Alastair Kneale's blog

This news item from Yn Commeeys Celtiagh - Celtic League Mannin gives the latest information on the inquest into the sinking of the Breton trawler Bugaled Breizh. MFV Bugaled Breizh from Loctudy, Finistère, in Brittany sunk with the loss of all five crew in 90 metres of water on 15 January 2004. It is strongly suspected that the ship was pulled under by a submarine during a NATO excercise. The article points out this was one of a number of such incidents that many believe to be due to submarine activity around the Celtic coasts:

News from BreizhEire:

Demat d'an holl/ bonsoir à tous / dia dhaoibh uilig / Hi everybody

Remembrance Day is a memorial day observed on 11th November in many countries around the world. For most people the day is significant in that it brings to mind those that died and suffered in the First World War. Originating in Europe it became a global conflict that lasted from 28 July 1914 to 11 November 1918. Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to mark the end of hostilities at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918.

The so-called Paradise Papers are revelations that are placing a spotlight on the tax affairs of some of the wealthiest people and companies in the world. In particular their use  of jurisdictions with low or zero-tax rates as a means of tax avoidance. At this stage the allegations from the media has focused on tax avoidance rather than tax evasion. While tax avoidance involves companies and people using legal ways to reduce their tax bill, tax evasion is an offence and involves illegal ways of paying less tax than required.

These images were published by the BBC. They were sent in by those witnessing natures light displays of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) across northern and central Scotland on Tuesday night. At this time of year when artificial Christmas lights are being switched on in some great displays around the world, nature likes to remind us who can really do it better!

Mec Vannin the Manx National Party has called for the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe to intervene in Catalonia. This is after Spain has sought to crush democracy in Catalonia and reacted forcefully following the declaration of independence.

“Dears Sirs

With reference to the current situation vis a vis the Madrid and Catalunyan governments, we cite the United Nations Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples:

Media realease from Culture Vannin:

Who has contributed most to Manx culture? RBV nominations underway

An annual cultural award named after our very own Celtic sea god, Manannan, the ‘Reih Bleeaney Vanannan’ or RBV is awarded to an individual or group who has made the greatest contribution to the Island’s cultural heritage. Nominations are open to the public throughout November, with the final decision made by representatives of various Manx cultural organisations.

Press release from Culture Vannin:

Over 90 ways to talk about the weather in Manx!

Culture Vannin is pleased to announce the release of over 90 animated Gifs in Manx that relate to our wonderful, variable and often challenging weather.

Those nations and regions that we see engaged in the struggle for greater autonomy and self determination around Europe and the world are often faced with force, intimidation and suppression. Catalonia is an obvious current example of a people suffering this fate. However, the organisations and local political representatives seeking greater degrees of self determination, have the aspiration to provide a better life for their people, to protect their culture, distinct identity, and to provide social improvements and better living conditions.

Two prominent Catalan independence leaders, Jordi Sanchez of the Catalan National Assembly, and Jordi Cuixart of Omnium Cultural, were imprisoned on Monday night (16 October). They have been sent to prison by Spain's National Court while they are investigated for alleged crimes of sedition. Omnium immediately condemned the ruling as "intolerable in a democratic society". On Twitter they said: "The mobilisation continues, they won't be able to imprison an entire people!". The imprisonment of two of the best-known Catalan independence leaders has provoked outrage in Catalonia.