more reflection of the ongoing pressures isolated within these times when of coronavirus and the challenges restrictions are lifted. Being part of being faced across the rail industry one of the largest relocating groups as passenger demand remains low.’ annually in the UK, may mean that He further states that this move to sales of train fares from this group nationalisation will help to ‘secure may decrease.

Cardiff Castle receives new lighting system Dominic Williams News Editor

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ardiff Castle is to get a new ‘Colour Kinetics’ lighting system installed.

Cardiff Castle has undergone changes to the lighting system, with a colourful new lighting system being installed as part of plans to improve the street scene, reduce energy use and costs, as well as helping generate additional income.

This new system has replaced the existing 15 year old, high energy halogen lighting at the castle, which has not worked properly for a number of years.

Instead, the Phillips ‘Colour Kinetics’ dynamic lighting system, which are currently being used to light 14 bridges across the River Thames in London is powered by highly efficient, long lasting, environmentally friendly LEDs which can be programmed and controlled to create a variety of col-

A new look: The castle’s old lighting system has been replaced by more efficient LEDs. Source: Mario Sánchez Prada (via Wikimedia Commons) ourful visual effects. can be delivered by this system are Cabinet Member for Culture ands incredibly impressive. We want to use Leisure Chancellor Peter Bradbury this cutting-edge technology to help said: “Cardiff Castle is out most im- us create a fantastic atmosphere, and portant heritage site and a key driver a real buzz, that will help draw peofor attracting tourists to the city, but ple back into the city once current for some years now, at night time it restrictions are relaxed and the city has been in darkness. opens up post-COVID-19.’’

“The dramatic lighting effects that But the lights will also help with at-

tracting more high-profile concerts and events to the castle, in the hope of generating more income that can put towards looking after the iconic building on behalf of the people of Cardiff.

The initial installation covers the Castle Street facing wall of the castle, including the clock tower. Plans are being developed to potentially expand this to cover the keep, the main house and other internal and external walls.

This lighting system have also been used to light landmarks across the world including the London Eye, the Tyne Bridge, Notre Dame, as well as other Welsh castles including Castle Coch and Caerphilly Castle.

Expert advice on how to achieve the maximum lighting impact on the project was provided by Phillips and ELS. The installation was carried out

by Centregreat, who have also worked on the installation of the Cardiff ’s LED street lighting infrastructure.

LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+

Join us in celebrating the rich diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and educating out prejudice.

For more information visit cardiffstudents.com/ LGBTQHistoryMonth

6

TAF-OD

taf od

Barn y Bobol

Diwrnod San Ffolant yw cyfnod i ni gyd mwynhau a dangos cariad at ein gilydd.

Ond, yn flynyddol, rydym yn dechrau gweld bod mwy o brandiau yn defnyddio San Ffolant fel cyfnod i fasnacheiddio.

Ydy San Ffolant wedi’i ormasnacheiddio erbyn hyn?

Dyma farn Sara, Sion a Lowri am y peth.

Sara Dylan

Myfyriwr yr ail flwyddyn, Newyddiaduraeth Mae’r diwrnod mwyaf rhamantus y flwyddyn wedi dod yn ddiwrnod materol sydd wedi ei fasnacheiddio yn llwyr. Yn draddodiadol, mae diwrnod Sant Ffolant yn ddiwrnod o ddathlu cariad gyda’r un ‘dan ‘ni’n ei garu, ond pam ‘ydyn ni’n teimlo cymaint o angen i fynd dros ben llestri ar y diwrnod yma? Mae’n well i ni gyd fel y Cymry i ddathlu diwrnod Santes Dwynwen gan ei fod yn achlysur cynhenid i ni’r Cymry, sydd hefyd yn gyfle i ni brynu cynnyrch rhamantus Cymreig. Ar ddiwedd y dydd, mae’n ddiwrnod i ddangos i rywun eu bod yn berson arbennig yn eich bywyd, a be di’r ots os ydi’r siopau yn gwneud ychydig o elw allan o hynny?

Sion Tiplady

Myfyriwr y drydydd flwyddyn, Mathemateg Fel pob digwyddiad arall ar y calendar, mae Dydd Sant Ffolant wedi cael ei fasnacheiddio i’r aethaf. Wrth i’r Nadolig a’r Flwyddyn Newydd orffen, fe welwn hysbysebiadau ar gyfer Dydd Sant Ffolant dros fis ymlaen llaw, yn rhoi pwysau ar bartneriaid feddwl am anrhegion diangen. Efallai taw dim ond rheswm yw hi i wneud rhywbeth rhamantus unwaith y flwyddyn i’r rhai sydd weithiau yn anghofio. Does dim bai ar fusnesau yn ceisio gwneud arian ar ddyddiad fel hwn, oherwydd erbyn heddiw mae’n ddisgwyliad ac yn angenrheidiol i lawer.

Lowri Green

Chwaraeon: Cymru a Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad hyd yn hyn (tudalen 8)

NEWYDDION

Cyfartaledd prisiau tai yn rhwystro ifanc Cymru

Wrth codi prisiau tai, mae pobl ifanc yn gweld hi’n anodd prynu tai cyntaf Alaw Fflur Jones Golygydd Taf-od

M

ae pris cyfartalog tŷ yng Nghymru yn uwch na £200,000 am y tro cyntaf erioed, yn ôl Prisiau Tai’r Principality.

Dywedodd Harri Jones o Gymdeithas Adeiladu’r Principality fod y cyfnodau clo wedi sbarduno “ras am ofod” gyda chynnydd mewn pobl yn prynu tai mwy o faint gyda gerddi mwy.

Roedd 18 allan o 22 o siroedd Cymru wedi profi’r prisiau tai uchaf erioed rhwng Hydref a Gaeaf 2020. Ond er gwaetha’r cynnydd ym mhrisiau tai, roedd y gwerthiannau wedi gostwng 21% o gymharu â gwerthiannau Hydref a Gaeaf 2019.

Cyhoeddwyd mai’r pris cyfartalog am dŷ yng Nghymru yw £209,723.

Dywedwyd i’r cyfartaledd godi 8.2% yn 2020, y gyfradd uchaf o gynnydd mewn 15 mlynedd.

Roedd cynnydd mawr ym mhrisiau blynyddol o 16% yn Ynys Môn, 14% yn siroedd Conwy a Mynwy, 13% yn Sir Y Fflint a 12% yng Nghasnewydd.

Gwelwyd hefyd gynnydd ym mhrisiau tai yn ardaloedd Pen-y-bont ar Ogwr, Ceredigion, Gwynedd a Bro Morgannwg ers 2019.

Er nad yw Ceredigion yn un o’r siroedd a brofodd y prisiau uchaf erioed, mae’r cynnydd ers 2019 wedi rh-

wystro rhai pobl ifanc yn yr ardal rhag camu fewn i’r farchnad.

Mae Collette Evans, Athrawes 23 oed o Geredigion a’i chariad wedi bod yn chwilio am eu cartref cyntaf yn yr ardal ers bron i flwyddyn.

Ond “mae prisiau tai wedi saethu fyny yn ddiwedar gan wneud hi’n amhosib prynu” meddai. Â phrisiau tai yn parhau i godi pryderai na fydd modd iddynt brynu eu cartref cyntaf eleni eto.

Prynu tŷ a chydfyw gyda’i gilydd oedd y cam nesaf yn eu perthynas, ond mae’r prisiau presennol wedi chwalu eu cynlluniau yn llwyr.

Yn hytrach na chamu fewn i’r farchnad, teimlai’r ddau fel petai “wedi gorfod cymryd cam yn ôl”.

Yn unol â’i methiant wrth brynu tŷ, mae’r ddau yn methu gweld ei gilydd chwaith.

Mae’r ddau yn byw mewn aelwydydd gwahanol, ac felly wedi gorfod cadw pellter yn ystod y cyfnodau clo.

“Mae wedi bod yn flwyddyn heriol i ddweud y lleiaf, a ninnau wedi edrych ymlaen cymaint at fyw gyda’n gilydd… i beidio gallu gweld ein gilydd o gwbl ar adegau”.

Er bod y sefyllfa wedi bod yn “rhwystredig iawn”, mae’r ddau yn croesi bysedd y bydd prisiau’r ardal yn gostwng o’u plaid yn y dyfodol agos.

Ond tan hynny, parheir i gynilo ar gyfer cyfnod pan “fydd prisiau yn fwy fforddiadwy i bobl ifanc”.

Er bod prisiau tai ar gynnydd ar hyn o bryd, mae modd i bobl Cymru sydd yn gobeithio camu fewn i’r farchnad fanteisio ar gymorth gan y Llywodraeth.

Mae Llywodraeth Cymru yn cynnig gwahanol gynlluniau er mwyn darparu cymorth ariannol i helpu pobl

yng Nghymru i berchnogi ar gartrefi eu hunain. Cyniga’r Llywodraeth bedwar gwahanol cynllun, gyda phob un cynllun wedi’i deilwra ar gyfer pobl mewn amgylchiadau gwahanol. Mae’r cymorth ar gael i’w fanteisio arno, er mwyn sicrhau bod prynu cartref yn ariannol bosib i bawb.

Gwobrau’r Selar 2021: Gwahanol i’r hen arfer Catrin Lewis

Golygydd Taf-od

D

igwyddiad gwahanol iawn oedd Gwobrau’r Selar eleni.

Fel arfer, caiff y digwyddiad ei gynnal yn Undeb Myfyrwyr Prifysgol Aberystwyth sy’n llawn o gefnogwyr cerddoriaeth Cymraeg brwdfrydig.

Fodd bynnag, oherwydd cyfyngiadau’r coronafeirws yn amlwg nid oedd modd i’r digwyddiad mynd yn ei flaen yr un ffordd a’r arfer.

Mae’n siom peidio gallu mwyn-

hau yn yr un ffordd ag arfer, ond o leia yr oedd dal y cyfle i ennill wobrwyon.

Er gwaethaf y pandemig, cafodd y gwobrau eu penodi i amryw o gerddorion Cymraeg talentog.

Yn hytrach na’r fformat arferol, roedd yr enillwyr yn cael eu cyhoeddi ar raglenni Radio Cymru ar yr 12fed o Chwefror.

Daw hyn yn dilyn y rhestr 3 uchaf yn cael ei ryddhau ar y 3ydd o Chwefror.

Dyma grynodeb o’r enillwyr eleni.

Gwobrau Gwaith Celf Yng nghategori’r Gwaith Celf

Myfyriwr y flwyddyn gyntaf, Cymraeg â’r Gyfraith Mewn cymdeithas lle mae materoldeb yn trechu, does dim dwywaith bo pwysau trwm i ddathlu’r diwrnod hwn. Mae’r disgwyliad eich bod yn arddangos y berthynas dros y cyfryngau cymdeithasol a phortreadu’r sefyllfa berffaith yn tanseilio’r bwriad gwreiddiol o ddathlu cariad a chyfeillgarwch.

Gydag archfarchnadoedd yn ei hysbysebu fisoedd yn gynharach, does dim dianc ohono. Wrth gwrs mae llawer yn dal i’w ddathlu gyda’r nod gwreiddiol, ond sioe yw’r holl beth i’r mwyafrif.

Prisiau tai: Wrth bod prisiau tai yn codi, mae’n ddod yn anoddach byth i bobl ifanc prynu. Tarddiad: groovelanddesigns (drwy Pixabay)

Gwobrau’r Selar: Mae’r gwobrau fel arfer yn cael ei chynnal yn Undeb Myfyrwyr Aberystwyth. Tarddiad: Nigel Callaghan (trwy Wikimedia Commons

Gorau sydd wedi ei noddi gan Y Lolfa, daeth y darn Cofi 19 i’r brig.

Ymysg y rhestr 3 uchaf oedd 3 gan Elis Derby, a Preseb o Ias gan Breichiau Hir. Aeth y Wobr 2020 a noddir gan rhaglen S4C, Heno, i Eädyth.

Gwobrau Cerddoriaeth - Bandiau ac Artistiaid Newydd Gan symud ymlaen i’r Bandiau ac Artistiaid Newydd.

Malan oedd yn fuddugol yn y categori band neu artist orau.

Cafodd Mêl ac Y Dail hefyd eu cymeradwyo yn y categori Band neu Artist Newydd, a noddir gan Gorwelion.

Mared enillodd yr artist unigol gorau gydag Elis Derby ac Ani Glas hefyd yn ymddangos ar y rhestr fer.

Gwobr Cân Gorau Y gân orau eleni oedd ‘Hel Sibrydion’ gan Lewys.

Hefyd yn ymddangos yn y categori oedd ‘Pob Nos’ gan Yr Eira a ‘Pontydd’ gan Mared.

Gwobr Record Fer Gorau Aeth y Record Fer orau i ‘Dim ond Dieithryn’ gan Lisa Pedrick.

Yn y categori yma, ymddangosodd yn ogystal y recordiau ‘Ynys Araul’ gan Ani Glas a ‘Pastille’ gan HMS Morris hefyd.

Gwobr Cyfraniad Arbennig Aeth y wobr am gyfraniad arbennig i Gwenno eleni tra bu Mared yn fuddugol yn y categori

Ani Glass: . Tarddiad: Antena (trwy Wikimedia Commons)

Seren y Sîn.

Ymysg y rhestr fer yn ogystal, ymddangosodd Sarah Wynn Griffiths ac Osian Huw Williams hefyd.

Mae’r enwau yma wedi’i nodi fel rhai fydd yn ymddangos eto ar y rhestr fer yng Ngwobrau’r Selar y dyfodol o bosib.

Gwobr Fideo Gorau Aeth y wobr am y fideo gorau i ‘Dos yn Dy Flaen’ gan Bwncath eleni gyda ‘Piper Malibu’ gan Papur Wal a ‘Mirores’ gan Ani Glas hefyd yn cael eu henwi ar y rhestr fer.

TAF-OD

Pryd o Daf-od: Steffan Leonard Myfyriwr yn ei ail flwyddyn, Steffan Leonard, sydd yn cynnig pryd o Daf-od wythnos hwn Yr wythnos yma, mae Steffan Leonard yn trafod yr blog fe wnaeth ef ei ddechrau dros y cyfnod clo.

Heb y cyfle i ysgrifennu am faterion cyfoes yn y byd chwaraeon yn y ffordd perffaith, penderfynodd Steffan dechrau’i blog “CADW SGÔR” dros y cyfnod clo.

Dyma Steffan yr wythnos yma yn trafod ei rheswm dros dechrau’r blog a’r hyn y mae ef yn trafod yn wythnosol.

a dysgu am faterion cyfoes ac felly yn hoff iawn o ysgrifennu am y materion hynny.

Mae gwneud y blog yma yn sicrhau fy mod, i raddau, yn cadw hyd yn oed yn fwy “up-todêt” gyda’r byd chwaraeon.

Mae cael y cyfle i ysgrifennu’n fwy rheolaidd hefyd yn meddwl fy mod yn medru gweld lle mae fy ngwendidau wrth ysgrifennu – ac felly yn rhoi’r cyfle imi wella ar hynny.

Os oes gan bobl ddiddordeb yn yr hyn yr wyf yn ei ysgrifennu – wel grêt, ond y peth pwysicaf i mi yw fy mod yn cael y cyfle i ysgrifennu am rywbeth sydd yn fy niddori tra hefyd yn gwella ar sgil a fydd efallai o gymorth imi yn y dyfodol.

Dwi hefyd yn credu bydd y blog yn rhoi cyfle i bobl roi adborth i mi ar fy ngwaith er mwyn fy nghynorthwyo i wella.

Roeddwn hefyd yn teimlo y byddai creu blog sydd yn rhoi’r cyfle imi i ysgrifennu yn rheolaidd yn fy nghynorthwyo i wella ac i ymarfer rhywbeth a fydd yn help imi yn y maes yr wyf yn gobeithio troedio i mewn iddi wedi imi orffen fy ngradd.

Gan fy mod yn gwneud y blog yn ddwyieithog, mae wedi rhoi’r cyfle imi i ymarfer fy ysgrifennu yn Saesneg – sgil nad wyf wedi cael llawer o gyfle i ymarfer yn

Y

n ddiweddar, penderfynais i ddechrau’r blog chwaraeon “CADW SGÔR” er mwyn medru cael platfform i ysgrifennu am faterion a digwyddiadau cyfoes o fewn y byd chwaraeon.

Mae’r blog, ar hyn o bryd, yn rhywbeth newydd iawn, ac felly yr wyf yn dal i ddysgu wrth gwrs.

Ond dyna oedd un o brif nodau’r blog yn y lle cyntaf.

Beth felly oedd bwriad creu’r blog, a lle ydw i’n ei weld yn datblygu?

I ddechrau, yr wyf wedi bod â diddordeb mawr yn y byd chwaraeon erioed, gan gynnwys amryw faes gwahanol.

Yr wyf yn hoff iawn o ddarllen

ystod fy nghyfnod byr yn y Brifysgol.

Yr wyf yn bwriadu trafod llu o chwaraeon a digwyddiadau chwaraeon gwahanol megis Pêl-droed, Dartiau, Rygbi gan gynnwys chwaraeon a chlybiau lleol yn ogystal â rhai proffesiynol a rhyngwladol. Teimlaf mai nawr oedd yr amser orau i ddechrau’r blog gan nad wyf yn medru gwneud unrhywbeth arall i ddiddanu fy hun!

Mae ysgrifennu’r erthyglau yma’n ffordd hwylus o sicrhau

Fy enw i yw Beth Williams a dwi’n astudio Saesneg a Newyddiaduraeth

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

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

Unrhyw bryd dwi wedi meddwi yng Nghaerdydd

Atgof sy’n sefyll allan oedd treulio noson yn nofio yn y môr wrth i’r haul fachlud

Unoriginal - “dad” oedd o!

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

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

Catrin Lewis

Diod, Canu, Dawnsio, Siop chips, Gwely 12. Pe taset ti’n gallu bod yn unrhyw anifail am ddiwrnod, pa un fyddet ti’n dewis, a pham?

Fel arfer yn pigo ar lot o fwydydd

Sloth i fi gael esgus i wneud dim byd

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

13. Disgrifia dy hun mewn 3 gair.

Ashton o’r band JLS

Hynod o swnllyd

7. Pwy yw dy hoff fand/artist?

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

Bach ormod o gwilydd i gyfaddau’n gyhoeddus...

taf-od

Alaw Fflur Jones

10. Beth yw dy gas beth?

Caws! Just... na.

Truth Hurts gan Lizzo, mae mor catchy!

Trafod gyda’r

Dim un! Diodydd overrated!

3. Beth oedd dy air cyntaf?

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

Aled Biston

Blog chwaraeon: Dechreuodd Steffan y blog i drafod chwaraeon, megis gemau Cymru yn Rygbi. Tarddiad: Marc (drwy Flickr)

Beth Williams

8. Prosecco neu champagne?

EICH TÎM TAF-OD

Annell Dyfri

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

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

nad wyf yn eistedd o gwmpas trwy’r dydd yn gwneud dim byd, gan ysgrifennu am bynciau sydd o ddiddordeb i mi yn bersonol yn ogystal.

Dwi’n edrych ymlaen at barhau i ysgrifennu am chwaraeon ac amrywiol bynciau sydd yn effeithio ar y byd hynny yn ogystal.

Dwi’n gobeithio parhau gyda’r blog a chael y cyfle i drafod mwy o agweddau yn y byd chwaraeon ac efallai siarad gyda phobl o fewn y maes yn uniongyrchol er mwyn datblygu ar y blog.

7

Iwan Kellet.

taf od Nel Richards

Sesh Senghenydd: Beth a’i ffrindiau yn gwneud y gorau o’r sefyllfa yn Senghenydd. Tarddiad: Beth Williams. tafod@gairrhydd.com www.gairrhydd.com/tafod

8

TAF-OD

Cystadleua- DIWYLLIANT ethau nofio Dathlu Mis Hanes LGBT+ yng Nghymru cenedlaethol yn ail- Pwy yw’r pobl mae’n rhaid i ni cofio amdanynt?

Nel Richards ddechrau Golygydd Taf-od

Annell Dyfri Golygydd Taf-od

G

yda gwledydd Prydain yn parhau mewn cyfnod clo, mae ambell beth wedi dychwelyd i’r drefn arferol, gan gynnwys cystadlaethau chwaraeon. Bydd y mwyafrif yn ymwybodol fod Pencampwriaeth Rygbi’r Chwe Gwlad yn ôl ar ei thraed (gyda Chymru’n ennill ei dwy gêm gyntaf ) ond braf yw gallu cofnodi fod cystadlaethau nofio cenedlaethol wedi ailgychwyn hefyd.

Gyda misoedd o fod i mewn ac allan o’r pyllau nofio i’r nofwyr proffesiynol, nid oedd sicrwydd pryd y byddai modd iddynt ddychwelyd. Ond, er rhyddhad mawr i bawb, cyhoeddodd British Swimming ar ei wefan yn ddiweddar y byddai Cystadleuaeth Ryngwladol Manceinion yn digwydd ‘allbeit under a heavily revised format, limited to elite athletes as defined by the government’s COVID-19 protocols’. Cynhaliwyd y gystadleuaeth rhwng 12fed a 14eg o Chwefror eleni.

Gyda nifer o’r nofwyr â’u llygaid ar gystadlu yng Ngemau Olympaidd Tokyo ymhen ychydig fisoedd, roedd cynnal y gystadleuaeth, a’u perffomriad yn allweddol er mwyn sicrhau eu lle yng ngharfan Pryidain.

Nodwyd yn glir mai ‘Government-approved Elite Athletes’ yn unig oedd yn cael cystadlu eleni.

Tra bod y nofwyr cyflymaf yn cael cyfle i gystadlu unwaith yn rhagor, sefyllfa wahanol iawn sy’n wynebu gweddill ein nofwyr, yn cynnwys y rheini sy’n dangos addewid.

Ymysg y cannoedd o nofwyr a fu wrthi’n cystadlu ym Manceinion, roedd sawl enw cyfarwydd yn eu plith, yn cynnwys James Guy, Ellie Simmons a Tom Dean.

Enillodd James Guy y ras 200m Pili-pala yn rhwydd o dair eiliad – tipyn o gamp mewn cystadleuaeth o safon fel hon. Enw arall a hawliodd sylw yn y pwll oedd Daniel Jervis, sy’n fyfyriwr ym Mhrifysgol Abertawe, wrth iddo gipio’r gystadleuaeth 1500m i ddynion gan arwain y ras o’r cychwyn cyntaf.

Ond gyda nofwyr proffesiynol yn cael dychwelyd i’r pwll, mae’r drysau’n parhau ar gau i’r cyhoedd. Mae’n gyfnod rhwystredig i’r sawl sy’n mwynhau nofio er mwyn cadw’n heini - gan gynnwys nifer sylweddol o fyfyrwyr prifysgol.

Fel un sydd yn ymwneud llawer â chwaraeon yn y brifysgol, nododd Efa Edwards, myfyrwraig ym Mhrifysgol Caerfaddon, “Yn amlwg mae’n bwysig eu bod yn cael y cyfle i gystadlu wedi’r holl fisoedd, yn enwedig gyda’r Gemau Olympaidd ar y gorwel, ond mae’n rhwystredig iawn nad oes modd i athletwyr eraill allu ymarfer yn y pwll’.

Er bod y data diweddaraf yn dangos fod y cyfnod clo wedi arwain at ostyngiad yn nifer yr achosion coronafeirws, mae’n edrych yn debygol iawn y bydd gofyn i bobl atal eu hunain rhag dychwelyd am gyfnod pellach eto.

M

is Chwefror yw Mis Hanes LGBT+ yma yn y Deyrnas Unedig.

Mae’r mis yma’n gyfle i gysylltu, hysbysu a chyffroi pawb am amrywiaeth cymuned LGBTQ+.

Ystyr y term yma yn Saesneg yw Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans a Queer, a’r ‘+’ yn cael ei ddefnyddio yn symbol cynhwysol i gynnwys pobl o hunaniaethau gwahanol.

Meddwl, Corff ac Ysbryd Thema’r mis yma yw’r ‘meddwl, corff ac ysbryd’. Cynhelir gweithgareddau sy’n ffocysu ar yr agweddau gwahanol o’r mudiad LGBTQ+.

Yn amlwg, gan fod trafod wedi bod yn ddigidol y flwyddyn hon, dyma gyfle i wrando ar farddoniaeth dros zoom, neu sgyrsiau ar lein o foethusrwydd eich cartref. Mae’r calendr yma wedi’i lenwi â llu o weithgareddau sy’n addas i bawb.

Dyddiau gwell i ddod?

Er ar hyd y blynyddoedd diwethaf mae wedi bod newidiadau mawr a chynnydd arwyddocaol ar lefelau cyfreithiol a chymdeithasol - megis cyfreithloni priodas hoyw - mewn cysylltiad gyda hawliau pobl LGBTQ+, yn anffodus nid oes eto haul ar fryn.

Yn ôl arolwg gan y Llywodraeth, mae aelodau o’r gymuned LGBTQ+ : * Yn fwy tebygol o brofi problemau iechyd meddwl

* Mewn mwy o berygl o brofi troseddau o gasineb (o gymharu â phobl heterorywiol) gyda rhai grwpiau penodol, yn cynnwys dynion hoyw, pobl ifanc a grwpiau du a lleiafrifoedd ethnig.

Yn ôl ‘Human Dignity Trust’, mae yna 72 trosedd o ‘weithgareddau rhywiol gyda phobl o’r un rhyw’. Llofruddiwyd 331 o bobl drawsrywiol a ‘gender diverse’ yn 2019 yn ôl grwp ‘Transrespect’. Wrth barhau i ymladd, mae codi ymwybyddiaeth fel y mis hwn yn cynnal momentwm ac yn dod â’r materion yma i sylw’r boblogaeth.

Marsha P. Johnson Dyma un o’r ymgyrchwyr amlycaf sy’n ymladd dros hawliau a rhyddid drawsrhywiol ac ymwybyddiaeth AIDS; roedd hefyd yn berfformwraig drag ac yn ffigwr amlwg yn nherfysgoedd Stonewall, 1969.

Er bod terfysgoedd Stonewall wedi sbarduno’r don hon o gefnogaeth i’r gymuned LGBTQ +, roedd llawer o wrthwynebu ac atgasedd yn eu herbyn yn parhau.

Sefydlodd Marsha a’i ffrind Sylvia Rivera, a oedd hefyd yn actifydd, STAR - Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries - sefydliad i gefnogi unigolion hoyw a thraws-rhywiol digartref.

Ymroddodd Marsha i helpu eraill, er gwaethaf dioddef salwch meddwl.

Pwysig yw cofio, a dysgu am hanes ysbrydoledig unigolion megis Marsha Johnson, gan sicrhau na aiff ei gwaith da a blaengar yn angof.

Hanes LGBT+: Mis Chwefror yw Mis Hanes y cymuned LGBT+ yn y Deyrnas Unedig. Tarddiad: Emercado2020 (drwy Wikimedia Commons) Hir yw’r daith rhywfaint o oddefgarwch yw bod ymWrth ddysgu ac wrth gofio, mae’r gyrchoedd dros hawliau wedi bod yn mis yma’n gwneud i ni sylweddoli ein llwyddiannus. bod wedi dod yn bell, er fod y daith Mae straeon yr ymgyrchwyr eofn a i gydraddoldeb yn un faith. Cofiwch dewr yma yn ysbrydoliaeth i gymderoedd bod yn hoyw cyn 1967 yn ithas heddiw. Cymdeithas sy’n derbyn drosedd ym Mhrydain ac yn dal i fod pawb, beth bynnag eu rhyw, rhywedd, mewn llawer o wledydd led led byd. lliw eu croen a’u hedrychiad, eu hanaUn rheswm yr ydym wedi cyrraedd bledd, crefydd, hil, oedran a’u tras.

Cymru a Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad hyd yma Aled Biston

Pennaeth Taf-od

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edi pythefnos o chwarae ym Mhwncampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad, bydd nifer o gefnogwyr Cymru wedi synnu i weld fod tîm Wayne Pivac ail yn y gynghrair, lefel ar bwyntiau gyda Ffrainc yn y safle cyntaf.

Mae Cymru wedi curo’r Iwerddon a’r Alban yn eu dwy gêm gyntaf, ac yn edrych i adeiladu ar y momentwm cyn y gêm mawr yn erbyn Lloegr ar Chwefror 27.

Yn sicr, ni fyddai cefnogwyr Cymru wedi disgwyl fod yn ail yn dod mewn i’r saib y penwythnos diwethaf. Nid

oedd Pivac wedi gwneud yn dda iawn yng Nghwpan Her yr Hydref, gyda Cymru’n gorffen yn safle rhif 5, ond Yr Eidal, Ffifi a Georgia tu ôl iddynt.

Nid oedd pethau’n edrych yn dd ai Pivac yn dod mewn i’r Bencampwriaeth felly, roedd llawer yn galw i hyfforddwr newydd ddod mewn, wedi ond i Piva hyfforddi llond llaw o gemau.

Ond mae’n edrych fel bod cadw Pivac fel yr hyfforddwr wedi talu ffordd hyd at hyn.

Tybed os ydy’r cefnogwyr oedd yn galw i Pivac golli ei swydd, dal i wneud.

Er safle cryf Cymru yn y Bencampwriaeth, ni ellir gwadu bod y perffromiadau wedi bod yn rhai o safon uwch.

Dechreuodd Cymru y gê,m yn erbyn

Pencampwriaeth y Chwe Gwlad: Sut mae Cymru’n wneud ar hyn o’r bryd?

Tarddiad: Jean Francois Fournier Photographe (via Flickr)

Yr Iwerddon yn araf iawn, nod oedd Cymru gallu cael u rhyw momentwm, ac roedd hi’n edrych fel byddai’r Gwyddelod yn ennill y gêm yn hawdd.

Derbyniodd Peter O’Mahoney carden coch yn munud 14 am wneud cyffyrddiad â phen Tomas Francis wrth geisio ‘clearout’, ond er y garden coch nid oedd Cymru wedi cymryd mantais yn yr hanner cyntaf.

Cymerodd Cymru mantais yn yr ail hanner trwy geisiau gan George North a Louis Rees-Zammit a trwy gic gan Leigh Halfpenny. Ond lwcus iawn oedd Cymru hefyd, wrth i Gareth Davies cicio meddiant i’r Gwyddelod gyda 10 eiliad i fynd. Roedd gwylio’r gêm yn erbyn Yr Alban fel ail-wylio’r gêm yn erbyn Yr Iwerddon, roedd patrwm y gêm yr un peth dros yr 80 munud.

Derbyniodd Zander Fagerson carden coch y tro hwn, wrth iddo droseddu union yr un fath a Peter O’Mahoney yr wythnos cynt. Yr unig wahaniaeth yn y gêm hon, yw bod Cymru yn perfformio’n well.

Sgoriwyd Cymru pedwar cais, dau gan Rees-Zammit, un gan Liam Williams a’r llall gan Wyn Jones.

Enillodd Cymru pwynt bonws am sgorio 4 cais, yn ogystal ag ennill 25-24 mewn gêm hynod o ddiddorol.

Mae Cymru felly, wedi ennill eu gemau i gyd hyd at hyn, ac yn edrych fel y gallent ennill y Gamp Lawn yn y ffordd mwyaf annisgwyl erioed.

Ond beth mae cefnogwyr Cymru yn meddwl hyd at hyn?

Dywedodd Daftdd Lewis “Ie mae’n cwbl annisgwyl gweld Cymru’n ennill y gemau ‘ma.

“Fel arfer os i ni’n chwarae’n wael byddwn yn cael ein chwalu ac mae’r canlyniad yn embaras llwyr.

“Ond mae’n edrych fel bod Pivac yn cael canlyniadau er i ni chwarae’n wael, sydd yn wahanol iawn i berffromiadau

Cwpan Her yr Hydref.

“Nid oes rheswm bod ni methu ennill y Gamp Lawn, mae’r momentwm gyda ni nawr a bydd hi’n anodd ein atal”.

Un cefnogwr sydd gyda barn gwahanol yw Alaw Williams, “Bydda hi’n neis iawn petai ein bod ni gallu ennill y Gamp Lawn eleni, ond mae Ffrainc lefelau o flaen Cymru a byddwn yn gweld hynny pan ddaw’r gêm rhwng Cymru a’r Ffrancod.

“Rhaid cyfaddef ein bod bach o lwc wedi dod ein ffordd yn y gemau cyntaf, trwy dwy garden felyn a camgymeriadau gan y gwrthwynebwyr.

“Nai bwyta fy ngeiriau os ydy Cymru yn ennill y Gamp Lawn, ond dwi yn gweld hi’n anodd i ni goresgyn Ffrainc yn mwy na dim”.

Nid yw gemau Cymru sy’n weddill yn hawdd, ond eto gall pethau fod yn waeth.

Bydd y gêm yn erbyn Lloegr yn sicr yn un diddorol i wylio wedi iddynt golli i’r Alban yn y rownd cyntaf o gemau.

Bydd cefnogwyr Cymru yn cymryd yn ganiataol byddwn yn curo’r Eidal, ond rhaid fod yn ofalus ohonynt, camgymeriad bydd mynd mewn i’r gêm honno a meddwl bod y pwyntiau wedi’i sicrhau yn barod.

Os gall Cymru ennill yn erbyn Lloegr a’r Eidal, a Ffrainc yn ennill eu gemau nhw, gall gêm Cymru a Ffrainc, yr un olaf yn y Bencampwriaeth fod yn sefyllfa ‘winner takes all’.

Yn sicr, bydd Cymru yn goch i gyd ar y penwythnosau hyd at ddiwedd y Bencampwriaeth, gyda bysedd pobl o Sir Fôn i Gaerdydd wedi’u croesu’n dynn.

Os gall Cymru ennill y Gamp Lawn, pwy sydd i ddweud bod ni methu mynd ymlaen i wella dros y blynyddoedd i ddod.

A pwy a wyr, efallai bydd gobeithion go dda gyda Chymru yn Ffrainc yn 2023.

FEEL UNSAFE AND HAVEN’T GOT THE CASH TO GET HOME? Call Dragon Taxis on 029 20 333 333 quoting ‘Cardiff University Safe Taxi Scheme’, giving your name and student number.

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10

POLITICS

YOUR Wales first in UK to hit vaccine target POLITICS DESK W Morgan Perry Politics Editor

Hallum Cowell

Tom Kingsbury

ales has become the first nation in the UK to offer its top four priority groups a coronavirus vaccine, the Welsh Government has said.

By the end of Valentine’s Day, all over 70s, as well as care home residents and workers, had been offered their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

First Minister, Mark Drakeford announced the news, and praised “everyone who had been working around the clock to reach this point”.

Wales is currently leading the way in terms of coronavirus vaccinations, with nearly 23% of the population having received the first dose, and more than three quarters of a million jabs issued already.

In England, 21% of the population had been vaccinated as of February 11. The figure was 20.4% in Scotland and 19.7 in Northern Ireland.

The news came in the same week that it had been announced that the rate of coronavirus in Wales had fallen below 100 cases-per-100,000 people for the first time since last year.

The next step in Wales will be to vaccinate the remaining five priority groups, which will first see all residents aged 65 and over, followed by all adults aged 16-64 with underlying health issues which put them at

a higher risk of falling ill with the coronavirus.

Welsh Health Minister, Vaughan Gething said a “leave no one behind” approach was being adopted, with the ambition of physically vaccinating all of those in the top four groups as quickly as possible.

Despite the good progress, vaccine supplies are set to stall in the coming weeks, meaning there is likely to be a sudden downturn in the number of Welsh vaccinations.

The delay will be caused by a drop in the supply of the inoculation manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech.

As a result, four vaccination centres in Wales will close, and others will reduce their operating hours.

Until now, school and community halls, hospitals and GP’s surgeries have all been commandeered as makeshift vaccination centres.

Earlier this year, Drakeford and the Welsh Government came under fire for proposing a plan to slow the rate of vaccination in Wales, in order to factor in the reduction in available jabs.

The move was seen by some as highly controversial at the time but doesn’t appear to have hindered Wales’ initial vaccination programme. The Welsh Government has already said that it has planned and prepared for the sudden drop in the number of available vaccines, as have other UK nations.

Speaking to the Senedd, Drakeford said: “We know that we are go-

ing to get less vaccine over the next few weeks than we have over the past few weeks.

“That was planned for and known for … we are confident that we will remain on track.”

Leader of the Welsh Conservative group in the Senedd, Andrew RT Davies said that hitting the milestone was “a great achievement.

“This is a significant milestone we can all celebrate as we look to recover from the pandemic and rebuild Wales”, he added. He also called on the Welsh Government to devise a “roadmap out of lockdown”. Min-

isters will, given the progress with vaccinations, undoubtedly wish to be cautious as they announce the next steps in lifting public health restrictions.

Plaid Cymru, too, praised the rollout, adding that the pro-independence party will continue to lobby for the roll-out of the vaccine to “those in all care settings, not just the elderly” They also argued in favour of “key workers in schools, the emergency services and public transport to be brought in to the priority system sooner.”

Vaccination: Wales has hit their vaccination target of 23% of the population, the highest percentage of any UK nation so far during the pandemic.

Source: Asian Development Bank (via. Flickr)

Extra COVID-19 funding secured for Wales Hallum Cowell Head of Politics

Dewi Morris

Morgan Perry politics@gairrhydd.com

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ales is to receive an extra £650m in funding from Westminster to help tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. The latest cash injection brings the devolved nation’s total extra coronavirus funding to £5.65bn.

This funding has been approved to be spent now or carried over into the rest of the year and into 2022.

The UK Government announcement says the money is to “support people, business and public services affected by the coronavirus.”

Since the start of the pandemic Wales has logged over 200,000 COVID-19 cases with over 5,000 deaths.

In response to the funding a Welsh Government spokesperson said that this extra funding “comes at the 11th

hour” and “just days before we are due to publish our final spending plans for the year.”

The statement continues on to say, “The limited arrangements to carry forward additional funding falls short of the full range of additional budgetary flexibilities we have been seeking, including full access to our own reserve next year.”

The Welsh Government spokesperson continued on, saying that, “It should also be noted that this is our Barnett [Formula] share of funding allocated to tackle the pandemic in England.”

The Barnett formula is the metric used by the UK Government to determine the amount of funding each devolved nation receives for public expenditure.

The Barnett formula works through a calculation where the UK Government looks at what they are spending on English departments,

then divides this amount by the population proportional to England and the extent to which the department in the devolved nation is comparable to that of England.

Simon Hart, the UK Government’s Welsh Secretary, commented that this funding was “on top of all of the other UK Government support packages including the furlough scheme, the Eat Out to Help Scheme and the different business loans.”

The Welsh Secretary also added that “It is important that this funding now gets to the businesses and individuals across Wales as we look to rebuild the UK economy.”

Steve Barclay, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, also commented on the extra funding, saying that “We have worked closely with the Welsh Government in advance of this announcement to ensure they have the certainty they need ahead of finalising their budget on 16 February.”

It is important that this funding now gets to the businesses and individuals across Wales as we look to rebuild the UK economy.

Simon Hart Welsh Secretary The limited arrangements to carry forward additional funding falls short of the full range of additional budgetary flexibilities we have been seeking,

Welsh Government Spokesperson

Plaid Cymru pledge to offer Independence Referendum Daud Briggs Contributor

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upport for Welsh independence has risen to a similar level of support for Scottish independence about a decade ago, according to Plaid Cymru’s leader, Adam Price.

Speaking on the Andrew Marr Show, Price claimed that “more and more” Welsh people supported independence from the UK due to the poor state of the economy and inequality in wealth.

He argued, “We are not going to be able to put Wales on a better path without independence.”

In a 2020 YouGov poll asking if Welsh people would vote for Independence, 33% said yes. This is a

significant increase from 24% who voted yes in a similar poll in 2019.

Support for independence in Wales is now at its highest.

Economic uncertainty because of Brexit and COVID-19 are likely to be reasons behind the growing support. As well as greater attention being paid to the Welsh Government’s separate decision making powers highlighted by the pandemic. A significant example would be the earlier “firebreak” lockdown in Wales last October, which led to conflict over shutting the Welsh - English border.

Sion Jobbins, the founder of the independence campaign Yes Cymru, who Gair Rhydd spoke to in November, believes that the different approach to the pandemic between the

Senedd and Westminster is leading to the growth in support for Welsh independence.

Jobbins stated, “At the start of the pandemic the First Minister and the Health Minister would do their ­briefings with a Union Jack and a Welsh dragon in the background.

Now it’s just the Welsh dragon.

That’s ­significant.”

“This is the first time the Welsh Government has really used its p owers and people can see it is ­ ­p ossible for the Senedd to run the country in its own right.”

Speaking on BBC Radio Cymru’s Dewi Llwyd ar Fore Sul, Wales’ Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism Lord Dafydd ElisThomas said he believed that an independence referendum would not

be “wise” currently as there is still a need to strengthen devolution in Wales.

This is the first time the Welsh Government has really used its ­ p owers and people can see it is ­p ossible for the Senedd to run the country in its own right.

Adam Price Plaid Cymru Party Leader He argued, ”I don’t know if it is wise to hold a referendum on independence here in Wales at the mo-

ment but it’s obvious that the discussion on devolution for Wales is not going to subside”.

This comes four months after Plaid Cymru set out a possible roadmap to independence in Wales, stating that if they were able to gain a majority in the Welsh Senedd, they would hold a referendum for independence. On February 13, the party formally approved this pledge.

In a speech at Cardiff Bay in December, Price stated that with demands for a second Scottish independence referendum being “unstoppable”, Wales was in “real danger of being left behind as part of a rump United Kingdom, in a new England-Wales formation – which would be the ultimate worst of both worlds”.

GWLEIDYDDIAETH

11

UK Government implements freedom of Johnson comments speech champions at English Universities on Trump Francesca Ionescu Contributor

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he UK Government plans to appoint ‘free speech champions’ in higher education in England, as a way to maintain free speech in universities after a Department for Education source said that “unacceptable silencing and censoring on campuses is having a chilling effect” in a report to the Telegraph.

The plans include the champions having a seat on the Office for Students’ board and they could impose fines if universities do not fill their legal obligation of actively promoting free speech.

Student Unions will have to secure speakers’ freedom of speech, and individuals will be able to claim compensation if they feel their freedom of speech has been breached- for example being expelled, demoted, fired, or dismissed. This, alongside government initiatives around heritage bodies following on from the Black Lives Matter protests all seem to be part of the UK Government’s anti-“woke” culture policy.

The Russell Group has been very cautious in their response, claiming that the government should support already existing initiatives and work by students, ‘rather than adding unnecessary and burdensome bureaucracy ‘.

This decision has grown into a controversy, as it comes after concerns that especially right-wing speakers have been forbidden from

public speaking in universities, however the National Union of Students has found ‘no evidence’ that there is a freedom of speech crisis.

This follows a long-standing view that universities only uphold ‘Marxist, communist or socialist views”, despite a 2018 Parliamentary human rights committee report expressing they “did not find the wholesale censorship of debate in universities which media coverage has suggested”. They also noted that student unions did not have any obligation to invite particular speakers, and that speakers shouldn’t be obligated to share a platform with other speakers.

Famous right wing speaker and activist Tommy Robinson, received a lot of support from his followers when he spoke at the Oxford Union and faced backlash from Unite Against Fascism (UAF). The Oxford Union had to try three times, to finally give him a platform for his speech, which could be seen as the University’s commitment to offering him a platform.

Cambridge University more recently made changes to their policy to widen their rules regarding free speech. The university decided in December that it will no longer require staff and students to act ‘respectful’ regarding opposing views.

This comes as staff has expressed concerns that respectful reactions might impede academic debate. This ties in with the Russell Group statement that universities already have in place instruments to assure free-

Impeachment trial Catarina Vicente Contributor

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Cardiff University: The UK Government is going to place “freedom of speech champions“ on theOffice for Students’ Board at English Universities. Will Wales follow in its lead? Source: Epaunov72 (via. Wikimedia Commons) dom of speech and that those instruments should be used more.

Students have expressed concerns that freedom of speech will soon turn into freedom from consequences, and that an offensive or incitive speaker could get away with spreading misinformation by claiming freedom of speech.

Speakers who have in the past been the target of ‘no-platform’ protests in the past include, such as

Peter Tatchell and Professor Selina Todd.

Mr. Tatchell has said that such issues are ‘quite rare’ and have to be put in perspective, while Professor Todd supports the actions but expresses concerns that the champions could be a “blunt instrument”.

The full plan is to be announced next week, and it will include confirmation of the free-speech champions’ roles.

Holyrood inquiry continues to split SNP Hallum Cowell Head of Politics

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he Scottish Parliament, Holyrood, continues to be a battleground between former First Minister Alex Salmond and current First Minister Nichola Sturgeon as the scope of the inquiry widens. The inquiry is looking into the handling of sexual assault complaints against The former First Minister and SNP leader.

Salmond was cleared of all 13 charges at his trial in March 2020.

Following the trial, nearly a year ago, two inquiries were opened up

by Holyrood; the first led by a committee of MSPs and the other led

by James Hamilton who formerly

worked as Ireland’s director of public prosecutions.

The inquiries aim to assess the government’s handling of the Salmond complaints.

So far, the committee has accused both sides of the political divide of attempting to disrupt and delay the work of the inquiry.

Of particular interest to the inquiry is two of the complaints made against Salmond while he was First Minister.

Salmond argued in court that the handling of these two complaints were “unfair and unjust” and the Scottish Government, now led by Sturgeon, conceded defeat on this case.

Both sides agreed that the government had failed in following the

Hollyrood Parliament : The heart of the devolved Scottish Government has become the seat of a inquiry which threatens to rip the SNP apart. Mary and Angus Hogg (via. Wikimedia Commons)

Allies to foes: Alex Salmond and Nichola Surgeon have worked and campaigned together in the past, yet now are at odds in this inquiry. Source: Scottish Government (via. Wikimedia Commons) complaints process as the investigation officer assigned to handle these two complaints had previous contact with both the complainers which stands as a conflict of interest. The Scottish Government also agreed to pay Salmond £500,000 in legal expenses.

Disagreement remains however; Salmond argues that the contact held between the investigation officer and the complainers is close to encouragement while the Scottish Government argues that it was “welfare, support and guidance.”

This is an important detail to the inquiry, as if it were found that Sturgeon had encouraged these complaints as a political move then she would be breaking the Ministerial code.

If it were found that Sturgeon broke this code she would be expected to resign, however with her popularity with the people of Scotland and an election less than three

months away she may be able to hold onto here position; that is if she has broken any code in the first place, which is yet to be ruled on.

The latest controversy surrounding the inquiry is when Alex Salmond will give his evidence to the committee.

Originally the former First Minister was to appear before the inquiry on February 9 2021 however when a paper written by Salmond which accused Sturgeon of breaking ministerial code was declined publication he refused to attend saying that he could not “tell the whole truth” without being able to refer to the document.

A majority of the MSPs on the committee argue that there are legal reasons why the paper cannot be published.

This inquiry has split the SNP at a critical time before the election, with some MSPs backing Sturgeon and others backing Salmon.

uring an interview on January 14, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson called the Capitol riot and subsequent impeachment trial of former US President Donald Trump a ‘kerfuffle’.

After a week-long impeachment trial, Trump was acquitted by the US Senate, with prosecutors failing to get the two-thirds majority necessary to convict him.

Trump was accused of inciting the 6th of January Capitol riots, having told his supporters to “fight like hell” shortly before they stormed the US Capitol building.

The attacks were heavily broadcasted on social media and TV and resulted in five deaths and 140 people wounded.

Trump deemed the impeachment trial a “witch hunt”, and Senator Paul Rand earlier put forward a motion which claimed the trial was unconstitutional, though this was voted down.

Boris Johnson condemned the violence in the riots, but when asked to comment on the impeachment trial, dismissed it as “toings and froings and all the kerfuffle”.

He insisted that America’s democracy and its constitution remained “strong and robust”, and said he was looking forward to meeting Biden and fostering a strong connection between the two nations.

The result of the impeachment trial has led some to express concern over what the implications are for the future of American presidency.

Former Democrat Senator Doug Jones said: “if Trump’s actions are not impeachable, then nothing is, and we may as well strike that provision from the constitution”.

Despite the results of the trial, Trump is being sued by Bennie Thompson, the Democrat chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, for conspiracy in inciting the deadly Capitol riot.

Biden’s comments about American democracy contrast with those of Johnson; the newly elected president expressed concerns over the effect of “violence and extremism” on democracy, adding: “This sad chapter in our history has reminded us that democracy is fragile.”

According to Biden’s campaign team, there is residual mistrust towards Boris, although this might change with the two nation’s cooperation towards climate-change related goals.

These comments have not discouraged Boris, who looks forward to working together with the US president: “[what] we’re hearing from the new American administration […] is incredibly encouraging. And we want to work with the president on that.” The American President and British Prime Minister are set to meet in autumn, at the G7 Summit and COP26 climate change gathering in Glasgow.

12 POLITICS In other news Pro-independence

parties increase their majority in Catalonia’s election Dewi Morris

Politics Editor

Hong Kong’s media tycoon Jimmy Lai has once again been denied bail by the region’s High Court. Lai was arrested last August, under China’s new Security Law which prohibits criticism of Beijing. 200 police officers raided his newsroom. Branded as a “traitor” by Beijing, Lai frequently met with US officials and is alleged to have requested foreign intervention to support Hong Kong’s democracy.

The law is seen as China’s attempt to suppress dissent and free speech.

Australia and Facebook are currently clashing over a proposed law that would see sites like Facebook and Google paying for news content to be on their platforms. Facebook has now blocked its news feed in Australia, meaning Australians cannot access the pages of any news sites in or out of the country. Facebook also stopped Australian news outlets appearing outside the country on its platform. Australian PM Scott Morrison said the government ‘will not be intimidated’ by Facebook.

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atalonia’s election on Sunday, February 14, was shaped by the pandemic as well as the region’s debate for independence.

The Socialist Party of Catalonia (PSC), Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s party, won the popular vote with 23%. PSC led by Salvador Illa, Spain’s health minister up until a few months ago, will now aim to form a government. Moving Illa proved a risk worth taking for Sánchez who has aimed to reassert dominance in the region since its independence referendum in 2017 which, deemed illegal by Spain, fired the country’s biggest political and constitutional crisis in decades.

However, Illa’s win has by no means quelled the independence debate; the election was a tight three-way race between PSC and the two leading pro-independence parties. Republican Left of Catalonia (ERC) won 21% of the vote and 33 seats, the same amount as PSC.T ogether for Catalonia (Junts) won 20%, 32 seats. Combined with Popular Unity Candidacy (CUP), the pro-independence parties won 51% of the vote and increased their majority in the Catalan Parliament.

Illa’s attempt to form a government may be threatened by the proindependence majority. During the

Politics Editor

Following the first round of elections in Ecuador tensions have been on the rise over a delay of the results.

At the time of writing 11 days have passed since the vote with still no results. The poll will determine who faces off against left wing economist Andrés Arauz in the vote on April 12. The result has been delayed because both candidates have called for a recount as the result was reportedly very close. The Electoral College has as of now not agreed on whether the recount will take place.

alonia’s independence referendum.

The referendum was passed in law by the Catalan Parliament but was seen as illegal by Spain’s constitutional court. Only 42% of Catalonians voted on the day. Thousands of police officers were deployed to Catalonia where voters and protestors were met with violence. The vote counted 90% in favour of independence. Polls today show support for independence at 44%.

Vox will enter the Catalan Parliament for the first time with 11 seats. The far-right antiIslam and anti-feminist party has campaigned on issues such as closing Mosques and deporting Muslims from Spain.

Results: The results of Catalonia’s election saw an almost three way split.

Credit: Dewi Morris

A look at Joe Biden’s first month as US President Tom Kingsbury

The United Nations has said they will look into the imprisonment of Princess Latifa, daughter of Dabai’s ruler. The Princess is imprisoned in a “villa jail” and has accused her father of holding her there since she attempted to flee Dubai in 2018 with the help of friends. A series of videos were released to the BBC recorded in the villa’s bathroom by Latifa, as it is the only room with a lock. UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the footage was “deeply troubling”. The Prime Minister also said the UK was “concerned”. The United Arab Emiriates is a close ally of the UK and the USA which could make intervention politicaly difficult.

election campaign, the three proindependence parties signed a document pledging not to work with PSC. Political commentators speculate ERC may form a secessionist government with ECP or Junts, this may result in a more gradual push for independence while cooling down the tension between the Catalan Government and Madrid, an approach ERC favour. However, it is reported that ECP leader Jéssica Albiach aims to join talks with Illa and ERC leader Pere Aragonès to form a colition.

Vox will enter the Catalan Parliament for the first time with 11 seats.

The far-right anti-Islam and antifeminist party has campaigned on issues such as closing Mosques and deporting Muslims from Spain. Vox entered the Spanish Government for the first time in April 2019 with 24 seats, in November 2019, Vox became Spain’s third largest party with 52 seats.

Catalonia’s election was of course overshadowed by COVID-19. Turnout was only 53%, down from 79% in 2017, this is likely because of the virus. Individual’s self-isolating or carrying the virus were allowed to attend polling stations during the eerie final hour they were open.

Dubbed zombie-hour, polling workers were required to wear full body PPE. The election on Valentine’s day was three and a half years after Cat-

A

t 17:00 (GMT), on January 20, 2021, Joe Biden was sworn in as President of the United

States.

In his first speech as president he called for unity, saying the path forward is to “lower the temperature” as a nation.

Three former presidents – Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton – attended the inauguration, though the outgoing Donald Trump did not.

Though only at the very beginning of his presidential term, Biden has begun to make sweeping changes to many of the previous administration’s policies, signing 17 executive orders in his first two days.

His focus has been on issues such as COVID-19, climate change and a less isolationist foreign policy.

Biden has reversed several policies of the previous Trump administration in the first month of his presidency. Within the first day, he signed an executive order ending the travel bans enacted on some majority Muslim states.

He also cancelled the controversial Keystone XL pipeline planned between Canada and the US. Also within the first day, Biden revoked some Trump-era immigration enforcement policies, and later cancelled funding for the Mexico border wall.

Continuing the reversal of the Trump administration’s policies, Biden ordered the reuniting of the remaining 600 to 700 children separated from their families under a Trump-era policy which split up undocumented immigrant families.

Regarding asylum seekers, Biden revoked a policy that made them stay in Mexico whilst waiting for asylum.

Asylum seekers are now beginning to be processed into the US, following registration and the passing of a COVID-19 test.

Also reversed were the Trump administration’s bans on transgender people serving in the US military, and on federal agencies and recipients of federal funds conducting diversity training.

Biden revoked the previous administration’s ban on US aid to groups that perform or inform about abortion, and signed an edict expanding Obamacare, which Trump had worked against during his presidency.

Biden halted legal action that was being taken against TikTok and WeChat, which may have resulted in the apps being banned in the US. It was also revealed in an interview that Biden does not plan to provide Trump with intelligence briefings, as is a traditional courtesy in the US from incumbent presidents.

In his inaugural address, Biden stressed the significance of the coronavirus pandemic, saying the US needed to “face this pandemic as one nation”, continuing his rhetoric of unity.

Upon entering office, he established a mask wearing and social distancing mandate for federal employees and in federal buildings.

He also set up a new White House office on COVID-19.

Biden is now attempting to get a $1.9 trillion (£1.4 trillion) coronavirus relief stimulus bill, which would see $1,400 cheques being sent to most US citizens. The Bill is without Republican support, and some Democrats have asked for a lower figure.

In response, Biden said:

“Are we going to say to millions of Americans who are out of work – many out of work for six months or longer, who have been scared by this economic and public health crisis – ‘Don’t worry, hang on, things are going to get better.’?

“That’s the Republican answer right now. I can’t in good conscience do that.”

The bill includes a provision that would raise the national minimum wage from $7.25 to $15, more than doubling it.

On his first day, Biden said the US would now seek to “repair our alliances and engage with the world once again”.

He also began the refrain that the US would lead “not merely by the example of our power but by the power of our example”.

One way in which he sought to do so was with a more aggressive stance against Saudi Arabia.

The Biden campaign team said the Trump administration “wrote Saudi Arabia a blank cheque”, and that Biden would reset relations, pressuring the country more on human rights.

The US has now suspended military support, including arms sales, of the Saudi-led military campaign in Yemen, which the UN has called “the world’s worst humanitarian crisis”.

For comparison, Britain still sells arms to Yemen, though some MPs are pressuring the UK Government to follow the US in banning arms sales to Saudi Arabia.

The Biden administration has imposed sanctions on military leaders responsible for the coup d’état in Myanmar. Biden said he was also open to a nuclear arms limitation deal with Iran, after Trump withdrew from a deal – agreed to under the Obama

administration – in 2018. Biden has warned he will not lift economic sanctions on Iran until it complies with the original 2015 agreement’s terms.

He restored US aid to Palestine, which was cut by the Trump administration. The US envoy to the UN has said Biden supports a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.

Biden has made climate change a key issue of his presidency, calling it an “existential threat” to the world.

On day one, he signed an executive order re-joining the Paris Agreement on climate change, and halted the US’ withdrawal from the World Health Organisation.

Soon after he signed a series of further executive orders on the environment, pausing leases for oil and gas drilling on federal land where possible and reviewing the US’ energy leases.

He also ordered all the government’s cars and trucks to be changed for electric vehicles.

Climate will be made an “essential element” of US foreign policy and national security, and the administration has set ambitious goals for reducing emissions.

Biden has set a goal of conserving 30% of American land and oceans by 2030.

And Biden is aiming to pass a clean energy package worth $2tn through congress, with 40% of the investments being made in disadvantaged communities.

He said “This isn’t time for small measures, we need to be bold. It’s about jobs, good paying union jobs, it’s a whole of government approach to put climate change at the center of our domestic, national security and foreign policies. We can do this, we must do this and we will do this.”

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Providing a range of certified courses aimed at building your confidence and increasing your employability potential.

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COMMENT ‘Sex Education’ and its repre- COVID-19’s impact and the sentation of sexual dysfunction desire for Welsh Independence

YOUR COMMENT DESK W

ith February being Body Positivity Month, it’s important to focus on common issues such as sexual difficulties and dysfunctions that can have a detrimental effect on how people view themselves and diminish confidence because of the pressure placed on sex in society.

Sexual experiences in general are not always the idyllic and heavenly experiences many entertainment networks and films might suggest them to be.

Losing your virginity is not always the mind-blowing event that changes your life, nor is it a certainty that having sex before marriage means you will undoubtedly fall pregnant.

Sexual difficulties affect more than half the population of the UK under 50, from difficulties that prevent penetrative sex like erectile dysfunction and pain like vaginisimus, to even issues of vaginal dryness.

Considering such a large proportion of the UK face some kind of problem in their sex lives, there is little mention in the media, school education or general information about the normality of these conditions.

One of the first popular entertainment depictions of sexual health, including sexual dysfunctions and the outcomes they have on the person’s confidence and self-image, was in Netflix’s hit TV series Sex Education, which a predominant amount of filming was down in Wales, like Cardiff.

From the first series, Sex Education accurately depicts the range of sexual maturity that different teenagers and young adults are at during their years at school, including delving into certain topics involving exploring sexuality, sexual dysfunctions and first experiences.

Right at the beginning of the first series, the topic of erectile dysfunction is covered, which is a ‘massively common but under-reported’ issue, according to Emily Burt, the Founder of Fumble, the inclusive non-profit sex advice organisation for young people.

As one of the most stigmatised sexual dysfunctions for young men, Sex Education introduces a real look at how erectile dysfunction can impact confidence and self-image.

This dysfunction is actually so common that it happens to most people from time to time, or is even impacted by alcohol or an underlying health condition like high blood pressure or a hormonal imbalance.

The pressure surrounding young men means that erectile dysfunction is

hardly talked about, and from a young age, there can be a lack of proper sexual health education surrounding the matter.

Similarly, season two of Sex Education delves deeper into topics that are rarely mentioned in school sex education or in the media, from aesexuality to vaginisimus.

In the finale of series two, one of the characters, Lily, admits to suffering from vaginismus, a condition that causes the pelvic muscles to tighten making penetration painful.

Pain during sex for women is very common, with almost 1 in 10 women experiencing recurring pain when penetration is attempted.

Yet, it is hardly ever represented accurately or at all in the media, least of all in entertainment.

Fans of the show have praised Lily’s story for being groundbreaking in presenting vaginismus, showing the treatment using dilators, but also the fact that it doesn’t mean the end of sexual pleasure.

As a woman who understands the pressures surrounding sex, losing your virginity and making the experience pleasurable for your partner, it is easy to recognise why so many women experience pain from subconscious anxiety or previous traumas.

What doesn’t make sense is the lack of representation it receives in the media and education.

What Sex Education presents through the exploration of sexual dysfunctions is that it does not indicate there is something wrong with your body and does not have to last forever.

Most people go through the same things but it’s just become a taboo subject that seems embarrassing to talk about.

Therapy and counselling in the show does, for once, also get an accurate representation and how it benefits towards solving these issues that can have a huge affect on self-confidence.

With the third series of the show currently in post-production but postponed due to the ongoing pandemic, we are still waiting to see how the new series will compare to its previous series’ on addressing stigmatised topics surrounding sex and sexual dysfunctions.

So far, and hopefully within the future, the show has been a positive step in reducing the taboo of talking openly and educating each other on sexual health and the common occurrence of sexual difficulties.

We can only hope that Sex Education will pave the way forward for future TV shows, to end the stigma surrounding sexual dysfunction.

when you are stuck in algorithms which fit your interests perfectly making it almost impossible to put your device down.

It can not only be damaging to work ethic but also mental wellbeing with the loss of time leading to tiredness and lack of motivation.

The addictiveness of the apps is contributing to a worrying amount of students feeling the effects on their work as well as seeing people online posting the best version of their lives and struggling to compete.

It’s concerning that even during extremely uncertain times for students in particular entering a job market which isn’t flourishing, that people still feel the need to post the idealised version of their experiences online.

Lots of questions have been raised about how we value what we see online,

do we really need to go online, when we are struggling, and see an ‘influencer’ lounging in the sun in Dubai preaching about mental health and being healthy.

Probably not, is the answer.

Promoting ideals which are simply unrealistic in the current climate where people can’t access gyms, are spending most of their time at home (rightly so) and just trying to get by in general is damaging to mental health and the morale for whole communities who just want the lockdown to end.

There are obviously creators who promote positivity but they seem to be outnumbered currently.

But it’s not only social media which is constantly changing.

Television is almost unrecognisable.

An interesting development of the pandemic has been how the industry itself has been forced to adapt with every-

Sian Hopkins

Comment Editor

Molly Govus

Sian Hopkins

Cerys Ann Jones

Izzy Morgan comment@gairrhydd.com

he coronavirus pandemic has catalysed an increasing desire for Welsh Independence among the country’s citizenry consequent to the pervasive presence of political and public discourse within society.

Devolution and its impact on the governance of Wales have become increasingly evident throughout the pandemic’s duration.

The Welsh Government’s demonstration of its complete competence as a stand-alone governing body during the global health crisis has placed Welsh Independence at the centre of the nation’s political and social discussion.

Contrasting governing approaches by the British and Welsh governments attempting to contain COVID-19 have further illuminated that the United Kingdom is a state composed of four nations, therefore.

There is an amplified need to intensify this arrangement. Siôn Jobbins, the official Chairman of YesCymru, stated: “Due to Westminster’s handling of COVID-19, the people of Wales are seeing that they and the Senedd can do a better job of looking after our interests than Westminster.

“When the Senedd has ignored Westminster and put the interests of Wales first, they have done things better”.

A Barometer poll conducted by YouGov for Cardiff University and ITV Wales exhibits that a quarter of Welsh voters are in support of an independent Wales, the highest proportion of citizens ever recorded in survey data.

The poll created in August revealed that 32% of eligible voters would vote in support of Welsh Independence, an increase of 7% preceding the previous poll conducted in June.

The data demonstrate that 46% of Welsh people aged between 16-24 support an independent Wales.

Polling data released in September illuminated that Welsh citizens believed that the Welsh Government had managed the coronavirus crisis in a better manner than the British Government.

When questioned regarding which extent the participants believed that the UK Government successfully handled the coronavirus pandemic, a limited 5 percent stated very well, whilst 31 percent said fairly well.

Conversely, 20 percent of polling participants believed that the Welsh Government had managed the pandemic very well, with an additional 54% stating fairly well, thereby illustrating

that citizen satisfaction regarding the government’s approach to the pandemic is of greater magnitude in Wales.

The non-profitable organisation, YesCymru, functions to promote Welsh independence through continuous campaigning.

The prominent non-party political group has acquired a surge in supporters following the Welsh Government’s proficiency whilst navigating the country through the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic.

The organization has accumulated 17,000 paying members, an increase of 13 thousand since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020 when YesCymru acquired only 4,000 members.

There is no such surge in political parties, illuminating the pace gathered by the aspiring political movement.

Following Prime Minister, Boris Johnson regarding the notion of devolution as “a disaster”, data provided by a YouGov opinion poll conducted in November 2020 revealed that 59 percent of survey respondents stated that they would support a “devo-max” option if a referendum were to occur, which would see powers transferred from Westminster to the Welsh parliament in Cardiff.

Scotland has provided a political framework regarding its desire for complete independence from the British Government, an example in which YesCymru wishes to follow.

In Scotland, 14 consecutive polls have confirmed that 58% of voters would actively vote to leave the UK, whilst 33% of Welsh voters would vote to leave.

The Welsh figure marks a historic high for the country and is equivalent to where Scotland was in 2012 when the independence referendum was called thereby illuminating that change is on the horizon.

Data confirms that there is a definite influx in support of Welsh Independence across the country, therefore, its prominence must be reflected with the upcoming Senedd elections if a democratic change is to occur.

The Welsh Government must assert their constitutional position emphasising that the people of Wales value devolution, a notion which is threatened by the Conservative Party in Westminster.

The devolved powers of the Welsh nation have become prominent consequent to the coronavirus pandemic through the differing governing approaches between Wales and Westminster.

Therefore, the Welsh Government has demonstrated true competence as a self-sufficient governing body, and thus is increasing the desire for Independence.

thing from production to what kinds of shows we are seeing on our screens.

We are now seeing talk shows being predominantly socially distanced as well as interviewing guests who would usually be in the studio via zoom.

This undoubtedly leads to mememaking hilarity with many people still not quite getting the hang of the new technology needed to keep things going.

The creation of shows like Staged that take place fully separate and independently, it highlights a definitive period of last year in both seasons of the show.

They talk about neighbour-watching, the inevitable technical difficulties and the struggles of being locked in at home with your family.

The industry is also having to incur huge costs that they would not have

originally foreseen just to keep the cameras rolling with testing, social distancing all making production extremely difficult.

Whilst, it might not seem initially to be ‘essential work’ there are tens of thousands of livelihoods that depend on these productions being kept on track.

Even though there is not a definitive answer for when this lockdown will end in sight, there is certainly an irreversible change.

Not only by creating new dynamic workspaces online. but in the online space for leisure like social media and streaming services.

It is encouraging to see ‘influencers’ being held to account for how damaging their output can be even if we are only now recognising it, though I’m not sure if it will continue.

Cerys Ann Jones

Comment Editor

T

Lockdown and our love affair with the media: how has our usage changed?

Izzy Morgan

Comment Editor

T

he one thing we know about lockdown is that we have consumed a lot more media than usual. With the internet and our devices now being a necessity rather than a luxury it’s getting tougher and tougher to limit our usage.

With the choice of everything from television, to YouTube, Instagram and other social media it’s not even like we are short on choice.

But has lockdown changed our view on the media we consume or are we more screen-addicted than ever?

As a student, potentially the most impactful creation (and not necessarily for the better) has been the infinite scroll. Minutes inevitably turn to hours

SYLWADAU

15

Does distance really make the heart grow fonder?

Sia: Problematic The wrath of 2020/21 has shown strains on our closest relationships and friendships portrayal of Molly Govus autism?

Comment Editor

I

like to think that I’m an extrovert. I get my energy and motivation from being surrounded by the people that make me happiest, but this year, that has become increasingly difficult.

I am extremely grateful to have a supportive and loving family, but I am completely aware that some people aren’t as blessed. It is during this time that we need our friends around us the most.

In times of loneliness and a lack of hope, being surrounded by friends can be the ultimate escape. COVID-19 has starved us from muchneeded interaction and it’s about time we speak out about that and the problems that can arise from this. The truth is, it is really hard to deal with – maybe even harder than we care to admit.

It comes to no surprise that the pandemic has created more tensions within relationships.

Not only is this a tense time where emotions are running high, but friendships are now open to a new type of criticism surrounding the ways in which our friends respond to lockdown rules. This is an issue that we have never experienced before within our relationships, so it is understandable that there is a conflict of opinion surrounding this very new issue.

For example, one issue that has arisen, especially in University culture, is having housemates in relationships. Personally, I’m not going to stop my friends from seeing the people they love most.

I can’t relate to that situation of not being able to see a partner during this time; therefore, I feel like I have no right or place to voice my opinion. I’m comfortable with them seeing others and I’m not going to judge that, rightly or wrongly.

On the other hand, a student from the University of Northampton explained how she felt whilst her close friends flouted lockdown rules. She stated that ‘they were all gathered at their family houses, with three households together…it was like there was no pandemic’. She followed: ‘I don’t want to be friends with people who put others’ lives at risk’.

Alex Briggs Contributor

I Six feet apart: Due to social distancing measures, we have found ourselves stripped of everyday interaction.

Source: Erin (via. Flickr)

It was this comment that struck me most. At the end of the day, when people break lockdown rules, this truly is what is happening. Other peoples lives are being put at risk for that illegal meeting, that flouting of rules– and I think we have become desensitized to the fact, especially within university culture.

According to The Guardian, this problem has caused more problems than we may realise. The line is so blurred between what is wrong and right in this societal context, with some people taking rules subjectively rather than objectively.

The question is – at what point is at acceptable to voice an opinion to your closest friends at risk of causing conflict? The writer of the article, Sirin Kale, states that ‘the reason COVID-19 is so divisive is because it’s a moral issue’ and it’s clear how this can be a breeding ground for arguments.

When looking at this dilemma, it is easy to see how friendships can become rocky territory, and it has become an awkward topic to approach. Seeing a friend at an illegal gathering on social media has sadly become the norm, and the response we tend to give is just a small sigh and a dash of disappointment. Really, given the seriousness and extent of the issue, isn’t it our place to actively do more?

It’s a horribly tricky and uncomfortable situation.

Then, the other side of the is-

sue arises. Are we overstepping the mark by saying something? Isn’t everybody allowed to make their own choices? Do we accept that their morals or interpretation of the rules may be different?

We have been taken away from our extended social circles for over a year now. It feels like so much longer, unfortunately. The University of Wollongong conducted a tracking survey showing that over 2000 Australian participants showed significant pandemic-linked behavioural changes, and other studies, such as the COVID-19 social study, showed that people are lonelier than ever using the UCLA 3-item loneliness scale.

In October 2020, a source revealed that there had been at least one student death every week since the beginning of the university term. I’m sure we are all aware of how confining and isolating first year halls can be but imagine if that is all you have access to, all the time, in a lockdown.

It sounds unbearable and unfortunately, that was the case for some of these students.

This heart-breaking fact begs the question – at what point does it become necessary to break lockdown rules, if ever? The question even makes me uncomfortable to write because it is so conflicting, and I’m finding that this whole discussion is filled with questions.

That is exactly what this is – a

situation of doubt, unanswered thoughts, and confusion.

The only question I have left to attemt to summarise this 2020-esque situation is to ask if there is a way forward.

An article from The Guardian explored how friendships of over 30 years have been damaged due to COVID-19-related conflict, and I think this shows just how serious the problem can be. As I mentioned previously, there are peoples lives on the line.

I think we need a lot of hope when looking at this situation, and a lot of perspective. Ultimately, this is temporary. Of course, it doesn’t feel temporary in the slightest.

Lockdowns and tier restrictions have been a part of our lives for what feels like forever. But, it will not be.

COVID-19 will come to an end, and soon enough, we will have other news to discuss. There is more for us to overcome, in the grand scheme of things.

Boundaries are the most important things we have lost sight of during this time. Ultimately, all we can do is focus on our own morals and what we believe to be the ‘right’ thing to do in this horrid situation.

This is a temporary, but emotionally- charged problem, and hopefully, in the future, our friendships may be made stronger by it through being able to discuss boundaries with one another.

‘Lockdown has had a positive impact’ ‘Life feels on hold at the moment’ Hallum Cowell Deputy Editor

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n my opinion, university is really a social experience more so than a learning experience; at least it has been for me. As such, the pandemic has really put a hold on this vital aspect of university.

Originally when writing this piece, I like many perhaps, thought, ‘yeah obviously it’s been naff, like no clubs or pubs of course it’s had a negative impact’ but, I now think it might have been largely alright. I think that I’m was in a good position for this pandemic, I live with my mates which means that I still see and speak with and have done over the pandemic, so I haven’t exactly missed out on seeing them.

Those that I don’t see in person I see on semi-regular zoom calls

which, of course, is no substitute for the pub - it’s the best we can do so it’s been alright.

Surprisingly, I think lockdown has had a positive impact on some of my friendships. Mates I haven’t spoken to since A-level have reached out and I’ve reached out to them and we have regular discord calls; in fact during the pandemic, I’ve most likely spoken with them more than the last three years combined; and I don’t think that would have happened without the boredom brought about by lockdown.

But I can recognise that I’ve been fortunate; being a final year student and living with mates has made the whole pandemic more bearable.

Had I been a first year I think, justifiably, I would be very disappointed with the university experience.

Anonymous Contributor

E

verything feels tense. That’s the only way I know how to describe it.

I feel like I’m constantly caught between my morals and taking every situation of my friends breaking lockdown rules subjectively.

I feel wrong for doing that, but also, isn’t that the way this should be dealt with?

University students have felt like there’s no way out due to immense loneliness, and shouldn’t we, as a nation, have noticed that human interaction can actually be integral to our existence and wellbeing?

I’ve found it extremely difficult to navigate through my friendships at this time, especially in a

shared student household filled with many opposing opinions on COVID-19. I never know where to stand, until I realise, that no one really knows at all.

On one hand, I feel so bad for the couples in relationships that can’t see each other and I can imagine how hard it must be to emotionally deal with that distance.

But, then again, we are in a pandemic. Sacrifices need to be made, and unfortunately, that is one of them.

Life feels on hold at the moment, and this definitely means that there’s been a lot of tension and emotion.

COVID-19 feels like a neverending tunnel that has no end, but I think what is getting us all through is realising that it will end, sooner rather than later at this point (hopefully).

n the film Tropic Thunder there’s an in-universe movie called ‘Simple Jack’ about a mentally disabled man with a heart of gold that was made so Ben Stiller’s character could get an Oscar. It was a commentary on how neurotypical actors attempt to pay mentally disabled people in order to win awards, portraying them negatively as childlike and braindead but with a special insight on the world that makes them weird but inspiring to those around them. Sia’s directorial debut Music is an unironic real life recreation of Simple Jack.

Music stars Maddie Zeigler (a neurotypical actor) as the titular Music, an autistic girl who can’t speak properly, is incapable of taking care of herself and spends the majority of the movie hobbling around mugging at the camera. When her grandmother dies, her estranged older sister (Kate Hudson) comes in the take care of her with the movie being about the two bonding.

Music is heavily based on a lot of outdated and unhealthy stereotypes about autistic people; especially the fact that she cannot speak beyond the occasional grunt and the way she randomly jerks her body and face around when walking. This is an obvious attempt to act out stimming but not accurate in the slightest. Stimming is the way autistic people occasional do things like twirling their hair or by cracking our knuckles usually as form of body language, to show stress or comfort. Not only are Ziegler’s move stupidly exaggerated but they in no way look comfortable.

Another controversy is over how in order to calm her down, Music is physically restrained on the ground supposedly to give her security. One thing that media never seems to get right about autistic people is that how autism effects the individual differently. Some may like a hug, but others may be terrified by the idea of being touched. Regardless, most autistic people would be in a state of distress to be pinned to ground in the way that the film depicts.

The biggest problem, however, is that Music ultimately does not feel like a person. She doesn’t have any development for herself but rather the film is centred around how she makes her neurotypical sister a better person.

She screws with her plans but teaches her patience and encourages her to change. She could very well be a pet dog for the lack of agency she has.

This feeds to narrative that autistic people are nothing but a crutch for neurotypical people. While Music is portrayed as positive, her existence appears more as a burden and struggle that her sister must overcome. It’s completely centred around the conflict that a neurotypical has when dealing with an autistic person and never on the conflict of the autistic person themselves. This also reinforces the image that autistic people are hard to deal with rather than inviting neurotypicals to understand them better.

Sia has gone on the apologize for the film saying she “spoke to the wrong people” however it feels a little too late.

The film is out, it’s being watched, and it may lead to even more people being exposed to harmful framings about autism. She apparently spent three years researching autism for the movie yet all she created was another piece of media making the lives of autistic people just a bit harder.

16

ADVICE

Learning how to look out for your friends YOUR How can you support your peers and identify when they are mentally struggling?

ADVICE DESK I Vicky Witts

Head of Advice

Vicky Witts

Megan Evans advice@gairrhydd.com

Online resources to help mental wellbeing Vicky Witts

Head of Advice

I

n a situation as stressful as the coronavirus pandemic, it is unsurprising that many of us may be feeling that our mental health may be being impacted.

It is therefore important to learn where you can access some online resources, if you feel that you need to get help with the ways that you are feeling.

CALM Calm (or the Campaign Against Living Miserably), is an organisation which aims to help those who are suffering with their mental health by offering both a helpline and a website, where you are able to talk to someone if you feel that you are struggling, without the need for face-to-face contact.

Mind The mind website offers many of the resources and advice of other mental health organisation pages, however, it also has a dedicated page for people who are struggling with specifically coronavirus related mental health problems. There are articles on the website on a range of topics, from students struggling in the pandemic, to anxiety around wearing facemasks, and so it may be a particularly good website if your mental health concerns are primarily coronavirus related.

Student Minds Student minds is an organisation specifically focused of the mental health struggles of students. It offers 24/7 support, as well as a large number of resources that you can read.

t is perhaps undoubtable that the coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on many people’s mental health. Whether due to a fear of catching the virus, or the negative side-effects of not being able to see your friends or do the activities that you usually do, many of us are frequently feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed.

Consequently, it is important to try and look out for those around you and offer your support, as it may have become easier to ignore the signs that your peers are struggling due to the large amounts of time that we are having to spend away from being with them in person.

Learn to notice you friends’ moods To properly be able to look out for your friends, you first may need to learn how to interpret their moods and identify when they may not be feeling quite themselves, so that you become better able to reach out and support them. Therefore, you should aim to pay more attention to what your friends are saying and how they are acting, as a small change in their behaviour may indicate

that they are struggling and perhaps do not feel that they are able to talk about it with anyone.

Websites for groups such as Mind and the NHS have many resources than can help to teach you the signs of things such as depression, as well as other reasons why your friends may be in a negative mental mindset. However, everyone’s personality differs, and so, by learning how your friends act when they are not feeling themselves may be important to put you in the position where you are able to effectively reach out and help them.

Try random acts of kindness With all the negativity and depressing details in the news due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is likely that most of us feel that we are in need for some positivity and good news. However, with the inability to see each other in the same way as we used to caused by the pandemic, it can seem difficult to reach out to those around you.

One good way to implement small moments of positivity into your friends’ lives is by doing some random acts of kindness.

For example, you could simply send them a card with a kind message or a small, inexpensive gift, or perhaps even do something as simple as complimenting them on

a recent social media post. It may seem over the top or even silly, but if one of your friends are feeling particularly down, then receiving a small gesture of kindness may be what they need in order to start feeling a bit better.

Normalise saying how you feel To some of us, talking about our emotions may come easily and they may not find that saying how they feel is difficult. However, for many people, expressing your

emotions to your friends may feel very unnatural, especially if you feel that as friends you are more reserved or less outgoing.

Perhaps a good way to begin opening up to one another is just to check in occasionally and say what you both did throughout the day, and how you felt. By doing this, it may be easier for your friends to open up to you if they are feeling that they are struggling in the future.

Taking care of others: Making sure that your friends are doing well has become more difficult but essential during the pandemic. Source: Paris Neto (via: Flickr)

Which contraception method should you use?

Megan Evans Advice Editor

C

ontraception is still, to this day, not openly spoken about, with the clarification it so rightfully deserves. The taboo behind going to the doctors for contraception, should be normalised and not taken so harshly, especially as this helps young people to be informed correctly and safely. A study conducted at the University of Portsmouth, show that 69% or participants were uncomfortable talking to parents about sex and contracepton, and 72% talked to friends and used the internet for guidance. Universities should definitely take the advantage of advocating their resources about sexual health and wellbeing, and discuss contraceptives openly and freely.

As students, we are at the stage of being a lot more mindful of what we want, and we are more likely to engage with new sexual partners. With lockdown restrictions making it increasingly more difficult to meet new people, there still is a need to speak openly about the methods of contraception that can be used, in order to stay safe.

The combined pill or mini pill, are the most commonly used methods, and only requires you to take medication. The pill is over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Not only is it safe, but also affordable and effective, especially if you have your pill on you at all times. The combination pill which has estrogen and progestin are the most common, but you can take progestin

Contraception: It is important to weigh up the positives and negatives when deciding which type of contraception to use. Source: Marco Verch (via Flickr) only pills. If you know you will er levels of particular hormones.

The implant is also another be unreliable with taking pills at the same time every day, there are great method for contraception, definitely other options that may as you don’t have to fuss over takbenefit you hugely. However, it is ing pills at a certain time every so easy to take, and requires noth- day. It is a small plastic rod that ing less than if you were to take is placed under the skin, in your a tablet such as Ibuprofen or Par- upper arm. It releases progestogen and prevents pregnancy for 3 acetamol.

I decided to go on the pill a years.

This method is also more than couple of years ago, and I found it increasingly difficult to match 99% effective, and you don’t have the times (as I had decided to take to worry about it once it is placed. it in the evening), and there were If you have side effects or don’t days where I would have some- feel particularly comfortable havthing on, and would forget to take ing one, it is the most easy thing to get removed. it.

I have a lot of friends who speak The Cardiff Royal Infirmary was the best place to go to as highly of the implant, as you can’t a student. As soon as I had ar- feel it, and once you’ve inserted it, rived, I immediately got a year’s you don’t have to worry at all.

The contraceptive injection is worth of my mini pill upfront, without having to see a doctor, as also another method and is more they have a great clinic that deals than 99% effective. It lasts for 8 to with young people and any sexual 13 weeks, depending on the injechealth problem. I would definitely tion, so again you don’t need to look into the types of pills they take anything regularly once you offer, and get one that suits your have had one, although, you need needs, as some definitely height- to remember to get a repeat once en your moods, and make you feel it expires or becomes ineffective.

The IUD (Intrauterine device), so much worse, and include highor more commonly known as the

‘coil’ or ‘copper coil’, is a small Tshaped plastic and copper device that is placed in your womb, and also protects against pregnancy, which can last between 5 and 10 years. There is a great track record of the coil, as it is also 99% effective, and can again, be taken out at any point.

This method usually does cause some discomfort when inserted and potentially after, as it can move around inside the womb.

It is important to weigh up the positives and negatives when deciding what contraception to go on, but it is vital if you are becoming more sexually active, that you are aware of the consequences of not using any form of protection, as condoms aren’t enough to keep you safe. Women across England and Wales, are struggling to gain access to contraceptives, as young people are quite put off from seeing their GPs about contraception. It is crucial to speak openly, and have these discussions.

It is important that, particularly if you are in a relationship, that you investigate contraceptive methods with your partner, and if you are struggling to make a decision, ask a close friend or your doctor, who will have lots of resources that will explain the effectiveness of each method. There is also no harm in trying a different form if one doesn’t work out.

One thing is certain- do not feel like you are alone. You will find that so many people are in the same boat as you, and that is ok. You may think in a global pandemic, this is the last thing you want to make a decision on, but if you make an informed choice now, you can massively thank yourself in the future.

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COLUMN

Megan Evans

MEGAN’S MUSINGS

Combating Imposter Syndrome: Forbes estimated that around 70 percent of the population will experience these feelings, but the syndrome can be easily managed. Source: Pxhere

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hen it comes to sitting down, and actually tackling the many parts of me that craves to let go and be free with my writing, or illustrate, or create something completely unique, I find it rather challenging.

Whilst we are taking on this world where covid-19 has decided to strip away the normal day to day living that we are very much used to, there is also another emerging issue that i find has made it more challenging.

That is imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome, by definition, is the experience of believing that you are not as competent as others may perceive you to be. It also asserts feelings of severe inadequacy and self-doubt, which can leave you feeling like a ‘fraud’. This can affect anyone, it doesn’t have to explicitly relate to one person, or one collective ‘group’ of people. Forbes estimated that around 70% of the population will have experienced these feelings.

In the 21st century, with the tap of a phone, you can see thousands upon thousands of profiles. If I were to struggle to start writing, I can have access to articles that have already written on similar topics. If I wanted some fashion inspiration, pinterest is right there with the most aesthetically pleasing outfits and homeware waiting for you to pin it to fit that feed you desperately desire. If i wanted to get well-being advice, instagram has thousands

of pages dedicated to positive affirmations and quotations that can advise you how to start ‘living your best life!’ In swirly yellow handwriting. We are around so many sources of expectations which are too high, and to be honest, very difficult to comprehend.

I find that sometimes, having access to so much material can be so overwhelming, and it can also feel like I am being swamped. I have aspirations to write and i desperately want to have articles published, but how can I ‘stand out’ when there is so much competition out there?

I can go on twitter, and stumble across accounts with thousands of followers, and a portfolio of work that spans years that I didn’t exist on.

It can be really difficult to feel like you are completely unique in a world, where individuality is accepted by also scrutinised

It can be really difficult to feel like you are completely unique in a world, where individuality is accepted but also scrutinised. I read an article today that even a famous pop-star like anne-marie felt imposter syndrome, from appearing

on the voice uk.

Why is it affecting so many people? And how can we change our outlook?

If you have something that keeps you up at night, it is a sign that you need to do something about it.

Sometimes i have an idea that surges my brain just before I go to bed, which is why i keep a notebook next to me. A passing thought could be the reason you are in the situation you are in. If you have something itching on to your brain, something you are desperately passionate to do, start addressing it. Put it into your routine.

Imposter syndrome does its best to make you feel like you aren’t worthy, but make your life worthy by doing what makes you happy. Life is all about gaining perspective and having a purpose, and if you make your purpose to feel guilty for doing the things you enjoy, that makes it harder for you.

Develop a healthy response to failures and mistakes.

This is actually something I wish I had addressed sooner. We are all guilty of being hard on ourselves when things don’t go as planned.

You may see someone achieving well, whether that be a good mark on an essay, or achieving a promotion in a job, and if you don’t get the gratifications from the same areas, you may feel guilty and sad.

Everyone’s journey is completely separate, and just because a good

friend of yours has separate successes, doesn’t mean you won’t have your own.

Stop expecting perfection.

This is something that has taken me so much time to learn. I am not the best writer out there, but the measure of ‘best’ is completely subjective anyway. I could have one person tell me that i have written something amazing, and I will feel gratification. The source of perfectionism, in this modern world, is so unattainable. You cannot have the healthiest of bodies or minds, if you are criticising yourself for not being the best of the best.

You cannot have the healthiest of bodies or minds, if you are criticising yourself for not being the best It is also great to have a goal to achieve, so each day you have something greater to work towards.

In a time that is fuelled by a lot more negative energy during the crisis, it should be a time where we allow ourselves to breathe and take time out.

Try not to compare yourself to others, but to an older version of you.

This is important, because you can see immense progress within yourself which can ultimately make you feel miles better, than comparing yourself to someone with a completely different skillset. The whole Imposter Syndrome complex, is based around feeling out of your depth compared to others, so ruling out that mindset can make you feel much more confident.

Remember that you are NOT alone.

This is so important, as sometimes when you are bombarded with negativity, you may feel like it is only you that is feeling that way.

These feelings are completely valid.

Even the most successful, powerful and accomplished women and men have been unsure of themselves at one point or another.

Your inner critic is your worst enemy. The next time you feel yourself doubting your abilities, ask yourself why! Write down all the feelings you have on a blank piece of paper, and then write on the other side the positives. Shifting the narrative around on how you define your skills and owning your own accomplishments, to silence those automatic negative thoughts and commiting to self-care rituals instead.

Create a network of people around you that make you feel confident, instead of feeling anxious andexperiment with new skills that stop you from feeling stuck in the same boat.

18

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY New appetite drug revolutionises obesity treatment

YOUR The drug, Semaglutide, led to 15kg of weightloss and described as SCIENCE “effortless” by one participant, marks a new era of treatment DESK T Holly Giles

Head of Science & Technology

Holly Giles

Rowenna Hoskin

Mili Jayadeep

Jack Robert Stacey science@gairrhydd.com

he Health Survey for England now estimates that 28% of adults in England are classified as obese and a further 36.2% are classified as overweight, meaning over half the adult population ahave a BMI over the recommended average for their age and height.

As well as adult obesity, recent years have seen an increase in childhood obesity levels with close to 10% of children aged 4-5 being classified as obese and a further 13.1% are overweight. This figure then increases to 21% and 14.1% by the age of 10.

Obesity is associated with dayto-day problems including breathlessness, joint and back pain, difficulty with movements and feeling tired.

However, it is also linked to more serious health conditions where being overweight has been recognised as a serious risk factor for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, gallstones, osteoarthritis, liver, kidney and heart disease and a range of other problems.

As a result of this obesity reduces life expectancy by 3-10 years and has a huge effect on quality of life.

The main treatment methods for obesity are encouraging patients to exercise and eat healthily and then eventually to undergo bariatric surgery.

This term refers to a collection of procedures which reduce the size of the stomach in order to reduce the amount of food eaten by the individual to try and help them lose weight.

However, a new drug may be able to do this without surgery as seen in the 15-month trial of semaglutide.

The study was performed on almost 2,000 people who received either weekly injection of semaglutide alongside advice on diet and fitness, or an empty injection serving as a placebo and just the advice.

They found that those on the injection showed an average 15kg weight loss during the 15-month period compared to 2.6kg without.

32% of those taking the drug lost a fifth of their body weight, compared with fewer than 2% of the placebo group.

The drug works by mimicking Ghrelin, a hormone released after a meal to tell the brain that your

Miracle drug: The new drug is superior to any weight loss medication according to Professor O’Rahilly and marks a new era for obesity treatment. Source: Gatis Gribusts (via Flickr) stomach is full and that you don’t need any more food.

Being able to synthetically increase the feeling of fullness reduces the amount eaten by individuals, helping them to lose weight.

One participant from the trial, Jan, said: “The drug changed my life and completely altered my approach to food”. She said dieting had made her miserable but that this drug was “effortless” as she was less hungry, A limitation to the treatment is that it only suppresses appetite whilst injections are ongoing, meaning appetite levels return as soon as the treatment stops. Jan told: “It felt effortless losing weight while on the trial, but now it has gone back to feeling like a constant battle with food”.

Trials are continuing in a fiveyear study in order to investigate the long-term effects of the drug and if the weight loss can be sustained in the long-term.

The treatment was also associated with a number of side effects including nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation.

Despite this, experts are calling

the drug a sign of a new era for anti-obesity treatment. Professor Sir Stephen O’Rahilly, from the University of Cambridge, said: “The amount of weight loss achieved is greater than that seen with any licensed anti-obesity drug.

“This is the start of a new era for obesity drug development with the future direction being to achieve levels of weight loss comparable to semaglutide, while having fewer side-effects.”

This was seconded by Professor Rachel Batterham from UCL: “This is a game-changer in the amount of weight loss it causes.

I have spent the last 20 years doing obesity research, up until now we’ve not had an effective treatment for obesity apart from bariatric surgery.”

Finally, Dr Duane Mellor, a dietitian, said: “It is useful to have a potential option to help people lose weight, however we need to acknowledge that weight loss will still need lifestyle change, and that any medication or change in lifestyle can bring potential risks and side-effects. So, it is always wise to speak to a health professional be-

fore trying to lose weight.”

Semaglutide is now awaiting approval from drug regulators, but is expected to be able to be prescribed in the near future for those unable to lose weight through diet and lifestyle alone.

Adding therapeutic options to this ever growing condition will help stem the curve of increasing obesity across the UK and provide people hope that weight loss is possible.

The key question though for clinicians to answer next, is when the treatment stops does the weight loss stop?

And, how can they make this answer ‘no’?

The amount of weight loss achieved is greater than that seen with any licensed anti-obesity drug.

This is the start of a new era for obesity drug development “ Professor Sir Stephen O’Rahilly

University of Cambridge

17,000 year old shell shown to be a playable instrument like a trumpet Holly Giles

Head of Science & Technology

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ockdown was a time for many to take up new hobbies and musical instruments were no exception: it is estimated that 69% of children play a musical instrument regularly, alongside 34% of adults.

Playing a musical instrument has been linked to a number of beneficial health changes including boosting the immune system, increasing memory, increasing emotional perception and even increasing the processing power of the brain through more grey matter.

A common misconception is that music is a modern acquisition but research shows it dates back thou-

sands of years.

This was supported by the discovery on the conchae shell in France that has been played this month.

The shell was first found by excavators in a cave in Marsoulas where it was assumed to be a ceremonial drinking cup.

However, recent analysis from the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) showed its true purpose was a musical instrument.

This change came from the observation of deliberate modifications that had been made to the shell in order to enhance its ability to make sound.

These alterations included the hole at one end which had been manipulated to allow the addition of a

mouth piece and cuts at the other end which allowed the player to modulate the sound with their hand.

This is most similar to the mouthpiece of a trumpet and the use of a mute to alter the sound coming out.

The team then asked a musician to try out the instrument and it was reported they were able to achieve notes close to C, C-sharp and D. Reflecting on this, Philippe Walter from Sorbonne University, said: “The intensity produced is amazing, approximately 100 decibels at one metre. And the sound is very directed in the axis of the aperture of the shell,” There were also patterns on the inner surface of the shell’s opening made with iron oxide pigment fingerprints. These are the same style

to the Marsoulas cave paintings where there is a bison created by 300 finger dots.

Explaining the significance of these findings, Gilles Torsello from the University of Toulouse, told: “This establishes a strong link between the music played with the conch and the images, the representations, on the walls. To our knowledge this is the first time we can put in evidence a relationship between music and cave art in European prehistory.”

This unity of music and art increases our knowledge of the Upper Palaeolithic people, who are already well-known for their use of bone, antler and ivory to make tools.

This findings sheds a more creative light on the era and highlights

our links with the time.

The shell is the oldest known wind instrument of its type but this research shows it is possible that other artefacts have been collected and miscategorised, so it is hoped through new technology this can be corrected and more instruments may be identified.

To our knowledge this is the first time we can put in evidence a relationship between music and cave art in European pre-history.”

Gilles Torsello

University of Toulouse

GWYDDONIAETH A THECHNOLEG

Report shows billions in damage caused by global salmon farming through unsustainable methods Holly Giles

Head of Science & Technology

M

any of us love tucking in to smoked salmon, but few know the damaging consequences of the salmon farming industry and the effect it has on our climate. A report has been published highlighting the environmental impact of salmon farming, amounting to over $50 billion from 2013-2019 in damage.

Of particular concern, is the quantity of wild fish used in salmon farms. It is estimated that 20% of the amount of fish caught worldwide each year are used to make fishmeal and fish oil. 70% of this goes to fish farms. This is problematic for fishermen in developing countries whose stock is being depleted by the production of fish oil, in order to boost western fish.

This high demand leads to overfishing in these areas which leads to decreased fish populations and altered marine biodiversity.

This problem is expected to increase in the future through western plans to increase their farming capacity, meaning demand for fish oil will increase. Scotland has reported a plan to double its farming capacity by 2030, and Norway to increase by fivefold by 2050.

One of the most shocking realisations is that there are other sources of fish oil farmers could use to replace the need for wild fish, such as algae as a source of Omega 3. But according to a report published last week, few farms do so.

According to Natasha Hurley,

Campaigns Manager at the Changing Markets Foundation, said: “Moving away from using wild caught fish in food would make salmon farming more sustainable, as it is having a huge impact on wild fish.”

Another worrying component of salmon farming, is the increasing number of fish mortality.

This has risen from 3% in 2002 to 13.5% in 2019 with over two thirds of them being unaccounted for. One of the biggest salmon killers is sea lice infestations which is responsible for 20% of fish mortality, but the true number is likely to be higher.

Treating this infection and looking at other causes of mortality, is estimated to equate to 60% of the costs behind salmon farming.

Being able to treat the infection more efficiently and more cheaply, would reduce fish mortality and increase the sustainability of the sector further.

A spokesperson from Mowi, the Norwegian company producing 20% of the world’s farmed salmon, said: “We are pleased that the report finds that, when considering the full range of benefits and impacts, the business of salmon farming demonstrates overall positive effect.

“We agree there are opportunities for continued improvements for our business.

“The inclusion of small amounts of fish meal and oil is certified sustainable by third parties and integral to salmon’s health and welfare”.

Whilst the spokesperson recognises there are “opportunities for continued improvements” it is not known when we can expect to see these changes in our largest

Contributor

A

study by the University of Minnesota Medical School has discovered a promising method of detecting ovarian cancer in earlier stages than formerly possible using Pap test samples.

Ovarian cancer is characterized by abnormal cell mutation in the ovaries, leading to the consequent growth of metastatic tumours that may spread throughout the body via the bloodstream or lymphatic system, and hinder daily function as a result.

It is one of the most prominent “silent” diseases that kills women every year, due to the fact that signs and symptoms are often difficult to detect in the cancer’s earlier stages or misinterpreted for other ailments.

However, by the time detection and diagnosis of ovarian cancer occurs, it is often too late; most patients have a poor prognosis even after potential chemotherapies and operations.

As of 2021, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 13,700 women may die from the direct effects or complications of ovarian cancer. Currently, there is no

• • • •

confirmed system of early warning for this chronic disease.

A method for cervical cancer screening, on the other hand, usually involves Papanicolaou tests, or Pap (smear) tests, during which cells of the cervix are scraped away with swabs and examined for potential cancerous growths. This enables possible early detection.

Because the ovaries and cervix are anatomically close to one another, Amy Skubitz, PhD, senior author of the study and professor in the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, stated that: “We set out to identify the proteins present in Pap test samples and cervical swabs to determine whether or not the same proteins are present in ovarian cancer tumor tissues.”

Dr. Skubitz, who is also the director of the Ovarian Cancer Early Detection Program at the U of M Medical School, therefore initiated this study with successful results.

For all three sample types, more than 2,000 of the proteins present in women with cervical cancer were also present in the primary tumour of women with high grade serous ovarian cancer.

Skubtiz states: “This study is proof of concept that these biospecimens,

Was Stonehenge originally built in Wales?

Jack Robert Stacey Technology Editor

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Salmon Farming: A report has been published highlighting the environ-

mental impact of salmon farming, amounting to over $50 billion from 2013-2019 in damage. Source: John Allen (via Geograph) fish farms. Only when sustainable acknowledged, aquaculture prochanges, such as the use of algae for vides one of the best solutions to Omega 3, are made across the in- the feeding the world’s burgeoning dustry will real change be seen. population in years to come. It is a However, not all were happy with shame that the authors have chosen the report into the detrimental ef- to ignore these undeniable benefits fects of salmon farming, and felt it when publicising this report.” only told half the story. This sentiWhilst there are two sides to evement was highlight by a spokesper- ry story, the report provides conson for the Scottish Salmon Produc- vincing evidence of the darker side ers Organisation, who told: to salmon farming.

“Farmed salmon has a great enviThe report calls for action to ronmental story to tell - it has the make this process more sustainlowest carbon footprint of any main able and it is hoped that, as a result, livestock protein, it is a nutritious changes will be made to reduce the and healthy food and, as the UN impact of our fishing trade in the and other international experts have future.

Study discovers potential early detection for ovarian cancer which could improve prognosis for thousands Umaima Arif

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the Pap test and a swab of the cervix, could be developed for use in the detection of ovarian cancer biomarkers prior to surgery, but it does warrant further investigation.”

However, because the presence of these proteins alone are not enough to formulate an accurate diagnosis, Skubitz aims for the next steps to include using quantitative mass spectrometry to determine if these

proteins are detected in different amounts at different stages of ovarian cancer compared to the control groups.

Skubitz also hopes that this may open the opportunity for women at home to administer this test themselves as well; swabs can be collected by women at home and sent to a laboratory to be analyzed for a sufficient diagnosis.

Ovarian Cancer: Ovarian cancer is characterized by abnormal cell mutation in the ovaries. Source: Nick Youngson (via Picpedia)

Word of the week: Pap test

A method of cervical screening used to detect precancerous and cancerous growths Scientists collects cervical cells using an Ayre spatula It can be used either in the cervix or the colon (men and women) It is recommended from the age of 21 to 65

ith the recent discovery of a stone circle in Pembrokeshire, new evidence seems to suggest that Stonehenge may have been initially constructed in Wales and later moved.

The bluestone circle, uncovered at the “Waun Mawn” site in the Preseli Hills, Pembrokeshire, is thought by archaeologists to bear a striking resemblance to that of Stonehenge, the 5,000-year-old monument on the Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire. As part of their excavations for the BBC Two show ‘Stonehenge: The Lost Circle Revealed’, the team of archaeologists exposed a new bluestone circle measuring 110 metres (360 feet) in diameter which is approximately the same size as the earthen ditch constructed around Stonehenge.

In their reflections on these findings, the archaeologists hypothesize that the stones at the Welsh circle may have deconstructed and later relocated by prehistoric peoples to Wiltshire – A total distance that spans around 150 miles (240 km) of land.

The “Waun Mawn” site is primarily formed of four large stones which are composed of sedimentary bluestone and feature similar dimensions to the structures at Stonehenge. Created by the compressing of sediment by bodies of water, ancient people are thought to have extracted bluestone quarries due to its toughness and wide availability.

Professor Parker Pearson, an archaeologist specialising in death and burial, theorised that people in southern Britain had initially constructed Stonehenge in tribute to their ancestors, using the monument to “unite the peoples of east and west Britain”.

On the formation of Stonehenge, he also added that: “With an estimated 80 bluestones put up on Salisbury Plain at Stonehenge and nearby Bluestonehenge, my guess is that Waun Mawn was not the only stone circle that contributed to Stonehenge”.

Although archaeologists had previously investigated the “Waun Mawn” site, these excavations failed to identify evidence of six holes in the stones which, the researchers contend, could mean that Neolithic peoples took the stones with them as they migrated. This Welsh site, regarded as the third largest stone circle in Britain, is set to undergo further excavations.

The entrances to the two sites, in addition to having similar constructions, are both aligned with the sunrise during the summer solstice and, as such, are thought to have had a deeper, ancestral meaning for the ancient peoples who erected them. This may also shed light on the importance of the region in Neolithic times where, until around 3000 BC, the region was densely populated by several different groups of settlers.

Speculating in relation to the site’s cultural significance, Parker Pearson also supposed that: “maybe most of the people migrated, taking their stones – their ancestral identities – with them, to start again in this other special place,”.

This discovery, outlined more extensively in ‘Stonehenge: The Lost Circle Revealed’, represents a particularly interesting hypothesis on the monument’s past and, if supported by further findings, could shed light on this formerly obscured period of prehistory.

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

NASA predicts that an asteroid will make ‘close

approach’ in March Mia Becker-Hansen Contributor

A

huge asteroid, approximately five times the size of the Shard, has been dubbed ‘potentially hazardous’ by NASA. However, there is no need to fear as the space rock, officially named 231937 (2001 FO32), will still be 1.2 million miles from the Earth - Five times further away than the moon.

It has been labelled ‘potentially hazardous’ due to the possibility it might hit our planet at some point in the large-scale future of our Solar System.

At around 16:03 on the 21st of March, the mile-wide by half a milelong asteroid will make its closest approach to the planet yet. It should be possible to see the asteroid in the UK through an 8-inch or more aperture telescope, just after sunset looking above the southern horizon. This is the largest asteroid to ‘come close’ to the Earth this year.

Telescopes in New Mexico, part of the Lincoln Near-Earth Asteroid Research (LINEAR) program, first detected this particular asteroid back in 2001 and have had it under observation ever since. From these observations its orbit can be calculated, including how close it will get to the Earth, and its speed, an astounding 77,000mph. SpaceReference.org wrote of the asteroid: ‘Based on its brightness and the way it reflects light, 2001 FO32 is probably between 0.767 to 1.714 kilometers in diameter, making it larger than ~97% of asteroids but small compared to large asteroids.’.

NASA is always tracking all ‘NearEarth Asteroids’ (or ‘NEAs’) to determine whether the Earth comes into the path of any of their orbits.

Any space rock that comes within 93 million miles (about three quarters of the distance to Mars) is counted as a Near-Earth Asteroid. Thankfully, no known asteroid poses a significant risk to the Earth for the next 100 years. The biggest threat currently known is that of asteroid (410777) 2009 FD, with only a 0.2% chance of hitting the Earth in the year 2185. Asteroids named ‘hazardous’ comes within 4.6 million miles of the Earth and are at least 500ft wide.

According to the Texas-based scientists at EarthSky, the Near-Earth Asteroid will next return near our planet in approximatly 31 years (March 22 2052) however, the current approach “will be its closest to Earth for the next 200 years”. Although the 2001 FO32 asteroid has an elliptical orbit pattern (as opposed to a circular one), the space rock has been well documented by astrnomers in the past and is though to orbits around the sun every 810 days.

Multiple space agencies around the globe are currently looking into possible future solutions to deflect asteroids that could potentially end up on a collision course with the Earth. Although these proposals are merely conceptual, prominant ideas include using gravity to deflect the trajectory of an incoming asteroid, so as to change the direction of its course out of the Earth’s way. It has also been proposed that flying spacecrafts could be used to ‘pull an asteroids’ trajectory to a safe distance.

UK MPs called to rule against ‘rampant’ PlayStation and Xbox console scalping Jack Robert Stacey Technology Editor

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ith the continued prominence of ‘console scalping’ across the UK, many online retailers and members of the public have called for the government to introduce new, anti-scalping legislation.

Although online retailers have attempted to act against scalpers by limiting purchases to one item per registered address, many customers are still unable to acquire these hotly anticipated next-generation consoles (namely the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X) without paying dramatically increased prices to unknown, often unverified sellers.

On the whole, efforts to limit purchases have been ineffective at reducing the ability for so-called ‘scalpers’ to acquire multiple consoles and, as a result, the resale market remains to be highly lucrative for these groups.

‘Product scalping’, where a product (usually those with limited stock) is bought from a retailer and re-sold at an inflated price, is currently legal within the United Kingdom with little firm legislation in place against the practice – For reference, the UK banned automated ticket scalping (a similar practice) back in 2018.

In response to this a new bill, titled the ‘Gaming Hardware (Automated Purchase and Resale) Bill 2019-2021, has been brought forward to the UK Government and, critically, has the potential to ban this widely used practice.

Delivered by Douglas Chapman MP, the bill recognises the heightened difficulty customers have in purchasing these consoles as a result of online resellers and, in response, aims to place a ban on this type of automated scalping.

Caroline Dinenage MP, the Minister of State for Digital and Culture, spoke on the impact of online scalping and confirmed that UK officials will continue “discussing this issue” with prominent figures within “the trade association for the video games industry”.

In addition to protecting the stability of retailers across the UK, Dinenage also noted that it is fundamental that

Reselling Next-Gen Consoles: Recent data analysis suggests that approximately 7.06% of all PlayStation 5 consoles sold in the US were later resold by scalpers. Source: altairayon

any “further actions” taken by policymakers need to “improve experiences for customers” in order to regrow their trust in online retail platforms.

During the COVID-19 pandemic especially, there has been a significant increase in this activity with scalpers operating multiple automated online (or ‘bot’) accounts to guarantee they gain access to the latest consoles and gaming hardware before other customers.

Douglas Chapman MP highlighted that, whilst the newly proposed bill

We are looking at presenting a Bill in Parliament so that we can fu rther explore legislative options to protect consumers from this unfair practice” Douglas Chapman MP Scottish National Party Politician

was un- Mia Becker-Hansen likely to become fully integrated into UK law, its aim is instead to raise the situation to the government’s attention and encourage it to “take responsibility” by acting off of the outlined suggestions.

According to a study completed by Michael Driscoll, a data engineer who outlined his findings in a post on DEV Community, approximately 7.06% of all PlayStation 5 consoles sold in the US were later resold on eBay/StockX at a significant price increase (typically priced between 170% and 200% of the RRP).

As recorded from the 22nd of September 2020, the total sales of resold consoles equates to $143 million which has earned scalpers an estimated $43.2 million in profits.

Moreover, several online retailers (such as Game and Very) are continuing their efforts to dissuade this kind

of behaviour by cancelling orders placed by scalpers and introducing new forms of verification that complicate the purchasing process for automated accounts.

Chapman, a member of the Scottish National Party who represents Dunfermline and West Fife, presented the bill as a way to counteract the “resale of goods purchased by automated bots” and, as such, intends to better protect “the wider gaming community among children and adults alike”.

Continuing in reference to the significance of console scalping in the UK, Chapman raised that it is critical “to ensure that consumers can purchase gaming consoles and computer components at no more than the manufacturer’s recommended price”.

Whilst the new bill has yet to produce any large-scale impact on the methods commonly employed by console scalpers, its proposal has sparked

Royal Shakespeare Society set to perform “exciting” new show using virtual reality technology Francesca Ionescu Contributor

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ince the Covid-19 pandemic the arts have been badly disturbed, as a lot of performance arts could not continue without an audience.

While some companies took that as an opportunity to use the very relatable method of video-calling – see Staged with David Tennant and Michael Sheen – the Royal Shakespeare Company, based in Stratford-uponAvon, is taking this a step further.

RSC is well known for their special effects and high budget surreal production, and for their upcoming performance ‘Dream’ based on By bringing together specialists in on-stage live performance with that of gaming and music you see how much they have in common.”

Gregory Doran Artistic Director at the Royal Shakespeare Company

‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ they are planning to step into virtual reality. This is done in partnership with thirteen other companies and universities including Epic Games, De Montfort University and Intel.

Bringing together the art of drama and that of game development opens up a lot of possibilities when it comes to how stories are told and how much input technology can have.

The audience will be able to join in from anywhere, using a mobile phone, a VR headset or through the stream on the website, and the show is meant to be an interactive opportunity. The actors will be in a digital forest, wearing motion sensors that will allow them to interact with both the audience and the setting. The Philharmonic Orchestra inspired music will be expanded in real time by the movement of the actors.

The story, as well as the trailer, starts with ‘Puck’ leading the audience from the RSC wooden, real life set to the Virtual Reality forest where the story takes place. This is a nice reminder of Virtual Reality as a medium for art, reminding the audience that this is in fact not ‘reality’. The show

also plans to use Augmented Reality (AR) as well as Mixed Reality (MR) This could raise concerns that post pandemic we might not return to traditional performances, however RSC artistic director Gregory Doran said this is “not a replacement to being in the space with the performers but it opens up new opportunities.” In reference to the performance’s use of new technology alongside traditional theatre techniques, Doran noted that: “By bringing together specialists in on-stage live performance with that of gaming and music you see how much they have in common.”

The performance has actually been around as an idea for longer than the pandemic, as it is funded by the Audience of the Future program part of the government Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund delivered

by UK Research and Innovation -announced in March 2018 in the Creative Industries Sector Deal.

The £16 million investment is planned to include four performances according to the RSC official website, and this is only one of them, so it is exciting to see what else the company might explore in the fu-

ture. After all, technology is to be used, and while it might not replace traditional theatre, it will definitely help make theatre and art more accessible, even post pandemic.

The performance will be made up of seven actors and had been postponed to the week between the 12th of March and the 20th, and it can be watched for free, however members that wish to interact with the performance must purchase a £10 ticket off the website the Monday before.

The current castlist names several of the performers, including: EM Williams (as Puck), Maggie Bain (as Cobweb), Durrassie Kiangangu (as Moth), Jamie Morgan (as Pease Bottom), and Loren O’Dair (as Mustardseed).

It’s brilliant that we get the opportunity to use one of [Shakespeare’s] plays to discover what could be possible for live performance.”

Gregory Doran Artistic Director at the Royal Shakespeare Company

GWYDDONIAETH A THECHNOLEG

21

Scientists of the past & future: February 2021

Galileo Galilei and his ingenius inventions

Magnetism, the pendulum theory and the compass; a look back into Galileo’s life Rowenna Hoskin Science Editor

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he name Galileo is a famous one, not only because Queen referenced him in Bohemian Rhapsody. While the name is famous his history and ingenious inventions are perhaps not as widely known.

He was a man of many talents, an astronomer, physicist and philosopher in the 1500s. His inventions laid the groundwork for many objects that have shaped our civilisation: the compass, the telescope and the theory of a heliocentric solar system.

The world in which we live would look very different if Galileo had followed the route of priesthood as he once considered, or even the route of medicine as his father wished.

Galileo’s father made him enrol in medicine at the University of Pisa which kickstarted his scientific career. However, he never actually ended up doing the course, instead he swapped to philosophy and mathematics. After graduating, he became a professor of mathematics and worked on a variety of experiments.

Galileo’s mind was incredible, his ingenious allowed him to see things that others had not.

For example, he was the first to observe how long it took any object suspended from a rope or chain to swing to and fro.

He used his own pulse as a time measurement and he observed that, no matter how big the swings were, the time for each swing to be completed was exactly the same. Galileo had discovered the law of the pendulum which placed him in the position of notoriety within the academic community.

This law would later be used to produce clocks, enabling the regulation of them. So every time you look at your watch or the clock on the wall - give Galileo a little thank you.

Another aspect of Galileo’s career that placed him in the hawwll of scientific fame (although did not make him popular at the time), was his disproving of Aristotle’s theory concerning falling objects.

Aristotle believed that heavier objects would fall faster than smaller objects, and was a widely accepted theory - until Galileo dropped a variety of different weighted balls from the Tower of Pisa.

He set up a public demonstration and dropped all the balls off the top at the same time to prove that Aristotle was wrong, and wrong he was.

The balls all landed at the same time demonstrating that objects of different weights all fall to earth because of gravity at the same time.

In the 1500s, individuals who fell into debt were placed in prison. After his father’s death, Galileo was left with very little money and his sister’s dowry to pay - in an effort to make some money he began to invent things.

One of these inventions was what we now call a thermometer. It used water to float bulbs with varying masses labelled with different temperatures.

It allowed the temperature to be measured as the buoyancy of water changes as the temperature changes, making some bulbs sink: the lowest bulb showed the temperature.

This invention provided the building blocks for other scientists to create varying forms of the thermometer, until it developed into the thermometers that we use today - of which have been particularly important in taking the temperatures of covid patients.

Many other aspects of modern life originated or were somehow linked to Galileo, for example the magnet, the compass and even the telescope.

Originally, Galileo invented a military compass that allowed them to accurately aim cannonballs. He then modified it to allow it to be used for land surveying.

Although the invention of google maps and other technological advances, the compass is still used alongside maps with hikers and sailors - after all a compass will never run out of battery.

Magnetism is also a field that Galileo experimented with, using lodestones (made of iron, magnetite and brass) he was able to make a stronger magnet called an ‘armed lodestone.’

In the 1600s, many astronomers were basing their explanations on

Galileo facts Galileo never married, his children were out of wedlock with Marina Gambia

While Galileo was in conflict with the church for his scientific beliefs, both his daughters joined the convent of San Matteo

He never permitted his daughters to marry because he did not want to pay their dowry

Painting of Galileo Galilei: Source: Peter Paul Rubens (via Wikimedia Commons)

the movements of planets on magnetism. Johannes Kepler believed that the Sun was a magnetic body and that the reason planets for planetary movement was due to the magnetic vortex that the sun created.

Although Galileo disagreed, he still spent years experimenting the thesis with magnets.

The telescope had already been invented by a Dutch spectacle-maker when Galileo first heard of the invention, but he made his mark all the same.

Without having ever seen the invention, or even having looked at the blueprints, Galileo created his own superior version. The Dutch inventor applied for a patent and the details were kept as a state secret as

The key findings of Galilei: According to Stephen Hawking, Galileo probably bears more of the responsibility for the birth of modern science than anybody else, and Albert Einstein called him the father of modern science. Credit: Information Is Beautiful

the invention was considered a military advantage for Holland.

Despite this, Galileo invented his own spyglass just from the knowledge that the invention magnified a distant object making it seem closer. Within the space of 24 hours, he created a 3x power telescope, and then subsequently a 10x version.

Despite all of his magnificent inventions, Galileo was not always a popular scientist. Famously he was imprisoned for his theory that the Earth orbited the sun.

At the time, the Catholic church held a lot of power within society and they accused Galileo of heresy.

Although scientists had known for centuries that the Earth was not the centre of the universe, the church had decided that it was a matter of scripture and it was illegal to disagree.

Galileo was forced to promise that he would not teach heresy from then on and was subsequently placed under house arrest for the remainder of his life.

It took the church 300 years to accept that the Earth was not the centre of the universe and to clear Galileo’s name of heresy. A classic example of the conflict between science and religion. Galileo was an instrumental scientist in almost all areas of science that we see today.

His inventions functioned as the building blocks upon which other scientists could create and improve to produce things we use in everyday life, even now. According to Stephen Hawking, Galileo probably bears more of the responsibility for the birth of modern science than anybody else.

He himself seriously considered priesthood but his father made him study medicine (which he never ended up actually doing)

He did not agree with Kepler that the moon caused the tides

The middle finger of Galileo has been displayed in Museo Galileo in Florence, Italy

Galileo went blind in later life

400 years later, Galileo’s telescope is displayed in the Istituto e Museo di Storia della Scienza in Italy

22

@CAERDYDD

Remembering the Aberfan disaster 55 years later YOUR @CAERDYDD Did Netflix’s The Crown episode do the town and its disaster justice?

DESK I

mph and the children were ordered to get underneath their desks.

The Aftermath Being only an hour long in length, The Crown’s episode could have never captured in detail what went on after the catastrophe.

Fuelled by grief the local people pushed for two main things - answers as to what happened to their children and the dismantling of the remaining spoil tips.

Five days later on the 26th of October 1966 the Tribunal began.

Aware of the power held by the National Coal Board, Londoner QC Desmond Ackner was hired to act as counsel for the villagers.

After 70 days of the coal board deflecting blame onto those who worked on the tip, Chairman of the Coal Board Lord Robens was called to the Tribunal. Irritated at his obligation to answer incriminating questions, Robens was hostile.

Robens denied there could have been any knowledge of the spring under the spoil tip, which was rejected, as it was actually common knowledge.

Simultaneously, the Aberfan appeal fund was gaining momentum, with a total of one and three-quarters of a million pounds being donated, as well as gift donations.

The Tribunal report held the National Coal Board responsible; they were criticised for their poor attitude during the trial and Robens’ evidence was dismissed as inconsistent. For Prime Minister Wilson, Robens was to blame - it became apparent that there was no tipping policy or regulations in place.

Despite his bitterness at the findings of the trial, Robens was ready to

resign, but Lord Richard Marsh, the Labour Minister of Power, declined his resignation, leaving the Labour party divided. Roben remained the Coal Board Chairman, though it seemed the village lost all faith in authority.

The people of Aberfan realised that they would have to take matters into their own hands. Still living below the ominous tips there was fear history would repeat itself, and so the Tip Removal Committee was formed.

Marsh believed that the village’s concerns were over safety, but they were also psychological; the tips were a constant reminder of the horrors already endured.

The Tipping Committee believed their phones were tapped and they were being followed, so they began to work in greater secrecy.

The group levelled up their game and drove to the Senedd in Cardiff Bay with a boot full of sacks of slurry. Following another resounding no from the Government, they tipped the bags of slurry inside the building. The courageous campaigners were arrested, but days later the Welsh Government advised Wilson that the tips be dismantled.

It appeared the group had finally won a long, tiresome battle, but not without a price. The village was ordered to pay £150,000 towards the clearing of the tips, which the group labelled a travesty of justice. The money came out of the Aberfan appeal fund, but the tips were eventually dismantled.

The UK Government under Tony Blair repaid the £150,000 to the village, but in 1997 when the money was repaid it would have been worth

around £1.5 million.

Did The Crown do the Tragedy Justice?

Fortunately, I was able to speak to some locals to discuss their feelings about the sensitive episode.

Diet consultant Suzanne from Merthyr felt that the episode showed sensitivity to the disaster, but she was disappointed that the episode wasn’t filmed in Aberfan.

Suzanne felt it would have been a nice gesture to have included a list of all those who tragically lost their lives, as well as a video from Aberfan today.

However, others were not as satisfied with the level of sensitivity. Lauren, from a local cake business, is concerned the episode doesn’t capture how deeply the event changed Merthyr, even until this day. As Suzanne highlighted, the pain is still so palpable.

Emily Haf ’s family are based around Aberfan - she was pleased to see the Queen portrayed negatively as many locals are still feel hurt by her delay in reaction.

Another Aberfan local, also called Emily, had a relative who was approached by The Crown to help get the details of the disaster right.

Growing up, Emily lived by the remaining wall of Pantglas school, so naturally was taught about what had happened.

Emily was glad the events were not downplayed in the dramatisation, as this may have detracted from the seriousness of it - but any more detail could have made it too hard to watch. Emily says that some locals could not bear to watch the episode.

Remembering Aberfan There appears to be a feeling amongst locals that whilst the local community do an excellent job of remembering the event, the mainstream media could do more. Emily suggests that on the anniversary of the calamity, documentaries about Aberfan should be shown on TV, so future generations know what happened in Aberfan. Suzanne said that she is not sure if the TV and radio media do enough to commemorate the event, but the lack of coverage may be because the community would like to remember loved ones in private.

Memory of the disaster remains at the fore in Aberfan. Suzanne tells me the memorial is quietly observed every year unless there is a key anniversary.

gogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.

Welsh is now the fastest growing language in the UK with 474,000 people in the UK being actively taught according to new figures released by Duolingo.

The American based languagelearning website and app said that the number of new Welsh learners using its services had risen by 44% in 2020, which is, according to Duolingo is a result of the coronavirus pandemic in which people were “learning for fun, not function”, the language app said.

Welsh is part a larger group of languages, the Celtic Language group alongside Irish, Scottish Gaelic, Breton, Cornish and Manx. Although, the Welsh language has been declining since the turn of the last century, according to Government figures, currently there are 872,000 people in Wales that speak Welsh. However, Welsh still remains the most spoken

Celtic Language.

In previous centuries, it was not uncommon for Welsh speaking parents to be reluctant to pass the language on to their children. As the common belief was, at the time that it would affect their English speaking abilities.

Although, it is now known that bilingualism is an advantage to children.

A report by Carmarthenshire County Council revealed it can strengthen their cognitive abilities and problem solving skills.

Based on the 2011 census, there was a decrease in Welsh speakers since 2001 of approximately 20,000 people. In an attempt to boost the language, the Welsh Government released its, Cymraeg 2050: A Million Welsh Speakers report.

The titular report was released in 2017 which set out a plan to ensure that there would be one million Welsh speakers in Wales by 2050.

In order to coincide with the Welsh

Government plan, The National Centre for Learning Welsh and joined with Duolingo and has announced that they will work together to ensure that the goal of 1 million speakers will be fulfilled.

This collation has been embraced by many including, Efa Gruffudd Jones, the Chief Executive at the National Centre for Learning Welsh, who commented, “Creating and promoting opportunities for our learners to practise and enjoy their Welsh is an important part of our work at the National Centre and we’re delighted to be working in partnership with Duolingo.”

The Welsh Language is an integral part of Welsh culture, heritage and national consciousness.

Compared to its Celtic counterparts the language is thriving and the success of the Welsh Language on Duolingo should be regarded as an achievement.

Eva Rodericks Contributor

Natalie Graham

Fflur Trevor caerdydd@gairrhydd.com

Morphe gets its first store in Wales Tirion Davies

Editor in Chief

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merican beauty brand Morphe is set to open its first shop in Cardiff this summer.

The affordable makeup brand, which has had rave reviews from famous makeup artists and the YouTube makeup community, has been a largely online store since its inception.

The brand has been available in some shops in the past, but it is the first time the brand will be available as a shop in Wales.

The shop will be based in Cardiff’s St David’s Centre, next to the Perfume Shop.

In a statement made to Facebook, St. David’s commented on the news that Morphe would be opening a shop with them, stating, “We’re extremely excited that Morphe will be opening at St Davids this summer!

“If you’re looking for killer makeup without killing your wallet, you’ll want to check out the new store and become a #Morphebabe!”

The brand hit headlines thanks in part to YouTube creators reviewing the brand and claiming it not only high quality, but also affordable - a feat not many big brands can always achieve.

With shops closing in St David’s due to pressures and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a big-named brand setting up shop at the shopping centre will no doubt draw a crowd. St Davids is hoping that restrictions will ease on non-essential shopping ahead of completion of the shop.

Morphe will be located in the newest St David’s building on Bridge Street, and will be next to The Perfume Shop and Cardiff’s Apple Store.

n October 1966, a landslide of coal waste engulfed Pantglas primary school, killing 144 people, including 116 children. The incident occurred in a typical Welsh mining village, Aberfan, in South Wales. Aberfan village existed as a result of the coal mine, where most men in the village worked.

Netflix’s hugely successful series The Crown dedicated a whole episode to the disaster, but what came before and after the days of calamity?

The Lead up to the Aberfan Disaster Tip 7, composed of coal waste, had been of concern to the locals for some time. As mentioned in The Crown there had been several complaints regarding the safety of the tip to Merthyr Council before the incident, which were passed on to the National Coal Board.

The evidently needed inspection of the Aberfan tips were dismissed.

Tip 7 first slipped in 1963, as the waste turned into a thick quicksand.

All complaints were dismissed.

Not addressed in The Crown was the knowledge that tip 7 was built precariously on top of streams and springs. Water changes the consistency of coal waste from powder to thick mud. Despite this knowledge, waste was dumped until the spring was concealed, turning the waste into slush. To make matters worse, the village had experienced heavy rain in the weeks leading up to the disaster.

The village was no stranger to tragedy; mining was a dangerous job.

The tip had become a breathtaking height of 34 metres. The village lived in the shadow of the impending disaster and tipping continued as usual.

Friday the 21st of October, 1966 The Crown shows the day rather accurately according to most reports. It was the Friday before the children were due to break up for half term; the atmosphere was carefree and joyful. Hearing the innocent voices of the children singing in the episode was harrowing, as the audience knows their apparent fate.

At 9.15 AM a roar was heard from in the school and around the village. The slurry poured downwards towards the school at a speed of 50

Mynwent Aberfan: The Aberfan cemetery stands above the village, in remembrance to those lost. Source: Stephen McKay (via Geograph)

Welsh language becomes fastest growing language on Duolingo Fflur Trevor

@Caerdydd Editor

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elsh is the fastest growing language in the UK, says Duolingo.

The oldest language in Britain is now the fastest growing language in Britain according to Duolingo and has outranked the likes of Hindi, Japanese, Turkish and French.

Colin Watkins, Duolingo’s UK manager, said: “I don’t think it can be underestimated how much of an achievement it is for Welsh to be top in UK fastest growing languages”.

Since the Welsh language course was launched on Duolingo in 2016, over 1.5 million people around the world have been taught Welsh.

This includes thousands of Americans and a Russian teenager who decided to learn Welsh after she saw the village name Llanfairpwllgwyngyll-

Don’t Ovary Act

24

SPORT

2021 Six Nations: The story so far and ones to watch YOUR We analyse the championship and take a look at some of the key performers so far SPORT DESK T Felix Bolton Contributor

Tom Walker

Freddie Bennett

he scheduled break from Six Nations action gives us the chance to reflect on rugby gone by and look forward to the second half of the tournament. While the players enjoy well deserved recovery, we are left to stew in our living rooms, anticipating the next round of matches.

France and Wales lead the way so far, both on track for Grand Slam glory.

France set the tone for the tournament in the opening the game, dismantling an Italian team with an attractive brand of rugby. Their win in Dublin was less convincing, but just as effective. Conversely, we are yet to see a Wales game finish with thirty players on the pitch.

This will not phase Wayne Pivac and his pressured coaching team, valuing results over performance. A strong finish will surely see the New Zealander live another day at the helm of Welsh rugby.

A slow start for England in Edinburgh blew the Championship wide open. An English revival is to be expected as they travel to Cardiff for the always feisty match against Wales. With Scotland now posing a serious threat to any opposition, a four horse race could potentially be on the cards.

And that leaves Italy and the wounded Irish. Following two narrow losses, Andy Farrell’s men must win the remaining three games convincingly to even compete in this year’s Six Nations.

With Italy floundering once more, next week’s bottom of the table clash could be pivotal.

In every team, there are standout individuals, so who has impressed so far?

Ireland – Robbie Henshaw

Ella Fenwick

Ben Lovell-Smith sport@gairrhydd.com

In a mis-firing Irish backline, Henshaw stands out as the solitary spark.

His dynamic carrying game and ability to stand in at first receiver has become crucial for Ireland in their first two games. Although ending up on the losing side on both occasions, the Leinster centre has provided needed goforward, alongside club colleague Gary Ringrose. Whilst being lightyears away from the iconic Darcy and O’Driscoll midfield partnership, the current pairing have become integral to Ireland’s possession based game. Aside from his impressive line break to set up his team’s try against Wales, Henshaw has been subdued compared to his lofty standards. A must win game against Italy in matchweek three might be enough to reinvigorate the top class centre.

England – Tom Curry

The youngest player to ever start at

Score to settle: In form Wales play host to England at the Principality this weekend.

Source: Ben Salter (via Flickr)

flanker for England, and the youngest forward since 1912, Tom Curry has become a stalwart in this England team.

His stubborn nature at the breakdown and aggressive carries make him a nightmare for attacks and defences, yet his impact on this tournament has been limited.

An England team bruised by an opening day loss to Scotland will need Curry to be at his brilliant best to keep hopes of retaining their Six Nations crown alive. A mouth-watering battle with Justin Tipuric may prove pivotal, not just for Championship glory, but with a Lions tour on the horizon.

Italy – Stephen Varney

In an Italian team constantly battered with a storm of scrutiny and scepticism, the young scrum-half has offered a glimpse of hope. With zippy passing, wide-eyed energy and a threat around the fringes, Varney has shown a capability beyond his years alongside fellow millennial baby, Paolo Garbisi.

Focussing on speed and dynamism, Varney is a welcome sight for Italian rugby fans. Whilst still prone to game management errors, he adds a fluent dimension to Italy’s attacking shape, beating three defenders and making one line break so far in the tournament.

With three games still to play, can the Welsh-born nine help his side avoid another dreaded wooden spoon?

France – Charles Ollivon

Captaining a team fuelled by the mercurial talent of Antoine Dupont,

Gael Fickou and Gregory Alldritt, Ollivon embodies the term ‘talisman’. His calm head creates a balance to counter France’s undeniable flair, creating the perfect rugby ying and yang.

An authoritative presence and a desire to clear up the scraps set the platform for his team’s fast paced game plan, which looks odds on favourite to lift the trophy.

A try against Ireland and effective play in the loose against Italy show Ollivon to be one of the standout performers so far, with all signs leading to yet more domineering displays in the weeks to come.

Scotland – Ali Price

Blessed with searing pace and an archetypal scrum-half tenacity, Price has been steadily improving other aspects of his game. This tournament has seen Price mature into his role in the Scotland team, showcasing his rugby brain.

Darting less from the breakdown, the Glaswegian has effectively taken control of the kicking game, easing pressure on himself whilst allowing Finn Russell to control the tempo. His box kicking ability was demonstrated perfectly against England, constricting Eddie Jones’ men, giving them no escape.

A real contender for the Lions’ nine jersey, Price’s importance in Scotland’s Six Nations push can not be underestimated.

Wales – Louis Rees-Zammit

Currently the tournament’s top try scorer with three in two matches, Rees-

Zammit has taken to the international stage like a jet fuelled duck to water.

Raw pace matched with defensive guile has placed the 20-year-old at the heart of Welsh rugby, proving to be a vital cog in an increasingly polished backline.

His two tries were instrumental in Wales’ win over Scotland last weekend, earning himself a Man of the Match accolade.

With an England trip to Cardiff just around the corner, can lightning Louis continue his scoring run against his team’s most bitter rival?

Round Three Saturday

Italy 14:15 Ireland Wales 16:45 England Sunday

France 15:00 Scotland

pts 1. France 9 2. Wales 9 3. Engalnd 6 4. Scotland 5 5. Ireland 2 6. Italy 0

pts diff 42 6 18 4 -7 -63

2021 NBA All Star game: returning faces, newcomers and defense Tom Walker

Head of Sport

D

espite much deliberation, the NBA All-Star game is going ahead to continue the muchanticipated annual tradition. Although it is taking place in an empty arena, the fans’ involvement will be as crucial as ever in the selection of the participants. The whole concept lends itself to endless debates, inevitable snubs, and a whole lot of fun, so let’s explore a few of those who could feature in this season’s event and what to expect.

The change of format in last year’s event to honour the tragic death of Kobe Bryant made the game itself, usually full of extravagant dunks but absolutely no defence to be found, a little more competitive and simul-

taneously intriguing. Whether that was Giannis Antetokounmpo putting the clamps on Lebron James resulting in a nasty block on the King, or the furious intensity in the final moments of the game, when even James Harden was playing defence (cheap joke I apologise). The new format put on a great spectacle for fans, honoured one of the games greatest, and most significantly raised thousands for charity.

Those I just mentioned will undoubtedly be locks for this year’s event, even with Harden representing a new team and conference following his move to the Brooklyn Nets earlier this season. Joining him will be teammate Kevin Durant who has looked closer to his pre-injury self than many had expected prior to the season. Durant has averaged 29

points-a-game on excellent efficiency in this new Brooklyn super team.

The final piece of the Nets puzzle, Kyrie Irving, could well make the cut too, however inconsistent playing time may harm his chances following a lengthy absence.

Leading the fans vote so far is Stephen Curry who has looked like, well, Stephen Curry. The two-time MVP has been absolutely brilliant on this somewhat dysfunctional Golden State Warriors team currently flirting with the playoff spots.

We were without Curry in last year’s event due to injury, but his inclusion this year will certainly be a welcome sight.

His partner in the other guard spot looks like a coin flip between Damian Lillard and Luka Doncic.

The two have equal right to it in

my opinion, both putting up incredible numbers in their respective franchises, but Lillard just about edges it due to his teams standing in a tough Western Conference, with the Portland Trail Blazers sat comfortably in the playoff spots.

In the east, Jaylen Brown looks set for his first All-Star appearance, similarly, Zach Lavine is also putting up a career year for a shot on the roster for the first time too.

After last year’s rather controversial exclusion, Bradley Beal has come back with a vengeance this season, averaging a ridiculous 33.1 points-per-game. His ability to score on every level is the only reason the Washington Wizards are even somewhat relevant right now despite the consistent rumours pitching him with a trade away from the US capi-

tal.

Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers is possibly looking the best he ever has under new coach Doc Rivers. The team are sat pretty at the top of Eastern Conference with Embiid mostly to thank. The Centre is a generational talent; his footwork in the post, outside shooting and ability to navigate the paint on defence have all been on full display this year.

The All-Star game and really the players left out is a constant reminder of the talent on show in the NBA right now. Despite the conversation regarding its necessity in a year defined by Covid-19 absences and postponed games, it undoubtedly holds an important place in the culture and is a great sentiment to those who have worked so hard to get to where they are.

CHWARAEON 25 The current state of doping heading into the Olympics TEAM TALK Doping is always a contentious issue at the Olympics; Sport Editor Freddie Bennett explores the most recent incidents, and how it shapes up heading into the summer games

Freddie Bennett Sport Editor

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fter a couple of years of explicitly explosive stories revealing doping cases in sport: from the Russian state sponsored doping system; to the individual cases such as Australian swimmer Shayna Jack, this is not something that has ever really gone away. Ahead of the Olympics later this year, it is worth exploring the place of doping in sport right now.

Shayna Jack is currently fighting a recent ban after it was found she had ingested a banned substance called Ligandrol after a competition in South Korea two years ago. Her original ban was set at four years, however after an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport it was found she had unknowingly taken the substance and her sentence was reduced to two years.

Jack is currently fighting this two year ban as she claims she had never taken this banned substance intentionally and should therefore not be banned at all. Yet, her case raises questions over how sport deals with doping and whether the intent to enhance performance should have more of a say over whether an athlete is banned. For now, her dream of competing in Tokyo 2021 is over as her ban ends after the event.

This case comes amid a very rough couple of years for the Olympics and its doping problems. Last month, three judges for the Court of Arbitration for Sport provided what is meant to be the final ruling on the future of Russia for the next two Olympic Games.

After a state sponsored doping system spanning decades was uncovered by the former director of Moscow’s

Touchdown in Tokyo: Tokyo National Olympic Stadium under construction in August 2019.

Source: Tokyo-Good (via Wikimedia Commons) Anti-Doping laboratory Grigory Rodchenkov- as seen in the incredible Netflix documentary Icarus - the World Anti -Doping Agency (WADA) judged that Russia should be banned from the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.

Yet the most recent judgement by the Court of Arbitration for Sport has provided a watered-down version of the punishment. The judges have allowed Russian athletes to compete as neutrals in this year’s Games, allowing the athletes to perform with national colours on their kit, but there will be no Russian national anthem.

Upon releasing their findings last month, the judges felt that the younger athletes who were not involved in the state sponsored doping system, which Rodchenkov blew the whistle

on in 2015 before entering witness protection in the USA, should not be unduly punished for the errors of those coming before them.

Rodchenkov, who won the 2020 William Hill Sports book of the year in December for his new autobiography, revealed how deep and convoluted the system was which enabled Russian athletes across many sports to dope. With the knowledge of both the head of state, and the Russian security services (FSB).

While it is understandable to protect the younger athletes, it brings into question the symbolism and importance of the Olympic Games, traditionally priding itself upon values such as determination, integrity and reward. Yet, setting this prec-

edent which is effectively letting them off the hook allows for people to continue to push the boundaries of doping in sport. Also, this effectively dismisses the zero-policy of doping which the International Olympic Committee (IOC) hold as the jewel in their crown.

With explosive cases across varying Olympic sports, it is clear that the Olympics may not be this perfect and harmonious product which brings about world peace every four years.

For many athletes like Shayna Jack, they were just the ones who were actually caught. However, the case with Russia highlights how doping is a substantial problem within sport and it should be confronted heavily, not swept under the rug.

LGBT Month: Can sport actually be the platform we want it to be?

Character: Jess Fishlock discuused the terrible abuse she recieved about coming out as homosexual. Credit: FAW

Ella Fenwick Sport Editor

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he beauty of sport is the automatic connection people from all walks of life feel when they engage with sport. Whether that be in a stadium, a pub or a local pitch, the atmosphere of belonging cannot be denied.

An uneasy debate however has arisen over the inclusivity in the sporting world as we celebrate LGBT+ history month. Even though sport has been a brilliant platform to inspire conversation surrounding the LGBT+ community there is still more to be done, working towards changing social attitudes and encouraging empowerment.

Today we are very lucky to have so many influential LGBT+ athletes to resonate with. Gareth Thomas, Nicola Adams, Tom Daley and so many more have used their platforms positively to educate others. The courage to take the leap and put everything on the line while in that position can only be met with the highest respect because just the sole impact of “coming out” shows solidarity and can only encourage more positive conversations to take place surrounding the LGBT+ community.

The increase in visibility within large sporting events is emphasising the importance in education and inclusion of the LGBT+ community in sport. Stonewall created the Rainbow Laces Campaign five years ago, which has been used across pro-

fessional sports boards but also in universities and schools across the UK. The campaign recently gained support from Sky Sports. The publicization of the campaign across football in the Premier League, EFL and WSL has been a huge step in the right direction for gaining unity and has communicated the message on a global scale.

Players and captains across the leagues have projected their support not only on the playing field but across social media. Wales’ Jess Fishlock, came out several years ago and has recently been crowned Sports Champion working as an ambassador of the campaign aiming to bring positive change to the football world.

“I’m a firm believer in visibility, education and awareness. That’s what will drive change in this country with regards to the LGBT+ community, diversity and inclusion,” said Fishlock.

Although it might be great to acknowledge the progression in attitudes towards the LGBT+ community in sports, there is still a lot more work to be done for the oppression of LGBT+ individuals both on the pitch and as part of the fanbase.

Big steps of acceptance have been made in many sports, which are brilliant to celebrate however with a dangerous lad culture still looming over men’s football and rugby, it can leave many people feeling uncomfortable about celebrating their true identity. Athletes also face the fear

of losing fans and sponsors, making many reluctant to become an open role model while competing in the public eye.

Retired Hull City football player, Thomas Beattie came out as gay last year and has voiced his concerns on hyper masculinity in modern day sport.

“I wouldn’t have come out if I was still playing now,” Beattie commented. “The reason is the same reason most people aren’t coming out now - we are still trying to redefine what masculinity is and that’s a big issue in sport.”

Unfortunately, fans are also still finding themselves struggling with homophobic slurs and abuse. A study

by Stonewall found 43% of LGBT+ individuals think public sporting events are not a welcoming space for the LGBT+ community. Systematic changes in organisations and clubs are to be made and more measures should be put in place in order to make athletes and fans feel safe as part of the sports community.

If you were to look back even ten years ago sport has come a long way in its inclusivity, but that is not to say that there isn’t more that can be done or that the progressions should be halted here.

In fact, it should be used to kickstart the continuation in encouraging more open conversations to be had and to celebrate the individuals of the LGBT+ community in sport, fans and athletes alike.

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elsh netball representatives, the Celitic Dragons were founded in 2005. Joining the Vitality Netball SuperLeague (VNSL) in its development alongside 11 other UK teams, the reputation of the Cardiff based Dragons quickly grew to become the celebrated Wales franchise they are recognised for today across the netball world.

While playing in the VNSL, the Celtic Dragons have been on quite the journey, with the team seeing all ends of the table. Admittedly there had been some very dry seasons previously but the players seemed to turn it all around in 2013 when they found themselves in the Grand Final.

The Celtic Dragons went onto the court giving it their best performance however fell short against favourites Team Bath in a 62-56 scorecard, landing themselves a close runner up spot in the league.

The team started to grow international recognition and found their squad flying half way across the world rebranded as the Celtic Flames in 2017 to compete in the Netball New Zealand Super Club tournament.

Past and present players racked their playing strengths together, placing fifth overall, higher than all other international teams invited.

Partnered alongside the Welsh National Netball team, gave the players multiple opportunities to shine in large competitions over their careers. The natural pool of talent supplied by the Dragons meant that 11 of the players were lucky enough to be selected for the Welsh squad in the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Ending their journey at eleventh place with a wide margin victory against Fiji, 81-32, players quickly returned home ahead of another season to resume their time as Dragons.

Roll around 2020 however and the Celtic Dragons were faced with their toughest season yet. The cancellation of the season in May left the team with only three games played and a long pause in what they could achieve in the sporting world.

Yet, Director of Netball Tania Hoffman remained positive and has started the new 2021 season with a can-do attitude. Hoffman released the new signings for the squad in October after plucking out the finest players from Wales and inviting international talent to the new fresh-faced Celtic Dragons team; “We are thrilled that the start date for the 2021 Vitality Netball Superleague has been set” she explained. “Our team has been working hard in their COVIDsafe training environments in preparation for the league and we are ready and raring to go.”

There is reason to be optimistic with players such as co-captain Sophie Morgan, Laura Rudland and Annika LeeJones who arrived from Sunshine Coast Lightning in Australia, there is some quality in the squad Even though the new season is following suit to other professional leagues and being played behind closed doors, there is no need for fans to worry as they will still be able to catch the Dragons in action after a new signing with Sky Sports intending to broadcast all fixtures live.

The first weekend of the season was a rocky start for the Celtic Dragons however, losing both matches to newcomers Leeds Rhinos (35-65) and then to consistent league winners Team Bath (61-29).

Although the team might be at the bottom of the table, it is still early days and hopefully we will be seeing the Welsh representatives climbing up to that top spot very soon.

Reporting by Ella Fenwick

Six Nations 2021 so far: Wales on for Triple Crown ahead of round three England clash page 24

SPORT CHWARAEON

NBA All Star lineup predictions BASKETBALL

Tom Walker

Head of Sport

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espite taking place a lot earlier in the season than any normal year and the inevitable absence of fans in the stadium, the 2021 NBA All Star game, which takes place on Sunday 7th March, is still generating the same buzz and conversation as it always has. The event always conjures up some interesting storylines and matchups, and if the same format as last year is implemented again, it may prove to be another classic. With the participants soon to be announced, Head of Sport, Tom Walker, takes a look at those who may make up the teams come All Star weekend on March 7.

Continued on page 24

Celtic Dragons thriving in Netball Super League NETBALL

Ella Fenwick Sport Editor

T ‘More than just silly pull-ups’: CrossFit continues to grow despite the pandemic In it to win it: The best CrossFit athletes compete at the CrossFit games, usually hosted in America. Source: Travis Isaacs (via Flickr)

Ben Lovell-Smith Sport Editor

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fter stopping rugby due to injuries, CrossFit athlete and coach Charlie Yip was looking for a new sport before stumbling across CrossFit. Three years later he’s a qualified CrossFit coach and regularly uploads his workouts and personal training tips to his instagram (@c.y_fitness).

CrossFit is a competitive sport and physical exercise philosophy, combining elements of many of the fitness sports, such as high-intensity interval training, Olympic weightlifting, gymnastics, calisthenics and strongman.

Individuals complete daily workouts, known as “WODs” (workout of the day).

Roughly half of CrossFit ‘boxes’ are located in the United States, but the sport is growing rapidly across the globe. There are four main CrossFit boxes in the Cardiff area; Reebok Crossfit Cardiff, Crossfit Origin Fitness, ION Crossfit Llanishen and Dragon Crossfit.

Former ‘fittest woman in Wales’ Sammy Ventrice trained out of Dragon Crossfit and as a member of the

gym’s team Dragon Athletic, who qualified for the 2018 Reebok CrossFit Games Europe Regional.

The growth of the sport is in spite of a lot of criticism. “I think [growth in the sport] is both down to higher exposure online, and people realising that it is a lot more than just silly pull ups!” Charlie argues. CrossFit has been criticised for its link with exertional rhabdomyolysis, a possible life-threatening breakdown of muscle from extreme exertion, which is potentially caused by dangerous movements and inappropriate levels of intensity.

“I would say that [the risk of injury] depends on the programming. I programme for athletes doing CrossFit but implement strength and conditioning properly to keep them healthy.

Some CrossFit gyms can be guilty of not implementing this and this leads to injury through random, high intensity movements which participants are not yet prepared for.”

CrossFit can also be expensive, though Charlie is quick to stress that it is certainly value for money. “Yes, CrossFit is expensive to take part in.

But so is personal training. Standard of coaching aside (which varies from box to box), every participant

of a CrossFit class will get some 1:1 time. This is what you are paying for.

The 1:1 coaching of potentially highly technical movements. In comparison to paying a PT £30+ an hour to teach you very basic things in a commercial gym.”

Part of the reason for the growth of the sport can be attributed to the online content which has documented the growth of the CrossFit games. The Crossfit Games documentaries can be found amongst the giants of online streaming services; Amazon Prime and Netflix. Whilst, a vast number of Games competitors, such as Josh Bridges and Tia Clair-Toomey, provide a behind the scenes insight on YouTube that most sports simply cannot offer.

The benefit of the infancy of the sport is that it has been able to develop in a more gender equal way. Female Games athletes are every bit as prominent within the sport as men.

In fact, the fittest man and woman in the world Mat Fraser and Tia ClairToomey both exclusively trained together until Fraser’s recent retirement.

“There’s definitely more gender equality within CrossFit and the standard of both genders is equal and extremely high”. Many more popular sports can

learn from this.

The next potential challenge for Charlie is the 2021 CrossFit Open, which according to the CrossFit website is the ‘largest participatory sporting event in the world’. The 2018 games are said to have recorded more than 415,000 participants across 172 countries. Whilst, this year’s Open will be ‘the most accessible in CrossFit history’.

Organisers have accounted for local gym closures and competitors with health reservations. Flexible competition options mean that anyone can compete from anywhere, even without equipment.

Though Charlie is disappointed that under current government restrictions it would not be viable to compete alongside his mates. “The environment of doing open workouts with your peers is sometimes more rewarding than the actual workouts, part of a large reason why many people love CrossFit. The 2021 CrossFit season will begin with a three-week CrossFit Open that starts on March 11. Registration is still open, whether you back yourself as the next fittest in Wales or just need an excuse for an endorphin high to break up the monotony of lockdown.

For more breaking sports news, visit www.gairhydd.com/sport

his week’s Team Talk takes a look at Welsh netball superstars, the Celtic Dragons, who’s star continues to rise in the Vitality Netball SuperLeague. Reaching the Grand Finals against Team Bath in 2013, receiving an invitation to the Netball New Zealand Super Club and playing in the 2018 Commonwealth Games; the team have had a whirlwind of an experience since the moment they began. Yet a cancellation of the 2020 season might have been the toughest so far but with the recent start of a new season it is all looking up for the Celtic Dragons.

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Doping still major issue in Olympic year TOKYO 2020

Freddie Bennett Sport Editor

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ith the Tokyo Olympics just around the corner, we take a look at the current state of doping in sport. The Australian Swimmer Shayna Jack is currently fighting to get her two -year ban struck off after it was found she took an illegal substance- but unintentionally. Currently her Olympic dream for Tokyo is over. This comes amid the continuing saga of the Russian doping scandal. A recent court ruling means Russian athletes are able to compete in their national colours, just without their national anthem.

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