WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND Tongas main island could have its internet service restored within two weeks, although it may take much longer to repair the connection to the smaller islands, a cable company official said Tuesday.

The single undersea fiber-optic cable which connects the Pacific nation to the outside world was severed 10 days ago after a huge volcanic eruption and tsunami.

That left most people unable to connect with loved ones abroad. For days, people couldnt get through on their phones, by email, or through social media.

Since then, Tongas Digicel has been able to restore international call services to some areas by using satellite connections. Some people have been able to send emails or get limited internet connectivity.

Samieula Fonua, who chairs the board at Tonga Cable Ltd., the state-owned company which owns the fiber-optic cable, said a repair ship had left from Papua New Guinea and was due to stop over in Samoa by Monday to pick up supplies. It should then arrive in Tonga by Feb. 1.

Fonua said the CS Reliance had a crew of about 60 aboard, including engineers, divers and medical staff. He said its equipment included a robot which could assess the cable on the sea bed.

Fonua said preliminary estimates indicated the break in the cable was located about 37 kilometers (23 miles) offshore from the main island of Tongatapu. He said that all going well, the crew should be able to repair the cable by Feb. 8, restoring the internet to about 80% of Tongas customers.

The cable runs from Tonga to Fiji, a distance of about 800 kilometers (500 miles), and was first commissioned in 2013 at a cost of about $16 million. It was financed through grants from the World Bank Group and Asian Development Bank, and increased Tongas internet capacity fivefold.

But like many small Pacific countries, Tonga relies heavily on a single cable to stay connected and has little in the way of a back-up plan. Three years ago, a cable break believed to have been caused by a ship dragging its anchor also led to weeks of disruptions.

A second, domestic fiber-optic cable that connects Tongas smaller islands to the main island could prove much more difficult to repair. Fonua said that cable runs near the undersea volcano which erupted and may have been severely damaged. It might need extensive repairs or even a replacement, he said.

Fonua said the focus was on fixing the main international cable, and they could deal with the domestic connections at a later time.

He said Tongans had been somewhat understanding of the communication disruptions caused by the disaster, which killed three people, destroyed dozens of homes and tainted water supplies with volcanic ash.

People are calm. Coming out of a total blackout, just being able to call outside and send an email has settled them a bit, Fonua said. By the time they start getting more frustrated, Im hoping well have the cable connected by then.

jQuery(document).ready( function(){ window.fbAsyncInit = function() { FB.init({ appId : '404047912964744', // App ID channelUrl : 'https://static.ctvnews.ca/bellmedia/common/channel.html', // Channel File status : true, // check login status cookie : true, // enable cookies to allow the server to access the session xfbml : true // parse XFBML }); FB.Event.subscribe("edge.create", function (response) { Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_like_btn_click'); });

// BEGIN: Facebook clicks on unlike buttonFB.Event.subscribe("edge.remove", function (response) {Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_unlike_btn_click');});};

var plusoneOmnitureTrack = function () {$(function () {Tracking.trackSocial('google_plus_one_btn');})}var facebookCallback = null;requiresDependency('https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1&appId=404047912964744', facebookCallback, 'facebook-jssdk');});

jQuery(document).ready( function(){ window.fbAsyncInit = function() { FB.init({ appId : '404047912964744', // App ID channelUrl : 'https://static.ctvnews.ca/bellmedia/common/channel.html', // Channel File status : true, // check login status cookie : true, // enable cookies to allow the server to access the session xfbml : true // parse XFBML }); FB.Event.subscribe("edge.create", function (response) { Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_like_btn_click'); });

// BEGIN: Facebook clicks on unlike button FB.Event.subscribe("edge.remove", function (response) { Tracking.trackSocial('facebook_unlike_btn_click'); }); };

var plusoneOmnitureTrack = function () {$(function () {Tracking.trackSocial('google_plus_one_btn');})}var facebookCallback = null;requiresDependency('https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1&appId=404047912964744', facebookCallback, 'facebook-jssdk');});

Source link

See the rest here:
Internet to Tongas main island could be restored in 2 weeks - newsconcerns

Plans to control traffic, new development, and unsightly satellite dishes are being proposed for Cullompton.

Mid Devon District Councils cabinet, which met on Tuesday, January 4, has approved its draft version of the Cullompton Conservation Area Assessment and Management Plan (CAMP) following public consultation.

The consultation took place between June 28 and August 13 2021, with a public meeting being held on July 27, as well as face-to-face consultations.

Key areas identified for improvement in the CAMP include:

Volume and Nature of traffic, and Highway Management

The report states: Given the nodal connection to the motorway, there is high volume of traffic in the main streets of Cullompton which is passing through on its way to and from the motorway.

This includes heavy good vehicles passing through the historic core. The volume of traffic results in queuing at the principal junctions, and when deliveries are made along Fore Street.

Along with the narrow pavement widths, this makes the experience of the historic core quite unpleasant, with the noise, fumes and dirt from the traffic, and at times a feeling of danger for those on foot and bicycle.

Traffic Management

The report states: There is clutter from signage, road markings and traffic islands, some of which relates to highways for direction or for restrictions such as parking.

Public Realm

The report states: A number of negative impacts in the public realm have been identified within the conservation area appraisal. Some are site specific whilst others have an impact throughout the conservation area.

The report lists poor quality paving and surface materials which fail to enhance or re-inforce the historic identity of the conservation area , and that the public accessible pathways to the leat, Forge Way car park, and to Shortlands Road are not legible or welcoming.

It adds: The street furniture, as distinct from traffic control, has grown organically. This has led to a cluttered and uncoordinated appearance

The Higher Bullring is dominated by car parking, the volume and nature of traffic passing through it and associated traffic control measures, and street furniture which has been provided organically over time. The listed War Memorial is a key landmark building here. It is compromised by car parking, and uncoordinated street furniture.

Loss of original architectural details and inappropriate building materials

The report adds: Many of the unlisted, and some of the listed, buildings in the conservation area have been adversely affected by the replacement of original timber sash windows, casement windows and doors with uPVC or aluminium, the replacement of natural roof slates with man-made slate or natural slate being turnerised.

In the case of shopfronts there are a number of cases where the replacement or alteration of historic shop fronts and advertisements has spoiled the external appearance of a building and the local streetscape.

Lack of routine building maintenance and repair

The report states: Buildings in the conservation area are generally in good condition but there are instances of the neglect through lack of routine maintenance and repair which results in unsightly buildings.

Unsightly satellite dishes

The report states: Satellite dishes are a feature of modern living. Unfortunately, when located on the front of a historic building, a satellite dish can spoil the appearance of the building and the street scene.

They have a particularly noticeable adverse effect when a black dish is sited on a light background, especially render. In certain circumstances, satellites dishes may have been installed without the need for planning permission and/or listed building consent.

Sub-division of properties into flats

The report states: Sub-division of properties into flats or let for multiple occupancy can tend to erode external character through poorly maintained buildings, gardens and shared areas by absentee landlords. There can be a lack of external storage for bins etc. and multiple external wires for services.

Overhead power lines and telephone lines

The report states: A number of streets retain above ground servicing by telephone and power cables radiating out from and between telegraph poles which adds clutter to the street scene. In many cases the telegraph poles are metal and have been poorly maintained.

Negative sites and buildings

The report states: This appraisal has identified negative buildings and areas i.e. buildings and areas which clearly detract from the character or appearance of the conservation area and could suitably be redeveloped or improved.

In addition, there are is are vacant sites where some form of built development has the potential to improve the town-scape.

At the meeting Councillor Richard Chesterton (Lower Culm, Conservative), cabinet member for planning and economic regeneration explained: Overall, there were 67 submissions from individuals, 61 using the proforma, and were either online by post at the drop off point and six were letters.

Each of the comments made is responded to with an officer comment.

Overall, comments on the CAMP and its contents are positive and proposed changes to the CAMP are listed in detail with the draft CAMP, which has been updated to include all the changes.

The next stage is that the CAMP is taken to full council in accordance with Mid Devon's constitution and the recommendation which reflects this.

The recommendation is cabinet recommends to council that the Draft CAMP including proposed alterations to the extent of the Cullompton Conservation Area of the planning listed building and Conservation Areas Act 1990 is amended, be approved.

Councillor Nikki Woollatt (Cullompton North, Independent) added: What I really like about this is the management plan principles. I'm very keen to see those move forward into an action plan so this is a document that that does bring about improvements rather than just a policy document that gets referred to occasionally.

This could be used to really drive forward improvements in certain areas.

However, Councillor Graeme Barnell said that while it was a great document it did not address the issue of the motor car and the impact it is having on Cullompton.

The issue is the same across all of our towns, he said.

It's not just the road safety issues, it's the noise, air pollution, the continuing dividing of our communities by ever-increasing streams of traffic.

The issue in Cullompton and most of our towns is a debate between retailers who believe that through traffic brings custom and the rest of the population who have to put up with it.

I think we are continuing to duck the issues in many ways here.

I have great respect for Cullompton Town Council and for Nikki and all the other people involved in these issues, but we need to be taking a more robust approach to the need for through traffic and how we might deal with it in our towns.

He said that the Cullompton relief road plan would not make it all go away

He added: We're going to have to really think carefully about how we deal with through traffic through our towns and mitigate the impact it's having on our communities.

Get the best stories about the things you love most curated by us and delivered to your inbox every day. Choose what you love here

Read the original:
Traffic and ugly satellite dishes targeted in Cullompton - Devon Live

In 1969 when independent Indias finally got round to thinking about a replacement for George V under the canopy behind India Gate, three names were considered, Nehruji never wanted to remove George V from it, and plans to put Gandhiji there also got stymied. However, Netaji will finally prevail

A statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose will be installed at India Gate on his 125th birth anniversary. Image courtesy: News18

Amid the kerfuffle over the rejection of West Bengals tableau for the Republic Day parade and Prime Minister Narendra Modis announcement that a statue of Subhas Chandra Bose will be installed in the canopy that Edwin Lutyens designed for George V, not many will remember a factoid: a gigantic statue of Netaji had already graced Rajpath in 2005. It was part of the tableau of the justice department of the Union government, but that is beside the point!

While it is not known in what avatar West Bengal proposed to celebrate Netaji on their 2022 float, the one that featured in that 2005 Republic Day parade in New Delhi had him in military uniform, arm raised and finger pointing forward, simulating his famous Dilli Chalo! clarion call. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has announced that she will salute that Netaji tableau before Kolkatas Republic Day parade, so the effort has not gone to waste.

Also read: Excluding West Bengal's tableau from Republic Day parade is an assault on representative democracy

It cannot be said that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose has been underrepresented in his home state and the city whose municipal corporation was his first political stomping ground. Besides a clutch of educational institutions and stadia major and minor around West Bengal, Kolkatas international airport bears his name as does a neighbourhood and, confusingly, two major roads in different parts of the city. And countless Netaji busts dot small parks and kerbsides.

But the most iconic statue, without doubt, is the one of a uniformed Netaji astride a rearing horse (with a curiously erect tail), installed in 1969 in the middle of Kolkatas busiest multi-road crossing at Shyambazar, amid a tangle of overhead wires. And last year, a Bengali autorickshaw driver spent all his savings and even borrowed money to the commission, finance and erect a fiberglass statue of his hero also astride a horse in his hometown of Basirhat.

His reason for doing so is telling. He is quoted by The Telegraph as saying, I spent only a few years in school. But I realised Netaji was the real icon of our country. I later heard about him from many learned persons and concluded that without his initiative, Independence would have come late. That feeling runs so strong in Bengali hearts that the announcement that Netaji is about to get pride of place in New Delhis Central Vista will undoubtedly resonate.

For a long time the Bengali community that formed a prominent component of the pre-Independence population of New Delhi has felt under-represented in the city of the Nehru-Gandhis. This, even though the capital has a Netaji Nagar (housing mid-level government servants) and a Netaji Subhas Park (renamed, not named) situated on Netaji Subhas Road near Red Fort that also has a bronze statue of the swashbuckling freedom fighter and stormy petrel.

But now, things cant get bigger (and better) than a statue of Bengals valiant son adroitly juxtaposed between a national war memorial and the Central Vista planned by the British itself being thoroughly reimagined and reconstructed. The commemoration of Bose will also shine a light on the oft-forgotten fact that India did not win freedom by satyagraha and ahimsa alone; and that many sons and daughters of India (including Bengalis) died fighting that good fight.

Interestingly, in 1969 when independent Indias government finally got round to thinking about a replacement for George V under the canopy behind India Gate, three names were considered. The first two names were Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. The international news agency Associated Press described the third name as a dark horse and a militant Bengali nationalist: Subhas Chandra Bose. Gandhiji was chosen but never made it to the canopy.

An RTI led to the Central Public Works Department revealing there was no move to install Gandhijis statue in the canopy but added that in 1994 PV Narasimha Raos cabinet decided to develop the area around India Gate as August Kranti Udyan and install a statue there but no specific spot was fixed. In 2009 replying to a question from Congress MP Rajeev Shukla, the Minister of State for Urban Development Saugata Roy said that the decision was taken in 1992.

Roy also said the plan to install Gandhijis statue was put on the backburner after a writ petition in 1995 when a Group of Ministers on directions of the Union Cabinet recommended that the statue be installed at the site of the canopy. In a response to that writ petition from heritage activists, the Delhi High Court passed an interim order in July 1995 restraining the government from altering/ removing/ demolishing the canopy at India Gate complex.

Though the Court disposed of the matter in March 2005, Roy told Parliament there is no immediate demand or proposal to install a Gandhi statue at the India Gate. By then, of course, Gandhijis statue made by the legendary sculptor Ram Sutar for the canopy had already been installed post-haste in the grounds of Parliament in 1993 after the then opposition MP George Fernandes accused the Congress government of leaving it in the middle of the road.

Curiously, the statue of George V continued to preside over Central Vista during the entire long prime ministerial tenure of the third candidate for placement under that canopy, Jawaharlal Nehru. This may seem an inexplicable incongruity, but it must be remembered that Nehru was also one of those who favoured a dominion status for India (recognising the British Crown) post-Independence, a position that was vehemently opposed by Netaji, who wanted total severance.

There will be attempts to stymie the placement of Netajis statue under the canopy too but as there is no proposal to dismantle the Lutyens designed structure, heritage activists may find little cause to oppose it. The proposal has the first-mover advantage as even political parties will now be averse to doing anything to deride the idea. Maybe Mamata Banerjee will propose replacing Queen Victorias statue at Kolkatas landmark Victoria Memorial with one of Netaji too.

Read all theLatest News,Trending News,Cricket News,Bollywood News,India NewsandEntertainment Newshere. Follow us onFacebook,TwitterandInstagram.

Originally posted here:
Netajis Dilli Chalo campaign finally finds fruition ..tussle over Bengal tableaus exclusion at R-Day parade - Firstpost

Many homeowners at some point consider changing the way that their kitchen looks. We tend to spend a lot of time in our kitchens, and various upgrades are a great way to make the room more exciting. Many people choose to upgrade their kitchens by replacing their cabinets. The following are some things to consider when thinking about replacing your kitchen cabinets.

This will depend on the state of the cabinets that you currently have. If your existing cabinets are falling off of the wall or have water damage, it is worth it to replace them. If you simply dont like how your cabinets look, cabinet refacing may be a better option.

Keep in mind that it generally costs a few thousand dollars to completely replace the cabinets in a kitchen. You must consider your base cabinets, drawers, and any other custom cabinetry that you might have. If you have a lot of cabinets in your kitchen, then you could be looking at an expensive project.

There are a few signs to look for that could indicate that you need new cabinets. You could, of course, replace your cabinets just because you dont like them. However, the following are signs that you need to replace your cabinets for health and safety concerns.

If you decide on cabinet replacement, consider how you want them to look. Dont just pick something that is trendy now. Instead, choose a style and color that is timeless. The National Association of Home Builders put out a studythat found that kitchen cabinets usually last about 50 years. You will want to pick a cabinet color and style that will still look good 50 years from now.

Another thing you should consider is the other cabinetry in your house that you might want to replace. One good thing about replacing both types of cabinets at the same time is that they will look cohesive in your home. The more cabinets you replace, though, the more your project will cost.

One option that you have to consider when thinking about replacing your cabinets is refacing them instead. Cabinet refacing is simply replacing the kitchen cabinet doors instead of the entire cabinet. You might want to only replace the cabinet doors if the rest of the cabinet is in good condition.

However, if the entire cabinet is in poor condition, it makes more sense to replace the whole cabinet rather than just the kitchen cabinet door.

If you are thinking about replacing your cabinets, consider Reliance Cabinetry, the top cabinetry specialists in Richmond Hill. Call us today at (912) 785-8508 to get started.

See original here:
Top 5 Best Cabinet Replacement Concerns for 2021

Are your kitchen cabinets looking a little dated? Maybe your cabinets have seen better days, and no matter how hard you clean them, they look dirty and worn.

If you're no longer happy with your kitchen, the problem could lie with your cabinets. A new set of cabinets can completely change the look of the room.

Still not sure that it's time to make the change? Here are seven signs you need a kitchen cabinet replacement.

Damage, such as noticeable scratches, dents, or cracks, drastically affects the look of your kitchen cabinets. Cabinets covered in flaws are not only an eyesore, but they reflect poorly on your home too.

Water damage is another common concern. If the wood feels soft or squishy, that's a red flag. It means the wood has been damaged and isn't structurally sound anymore.

If the flaws are only surface deep, you may be able to resurface them. However, noticeable damage such as water damage, chips, or deep gouges can't be repaired. You're better off replacing your cabinets.

Certain styles come and go, and if your kitchen screams "80s cabinets," it's time to let them go. They're only affecting the look and value of your home.

If you're planning a kitchen renovation soon, this is the perfect time to swap out the old cabinets and replace them with something more modern.

Of course, it's important that you're happy with your kitchen design as you'll be the one living there. That's why you can follow some of the latest kitchen trends, but you don't have to!

Choose designs and styles that work for you and your home.

Adding to the last point, if your kitchen cabinets don't match the look and feel of the rest of your house, it's time to replace them. Perhaps you've recently remodeled the living room and dining room or put down new flooring. Old cabinets can stick out like a sore thumb in these instances.

This can really detract from the aesthetic of your house. Thankfully, replacing or upgrading the cabinets should make your house flow again.

Not sure which style to go with? White cabinets are a classic style that looks great in any home. They also help to brighten up a room and can benefit smaller kitchens by bouncing the light around.

Cleaning your kitchen cabinets helps them to look their best, but there may come a time cleaning alone doesn't cut it. Whether it's fading paint or damaged wood, no amount of cleaning and polishing can bring these cabinets back to their former glory.

Age and general use wear cabinets down. Depending on the quality of your cabinets, they may have reached the end of their lifespan. If you can't stand the look of your cabinets anymore, that's a sure sign you need new ones.

Do you have cabinets that won't close or open?

There's nothing quite as frustrating as doors that won't open or close properly. If one of your cabinet doors sticks, doesn't stay closed or looks crooked, it's a sign it's time for new kitchen cabinets.

What causes cabinets to become misaligned?

The most common reason is age. As cabinets age and with repeated use, they can warp. This can cause them to stick, create gaps, or hang crookedly. Unfortunately, replacing the doors alone isn't enough, so you'll have to replace the entire cabinet.

A kitchen layout plays a huge part in how efficiently your kitchen works. Unfortunately, cheap or incorrectly installed cabinets can create problems.

For instance, you might have cabinets that won't open at the same time or crash into one another. Similarly, you want cabinet doors and drawers to open without banging into other doors or appliances.

Maybe you simply don't have enough space to store your cookware, kitchen utensils, and dishes. Disorganized kitchens make cooking and prepping meals a headache.

In this case, you might need a better layout and a design with more storage options.

Maybe you need taller cabinets that can hold more. What about a Lazy Susan insert? Rotating shelves make it easy to find what you need in the kitchen.

Perhaps you want a cabinet to hide the microwave or trash can or a spice drawer. These are all possible upgrades that can enhance the look and feel of your kitchen.

Maybe you moved into an older home, and you don't like the look of the kitchen. Whether the cabinets are dated or if the previous owner painted them a color you don't like, you don't have to settle.

If you don't like the wood used or the color of the cabinets, there are plenty of options on the market to choose from. Here are a few different choices you can consider:

As you're considering your options, think about how well the look of the cabinets will match the other aspects of your kitchen design. For example, you'll want to choose a style that goes with the type of metal you have for the kitchen faucet. You also want to think about the style and color of the countertop and other hardware in the kitchen.

Do any of these warning signs sound familiar? If so, it's time for a kitchen cabinet replacement. You'll be so glad that you made the choice to swap out your old cabinets once you see how it changes the look and feel of your kitchen!

Nuform Cabinetry offers a wide selection of assembled or RTA cabinets. We also offer a free 3D design and quote, so what are you waiting for? Take a look at our selection of kitchen cabinets, and contact us today.

Go here to see the original:
7 Signs You Need a Kitchen Cabinet Replacement

If you are looking for replacement cabinet doors, Cabinet Door World has what you need. Replace your kitchen cabinet doors easily. Shop now and save!

Replacing your cabinets can be expensive, labor intensive, and often requires the aid of a contractor. Save time and money by simply replacing the doors and drawer fronts. The best part of this solution is that if you choose, you can easily do it yourself.

We provide quality unfinished and finished replacement cabinet doors in a wide variety of styles and colors. If you want to update the look of your kitchen cabinets or your bathroom cabinets, you should find the perfect solution for you in our selection of doors and drawer fronts!

Whether you are looking for shaker cabinet doors or raised panel cabinet doors with an arch or cathedral style, we have something for everyone!

So don't let worn kitchen cupboard doors stress you out. Replace them. Cabinet Door World makes it easy.

All of our products are 100% made in the USA with materials sourced from trees harvested in the USA.

See more here:
Cabinet Doors | Kitchen Cabinet Doors | Custom Replacement ...

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am hesitant to enter into an argument with Derrick Smith, someone whom I hold in high regard for his many years of sterling service to our country. However, it is incumbent on me to set the record straight.

Contrary to his assertion, I had no second thoughts about appointing him as minister of national security in September 2008. Our parliamentary margin did not factor in that consideration. Derrick had shadowed that portfolio for many years, developed a keen understanding of the issues and, importantly, built a strong relationship with the rank and file of the police through the Police Federation. He was a valued member of the Cabinet. Indeed, I also assigned him responsibility as leader of the House.

The security portfolio is undoubtedly the most challenging of Cabinet assignments. It is the one that has to respond to our failures as a society that are outside of its remit. We have had seven ministers of national security in the last 20 years a measure far less of the competence of the appointees, but more of the fierceness of those challenges that has resulted in a high turnover rate. In addition, Derrick, unfortunately, was experiencing formidable health challenges that had kept him out of office for an extended period.

As confirmed by my official diary at the Office of the Prime Minister, I met with Derrick at 8 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2008, and advised him that he would be reassigned to the Ministry of Mining and Telecommunications. An official announcement of this change and the appointment of the late Col Trevor MacMillan as the new minister of national security was made on Monday, May 12, 2008. While his disappointment was clearly obvious, he agreed to accept the new portfolio assignment. For Derrick to claim that I did not have the decency to discuss the matter with him is egregiously untrue.

I do not recall, but it is possible that, given the agility of local journalists and the fact that I would have held prior consultations to ascertain Colonel MacMillans availability and willingness, and to negotiate a vacancy in the Senate to facilitate his appointment, there may have been speculation in the media regarding the impending change. This may be what has led to the blurring of Derricks memory and his failure to recall that we met on Saturday, May 10, 2008.

Derrick draws a contrast between that experience and the JLPs decision to name Nigel Clarke as its candidate to replace him in North West St Andrew. In the latter case, he is reported as saying, the party leader, Andrew Holness, had the decency to discuss the matter and while it didnt end the way he had hoped, face-to-face, man-to-man discussions were held.

If, indeed, there had been speculation in the media in 2008 prior to my meeting with Derrick, the contrast escapes me because Derrick is quoted in The Gleaner of January 22, 2018, as saying, As we speak, nobody in the leadership of the party has mentioned anything to me about a likely replacement. I saw Clarkes name in The Gleaner this morning and I would believe a decent way to approach my replacement would be to have a discussion with me as to who I think fits the constituency.

Various references in the media, including The Sunday Gleaner story published on December 26, speak of Derricks dismissal in 2008. Derrick was not dismissed; he was reassigned to the Ministry of Mining and Telecommunications. Change in portfolio assignments is a prerogative that every prime minister has exercised in seeking to improve the effectiveness of the government.

BRUCE GOLDING

Former Prime Minister of

Jamaica

Read more:
Letter of the Day | Derrick Smith was reassigned, not dismissed - Jamaica Gleaner

A majority of Conservative voters at the last general election want Boris Johnson replaced as party leader and prime minister next year, a poll has found.

Sixty per cent of all voters said they backed the idea of the Tories ditching Mr Johnson 35 per cent were strongly in support.

More worryingly for the PM, strategic research firm Redfield & Wilton Strategies found a clear majority of Tory supporters have turned against him and want someone else in charge.

Fifty-three per cent of those who voted Tory in the 2019 election want him ousted from No10, according to the poll for MailOnline, 27 per cent in favour and 26 per cent strongly in favour.

Only 15 per cent of voters are opposed to the Tories getting rid of Mr Johnson and only 22 per cent of Tory voters are opposed to his removal.

Leading Conservatives have claimed that Tory MPs are now definitely having conversations on how to replace Mr Johnson in 2022 after a turbulent month on multiple fronts.

The PMs personal ratings have plummeted and the Tories have lost their poll lead to Labour following the Owen Paterson scandal, claims of parties held during last years Covid curbs and remaining questions over the funding of his flat.

The latest polls indicate that chancellor Rishi Sunakwould be the most popular replacement for Mr Johnson.

Forty-three per cent of adults surveyed said Mr Sunak would make a better prime minister.

By comparison, only 23 per cent of voters said foreign secretary Liz Truss another leading Tory touted for the job would make a better PM.

However, according to regular ConservativeHome surveys,Ms Truss remains the most popular cabinet member among Tory supporters. She maintains her commanding lead over other ministers a position she has held for over a year with a net satisfaction of +82.

Mr Johnsons opponents in the party would have to gather 55 signatures required for the powerful 1922 Committee of backbenchers to initiate a vote of no confidence in his leadership.

A majority of Tory MPs would then need to vote against Mr Johnson to spark a leadership contest decided by Tory party members.

One Conservative MP from a so-called red wall constituency toldThe Independent the polls would be the biggest factor in determining Mr Johnsons fate in 2022.

I dont think theres going to be any leadership push quickly, the backbencher said. The people who already want Boris out will let him keep finding a bit more rope. Its bad poll numbers that will rattle a wider group.

Boris Johnson and his wife Carrie hold video calls jab heroes Dr Laura Mount and carer Tom Jones on Christmas Day

(Simon Dawson / No10 Downing Street)

The latest YouGov poll found that71 per cent of voters believe Mr Johnson was doing badly in his job approval ratings are now similar to those faced by Theresa May in the week before she was forced to resign.

This week, the audience at the WorldDartsChampionship chanted: Stand up if you hate Boris, while Leeds United fans were heard singing, Boris Johnsonis a c***, at the clubs match with Arsenal last weekend.

Mr Johnson and his wife Carrie were pictured on a sofa at Chequers, the prime ministers official country residence, speaking to NHS vaccination heroes on Christmas Day.

Read more here:
Majority of Tory voters want Boris Johnson replaced in 2022, poll finds - The Independent

ALBION, MI The president of Albion College, who has been the subject of controversy in recent months, has resigned.

The colleges Board of Trustees announced on Friday, Dec. 24, that it has accepted the resignation of Mathew B. Johnson, who is moving into an expanded role to lead a global initiative partnership with the Carnegie Foundation.

The board is now conducting a national search for Johnsons replacement. Meanwhile, the board has appointed trustee Joseph S. Calvaruso as interim president. Calvaruso recently retired as executive director for the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation in Grand Rapids after a career that included nearly three decades in banking.

Mathew joined Albion College during one of the most tumultuous periods of the past century, Board Chair Michael J. Harrington said in a statement. Despite the overwhelming challenges of COVID-19, he was able to achieve significant academic and financial accomplishments during his tenure.

He inherited no playbook for how to navigate a global pandemic, yet his decisive actions and strong leadership enabled us to provide an exceptional residential experience at a time when many institutions were entirely remote and others were closing.

Johnson was appointed president by the board in April 2020. He officially started his presidency on July 1, 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was unable to have an official inauguration until the 2021 fall semester.

Related: After long pandemic wait, Albion College finally inaugurates new president

Shortly before Johnson was inaugurated, he was the subject of an online petition seeking his removal. The petition alleged Johnson of bullying staff and students, hiring people of color only on superficial grounds, inappropriate financial activities, and more.

The petition has garnered 2,362 signatures.

The people of Albion College and the surrounding Albion community deserve better than this, the petition states. We deserve better than him. Mathew Johnson needs to face consequences for his actions and be removed from office.

Related: Petition seeks removal of Albion College president for alleged bullying, racism

On Dec. 14, Johnson allegedly had a confrontation with 76-year-old retired Albion teacher and NAACP Executive Board Officer Hazel Lias at a basketball tournament on Albions campus.

In a Dec. 17 press conference regarding the incident, Lias said she was at the basketball game when she asked Johnson for T-shirts being handed out. Johnson told her she could have one, but that she had to control a friend of hers, activist Maurice Barry.

The truth is he insulted me, he degraded me, he embarrassed me, thats the truth, Lias said. Dr. Johnson didnt speak to me he yelled at me. His finger was inches from my nose, right out, straight out, with force, with the jabbing-type finger.

Lias said Johnson later apologized.

On Dec. 20, Albion spokeswoman Susie Pentelow provided a statement regarding the incident, saying, The college is aware of the incident last week. The executive committee of our board of trustees and our cabinet are working as quickly as possible to determine our course of action.

A silent protest was planned to take place outside of Johnsons home on the evening of Jan. 4, in reaction to his interaction with Lias.

Albion College interim president trustee Joseph S. Calvaruso

Going forward, Johnson is to serve as president of the Commission for Public Purpose in Higher Education in partnership with the Carnegie Foundation, which is responsible for the stewardship and continuous development of the basic and elective classification systems of higher education institutions.

Albion Colleges Board of Trustees listed the following accomplishments of Johnson during his tenure at the college:

Though incredibly challenging, I have loved my time serving Albion and successfully leading the college through the pandemic and strengthening our financial position, Johnson said in a statement. I am proud of the change we accomplished together and the change still under way.

This new role will allow me to focus full time on the work I love of strengthening the public purpose of higher education institutions at the national and international level and to build on the lessons learned in the work we have done at Albion. I have complete confidence in the skill and commitment of the cabinet and Interim President Joe Calvaruso to lead through the presidential search process and to extend and build on our successes.

Calvaruso currently serves on the board of First National Bank of Michigan. He has also served in leadership positions with the Risk Management Association, including on its international board of directors. In addition to his role as a trustee of Albion College, he serves on the board of the Michigan Certified Development Corp.

It is an honor to serve my alma mater and the Albion community, Calvaruso said in a statement. My roots in the Albion area run deep: I am the fifth generation of my mothers side of the family to live in the area, and the third generation on my fathers side. I even got married on Albions beautiful campus, and my wife, Donna, has adopted Albion College and the Albion community as her own.

I really look forward to connecting with campus and the community. Im excited to be working with a number of people on different initiatives that will make a difference in the community I have long called home.

Read more:

Racist graffiti found in stairwell at Albion College

Student responsible for racist graffiti that was found in Albion College dorm, officials say

Albion College will house national program aimed at enhancing institutional diversity

Albion College turning local parish into Alumni Unity center

Couple gifts $1.2 million to Albion College for gym, other campus improvements

Graduates give back to Albion College with $2.25M donation

Read the original post:
Albion College president, subject of recent controversies, resigns to take Carnegie Foundation role - MLive.com

The Viking Ship play site when it was installed in 2009. It has since deteriorated significantly Image CPCL

A public protest is due to take place tomorrow (December 20) in a bid to save the Viking Ship equipment at the Ethelbert Crescent play area (Newgate Gap) in Cliftonville.

The Viking Ship play area was installed in 2009 with the major structural components being of Robinia wood rather than the galvanised/powder coated steel used for most apparatus. It was funded with 300,000 from the Stronger, Safer Communities Fund according to council agenda minutes from the year of installation.

However, a report to Thanet council Cabinet members said the condition of play equipment has been deteriorating and become a Health and Safety risk. An inspection in December 2020 reported 83 defects at the Viking Ship playground with concerns raised over the timber structural elements of the Viking ship itself.

In response Thanet council plan to use 169,517 of a 211,280 allocation from Kent County Council for Community Parks for demolition at the existing site and then installation of replacement play equipment.

Work is due to take place in February and March 2022 and will include the demolition/removal of the existing Viking ship, playhouse climbing frame, rocker seal and sprung rocker ship.

They will be replaced with:

Castles Keep large 3 storey castle with multiple slides, poles and net

Castle Gatehouse castle with slide and rope bridge

Track Ride Tower zip wire type apparatus with tower and net

Wheelchair Carousel inclusive roundabout carousel

Swings with cradle swing set and inclusive you and me swing

Jumper Square floor trampoline type jumper

Horse Seesaw

Spinner Bowl

Agility Trail

The funding must be spent by 31 March 2022.

But members of the Friends of Cliftonville Coastline group say the iconic and unique Viking Ship must be saved. They will gather at the playground tomorrow at 10am and are inviting others to join them, who:

Have children who will be heartbroken by the loss of our unique iconic Viking Ship, so integral to imaginative natural play.

Believe this money should be spent on renovation and improvements (eg improved access and a wheelchair carousel) rather than a demolition and expensive rebuild.

And that the saved money could then be spent across Margate and beyond to benefit multiple deteriorating playgrounds in need, eg Dane Park.

Think the council must be held to account for the lack of future planning and ongoing maintenance of ailing community infrastructure.

Is fed up with the lack of scrutiny over whether Section 106 funds from developers are properly collected, and why they are not being used to maintain local playgrounds, as allocated.

Believes we should safeguard our conservation areas, and adhere to planning permissions where required to protect them.

Thinks we should scrutinise large and sudden expenditures such as this, where the legal tendering process for contractors and planning permission is skipped.

And that there should be far more consultation within the community to find out what is wanted and needed locally.

A Friends of Cliftonville Coastline spokesperson said: The ROSPA consultants report recommends that the Viking Ship should have 5 supporting posts replaced, the sand pit frame should have 2 replacement posts and that these should be inspected every 2 years.

The cost of replacing the supporting posts is estimated to be 8-10K. Due to the high level of the ship mast inspection costs are estimated to be 3K every two years.

So why is demolition the only option being considered, instead of the obviously much cheaper and more environmentally sustainable option of renovation and maintenance?

Section 106 payments are meant to be used to maintain playgrounds near to new developments of a certain size. There is no trace of whether allocated money was ever gathered or spent on the Viking Ship Playground.

At a Cabinet meeting on December 16, when the park funding was approved, Green councillor Mike Garner suggested Section 106 money contributions from developers for isle infrastructure should be investigated with any outstanding amounts added to the fund for the Cliftonville park which, in turn, would release funding to replace fencing at Memorial Rec play area. An amount for this work has been provisionally allocated from the parks grant and officers have said they will investigate the section 106 funding.

Allocations have also been made for work at Crispe Park in Birchington and Northdown Park.

On The Isle of Thanet News article revealing park funding plan, a post from CEO at The Childrens Playground, Rinske Wassenaar said: Being the supplier of this bespoke playground and with over 20 years of experience working with Robinia playground equipment, this playground is in no need of replacement.

Looking thoroughly at the photos (in the article), I am convinced only minor repairs would be required, e.g. replacing of missing parts, addressing possible splits, sanding off sap wood and repaint. We have overhauled similar sized playgrounds for a cost ranging between 8-12k, where we completely sanded off the sapwood. The playground will look like new and would last at least for another 10 years.

The total annual playground revenue budget of 39,000 a year is split between the isles 31 playgrounds. In 2020/21, Thanet council says 12,647 of this was spent on essential maintenance and 1,900 on inspections at the Ethelbert Crescent play area alone.

Cllr George Kup, Cabinet Member for Community Safety & Youth Engagement said: Im delighted that the Council has been awarded 221k of Community Parks grant funding as part of the Contain Outbreak Management Fund (COMF).

170k of this funding will be used to replace and improve the play area equipment at Ethelbert Crescent. The cost of maintaining and repairing the existing apparatus at Ethelbert Crescent has become unsustainable, with a disproportionate amount of the maintenance budget for all play equipment across the district being spent here. Without this improvement work the play area would be closed due to its deteriorated condition.

The Community Parks funding will also fund improvements at other parks in the district to encourage the use of outdoor spaces in line with the objectives of the grant funding. The funding must be spent by the end of March 2022 and officers have had to work quickly to develop a scheme based on prioritised need and community benefit. Due to these tight timescales, it is regrettable that we have not been able to consult with the local community.

It is disappointing that a small minority of people are protesting against a decision that is providing a lifeline for the popular Viking Ship playground. The funding means that a high quality play area, with more inclusive and accessible equipment than currently, will now be available in the long term for the benefit of the local community.

Visit link:
Public protest as campaigners bid to halt demolition and replacement of Viking Ship play equipment in Cliftonville - The Isle of Thanet News