Campaigning for Human Rights in Gambia

Yesterday, I met up with activists who have established a Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia. 


Since it became independent in 1965 and a military coup enabled Lieutenant Jammeh to take power, all political parties and political activity has been banned in Gambia.  The rise to power of Lieutenant Jammeh has resulted in a deterioration of human rights according to Amnesty International.

Members of Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia in George Square.

Activities organised by Scottish Campaign for Human Rights in the Gambia including petitions, social events and stalls have helped to raise awareness of the unlawful arrests, detentions and ceasing of public protests.


Useful link:


Amnesty International in the Gambia - http://www.amnesty.org/en/region/gambia/report-2011

Transplant medicine and illegal organ procurement

In recent weeks, I have received correspondence highlighting that transplant medicine is facing a shortage of suitable organs and there is evidence that illegal organ procurement is taking place.

There is a report by David Kilgour and David Matas, called "Bloody Harvest", which identifies organs are being used from executed prisoners in China.

I will make further enquiries about the report's findings and seek ways to stop this barbaric practice.


Useful links:-

Doctors Against Forced Organ Harvesting (DAFOH) - www.dafoh.org

Wild Swans on the Canal

Usually, on a Sunday I try to go for a jog or cycle. Today, I made a cycle trip along the Forth and Clyde Canal between Port Dundas and Maryhill Road at the Mackintosh Tea Room. 

On my travels, I crossed paths with several cyclists, a dog walker and fishermen.  I had the good fortune to meet up with some wild birds; a female swan and her cygnets.

A female swan known as "Pen" and her cygnets at Port Dundas.

Across the country, lead poisoning in mute swans has declined since the restriction on lead weights was introduced in 1987. However, research has provided evidence of continued lead poisoning in some localities.  Swans are protected as native wild birds.

Useful Links:

RSPB - http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/m/muteswan/

Swan - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swan

Dealing with dog poo

Dog dirt can spoil our enjoyment of public parks and open spaces.  Dog owners are encouraged to clean up after their pets. Local dog shows in local communities can help to get the message across effectively. 

Yesterday, I was a judge in a dog show which brought together people in the Hyndland area. The prize winners included "Most laid back dog over 7 years", "West End Woofer - best mannered dog" and "Hound of the Year".  There was a great atmosphere and plenty of enthusiasm amongst the participants.

Dogs at the dog show in Old Station Park

Dog mess can be placed in a bag and usually, it ends up in landfill.  Alternatively, there are bio-degradeable pick up sacks that can be used and flushed down the toilet. This is the sensible way forward.


Useful Links

Community Dog Show Help - http://www.starterpacks.org.uk/

To report dog fouling - http://www.saferglasgow.com/services/community-safety/community-enforcement-officers.aspx

Get on your bike!

In recent weeks, I have heard of continuing interest in cycling and people are requesting better facilities to encourage them to get on their bike.

As part of the council's efforts to improve our air quality, resources are being spent to improve provision for cyclists including cycle parking facilities. I have requested additional cycle parking in the Kelvinbridge area but there may be other sites that should be included. Any suggestions?

Bike parking at Hyndland Secondary

It is very enjoyable to cycle along the Forth and Clyde Canal or Kelvin Walkway. Dedicated cycling routes such as these make it easy and convenient for cyclists to travel to/from the West End to other parts of the city.

Cycle parking at Kersland Street

More resources are needed to encourage cycling for schools, universities and workplaces. I would support any initiatives that develop safer cycling and reduce bike thefts.

Useful links:-

Go Bike - http://www.gobike.org/

Health Benefits of Cycling - http://cyclehelmets.org/1015.html

Additional health benefits of cycling - https://outwittrade.com/cycling-benefits

Bike Club - www.bikeclub.org.uk

Cycling Scotland - www.cyclingscotland.org

Sustrans - www.sustrans.org.uk

CTC Scotland - www.ctcscotland.org.uk

212 Days

Within Glasgow University, a student occupation took place at the Hetherington Research Club, as part of a movement standing against the cuts across Higher Education. I have given my support to students and staff seeking to reverse the cuts. This has involved meeting with students involved in the occupation.

Window of the Hetherington Building on 31st August 2011.

The occupation ended on 31st August 2011. This was agreed after negotiations between students and senior management.

The last day was an emotional time as people waved each other goodbye never to meet at the Hetherington Club again. The door closed peaceful on the occupation about 12.30pm.

I am glad to have been able to give assistance to help stop cuts to courses at the Glasgow University.

Your home and fire safety advice

Today, during a discussion at a council meeting we shared experiences of fires in the home. 


I recalled my experience as a teenager when I got woken up in the middle of the night by my parents because our home was on fire. Thankfully, everyone was able to escape and the fire engines arrived in time to prevent major damage to our home.  However, that night will stay with me. It was very frightening and not something you want to repeat.


Now, I have fitted smoke alarms to my flat and try to keep my home safe. 


I heard about an initiative by the Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service last week which offers free home fire safety visits. It is worth considering if you want advice and have still to fit smoke alarms.


Useful links:-


Strathclyde Fire and Rescue Service - http://www.strathclydefire.org/your-safety/at-home/is-your-home-safe/free-home-fire-safety-visit.aspx