Alastair Kneale's blog

Archaeologists in north-western Spain believe they have discovered the burial place of 16th century Irish chieftain known as Red Hugh O’Donnell (30 October 1572 – 10 September 1602). Hugh Roe O'Donnell (Irish: Aodh Ruadh Ó Domhnaill) was a ruler of Tyrconnell. Tyrconnell (Irish Gaelic: Tir Chonaill) was an independent Gaelic state in Ireland. Red Hugh and his father-in-law Hugh O’Neill fought the Nine Years’ War against the English and sought aid from Spain.

In normal times the most famous motorcycle race meeting in the world, the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, would have been about to begin. However, as we are only to well aware, we in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. As a result the Council of Ministers, which is the highest level decision making body within the Isle of Man Government, had some time ago taken the decision to cancel the 2020 Isle of Man TT Races which were due to take place between 30th May and 13th June. 

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.