Alastair Kneale's blog

Media Release from Culture Vannin:

Clare Kilgallon has been reappointed to the board of Culture Vannin

For some weeks now the liberal left have pointed to New Zealand as the perfect example of how to tackle the threat of the Crononavisrus pandemic. In doing this it is often used, understandably given the incompetence of some governments, as a way to attack an administration they do not agree with. In doing so they have found a new poster girl for their cause, namely Jacinda Ardern Prime Minister of New Zealand. However, people should be careful of what they wish for.

Picture courtesy of Culture Vannin:

Myr yiarragh shin 'sy Ghaelg (As we would say in Manx Gaelic) - Gura mie eu, Hirveish Slaynt Ashoonagh! (Thanks to our NHS)

Draconian measures have been undertaken in countries around the world in regard to the coronavirus pandemic. New legislation has been introduced and rushed through many parliaments, without the normal scrutiny, in a bid to enforce unprecedented lockdown measures and physical distancing to slow the spread and death toll from Covid-19. To a large extent many people have accepted the need for emergency powers at this time. However, these powers have more in common with those of a police state rather than a western democracy.

For the first time during the Coronavirus pandemic a leader of one of the Celtic nations has been tested positive. It has been confirmed that Howard Quayle Chief Minister for the Isle of Man (Manx; Mannin) has tested positive for the virus. It is reported in the Manx media that Mr Quayle has maintained "full control of government," before outlining contingency plans relating to the chain of command should any of the council of ministers fall ill. We wish Howard Quayle a speedy recovery.

In January of last year Transceltic featured an interview with The Placks. The band, based in the Highlands of Scotland, described themselves as "An original mix of melodic punk rock and folk music with a big dollop of rock & roll."

Easter is a Christian festival and holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead. This is described in the New Testament as having occurred on the third day after his burial following his crucifixion by the Romans at Calvary c. 30 AD. The Old Testament and the New Testament combine to make up the Holy Bible. The Holy Bible is defined as a book believed by Christians to contain the revelations of God and is the guiding holy text of the Christian religion.

The Government of the Isle of Man has announced that it is closing its borders to all but residents. All Manx residents returning from trips abroad (including Britain and Ireland) already have to self isolate for 14 days, even if they are not showing symptoms of the Coronavirus. In the Isle of Man, which is self governing, measures are in place to enforce self-isolation. A 26-year-old on the Island has been arrested for allegedly failing to self-isolate against coronavirus. It is thought the man had just arrived on the island on a ferry.

Media release from Culture Vannin:

Building Bridges and strengthening communities

Establishing a strong and long-term relationship between the Gaelic speaking communities of the Isle of Man and the Lower Mourne Area of County Down in Northern Ireland was at the heart of a recent visit to the area by Adrian Cain, The Manx Language Development Officer for Culture Vannin, and Aalin Clague of the Bunscoill Ghaelgagh.

On Sunday 15 March 2020, The Scots College in Bellevue Hill is hosting the Sydney Highland Gathering. The venue is at the Scots College, 53 Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill 2030. Gates open at 11am and entry is free. Visitors are promised an exciting day of Pipe Band Competitions and Highland Dancing Competitions, Highland Dancing, traditional Scottish Highland games events including carrying the stones and toss the caber.