tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83486752498314601612012-01-26T10:15:45.301ZArticles and thoughts on Unionism, politics and whatever catches my fancyLeehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.comBlogger5461100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-3343955207733467012012-01-26T10:15:00.001Z2012-01-26T10:15:45.308Z

An opinion piece I have in today's News Letter on the issue of Unionist Unity. UNIONIST unity is a term guaranteed to produce Pavlovian and negative responses. This is driven by the inability of some to realise how politics can move on. Many of the same commentators who complain about our politics happily use its truisms when it suits them to kill an idea they dislike. With unionist unity they

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-77105469723500160002012-01-26T09:51:00.001Z2012-01-26T09:55:06.546Z

Ballysally estate is where I grew up from age 5 and now has become the subject of the a BBC documentary. Ballysally always had a 'bad' reputation often with little justification (and I must admit I'd never heard the term 'Ballyscally' before in my life until this programme).  This 'bad' needs seen through the prism of Coleraine which is a small Northern Ireland town.  It is not Compton, Brixton

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-70048809998006058592012-01-19T10:03:00.001Z2012-01-19T10:04:43.093Z

A cross-post with sluggerotoole.com on the issue of the Scottish independence referendum. The Unionist cause in Scotland fighting an independence referendum campaign should be doing so from a position of inherent strength. Support for the Union has consistently outpolled support for independence. In more recent years any spikes in the support for independence have been just that, unsustained for

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-69670523734869534142012-01-12T11:46:00.001Z2012-01-12T11:47:13.977Z

In between rediscovering that my desk is made of wood rather than combined mounds of paper I have had time to check the locals and it appears Northern Ireland's journos just keep on giving.  Neither is there a continuing vendetta against the Irish News as today's offender is Liam Clarke, the political editor of the Belfast Telegraph.  He claims: "David Ford is considering resigning as Justice

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-59379567524557717242012-01-11T11:36:00.001Z2012-01-11T11:36:55.110Z

In my continuing losing battle for journalists to get basic facts right, today's offender is Simon Cunningham of the Irish News:  In a curious article based on a Tom Ekin letter about handshaking etiquette Cunningham claims: "When Ian Paisley shook hands with Mary McAleese in 2007 it was seen as a defining moment in the peace process." The famous political handshake of 2007 was surely between

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-87119055030350122652012-01-11T09:41:00.001Z2012-01-11T09:46:45.626Z

David Ford on the Nolan show claimed Stephen Farry had: "...rattled them [DUP and Sinn Fein] on teacher training" With no offence intended to Stephen that one will help me through the day.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-82222099898633642402012-01-11T09:36:00.000Z2012-01-11T09:36:06.133Z

The Guardian has come a bit late to the party regarding how the boundary review will be of significant benefit to the Conservatives.  However, among it all is this little nugget: "With the Conservatives' longstanding allies in Northern Ireland, the DUP, projected to have won seven seats, the Conservatives could have commanded a slim majority without having to enter into coalition with the Liberal

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-63183294083109108772012-01-09T11:53:00.000Z2012-01-09T11:53:48.184Z

Northern Ireland's Councils are going through the final stages of the rating process with the decisions to be finalised.  With household budgets and business cash flows under pressure I thought I write a backgrounder to it from the perspective of the issues Belfast City Council is wrestling with. The rates is made up of two elements the regional rate (55% of your bill) and the district rate (45%

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-28513297547293036162012-01-05T13:06:00.002Z2012-01-05T15:30:31.821Z

Following on from IJP's argument about the local media and its need to improve, as well as investigation it would help if they got basic facts right.  According to the Irish News' political correspondent, Diana Rusk, the 2011 Belfast City Council result was: "...a turning point in local government politics when a slump in the unionist vote saw the balance of power switch to Alliance." Perhaps she

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-15626215101427318352012-01-05T11:02:00.000Z2012-01-05T11:02:50.762Z

Alasdair McDonnell's Irish News interview has gained much attention because of the comments on politicians' pay and pensions.  This has made Alasdair a punch bag for the radio talk shows and allowed internal enemies to come out and attack him. However, the real problem with the interview is that it has no narrative for the SDLP, Northern Ireland or nationalism.  It listed a range of things he

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-60726287948755829792011-12-06T01:39:00.001Z2011-12-06T01:45:34.434Z

When I went on Council I wondered whether or not I should blog about Council issues or not (as well as wondering whether or not I had the time to blog but an inability to sleep has resolved both for this evening at least and BTW thanks for voting me 16th best blog when I hadn't blogged in months).  I've known Belfast city councillors of different parties for the last twenty years or so and was

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-79244018691419755752011-08-28T16:26:00.000+01:002011-08-28T16:26:18.109+01:00

In memoriam of Sgt John McAleese MM (Retd) "...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion."

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-7214516500880711662011-08-13T13:51:00.003+01:002011-08-13T13:59:38.413+01:00

For those of who don't know, I have become a Belfast City Councillor after being co-opted to replace Alderman Ian Crozier.  This will have some implications for the blog which I haven't quite worked out yet but will discuss at a later date. Between summer disruptions in the Council schedule and my own holidays this has been my first full week as a Councillor.  Those of you who know me will also

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-10619469783351478002011-06-23T14:14:00.001+01:002011-06-23T14:16:30.992+01:00

A note to mainstream and independent television producers in Northern Ireland - here is an example of how a programme on the value, positivity and power of a minority language can be made that provides access to all and a sensible use of celebrity to broaden the audience.  Congrats to BBC Scotland.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-36176942665935247802011-06-10T09:37:00.000+01:002011-06-10T09:37:53.684+01:00

I have the open plan office all to myself right now so enjoying this monster track full blast.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-29219436894798706872011-06-07T13:06:00.000+01:002011-06-07T13:06:43.251+01:00

The appointment of Mary McArdle, a member of the PIRA murder gang that murdered Mary Travers (and attempted to kill her mother and father), has raised a number of issues which are already being discussed around the unsuitability of the appointment, a review of the process of appointment already underway and the predictable Stalinist line from Sinn Fein where keeping the old comrades sweet takes

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-84775566873664349412011-05-11T16:58:00.000+01:002011-05-11T16:58:31.719+01:00

Now that the electorate has sent me back to spend more time with my blog here goes. The issue of the number of spoils came up with the three elections being blamed.  However there may be a further issue not being discussed. At the North Belfast tallies there was an interesting new phenomenon among the spoils from nationalist areas. There was a noticeable growth in the number of blank ballots.  In

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-41529424434231080542011-04-15T13:59:00.002+01:002011-04-15T13:59:50.470+01:00

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-68917471476085511662011-04-07T10:30:00.000+01:002011-04-07T10:30:50.732+01:00

Apparently spending money on the Maze site is a waste (24-27 seconds): But also not spending more to regenerate it is a failure (29-31 seconds):

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-19868640209608272042011-03-31T14:31:00.000+01:002011-03-31T14:31:50.938+01:00

In his latest column Alex Kane reflects on the "diem horribilem" of the UUP.  As regards the McGimpsey's decision on the Altnagelvin Cancer Unit he describes it as: "...as a bizarrely ill-judged and ill-timed decision..." While on the internal splits he highlights how that this was not a low level spat but caused by senior party members who simply should have known better: "One is a former chief

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-19781330516870321152011-03-29T16:39:00.004+01:002011-03-31T11:08:56.117+01:00

It appears the election fever has gone to the TUV economics spokesperson head.  David Vance is now deeply disturbed about the potential cuts to the public sector and accusing others of U-turns over the issue of Corporation tax. With furrowed brow he states: "Four years of such annual corporate cuts would mean more than a billion pounds being removed from the block grant by a delighted Treasury."

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-53707694882324191472011-03-24T15:23:00.000Z2011-03-24T15:23:23.699Z

It has been a day of schoolboy errors in the media.  In the Belfast Telegraph their political editor Liam Clarke's column can't get basic facts correct: "They [Sinn Fein] came out ahead in the European Election in 2009 but the DUP had replaced their key vote-getter - Ian Paisley - with a new candidate in Diane Dodds, who had just lost a council seat." Ian Paisley had stood down at the previous

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-1604439447753542852011-03-18T11:32:00.001Z2011-03-18T11:34:18.658Z

Welcome news on Libya.  An aircraft carrier, perhaps the Ark Royal, would be very useful for the UK to deploy to the Mediterranean right now to help enforce the no fly zone etc.  Oh yes that's right the Government's Strategic Defence Review reached the conclusion we wouldn't really need such a capability and the Ark Royal was scrapped.  This will also add to the pressure on our Armed Forces.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-84987348841228377502011-03-16T12:25:00.000Z2011-03-16T12:25:38.905Z

"The House responded warmly to the announcement that Wootton Bassett is to be given the title "Royal" in recognition of the dignified way it has honoured soldiers repatriated to the UK."

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-58250696814030919852011-03-11T14:30:00.000Z2011-03-11T14:30:42.842Z

A Pint of Unionist Lite highlights everyone's favourite quangocrat, Monica McWilliams, doing whatever she wishes - accountability is for other people after all. 

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-24979927718503759162011-03-11T11:36:00.000Z2011-03-11T11:36:25.982Z

...parody.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-84456824104007233582011-03-11T10:26:00.000Z2011-03-11T10:26:10.374Z

Part of the difficulties that UCUNF ran into was the legislation governing our elections had not considered/allowed for alliances between or joint endorsement of candidates by parties.  Now it seems the Tories are going to legislate to allow for it.  The justification is problems that Labour and Co-operative Party candidates face but the suspicion is that it is more to do with keeping the option

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-58899849089207645852011-03-10T11:07:00.000Z2011-03-10T11:07:42.686Z

I am now in possession of a large quantity of leaflets to promote the No2AV debate in the Ulster Hall.  Anyone who is interested in getting copies to promote the event or distribute themselves drop me an email - fair_deal2005ATyahoo.co.uk

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-91330188075953222582011-03-07T14:19:00.000Z2011-03-07T14:19:03.240Z

In his latest column Alex Kane examines the issue of Sinn Fein's growth in the recent Irish elections.  In it he argues that whatever Sinn Fein will try to make of it, it is a largely meaningless development. He makes clear that: "Sinn Fein has been sucked in, screwed over and spat back out by the Brits." He concludes that: "Sinn Fein is just arrogant, absurd, deluded and trapped. The balaclavas

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-80706666798876159262011-03-03T16:41:00.002Z2011-03-03T16:41:49.754Z

Citizen Lem from Mancha Productions on Vimeo. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-62733578935252932402011-02-22T10:35:00.000Z2011-02-22T10:35:42.079Z

I have had some dealings with the No2AV campaign and must admit to be decidingly underwhelmed by their organisation nor that impressed by their campaign thus far.  In purely local terms they do not seem to have given Northern Ireland a moment's thought and the national campaign seems to have been given about five minutes consideration. The WSJ 's Iain Martin takes up the theme: "...so far the No

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-46062252849330234362011-02-18T12:33:00.001Z2011-02-18T12:34:01.567Z

The UUP negotiated our present system and as late as 2007 remained fully supportive of it.  Its 2007 manifesto was the keenest in getting the present system up and running again: "We are the only Party prepared to pledge to you, the voters, that we will take our seats in government and govern for the good of Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom." So while the UUP has come late to the need

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-86648649615723430032011-02-17T16:53:00.000Z2011-02-17T16:53:23.013Z

Today Eamonn Mallie believed he had a scoop when Martin McGuinness made claims of the UUP seeking funding for an opposition from the Government.  Problem is Devenport Diaries had the story yesterday from an NIO source. The same NIO source said the request had been turned down. "An NIO source told me this has been raised by the UUP. But there are no plans to include it in the "Normalisation Bill"

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-69300727195209009082011-02-17T15:38:00.000Z2011-02-17T15:38:53.179Z

Leave aside the moment why there are two such bodies but why does the larger Equality Commission only require a part-time Chief Commissioner but the smaller Human Rights Commission's is a full-time role?

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-16832926713654149722011-02-17T13:41:00.001Z2011-02-17T13:43:49.861Z

Romance is not dead but it can manage to be threatening.  (I must dig out Football Factory this evening).

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-53560563742594881462011-02-16T11:01:00.000Z2011-02-16T11:01:55.115Z

Note to UUP:  Catching up with the position of others doesn't change the game.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-79077036225060561012011-02-10T15:02:00.000Z2011-02-10T15:02:45.903Z

This is one for the communication and branding nerds - Chrysler's super bowl effort to promote their new car the 200. Visually it is good (although some shots are the standard issue car ad) but the script is very good (I'd suggest just listening to the narration alone).  It is a fine example of how a brand in trouble tries to reinvent itself and following Chrysler's near collapse and massive

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-20620894414270199802011-02-10T12:07:00.000Z2011-02-10T12:07:20.419Z

McGimpsey's comments yesterday on the Nolan Show where interpreted this morning by Nolan as a threat to resign.  As this blog has charted the UUP have been all over the place on the issue of health spending.  McGimpsey has ploughed his own furrow on the health budget. How much support he got from the UUP changed from day to day or who'd been asked.   If McGimpsey has continued in doing what he

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-86979770811824528262011-02-10T10:22:00.002Z2011-02-10T10:23:42.154Z

Nolan this morning is building its attack on Treasury figures (pdf file).  However, the figures don't provide the backing that is claimed. Table 9.16 shows the difference in spending is minimal.  With 100 in 2009-2010 the baseline spending was: England   99Scotland 108Wales     102NI              98 Nolan is also ignoring the significant regional variation within England: North East        

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-52746111856218208542011-02-09T16:07:00.001Z2011-02-09T16:10:01.807Z

According to the Health Minister there was enough money sent over by the Treasury to give him the money he wants.  1.  There are at least 4 billion reasons why that is incorrect.2. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in Northern Ireland has different responsibilities to the Department of Health in England.  The clues are in the names.  Thus their budgets are not directly

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-70035083906691491082011-02-09T14:12:00.000Z2011-02-09T14:12:55.256Z

As fashion disasters go these really are truly in a class all of their own.  Do check out the older posts they just keep getting worse. (Hat tip G)

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-69607832765928186972011-02-04T12:40:00.000Z2011-02-04T12:40:22.959Z

When appointed as Secretary of State the UUP considered Owen Paterson a top bloke:"Owen's sterling commitment to Northern Ireland has been amply demonstrated during his time as shadow secretary of state," he said."And, in stark contrast to his Labour predecessor, Owen will have no ambiguity in stating his support for the Union. We can be certain that he will be a strong, positive voice for

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-30086227113371249522011-02-03T16:21:00.000Z2011-02-03T16:21:53.054Z

Jim Allister has came out against varying corporation tax rates in Northern Ireland: "A common fiscal regime is inextricably linked to the maintenance and purpose of the Union, which is why devolved institutions in Northern Ireland have never had tax-raising powers. The matters reserved to Westminster are the common bond that binds the UK together and warrants our representation in Parliament.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-10903068144019142192011-02-02T10:11:00.000Z2011-02-02T10:11:37.311Z

A couple of would you believe its this morning.  Lord Wei, the Big Society Tsar has had to cut back his hours so he can: "see his family more and to take on other jobs to pay the bills." Meanwhile at Belfast City Council last night there was a motion on integrated education: “This Council calls for the establishment of a Commission to bring forward recommendations for the introduction of a

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-33283833701189326032011-01-31T12:50:00.000Z2011-01-31T12:50:48.758Z

This began as a facebook exchange which I throught I'd throw out a bit wider.  Someone highlighted Gerry's latest gaffes in a 20 minute RTE interview and I asked the question: "How come it has taken the RoI media a few weeks to highlight this basic ignorance and ineptitude yet the NI media was incapable of it for decades?" The Louth soil cannot be blamed for transforming Adams' feet into clay

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-44440068731069908872011-01-31T11:40:00.000Z2011-01-31T11:40:43.373Z

Suffering/semi-recovering from a nasty bug/possible swine flu.  One of the effects of this was a very sore throat and near loss of my voice, it is slowly but surely starting to return but I am wandering about sounding like the aftershave commercial voiceover guy. Perhaps I should see if the party wants a husky tone for the Assembly PEB and get it recorded before a full recovery?

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-74281514249888971172011-01-27T09:26:00.000Z2011-01-27T09:26:25.249Z

"In other words our politicians are already posh and about to become even posher. The meritocracy? It died around the turn of the century from a mixture of neglect and hypocrisy.  May it rest in peace, I hope it doesn't." The concluding comments of Andrew Neil's documentary on the Westminster political class.  Well worth a watch.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-79295151942735143972011-01-25T15:35:00.000Z2011-01-25T15:35:00.835Z

Has commenting on the UUP reached the level of ghoulishness?

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-30909998978249844072011-01-25T15:20:00.000Z2011-01-25T15:20:57.969Z

Apparently a man who can't manage something as simple as the procedures for leaving the House of Commons is promising that he can negotiate the intricacies of the international bond market and scare Merkel and Sarkozy into getting Ireland a better deal - we'll bring down the euro you know.  A Fine Gael spokesperson points out that despite the pain of the EU/IMF package it is actually cheaper than

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-38625945886809535552011-01-25T09:58:00.001Z2011-01-25T10:13:15.211Z

Oh dear it's all gone a bit Pete Tong. The recovery has slipped with a 0.5% decline in GDP (as well as growth in the previous quarter revised downwards from 0.8% to 0.7%.  To provide historical perspective on where our economy is at the ONS points out that: "GDP fell 4.6 per cent in the 1980s recession, by 2.5 per cent in the 1990s recession and by 6.4 per cent in the 2000s recession."

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-90658236369324490612011-01-24T15:13:00.000Z2011-01-24T15:13:16.149Z

...we have a problem.  The outgoing director of Barnados, Martin Narey, highlights a crisis with adoption levels.  He blames the negative attitudes of social workers to adoption as a child protection tool and over-zealous enforcement of same race adoption: "Only 70 babies were adopted last year compared with 4,000 in 1976...The law is very clear. A child should not stay in care for an undue

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-53082269606892283462011-01-24T11:49:00.001Z2011-01-24T12:07:45.404Z

The Downing Street Communications Director, Andy Coulson, has chosen to join the dole queues of his own volition.  This has led to much ruminating on who the relpacement should be based on their individual perspectives of what the problems with the Conservative message are (and its close relative, the Government message). David Davis has thrown the cat amongst the pigeons by playing the class

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-51259707649264320742011-01-21T15:38:00.000Z2011-01-21T15:38:34.482Z

Stop digging is the advice to someone in a hole but the UUP seems to be have considered shovels inadequate and called in a JCB.  After managing to make their position on the budget even more obscure they tactic today is to go on the attack.  Tom Elliott's has issued another statement on the topic of the economy - the facebook description of it states: "The people of Northern Ireland will not be

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-79253268577611180532011-01-20T17:46:00.000Z2011-01-20T17:46:30.679Z

A while ago IJP highlighted the contradiction in a Tom Elliott statement over the Tory link - with him managing to make it as look as clear as the Alliance Party/Liberal Democrat relationship ;-).  Now the issue of contradictions has risen again (but to be fair its spread over two statements rather than contained in one).  Yesterday the UUP made a move on the budget declaring: "...the Ulster

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-2828817876547264232011-01-19T15:52:00.000Z2011-01-19T15:52:35.364Z

I must admit I never thought I would see the day that my hometown paper would manage to get a story to which it could add 'gate' on to.  However, the deselection of David McClarty and a former party colleague's failure to lock their mobile keypad has done just that.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-35475070539566473922011-01-18T17:46:00.001Z2011-01-18T17:47:48.424Z

Yesterday I asked the question would the UUP continue with multiple positions on budgetary issues.  According to a Mallie tweet (or twitlonger to be accurate) the UUP has indeed opted to do just that with Danny Kennedy saying no decision had been taken to oppose it while a UUP document said a decision to oppose had been.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-84814179964467886682011-01-18T15:56:00.000Z2011-01-18T15:56:57.453Z

"If Sammy Wilson can point to a major Western Economy which has not had to implement public spending reductions as a result of the global financial downturn, then by all means let him do so." United States of America hasn't cut public spending and neither has Canada (still rolling out C$62 billion in stimulus spending).

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-34242137274442139982011-01-17T16:45:00.000Z2011-01-17T16:45:16.277Z

Over the week-end was talking to a relative who informed me that when one of their children turned 18 they had received a bundle of information about Sinn Fein (not unusual as parties do various things to target new voters coming on to the rolls with a birthday card a common approach).  However, none of this child's friends had received such a pack despite them reaching 18 and being on the

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-8831942462739582592011-01-17T13:39:00.002Z2011-01-17T13:39:47.540Z

Conservativehome marks the 5th anniversary of Stephen Harper's election as Canadian Prime Minister (a person that probably only I and Burke's Corner seem to take an interest in). It concludes his rule has seen a series of small changes rather than a revolution.  Harper sums it up well himself: "He's described his government as conservative rather than libertarian and has introduced modest

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-49650561372071698742011-01-17T11:03:00.000Z2011-01-17T11:03:25.664Z

It appears that the policy significance of the North Channel cannot be over-estimated.  During Prime Minister's questions last week David Cameron said the ring-fencing of the health budget was enabling the Coalition government to improve health services: "Today we are announcing a new cancer plan that aims to save another 5,000 lives every year by the end of the current Parliament. This is all

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-2383111301195578992011-01-13T10:39:00.001Z2011-01-13T10:43:26.610Z

Níl tú ag fáil Acht na Gaeilge. (Courtesy of google translate)

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-78072911058937408482011-01-13T10:03:00.001Z2011-01-13T10:03:44.067Z

Pint of Unionist Lite's post on Lady Hermon's Euro vote made me wander over to the public whip site to look at Sylvia Hermon's voting record overall.  It is more conservative and less liberal than public perception.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-66723195495178793442011-01-13T09:42:00.001Z2011-01-13T10:05:04.649Z

The DUP has chalked up its second council defection since Tom Elliott became leader, Harry Dunlop, of North Down Council.  Coincidentally the second Deputy Mayor to jump ship. The pattern of defections seems to be the unelected head towards Alliance while councillors head DUP with what de-selected MLAs will do still unclear.  As to the reasons why for this flow IJP has it pretty much covered with

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-69803368363433701922011-01-11T16:29:00.000Z2011-01-11T16:29:05.686Z

With the pressure continuing on Conor Murphy over NI Water and Lawrence Mackenzie, he has opted for a distraction strategy certainly his invoking of the European Charter does not stand up to scrutiny.  Will it be a Gaelic straw or is he trying to fashion a paddle?

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-7727475956870695752011-01-10T12:24:00.000Z2011-01-10T12:24:47.151Z

With the Assembly heading towards completing an uninterupted term, this leads to the obvious question of how it was achieved when previous attempts failed? Factors like events and St Andrews leading to the resolution and tying down of issues reduced the number of potential landmines as the instrumentalism of the process declined towards a more constitutive conclusion.  The two largest parties,

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-26853336301039623872011-01-07T09:29:00.000Z2011-01-07T09:29:07.904Z

Part of the means of achieving savings in the NI budget is a review of the operation and existence of arms length bodies in Northern Ireland.  A review of how this will be achieved is to be pursued but this has led to criticism from some that cuts should happen at once.  However, the Coalition government's plans provide a relevant lesson for those who demand immediacy: "Bernard Jenkin, the

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-28222497222412750432011-01-05T10:12:00.000Z2011-01-05T10:12:28.278Z

The above clip is famous for the avoidance of a question but it is also an example of  the accountability issues with agencitisation of what used to be direct public functions.  Where does the buck stop, the senior management of the agency/body or with the minister?  This has come into focus in Northern Ireland with the water crisis (and by the way undermines claims that these issues are unique

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-56135661469240634202010-12-18T14:07:00.001Z2010-12-18T14:11:58.698Z

"Playing on people's fears in such a populist manner is nothing short of a disgrace." No not a comment on the Health Minister Michael McGimpsey but a UUP spokesperson condemning the DUP for highlighting the UUP confusion over water charges.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-50222348808743090672010-12-18T14:01:00.001Z2010-12-18T14:08:30.263Z

Chalk up a defection for the DUP.  The News Letter reports that UUP Councillor and Deputy Mayor of Castlereagh, David Drysdale has defected to the DUP.  Some of his reasons are quoted from his resignation letter.   

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-41141315288267221112010-12-16T14:25:00.001Z2010-12-16T14:27:41.463Z

It appears that the UUP's confusion over health spending has now infected its water charges policy.  UUP Deputy leader, John McCallister, on the Nolan show backed the introduction of water charges as a means to boost health spending.  He highlighted a UUP 2007 manifesto pledge for a £100 water charge (if Direct Rule had implemented water charges by the time devolution was restored): "• Capping

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-88488255417067295022010-12-15T13:52:00.002Z2010-12-15T14:17:23.491Z

While the draft budget will grab the headlines locally, Labour tried to block the tuition fees hike in the Lords last night.  They failed with at least two Unionist Northern Ireland Lords backing the Coalition proposals, Lord Trimble and Lord Maginnis.  Trimble is a full blown member of the Conservatives so his vote is not that much of a surprise but why did Maginnis join him? Is it the first

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-26305332988026438862010-12-15T13:27:00.000Z2010-12-15T13:27:07.754Z

With Trimblesque skill McNarry's prediction that a draft budget was pie in sky has been disproved within 48 hours with it now on the table for people to inspect.  Beyond providing a lesson in the dangers of political predictions the big politics of this should be recognised, the Executive has passed another major test.  The obvious test at the start of this term was the devolution of Policing and

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-84091408583523036432010-12-13T12:38:00.001Z2010-12-13T12:40:37.580Z

While the media will be predictably fixated on Finucane.  Buried in the US cables is confirmation that a unpalatable Plan B did exist if the attempts to restore devolution had failed.  In a released US diplomatic cable the then Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern explained that: "..."Plan B" (indefinite suspension of the Assembly and joint UK/Irish stewardship of the Northern political process)

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-82453543173767469342010-12-12T22:11:00.000Z2010-12-12T22:11:34.083Z

Hat tip Iain Dale - very nice arrangement of the National Anthem.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-71658251429011059572010-12-10T12:59:00.000Z2010-12-10T12:59:02.277Z

It appears that asset sales have not been included in the Treasury's projections for public finances.  How much these will be is hard to predict (particularly as the sale of bank shares will play a part in it) but the Treasury Committee Chairman expects the revenues to be substantial:  "My best guess is that you’re going to find yourself not wanting to hypothecate it, in which case you’re going

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-856121104981122522010-12-10T10:39:00.000Z2010-12-10T10:39:40.720Z

There will be an event or image that brings out the authoritarian in each of us and I must admit that this one manages it for me.  It brought to mind the PJ O'Rourke chapter on the issue of anti-flag burning laws.  When such laws were rightly ruled unconstitutional he found the response of one state amusing.  It passed a law stating anyone assaulting someone burning a flag would be

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-8848706140433745352010-12-10T10:13:00.003Z2010-12-10T10:14:16.993Z

"I’ve just got an email from “The Conservative Party” asking me to “Help Win the Tuition Fees Debate”.Should that not have been directed to Danny Kennedy?!"

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-31090132147287447152010-12-08T13:19:00.000Z2010-12-08T13:19:46.091Z

"Oh dear that ackward moment when you realise you've been done over by Tom Elliott." One wag's comment on the doing over of the local Tories by Tom Elliott (and of course Owen Patterson).

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-32567815477957809142010-12-08T13:06:00.001Z2010-12-08T13:07:13.881Z

With the student fees vote looming Nigel Dodds at PMQ drew a comparison between Lib Dems and FIFA.  Cameron sensibly tried to deal with it by a joke in response, but ended up making his deputy, Nick Clegg,  the butt of it:

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-77351757449215533202010-12-08T11:17:00.000Z2010-12-08T11:17:17.540Z

Considering the difficult position the Northern Ireland economy finds itself in both in terms of recovery and the  budget issues, particularly on capital, there are a number of things could be sought from the Conservatives. However, it takes breathtaking levels of navel-gazing and warped priorities to make closing down the NI Conservatives the key demand in discussions rather than something that

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-85894926923034343942010-12-07T13:31:00.000Z2010-12-07T13:31:19.945Z

Whatever the curiosity value of the thrashing about in the ever decreasing pond of the UUP there is a supplemental to Terry Wright's question for the UUP asking why people are leaving.  The supplemental is not for the UUP but for the DUP, why have those who are leaving the UUP not opted for it? To a degree those who would opt for the DUP from the UUP's ranks made the shift years ago - it landed

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-17722173401876593872010-12-07T12:46:00.001Z2010-12-07T12:51:38.194Z

The Nolan show was in full frenzy whipping mode about salting of paths at Stormont.  When I heard the report I was surprised by the claim that all the paths were salted having had to negotiate them the day previously.  Their reporter on the spot repeatedly described the paths clear.  Now Ian McCrea MLA has provided some pics from Stormont providing images directly contradicting the claims.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-77580022463756384092010-12-07T12:10:00.000Z2010-12-07T12:10:59.099Z

The UUP Deputy Chairman, Terry Wright, one of the men charged with the post Westminster review of the party, has added his tuppence worth to the Conference fall-out: "...has said he would not have attacked former candidates in the way David Campbell did on Saturday." He went on to clarify that his comments should not be viewed as criticism of the Chairman David Campbell.  On the resignations he

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-61190390504825639952010-12-07T11:39:00.000Z2010-12-07T11:39:40.561Z

"I mean, no slight to Mr Elliott's politics or personal integrity, but in terms of presentation, he and his party are still rubbing sticks together hoping to stumble on the secret of fire." Gail Walker in particularly acerbic form about the UUP conference (not yet online).

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-49009677647225939042010-12-06T14:24:00.001Z2010-12-06T14:59:23.385Z

..to wash dirty linen in public.  Flash Harry walked on Friday.  On Saturday it was revealed John K Lund had been suspended for comments on the Nolan show (only one of a number of members who participated in that sorry affair) with the result he was quitting and predicting others would follow (UPDATE a correct prediction judging by 3000 versts latest post).  Now on Monday a Lisburn UUP councillor

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-30123928891207032992010-12-06T12:41:00.003Z2010-12-06T12:54:55.338Z

So Tom has delivered his first speech as leader.  I was doing some facilitation work on Saturday so missed it all so will examine the official version of his speech. First the re-arranging of speeches on the day was a necessity built on an error.  With the TV coverage due to end at 1pm the idea the party leader would deliver a speech from 12.40-1.00pm was bad planning.  It needed to be

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-53157330478973224092010-12-06T10:09:00.000Z2010-12-06T10:09:55.190Z

Some feel good for a cold Monday morning courtesy of Susan Hill on the Coffee House blog.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-41419379478427605692010-12-03T15:08:00.001Z2010-12-04T18:29:01.171Z

The UUP PPB broadcast is now available over on iplayer (but not yet on the party site as far as I can see).   Visually it has some comparisons with the DUP broadcast - bright skies Belfast skyline - although it has something of a softer vibe to the music and overall feel.  The use of the list about 30 seconds in didn't fit with the rest of it. Also there was a key emphasis point about 2.30s in

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-49654038859132498092010-12-03T11:39:00.001Z2010-12-03T11:42:18.898Z

In terms of pre-conference build up it was a bit of a mixed media bag for Tom Elliott.  A message clash with his BT interview claims, a reasonable performance on Hearts and Minds with no balls dropped (helped by Noel going easy), a rather cruel report by UTV (young people asking Who is Tom Elliott?).   However, throughout all of them there is a negative media narrative that the UUP is trapped

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-39074212990584689682010-12-02T13:59:00.000Z2010-12-02T13:59:23.777Z

In today's Belfast Telegraph Tom Elliott declared that: "I want to show people that we are a party of delivery.  You only have to look at our ministries, particularly health..." Also today the BBC highlighted new data showing that those seeking outpatient appointments are facing increased waits.  The official figures show that: "The total number of people waiting for a first outpatient

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-4845682520982990962010-12-02T10:29:00.001Z2010-12-02T16:36:04.950Z

If Australia gets the 2022 World Cup after this, then money must have changed hands. UPDATE Well Australia failed (as did England).  England will no doubt blame the BBC if I was the Aussies I'd blame the promo.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-53918696655899125622010-12-01T12:40:00.000Z2010-12-01T12:40:44.831Z

Tom Elliott has made at best ill-judged at worst hysterical response to Peter Robinson's speech at the DUP conference.  His response to 45 minutes setting out a vision for Northern Ireland's second century was essentially conspiracy theory.  It was all about the UUP apparently, even though the UUP wasn't mentioned in the speech: “Let us be clear, Peter Robinson wants to destroy the Ulster

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-20100790188548553322010-11-30T16:46:00.001Z2010-11-30T16:46:23.684Z

"Nigel Farage is Denis Thatcher on speed." Dan Hannan (H/T Unionist lite)

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-77374762609191987252010-11-30T16:40:00.003Z2010-11-30T16:41:46.683Z

News in cartoon form is growing on me as a form.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-52101984331739244542010-11-29T16:51:00.001Z2010-11-29T16:52:03.345Z

The OBR has reviewed its projections for the economy.  In the area of public sector jobs they have reviewed  public job losses down from 490,000 to 330,000.  This is based on the CSR decision to make a higher proportion of the cuts from the welfare budget rather than departmental budgets (with the warning that welfare cuts have proven much more difficult to realise in the past so this may have to

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-68131848561028349832010-11-27T15:51:00.001Z2010-11-27T15:52:36.617Z

In its full unblurred glory here.  Text below the break.Building the 2021 economy CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY EMBARGOED UNTIL DELIVERY Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen It’s great to be here with you today and help conclude this session on the economy. I apologise for arriving late at our conference today but my daughter had her second transfer test this morning. Thanks to this party, my

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-46419225181981312792010-11-27T13:50:00.000Z2010-11-27T13:50:33.380Z

The powerpoint for my contribution to the Blogging for Unionism session at the DUP Conference, entitled the Accidental Blogger. An Accidental Blogger

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-77093384291962290842010-11-27T11:48:00.002Z2010-11-27T14:24:15.586Z

In its full unblurred glory here. Full text below the fold. Who would have believed it a decade ago? Here we are at the end of 2010, a DUP-led administration at Stormont, the IRA off the stage and Sinn Fein signed up to policing. After decades of conflict, Northern Ireland is moving in the right direction. Northern Ireland’s constitutional position in the United Kingdom is secure, our

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-72113112561231443362010-11-27T10:52:00.002Z2010-11-27T14:25:20.108Z

In its full unblurred glory here. Full text below the fold. Nigel Dodds Second Century Unionism CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY EMBARGOED UNTIL DELIVERY Before I begin with my speech I wish to take a moment to acknowledge the valiant service of our Armed Forces in Afghanistan. Their dedication to a dangerous task thousands of miles from home is an inspiration. Their sacrifices we shall never forget and

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8348675249831460161.post-1517567961745606432010-11-27T10:04:00.003Z2010-11-27T10:33:04.191Z

Proceedings have begun with the first session a debate on reforming government and financing public services.  UPDATE Two hard pressed BBC technical staff snoozing on the sofa outside the room. UPDATE Problem with electricity supply for a few moments.  UPDATE For the want of a Mac, colleague fighting with a PC laptop and slowwifi to get conference photos uploaded.

Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946030521550890382noreply@blogger.com0