Thursday, 6 September 2012
Finally, Malawi has its Youth Parliament...
As many of you will know, I spent some time in Malawi last year working with the National Youth Council. Despite taking part in a number of different visits, the main purpose of my trip was to advise on how best to go about setting up a Malawian Youth Parliament.
With 46% of the population being 15 or under, it was obvious that there was a need for a dedicated Parliament, looking specifially at issues of importance to the youth of Malawi.
During my time in the country, I met with a number of different stakeholders including the Malawi Human Rights Network, District Youth Officers in both Lilongwe and Blantyre and perhaps most importantly, the then Minister for Youth and Sport and the Speaker of the National Assembly in Malawi. It was clear that for the project to be even remotely successful, we would need the backing of the decision makers. After all, it was them whom the MYP would be seeking to influence.
Fortunately it was agreed by all that there was a need for the youth Parliament. However, it was mentioned on a few occasions that Malawi had previously had a Children's Parliament. It was repeatedly criticised as simply being a talking shop and only interested in "childish" issues. In the end it was scrapped and since then the young people of Malawi have had very limited involvement in decision making on a national level, if any at all.
The issues raised by the young people I spoke to in many different parts of Malawi were certainly not childish. Forced marriage, teenage pregnancy, sexual abuse, HIV/AIDS, healthcare and education provision being just some of them. With an average life expectancy in Malawi of around 53, it's sadly true that by the time young people make it to their twenties, they are already half way through their lives. With this in mind, it's imperative that these young people have the chance to make a difference, a chance to make sure that the next generation of young Malawians don't face a lifetime of hunger, disease and poverty.
The National Youth Council worked tirelessly with the young people in Malawi and thankfully a Youth Parliament has been established. I'm not suggesting that this will be the answer to the many problems the young people of Malawi face. It won't. That said, the more involved that young people are in decision making, the more likely they are to see Malawi become the place they want it to be. Malawi is a fantastic country, the people are warm, friendly and generous. It didn't earn the nickname as the "warm heart of Africa" for nothing.
Under the late President Mutharika, Malawi prospered. In my opinion, more could have been done. Tackling the literacy rate, the low life expectancy, HIV/AIDS all need worked on. It's obvious that the young people of Malawi need to be involved. They have opinions, they know whats best for them and I'm sure that President Banda, herself an educator, will be only too aware of this.
During the launch of the Parliament, it was announced that next year Malawi will host the regional Commonwealth Youth Parliament. This is a great honour for the young people of Malawi, who, until last month, didn't even have a Youth Parliament.
Times are changing and I'm genuinely exicted for the young people involved. Malawi has always been a leader and trend setter in Sub Saharan Africa, and this is proven yet again.
I know just how valuable young people's contribution to civil society and decision making can be and I hope the the rest of Africa and the Middle East learn lessons from Malawi.
With a new Secretary of State at DFID, I hope she too will welcome the Youth Parliament being established and look at how the UK Government, along with other international partners, can support the great work I'm sure they'll do over the coming months and years.
Good luck MYP!
Thursday, 15 September 2011
The Crisis in the Horn of Africa
Recently the lack of coverage of the ever growing disaster in the Horn of Africa has really annoyed me. It’s typical of the society that we live in - out of sight, out of mind! I wanted to take this opportunity to bring it back to the forefront of people’s minds and to make some points on the issue.
Let’s be absolutely clear, this crisis isn’t getting any better. I watched a debate in the House of Commons on Food Security in Africa and many Members, from both sides of the house, made some very interesting points.
It’s very easy to respond to a crisis once it has hit. However, we’re not as good at preventing them. Alison McGovern, MP for Wirral South, said that we have a “moral responsibility to those most in need.” Frankly, I couldn’t have put it better myself. We hear of people, although thankfully they are in the minority, talking the crisis down. Andrea Leadsom, MP for South Northamptonshire, spoke about letters she has received from constituents who feel that it’s a waste of money and that “charity begins at home.” This level of ignorance is astounding. As someone who has experienced the poverty in Africa first hand, hearing statements like that really upsets me. Yes, times are hard in the UK. Yes, we face some public spending cuts and yes, one in four children in Scotland are living in poverty. Whilst in an ideal world this wouldn’t be the case, at least we have a Government who is working to tackle these issues.
In Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya a state of famine has been declared. I think the word famine is batted about too easily. A famine occurs when thirty percent of children in a country are “acutely malnourished.” So yes, things may seem difficult here in the UK, but there’s no comparison really!
This leads me to my second point. It’s a well known fact that democracies have far fewer famines than countries which don’t have democracy. Why is it then, that we aren’t taking action against the corrupt governments around the world, and particularly in Africa? Pauline Latham, MP for Mid Derbyshire and a member of the International Development Select Committee, spoke of the need to tackle corruption. Sadly, corruption exists at every level of society in many developing nations. It’s my belief that if we are ever to assist the people of East Africa then we need to ensure that their leaders, both locally and nationally, are doing everything they can to ensure that these disasters are less frequent. I use “disaster” loosely. To clarify, famines are not natural disasters. They occur as a result of both political and economic mismanagement and more importantly, human failure.
The United Nations has called this famine in the Horn of Africa “the worst in sixty years.” Sadly, there are 3.2 million people in immediate need of life saving assistance. The UN FSNAU predicts that the famine will continue until at least December 2011.
For anyone who has been to Africa, you’ll know how proud Africans are. They have a fantastic spirit and are, surprisingly, very grateful for what little they have. It’s absolutely essential that any support from the UN and NGOs are a hand up, and not a hand out. These people have their pride and should be seen as equals. Yes we may feel bad about their situations but one thing they don’t want is our pity.
Although I have focussed on the negatives, there are many positives. The people of the UK are, and always have been, extremely generous. Like I mentioned earlier, and as we all know, times are tough in the UK. However, the UK is the second largest donor to the region, behind the United States. The UK Government committed .7 % of the UKs gross national income (gni) to aid. So far, the Disasters Emergency Committee has received donations of over £45m from the British public. The World Bank has also pledged £307m. Whilst all this money will be very welcome, I don’t believe that it’s the answer. We need to educate and help nations in Africa become self sufficient. This may be a long way off but there’s no better time to start!
I’m a great believer in the old saying, “give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he’ll eat for the rest of his life.”
Let’s be absolutely clear, this crisis isn’t getting any better. I watched a debate in the House of Commons on Food Security in Africa and many Members, from both sides of the house, made some very interesting points.
It’s very easy to respond to a crisis once it has hit. However, we’re not as good at preventing them. Alison McGovern, MP for Wirral South, said that we have a “moral responsibility to those most in need.” Frankly, I couldn’t have put it better myself. We hear of people, although thankfully they are in the minority, talking the crisis down. Andrea Leadsom, MP for South Northamptonshire, spoke about letters she has received from constituents who feel that it’s a waste of money and that “charity begins at home.” This level of ignorance is astounding. As someone who has experienced the poverty in Africa first hand, hearing statements like that really upsets me. Yes, times are hard in the UK. Yes, we face some public spending cuts and yes, one in four children in Scotland are living in poverty. Whilst in an ideal world this wouldn’t be the case, at least we have a Government who is working to tackle these issues.
In Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya a state of famine has been declared. I think the word famine is batted about too easily. A famine occurs when thirty percent of children in a country are “acutely malnourished.” So yes, things may seem difficult here in the UK, but there’s no comparison really!
This leads me to my second point. It’s a well known fact that democracies have far fewer famines than countries which don’t have democracy. Why is it then, that we aren’t taking action against the corrupt governments around the world, and particularly in Africa? Pauline Latham, MP for Mid Derbyshire and a member of the International Development Select Committee, spoke of the need to tackle corruption. Sadly, corruption exists at every level of society in many developing nations. It’s my belief that if we are ever to assist the people of East Africa then we need to ensure that their leaders, both locally and nationally, are doing everything they can to ensure that these disasters are less frequent. I use “disaster” loosely. To clarify, famines are not natural disasters. They occur as a result of both political and economic mismanagement and more importantly, human failure.
The United Nations has called this famine in the Horn of Africa “the worst in sixty years.” Sadly, there are 3.2 million people in immediate need of life saving assistance. The UN FSNAU predicts that the famine will continue until at least December 2011.
For anyone who has been to Africa, you’ll know how proud Africans are. They have a fantastic spirit and are, surprisingly, very grateful for what little they have. It’s absolutely essential that any support from the UN and NGOs are a hand up, and not a hand out. These people have their pride and should be seen as equals. Yes we may feel bad about their situations but one thing they don’t want is our pity.
Although I have focussed on the negatives, there are many positives. The people of the UK are, and always have been, extremely generous. Like I mentioned earlier, and as we all know, times are tough in the UK. However, the UK is the second largest donor to the region, behind the United States. The UK Government committed .7 % of the UKs gross national income (gni) to aid. So far, the Disasters Emergency Committee has received donations of over £45m from the British public. The World Bank has also pledged £307m. Whilst all this money will be very welcome, I don’t believe that it’s the answer. We need to educate and help nations in Africa become self sufficient. This may be a long way off but there’s no better time to start!
I’m a great believer in the old saying, “give a man a fish and he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish and he’ll eat for the rest of his life.”
Thursday, 7 April 2011
Scottish Conservative Manifesto Launch
On Monday 4th April, Scottish Conservative leader Annabel Goldie launched our manifesto for Scotland. In what was an excellent speech to party members and the press, Annabel highlighted the key points of our Common Sense policies that we want to take forward to make Scotland a better place to live.
Common Sense is the very heart of what we do both in the Scottish Parliament and elsewhere throughout the country. Indeed, the very policy implementations that have achieved in the last term of the Parliament have been driven by a Common Sense approach. 1,000 extra police officers on the streets of Scotland, being one such example. Of course in the run up to May 5th Alex Salmond and the SNP will try and fool the people of Scotland, failing to acknowledge that it was Scottish Conservative votes that were responsible for the delivery of those extra officers.A Council Tax freeze, again as a result of the Scottish Conservatives... the list really does go on. Whilst we are proud of the achievements of out MSPs in the last term, just think how much more we could achieve with more Conservative members!
In the next term of the Parliament we want to see:
A Council Tax freeze for all - for at least two years
A £200 Council Tax cut for pensioner households
Keeping 1,000 extra police to make Scotland safer
Scrapping automatic early release from jail
More health visitors for young families
Again, the list goes on... To see the Scottish Conservative Manifesto in full, go to :http://www.scottishconservatives.com/downloads/scottish-conservative-manifesto-2011.pdf
Of course the other main parties in this election will promise the electorate what they want to hear. However, only the Scottish Conservatives have been truly honest about how we'll pay for these pledges - Derek Brownlee, Conservative Finance Spokesman, launched a 50 page document outlining exactly how we'll pay for these.
Only the Scottish Conservatives have the credible plans for Scotland and I hope that you'll Vote Scottish Conservative on May 5th!
Common Sense is the very heart of what we do both in the Scottish Parliament and elsewhere throughout the country. Indeed, the very policy implementations that have achieved in the last term of the Parliament have been driven by a Common Sense approach. 1,000 extra police officers on the streets of Scotland, being one such example. Of course in the run up to May 5th Alex Salmond and the SNP will try and fool the people of Scotland, failing to acknowledge that it was Scottish Conservative votes that were responsible for the delivery of those extra officers.A Council Tax freeze, again as a result of the Scottish Conservatives... the list really does go on. Whilst we are proud of the achievements of out MSPs in the last term, just think how much more we could achieve with more Conservative members!
In the next term of the Parliament we want to see:
A Council Tax freeze for all - for at least two years
A £200 Council Tax cut for pensioner households
Keeping 1,000 extra police to make Scotland safer
Scrapping automatic early release from jail
More health visitors for young families
Again, the list goes on... To see the Scottish Conservative Manifesto in full, go to :http://www.scottishconservatives.com/downloads/scottish-conservative-manifesto-2011.pdf
Of course the other main parties in this election will promise the electorate what they want to hear. However, only the Scottish Conservatives have been truly honest about how we'll pay for these pledges - Derek Brownlee, Conservative Finance Spokesman, launched a 50 page document outlining exactly how we'll pay for these.
Only the Scottish Conservatives have the credible plans for Scotland and I hope that you'll Vote Scottish Conservative on May 5th!
Wednesday, 2 March 2011
SYP Manifesto - 2011/2013
Glasgow Provan is a fantastic constituency with lots of hard working, enthusiastic young people. We’re not without our problems though. I hope that I can work with everyone in Glasgow Provan, to make our community better. If I’m elected as the Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament I will:
• Create an anti knife crime strategy with local young people
I will work with community partners and local young people to tackle the causes of knife crime. Knife crime can rip the heart out of a great community. I believe that the young people here are mature enough to tackle the issues head on and come up with an anti Knife Crime Strategy. I want to work with the community to find out what works best in deterring our young people from not only using a knife, but carrying one in the first place. A consultation would be carried out over 6 months and then an event would be heard to ensure that decision makers and local service providers know exactly how young people feel on the issues.
• Work with local young people to identify a solution to University funding
Over the last few months we’ve seen a lot of angry young people protesting about university tuition fees. The Scottish Government is working to establish a “Scottish solution” to the problem. I want to consult with the young people of Glasgow Provan on what they think this should be. It’s a very important issue and one which isn’t going away any time soon. It’s essential that young people are consulted properly and I will make sure this happens.
• Establish a Youth Volunteers Group
Volunteering is so important. Many young people across the constituency have so much to offer and I believe that the benefits of taking part in a volunteering programme would be fantastic. I would establish a database that contains the details of all the young people in the constituency who are interested in volunteering. I will then work to identify opportunities specifically related to the interests of the young people and support them in obtaining a place. Of course, the ideal situation would be that young people would be able to find paid work. However, with so few employment opportunities, it’s important that young people who are out of work use their time effectively.
I will work on many more issues and projects over my term, if I’m elected. However, these three issues will be what drive my work over the two year term. I will meet regularly with local youth groups and hold surgeries, both online and in person (if required.) As you can see, most of my work is consultative so I’m counting on the young people of Glasgow Provan to work with me to ensure that I represent them to the best of my ability. I will also encourage young people in the constituency to attend meetings with me and shadow me at events, if they wish to do so.I already have the experience as an elected Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament and I believe I’m the best person to represent the young people of Glasgow Provan on a national and international platform. I hope you will put your trust in my ability and vote for Keenan Alexander!
• Create an anti knife crime strategy with local young people
I will work with community partners and local young people to tackle the causes of knife crime. Knife crime can rip the heart out of a great community. I believe that the young people here are mature enough to tackle the issues head on and come up with an anti Knife Crime Strategy. I want to work with the community to find out what works best in deterring our young people from not only using a knife, but carrying one in the first place. A consultation would be carried out over 6 months and then an event would be heard to ensure that decision makers and local service providers know exactly how young people feel on the issues.
• Work with local young people to identify a solution to University funding
Over the last few months we’ve seen a lot of angry young people protesting about university tuition fees. The Scottish Government is working to establish a “Scottish solution” to the problem. I want to consult with the young people of Glasgow Provan on what they think this should be. It’s a very important issue and one which isn’t going away any time soon. It’s essential that young people are consulted properly and I will make sure this happens.
• Establish a Youth Volunteers Group
Volunteering is so important. Many young people across the constituency have so much to offer and I believe that the benefits of taking part in a volunteering programme would be fantastic. I would establish a database that contains the details of all the young people in the constituency who are interested in volunteering. I will then work to identify opportunities specifically related to the interests of the young people and support them in obtaining a place. Of course, the ideal situation would be that young people would be able to find paid work. However, with so few employment opportunities, it’s important that young people who are out of work use their time effectively.
I will work on many more issues and projects over my term, if I’m elected. However, these three issues will be what drive my work over the two year term. I will meet regularly with local youth groups and hold surgeries, both online and in person (if required.) As you can see, most of my work is consultative so I’m counting on the young people of Glasgow Provan to work with me to ensure that I represent them to the best of my ability. I will also encourage young people in the constituency to attend meetings with me and shadow me at events, if they wish to do so.I already have the experience as an elected Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament and I believe I’m the best person to represent the young people of Glasgow Provan on a national and international platform. I hope you will put your trust in my ability and vote for Keenan Alexander!
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
It's just a bit of snow!!
Once again, I've been astonished by how the country has responded to the ongoing bad weather. Earlier in the year, the country came to a standstill because of the snow! Have we learned any lessons from then? Have we hell!!!
When the bad weather hits the affects are widespread, schools close, motorways seize to a halt, thousands are off work, there is a massive economic loss, to list a few. I ask,why? As a country that seems to be obsessed with the weather, we knew this was coming! For days before the bad weather arrived we received warning after warning - "wrap up warm," "turn up your heating," "we're in for some bad weather." What plans were being put in place when all this was going on, by the Scottish Government and Local Authorities? Well by the looks of it,none!
Of course I'm not blaming the Scottish Government for this weather, but I cannot understand why contingency plans aren't in place. Last night we were told on the news that Scottish Government Ministers were in an emergency meeting. A bit late if you ask me!
Countries across the world deal with this sort of weather all the time yet we never see such chaos. Of course they are used to it so it isn't an issue,but I think we could learn a few lessons here. Admittedly this weather isn't frequent but the fact remains that it does happen so lets do something about it.
Let's never again have people spending eight or nine hours in their cars on a journey that should take 20 minutes. And when our snow ploughs are snowed in, serious questions have to be asked!
Another area that really concerns me is the emergency services. Last night we heard how the army was doing the job of the ambulance service in North Lanarkshire. Seriously ill people waiting two/three hours for an ambulance is totally unacceptable. Thankfully the army were able to help but they shouldn't have to. It's not their job. Here's a suggestion, why doesn't the Government invest in 4x4 ambulance vehicles for such situations?
And if you needed another reason as to why this cannot happen again, here's one!
Experts are warning the big freeze could be costing the country up to £70 million a day and could plunge the ailing economy ever-closer to the dreaded double-dip recession. So all of the necessary cuts that our Govt is making, and the pain that we're all going to share in could be for nothing if the country continues to allow the snow to rule!
Lets avoid unneccessary deaths, suffering and most importantly more financial hardship. We need to get on top of this weather and ensure that we have plans in place if and when, we should need them!
When the bad weather hits the affects are widespread, schools close, motorways seize to a halt, thousands are off work, there is a massive economic loss, to list a few. I ask,why? As a country that seems to be obsessed with the weather, we knew this was coming! For days before the bad weather arrived we received warning after warning - "wrap up warm," "turn up your heating," "we're in for some bad weather." What plans were being put in place when all this was going on, by the Scottish Government and Local Authorities? Well by the looks of it,none!
Of course I'm not blaming the Scottish Government for this weather, but I cannot understand why contingency plans aren't in place. Last night we were told on the news that Scottish Government Ministers were in an emergency meeting. A bit late if you ask me!
Countries across the world deal with this sort of weather all the time yet we never see such chaos. Of course they are used to it so it isn't an issue,but I think we could learn a few lessons here. Admittedly this weather isn't frequent but the fact remains that it does happen so lets do something about it.
Let's never again have people spending eight or nine hours in their cars on a journey that should take 20 minutes. And when our snow ploughs are snowed in, serious questions have to be asked!
Another area that really concerns me is the emergency services. Last night we heard how the army was doing the job of the ambulance service in North Lanarkshire. Seriously ill people waiting two/three hours for an ambulance is totally unacceptable. Thankfully the army were able to help but they shouldn't have to. It's not their job. Here's a suggestion, why doesn't the Government invest in 4x4 ambulance vehicles for such situations?
And if you needed another reason as to why this cannot happen again, here's one!
Experts are warning the big freeze could be costing the country up to £70 million a day and could plunge the ailing economy ever-closer to the dreaded double-dip recession. So all of the necessary cuts that our Govt is making, and the pain that we're all going to share in could be for nothing if the country continues to allow the snow to rule!
Lets avoid unneccessary deaths, suffering and most importantly more financial hardship. We need to get on top of this weather and ensure that we have plans in place if and when, we should need them!
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
It's been a while
I realise it's been ages since I've taken the time to sit down and blog! Rather than simply admitting to just not getting round to it, I'll say that I've been extremely busy and haven't had the chance. In fact, that's not far from the truth. I was shocked to see that the last time I blogged was back in July, four months later and here I am. Without wanting to bore you to death, I'll quickly summarise the last four months and make a promise to regularly blog from now on (first new years resolution!!)
Sadly back in August, the Scottish Conservative Party lost a fantastic and truly inspirational character. Randle Wilson MBE was the local Association Chairman and a life long Conservative activist. Having only met Randle a handful of times, he really made an impression on me. He will be terribly missed by his family, the party and the wider community that he so selflessly served.
The Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) has also seen big change in the last few months. Back in August, former Scottish Conservative candidate Hamira Khan was appointed as the new Chief Officer of the organisation. Having known Hamira before her appointment, I knew that she'd be a fantastic asset to the SYP.
Of course being a Member of the Scottish Tories brings its own challenges. Whether it be defending party policy to local people or delivering leaflets across the city, I've done it! Leafleting is a great opportunity to meet with other party members and enthusiasts. We've been in most of the Glasgow Scottish Parliamentary constituencies and will have delivered leaflets in them all before Christmas.
In between all that, I've been working hard organising my trip to Malawi that will now take place in the summer of 2011. We're working hard to secure funding and busy planning the trip with our Malawian counterparts.
At the end of october, the SYP debated in the Scottish Parliament. An issue that I an very interested in, and firmly support is the implementation of a National Citizen's Service. A policy of the Conservative Party, we need to convince the Scottish Government that such a service would be a of great benefit to the young people of Scotland. Unfortunately, the SYP overwhelmingly voted against the idea. Not to worry, I shall continue to campaign for it's implementation and hopefully I'll be able to raise the issue again with SYP.
I'm conscious that I've already rabbled on far to much so to give you an idea of what else I've been doing I'll put them in to a list ; creating my own newsletter for the constituency, attending a Children in Need debate at the BBC, attending a training weekend in Birmingham, attending the SCCYP's consultation event in the City Chambers and hosting Scottish Tory leader Annabel Goldie MSP in the constituency to mention just a few!
So there you have it, a quick update about the work that I've been doing as a Member of the Scottish Conservatives, Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament and a UK Young Ambassador!
Sadly back in August, the Scottish Conservative Party lost a fantastic and truly inspirational character. Randle Wilson MBE was the local Association Chairman and a life long Conservative activist. Having only met Randle a handful of times, he really made an impression on me. He will be terribly missed by his family, the party and the wider community that he so selflessly served.
The Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP) has also seen big change in the last few months. Back in August, former Scottish Conservative candidate Hamira Khan was appointed as the new Chief Officer of the organisation. Having known Hamira before her appointment, I knew that she'd be a fantastic asset to the SYP.
Of course being a Member of the Scottish Tories brings its own challenges. Whether it be defending party policy to local people or delivering leaflets across the city, I've done it! Leafleting is a great opportunity to meet with other party members and enthusiasts. We've been in most of the Glasgow Scottish Parliamentary constituencies and will have delivered leaflets in them all before Christmas.
In between all that, I've been working hard organising my trip to Malawi that will now take place in the summer of 2011. We're working hard to secure funding and busy planning the trip with our Malawian counterparts.
At the end of october, the SYP debated in the Scottish Parliament. An issue that I an very interested in, and firmly support is the implementation of a National Citizen's Service. A policy of the Conservative Party, we need to convince the Scottish Government that such a service would be a of great benefit to the young people of Scotland. Unfortunately, the SYP overwhelmingly voted against the idea. Not to worry, I shall continue to campaign for it's implementation and hopefully I'll be able to raise the issue again with SYP.
I'm conscious that I've already rabbled on far to much so to give you an idea of what else I've been doing I'll put them in to a list ; creating my own newsletter for the constituency, attending a Children in Need debate at the BBC, attending a training weekend in Birmingham, attending the SCCYP's consultation event in the City Chambers and hosting Scottish Tory leader Annabel Goldie MSP in the constituency to mention just a few!
So there you have it, a quick update about the work that I've been doing as a Member of the Scottish Conservatives, Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament and a UK Young Ambassador!
Monday, 9 August 2010
Visit to the Department for Education
On Friday 30th August, along with the other UK Young Ambassadors I visited the Dept for Education in London. We met with Andrew McCulley, a Senior Civil Servant in the Department. He gave us an introduction to the work that they do and how things have changed under a new Secretary of State, Michael Gove, and of course Lib Dem ministers. He spoke about how they try to find common ground on many issues, and are very successful in doing so. The DfE have been asked to plan for a 10% departmental budget cut. The Dept is very keen to "de-centralise" control, following ten years of a Labour government doing the exact opposite.
Following Andrew's introduction, the UKYAs presented on the various conferences and events that they'd attended around the world. Myself, Ben and Jess also spoke about the World Youth Congress, which we were travelling to the following morning. The reps from the DfE were very impressed and clearly very interested in the work that we do. Indeed, we agreed that there should be a stronger and closer relationship between the UKYA programme and the DfE.
We then heard from Fiona Coughlan, Education,Youth,Culture,Audiovisual and Sports Attaché at the EU. She explained how the EU works and the different institutions that exist in Europe. However, she primarily spoke about her own role and how she got involved with the FCO and the Civil Service. Fiona suggested that we visit her in Brussels, in order to truly understand the work that she does so watch this space....
We briefly heard about the Fast Stream programme. It is a fast track into the UK Civil Service, if you're interested check out their website :http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/jobs/faststream/index.aspx
After the formal discussions, we had the chance to have an informal chat with the different reps from various departments and organisations that had come along.
It was a very insightful visit and one which we really enjoyed.
Thanks DfE!
Following Andrew's introduction, the UKYAs presented on the various conferences and events that they'd attended around the world. Myself, Ben and Jess also spoke about the World Youth Congress, which we were travelling to the following morning. The reps from the DfE were very impressed and clearly very interested in the work that we do. Indeed, we agreed that there should be a stronger and closer relationship between the UKYA programme and the DfE.
We then heard from Fiona Coughlan, Education,Youth,Culture,Audiovisual and Sports Attaché at the EU. She explained how the EU works and the different institutions that exist in Europe. However, she primarily spoke about her own role and how she got involved with the FCO and the Civil Service. Fiona suggested that we visit her in Brussels, in order to truly understand the work that she does so watch this space....
We briefly heard about the Fast Stream programme. It is a fast track into the UK Civil Service, if you're interested check out their website :http://www.civilservice.gov.uk/jobs/faststream/index.aspx
After the formal discussions, we had the chance to have an informal chat with the different reps from various departments and organisations that had come along.
It was a very insightful visit and one which we really enjoyed.
Thanks DfE!
Tuesday, 27 July 2010
UKYA resi in London/ World Youth Congress in Istanbul
Well tomorrow I'm flying down to London for a UK Young Ambassador's training residential. We have a very packed agenda which will include a visit to the Department for Education in Whitehall. I'll be in London until Saturday morning when I fly out to Istanbul for the 5th World Youth Congress.
I'll be blogging all the time I'm away so check back for regular updates.
I'll be blogging all the time I'm away so check back for regular updates.
Wednesday, 21 July 2010
Visit to Milton Fusion
In my role as an MSYP, tonight I visted Milton Fusion. A youth club in the North of the City, set up by Glasgow Life to give the local young people something to do. Milton is a very deprived area and it was great to see the great spirit of the young people that live there. They're switched on and know exactly what they want from life.
I think too often, these young people have been written off. No more! I was so pleased to see such determination and listening to the stories of the young people was fantastic.
The minute I mentioned I was from the youth parliament, I was instantly hit with "I hate politics, I know nothing about it." This of course was untrue. The minute I mentioned David Cameron so many of them replied, "I hate the tories," or used some very colourful language to describe Mrs Thatcher! Of course I couldn't disagree with them more, it was heartening to see that they do know about politics and although they may be misguided or perhaps, misinformed, they still have an opinion!
They have asked me to look into using another venue for their club and I will be contacting Glasgow City Council to see if it's possible. I really enjoyed myself tonight, it's nice when I'm doing my SYP work to see "real people" now and again!
I think too often, these young people have been written off. No more! I was so pleased to see such determination and listening to the stories of the young people was fantastic.
The minute I mentioned I was from the youth parliament, I was instantly hit with "I hate politics, I know nothing about it." This of course was untrue. The minute I mentioned David Cameron so many of them replied, "I hate the tories," or used some very colourful language to describe Mrs Thatcher! Of course I couldn't disagree with them more, it was heartening to see that they do know about politics and although they may be misguided or perhaps, misinformed, they still have an opinion!
They have asked me to look into using another venue for their club and I will be contacting Glasgow City Council to see if it's possible. I really enjoyed myself tonight, it's nice when I'm doing my SYP work to see "real people" now and again!
Monday, 19 July 2010
Our Big Society Agenda
Today the Prime Minister launched our Big Society Agenda in Liverpool.He set out the government's plans to end Labour's top-down, controlling approach and give people the tools to improve their own lives. For 13 years, we've had Labour and Government controlling everything from Whitehall. Well no more! Finally, we're being given the opportunity to control our own lives. Labour surely couldnt have thought that Whitehall pen pushers know more about our communities than the people that actually live and work in them. Anyway, Labour aren't exactly well know for their excellent decisions... one word, defecit! Enough said I think?
The Conservative Party are showing that although Government is essential, the real experts are local people. They are showing that they trust the hard working people across the United Kingdom, unlike the previous Labour government. Labour should be ashamed of how they spoon fed people constantly and didn't allow us to make the important decisions that affect our every day lives. Of course there are a lot more things that the Labour party should be ashamed of, but thats for another post!
The Prime Minister has outlined three key strands for the Big Society agenda:
Social Action - the government will foster and support a new culture of voluntarism and philanthropy
Public service reform - getting rid of the centralised bureaucracy and in its place giving professionals much more freedom, opening up public services to new providers like charities, social enterprises and private companies so we get more innovation, diversity and responsiveness to public need
Community empowerment - creating communities with neighbourhoods who are in charge of their own destiny, who feel if they club together and get involved they can shape the world around them.
It makes you wonder why on earth we didnt have these before.... I guess Brown and his cronies are the only ones who know the answer to that and if you're expecting one from them, I'd guess you'll have a long wait!
The Conservative Party are showing that although Government is essential, the real experts are local people. They are showing that they trust the hard working people across the United Kingdom, unlike the previous Labour government. Labour should be ashamed of how they spoon fed people constantly and didn't allow us to make the important decisions that affect our every day lives. Of course there are a lot more things that the Labour party should be ashamed of, but thats for another post!
The Prime Minister has outlined three key strands for the Big Society agenda:
Social Action - the government will foster and support a new culture of voluntarism and philanthropy
Public service reform - getting rid of the centralised bureaucracy and in its place giving professionals much more freedom, opening up public services to new providers like charities, social enterprises and private companies so we get more innovation, diversity and responsiveness to public need
Community empowerment - creating communities with neighbourhoods who are in charge of their own destiny, who feel if they club together and get involved they can shape the world around them.
It makes you wonder why on earth we didnt have these before.... I guess Brown and his cronies are the only ones who know the answer to that and if you're expecting one from them, I'd guess you'll have a long wait!
Vigil for Florence and Precious Mhango
Tonight I was in Glasgow City Centre at a vigil for Florence and Precious Mhango. The family, originally from Malawi, have lived in the UK for the last 7 years. It was a very emotional event with some fantastic speeches from friends of the Mhangos. We heard how the UK Border Agency (UKBA) have intimidated a wheelchair dependant friend of Florence and Precious. All I can say is, shame on UKBA.
As a Conservative, of course I believe in strict border controls and think that Labour's almost, open door policy has been terrible for this country. However, I do believe that in this particular case, an exception should be made. I think the UKBA should have a certain time scale in which they deal with each case. Although I'm sure such a scale does exist, it clearly hasn't been implemented in the case of the Mhangos. They have lived in the United Kingdom for the last 7 years, not knowing whether they would be allowed to stay in the UK or not.This in my opinion is too long. The UKBA have a responsibility to put people out of the suspense of not knowing whether they will be allowed to remain in the UK, or if they'll be returned to their country of origin.
I will be writing to the Home Secretary, Theresa May, to express my concerns surrounding this case. If the people of Glasgow have anything to do with it, the Mhangos wouldn't be going anywhere!
As a Conservative, of course I believe in strict border controls and think that Labour's almost, open door policy has been terrible for this country. However, I do believe that in this particular case, an exception should be made. I think the UKBA should have a certain time scale in which they deal with each case. Although I'm sure such a scale does exist, it clearly hasn't been implemented in the case of the Mhangos. They have lived in the United Kingdom for the last 7 years, not knowing whether they would be allowed to stay in the UK or not.This in my opinion is too long. The UKBA have a responsibility to put people out of the suspense of not knowing whether they will be allowed to remain in the UK, or if they'll be returned to their country of origin.
I will be writing to the Home Secretary, Theresa May, to express my concerns surrounding this case. If the people of Glasgow have anything to do with it, the Mhangos wouldn't be going anywhere!
About Me
My name is Keenan Alexander and I live in Glasgow.
In May 2009, I was elected to the Scottish Youth Parliament for Glasgow Springburn. As an MSYP, I have a position on the Glasgow MSYP group, of which I was elected as Treasurer and latterly Vice Chairperson. I was elected as the Deputy Convener of the Social Justice Committee (09/10) and resigned from the post at the SYP AGM in June 2010 in order to stand as a candidate in the External Affairs Deputy Convenership election. I'm pleased to say that I was successful and will remain in the post until 2011. I have also been appointed the Chairperson of the Glasgow - Malawi exchange programme. In March 10, I was successful in my application to become one of Scotland's three, UK Young Ambassadors. I'm very excited about being involved with this project and will remain in post until April 2011
Outside the Youth Parliament, I'm an active member of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party. Over the last year, I have worked closely with PPCs and attended various events. The Scottish Conservative Party really is changing, we're more inclusive, diverse and accepting party. I have really enjoyed the experience of campaigning in the General Election for Conservative candidates in Glasgow and look forward to the Scottish Parliamentary elections next year.
In May 2009, I was elected to the Scottish Youth Parliament for Glasgow Springburn. As an MSYP, I have a position on the Glasgow MSYP group, of which I was elected as Treasurer and latterly Vice Chairperson. I was elected as the Deputy Convener of the Social Justice Committee (09/10) and resigned from the post at the SYP AGM in June 2010 in order to stand as a candidate in the External Affairs Deputy Convenership election. I'm pleased to say that I was successful and will remain in the post until 2011. I have also been appointed the Chairperson of the Glasgow - Malawi exchange programme. In March 10, I was successful in my application to become one of Scotland's three, UK Young Ambassadors. I'm very excited about being involved with this project and will remain in post until April 2011
Outside the Youth Parliament, I'm an active member of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party. Over the last year, I have worked closely with PPCs and attended various events. The Scottish Conservative Party really is changing, we're more inclusive, diverse and accepting party. I have really enjoyed the experience of campaigning in the General Election for Conservative candidates in Glasgow and look forward to the Scottish Parliamentary elections next year.
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