Anger as Games rival criticises city’s crime and poverty
LEANNA MacLARTY
Leaders of Glasgow's Commonwealth Games bid are preparing to take action after Nigeria's Sports Minister was reported to have criticised the city.
It is understood Bala Kaoje spoke out against levels of crime and poverty in Glasgow, which is competing with the Nigerian capital Abuja in its bid to host the games in 2014.
Mr Kaoje was reported as saying: "If you take the statistics for crime in Scotland and compare it with the crimes of Abuja, Abuja will be better off. The type of amenities enjoyed by Glasgow citizens is less. I am sure we will beat them in terms of presentation."
The Glasgow bid team have notified the Commonwealth Games Federation of the minister's remarks and are now awaiting a response.
Derek Casey, the Glasgow 2014 bid director, said that the comments had broken the rules which forbid rival cities from commenting on each other. He said: "It is unfortunate that according to reports the Nigerian Sports Minister has chosen to ignore both this protocol and the comparative indicators in his own country."
A spokesman for the bid team added: "This isn't the first time that a spokesperson has made comments like these and said that Glasgow has no chance of winning."
Contrary to Mr Kaoje's claims, figures show that recorded crime in Strathclyde fell in 2005-06 by 4.5%, a reduction of 9000 incidents. The five-year figure shows a reduction in crime of 3.4%.
Nigeria, where almost 70 foreigners have been abducted this year, has also put up only £550,000 in its budget to cover security. This amount falls massively short of Glasgow's £26.2m to cover security.
A bid team insider branded the Nigerian Sports Minister's comments "absolutely ridiculous" and "totally unacceptable".
The amount budgeted for security comes from the official lodging of each country's bid, which happened at a ceremony in London on May 9, just days before the remarks were made.
Glasgow's bid offers a package of training and sports development worth £50,000 to each of the 70 countries involved. Instead of a package meeting the individual needs of each country, Abuja is offering £62,00 cash to each commonwealth participant.
The Nigerian bid also includes free flights to the country for every athlete, plus three business-class return trips for the two senior officials from all 70 countries. Glasgow has offered a travel package of £4.29m which it says is more flexible than it's rival's.
Mr Casey previously told The Herald he was not worried about the difference in figures, saying voters will concentrate on what's best for athletes, not bank accounts.
The Commonwealth Games Federation are due to vote on the bids on November 9. Abuja will be the first African country to host the games if it wins. If Glasgow wins, there are plans to build more than 1000 homes on the bank of the Clyde to house 8000 athletes.
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Posted by: paul taylor, 503-660 on 11:19pm Sun 13 May 07
first we have Scott Logan having an out of context remark about Halifax 2014 being in the best position because Glasgow 2014 would come two years after London hosts the Olympics. Then it is the so called "Feral Boys" flap that was this grand scheme by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Then the Scottish media "hits" back Halifax's crime figures.
Gee stop whining every time someone states a truth about Glasgow
Because after a while it is like the boy that cried wolf and people stop believing you .
This Idea being forwarded by a certain Glasgow 2014 committee member that Glasgow would be in the best interests of the Athletes as an athletes friendly games is bunk. That is just offensive to anyone who knows Abuja.
Having money for training is in the best interest of the athletes and Abuja caught Glasgow with their pants down around their ankles and turned on the lights in the dark room so everyone could see.
There is a saying those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. This Glasgow the poor victim crap is getting old fast.
first we have Scott Logan having an out of context remark about Halifax 2014 being in the best position because Glasgow 2014 would come two years after London hosts the Olympics. Then it is the so called "Feral Boys" flap that was this grand scheme by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Then the Scottish media "hits" back Halifax's crime figures.
Gee stop whining every time someone states a truth about Glasgow
Because after a while it is like the boy that cried wolf and people stop believing you .
This Idea being forwarded by a certain Glasgow 2014 committee member that Glasgow would be in the best interests of the Athletes as an athletes friendly games is bunk. That is just offensive to anyone who knows Abuja.
Having money for training is in the best interest of the athletes and Abuja caught Glasgow with their pants down around their ankles and turned on the lights in the dark room so everyone could see.
There is a saying those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. This Glasgow the poor victim crap is getting old fast.
Posted by: Cally, Glasgow on 2:55am Mon 14 May 07
I'm still looking to see where this Nigerian man misled anyone. Glasgow DOES have crime, its own citizens accept this, especially the ones running around with knives! The only people who seem to think its perfect work for the Evening Times.
I'm still looking to see where this Nigerian man misled anyone. Glasgow DOES have crime, its own citizens accept this, especially the ones running around with knives! The only people who seem to think its perfect work for the Evening Times.
Posted by: billybloggs on 6:47am Mon 14 May 07
What?!!
Compared to NIgeria, Glasgow is like one of those Disneytown gated communities they build in the States.
Your car registration determines when you can drive on the streets of Lagos, the proximity of your body guard/gun determines whether you keep your car on these occasions.
What?!!
Compared to NIgeria, Glasgow is like one of those Disneytown gated communities they build in the States.
Your car registration determines when you can drive on the streets of Lagos, the proximity of your body guard/gun determines whether you keep your car on these occasions.
Posted by: Jim Bell, Glasgow on 7:39am Mon 14 May 07
[quote][bold]paul taylor[/bold] wrote:
first we have Scott Logan having an out of context remark about Halifax 2014 being in the best position because Glasgow 2014 would come two years after London hosts the Olympics. Then it is the so called "Feral Boys" flap that was this grand scheme by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Then the Scottish media "hits" back Halifax's crime figures. Gee stop whining every time someone states a truth about Glasgow Because after a while it is like the boy that cried wolf and people stop believing you . This Idea being forwarded by a certain Glasgow 2014 committee member that Glasgow would be in the best interests of the Athletes as an athletes friendly games is bunk. That is just offensive to anyone who knows Abuja. Having money for training is in the best interest of the athletes and Abuja caught Glasgow with their pants down around their ankles and turned on the lights in the dark room so everyone could see. There is a saying those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. This Glasgow the poor victim crap is getting old fast. [/quote] I'd like to know from where and when you gained your knowlege of Glasgow, Paul.
You wouldn't have some sort of vested interest in the Halifax bid by any chance?
paul taylor wrote:
first we have Scott Logan having an out of context remark about Halifax 2014 being in the best position because Glasgow 2014 would come two years after London hosts the Olympics. Then it is the so called "Feral Boys" flap that was this grand scheme by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Then the Scottish media "hits" back Halifax's crime figures. Gee stop whining every time someone states a truth about Glasgow Because after a while it is like the boy that cried wolf and people stop believing you . This Idea being forwarded by a certain Glasgow 2014 committee member that Glasgow would be in the best interests of the Athletes as an athletes friendly games is bunk. That is just offensive to anyone who knows Abuja. Having money for training is in the best interest of the athletes and Abuja caught Glasgow with their pants down around their ankles and turned on the lights in the dark room so everyone could see. There is a saying those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. This Glasgow the poor victim crap is getting old fast.
I'd like to know from where and when you gained your knowlege of Glasgow, Paul.
You wouldn't have some sort of vested interest in the Halifax bid by any chance?
Posted by: donald anderson, glasgow on 7:47am Mon 14 May 07
Black man speak the truth.
Black man speak the truth.
Posted by: Al on 8:23am Mon 14 May 07
Recorded crime, laughs out load, the majority is never recorded. Glasgow is bottom of the euro league in so many areas-violence, drunkeness, drug taking, life expectency and the list goes on and on.
Recorded crime, laughs out load, the majority is never recorded. Glasgow is bottom of the euro league in so many areas-violence, drunkeness, drug taking, life expectency and the list goes on and on.
Posted by: Bryan Weir, Loch Lomond on 8:32am Mon 14 May 07
A Nigerian saying Scotland has crime problems? What next? Isn't Nigeria a dangerous and corrupt society or have I been imagining all the reports that come out of their. How many innocent foreigners have been kidnapped by bands of marauding bandits in Glasgow lately?
I have to deal with several attempts to defraud me from Nigeria every day. It has been going on for years. Their government knows about and they have done nothing about it. That alone should have vetoed their bid.
A Nigerian saying Scotland has crime problems? What next? Isn't Nigeria a dangerous and corrupt society or have I been imagining all the reports that come out of their. How many innocent foreigners have been kidnapped by bands of marauding bandits in Glasgow lately?
I have to deal with several attempts to defraud me from Nigeria every day. It has been going on for years. Their government knows about and they have done nothing about it. That alone should have vetoed their bid.
Posted by: Swilly Tisher, Loch Maree on 8:47am Mon 14 May 07
If the games go to the Nigerian capital - as a gesture of political correctness towards black Africa - it would represent the biggest scandal in international sport since London was afforded the 2112 Olympics in the face of far worthier and sustainable competition from Paris.
If the games go to the Nigerian capital - as a gesture of political correctness towards black Africa - it would represent the biggest scandal in international sport since London was afforded the 2112 Olympics in the face of far worthier and sustainable competition from Paris.
Posted by: Debs, Whitley Bay on 9:12am Mon 14 May 07
Life imitates art! This was in the Daily Mash weeks ago!
"Officials say poverty stricken Abuja, with its poor sanitation and life expectancy of 23, is "significantly safer and more pleasant" than the Parkhead and Dalmarnock areas central to the Glasgow bid."
The story is in the sports section on www.thedailymash.co.uk, or cut and paste this ludicrously long link. Why won't The Herald allow links in posts? The Scotsman has not problem with it.
http://www.thedailymash.co.uk/sport/sport-headlines/nigerian-hell%11hole-safer-than-parkhead%2c-say-commonwealth-games-organisers-2007040649/
Life imitates art! This was in the Daily Mash weeks ago!
"Officials say poverty stricken Abuja, with its poor sanitation and life expectancy of 23, is "significantly safer and more pleasant" than the Parkhead and Dalmarnock areas central to the Glasgow bid."
The story is in the sports section on www.thedailymash.co.uk, or cut and paste this ludicrously long link. Why won't The Herald allow links in posts? The Scotsman has not problem with it.
http://www.thedailymash.co.uk/sport/sport-headlines/nigerian-hell%11hole-safer-than-parkhead%2c-say-commonwealth-games-organisers-2007040649/
Posted by: g, scotland on 9:17am Mon 14 May 07
The extreme violence in Nigeria is well documented in news reels around the world. Glasgow's poblems are no different to any major city around the world. Earlier this year OFFICIAL crime statistics printed in Scotland by the Executive outlined more serious crime in Edinburgh City Centre than in Glasgow City Centre. Manchester, a fairly recent CGames host has huge socio-economic problems despite its gloss image, and thats not to mention the serious gun crime.
The truth is Glasgow hosted the Champions League Final, it's hosting the UEFA cup final this week and is in the European premier league as a confernece destination, which thousands of delegates enjoy every year. The City has already proven it's ability to stage such an event.
The shame is the home grown doomsayers who are anti-Glasgow, who reinforce all the worst stereotypes of being Scottish.
I hope Glasgow wins it!
The extreme violence in Nigeria is well documented in news reels around the world. Glasgow's poblems are no different to any major city around the world. Earlier this year OFFICIAL crime statistics printed in Scotland by the Executive outlined more serious crime in Edinburgh City Centre than in Glasgow City Centre. Manchester, a fairly recent CGames host has huge socio-economic problems despite its gloss image, and thats not to mention the serious gun crime.
The truth is Glasgow hosted the Champions League Final, it's hosting the UEFA cup final this week and is in the European premier league as a confernece destination, which thousands of delegates enjoy every year. The City has already proven it's ability to stage such an event.
The shame is the home grown doomsayers who are anti-Glasgow, who reinforce all the worst stereotypes of being Scottish.
I hope Glasgow wins it!
Posted by: David, London on 9:22am Mon 14 May 07
[quote][bold]Swilly Tisher[/bold] wrote:
If the games go to the Nigerian capital - as a gesture of political correctness towards black Africa - it would represent the biggest scandal in international sport since London was afforded the 2112 Olympics in the face of far worthier and sustainable competition from Paris. [/quote] Swilly - if Glasgow does not win the 2014 Commonwealth it is just possible that the bitter, frankly racist, comments expressed such as yours above may play a part in that decision.
Swilly Tisher wrote:
If the games go to the Nigerian capital - as a gesture of political correctness towards black Africa - it would represent the biggest scandal in international sport since London was afforded the 2112 Olympics in the face of far worthier and sustainable competition from Paris.
Swilly - if Glasgow does not win the 2014 Commonwealth it is just possible that the bitter, frankly racist, comments expressed such as yours above may play a part in that decision.
Posted by: David, Glasgow on 9:35am Mon 14 May 07
[quote][bold]Al[/bold] wrote:
Recorded crime, laughs out load, the majority is never recorded. Glasgow is bottom of the euro league in so many areas-violence, drunkeness, drug taking, life expectency and the list goes on and on.[/quote] Glasgow has it's problems. However, I was in Nigeria for a couple of months last year and there really is no sane comparison! Property there is guarded with high walls, steel gates and armed mobile policemen (Mopol). You cannot go out without your Mopol and have to bribe burly doormen for protection in even the best establishments. Everywhere you look, folk are armed (and dangerous) and the sound of gunfire is never far away. Only last week, colleagues were attacked at their workplace resulting in 4 dead, 12 kidnapped and 250 evacuated! I really could go on and on ..... there's so many stories. We might have our idiots but let's get the perspective right. There's a lot of great people in Nigeria, they really love their sport and possibly deserve a chance to host the games but let no one underestimate the problems their country faces.
Al wrote:
Recorded crime, laughs out load, the majority is never recorded. Glasgow is bottom of the euro league in so many areas-violence, drunkeness, drug taking, life expectency and the list goes on and on.
Glasgow has it's problems. However, I was in Nigeria for a couple of months last year and there really is no sane comparison! Property there is guarded with high walls, steel gates and armed mobile policemen (Mopol). You cannot go out without your Mopol and have to bribe burly doormen for protection in even the best establishments. Everywhere you look, folk are armed (and dangerous) and the sound of gunfire is never far away. Only last week, colleagues were attacked at their workplace resulting in 4 dead, 12 kidnapped and 250 evacuated! I really could go on and on ..... there's so many stories. We might have our idiots but let's get the perspective right. There's a lot of great people in Nigeria, they really love their sport and possibly deserve a chance to host the games but let no one underestimate the problems their country faces.
Posted by: Iain Brodie of Falsyde, HIGHLAND SEP on 9:45am Mon 14 May 07
Weegie land is undoubtedly a challenging community in more ways than 19 but the Nigerians are a bit off the mark on what they have to offer on the crime and environment stakes, by some miles.
They need the Games to provide further opportunities for the endemic graft and corruption, one of the worst in Africa. If the way the running of a former Miss World competition was anything to go by their chances are slim at best.
Weegie land is undoubtedly a challenging community in more ways than 19 but the Nigerians are a bit off the mark on what they have to offer on the crime and environment stakes, by some miles.
They need the Games to provide further opportunities for the endemic graft and corruption, one of the worst in Africa. If the way the running of a former Miss World competition was anything to go by their chances are slim at best.
Posted by: Al Scott, Perth on 9:52am Mon 14 May 07
Cally, Glasgow, said[quote]I'm still looking to see where this Nigerian man misled anyone. Glasgow DOES have crime, its own citizens accept this[/quote] Yes it does, but he said people would be safer in Nigeria where, as this article stated, almost 70 foreigners have been abducted this year. When was the last foreigner abducted in Glasgow and how many of those attending the games will be foreigners?
Cally, Glasgow, said
I'm still looking to see where this Nigerian man misled anyone. Glasgow DOES have crime, its own citizens accept this
Yes it does, but he said people would be safer in Nigeria where, as this article stated, almost 70 foreigners have been abducted this year. When was the last foreigner abducted in Glasgow and how many of those attending the games will be foreigners?
Posted by: @3ll3 on 10:06am Mon 14 May 07
THISDAY ONLINE (this report has 2 different versions)
Guber Polls: Minister Denies Rigging
From Saka Ibrahimin Gombe
05 07 2007
Gombe Minister for Sports, Honourable Bala Kaoje, has said he was not involved in rigging of the last governorship and house of assembly elections in Kebbi State - - - -
Access denied, please login
BTW Nigeria is one of the few countries which still upholds the death penalty. Adulterous woman (name witheld) was sentenced to death by stoning some years ago. The man went scotfree for lack of evidence.
THISDAY ONLINE (this report has 2 different versions)
Guber Polls: Minister Denies Rigging
From Saka Ibrahimin Gombe
05 07 2007
Gombe Minister for Sports, Honourable Bala Kaoje, has said he was not involved in rigging of the last governorship and house of assembly elections in Kebbi State - - - -
Access denied, please login
BTW Nigeria is one of the few countries which still upholds the death penalty. Adulterous woman (name witheld) was sentenced to death by stoning some years ago. The man went scotfree for lack of evidence.
Posted by: Cally, Glasgow on 10:11am Mon 14 May 07
Al, you missed the last part of my contribution ".............especially the ones running around with knives." Yes, Nigeria has its problems too, but making out Glasgow is without any is plain silly. Great shops wow, but people in their thousands who don't care about their city, the city's reputation or their own because their lives are immersed in things like Bucky! And I am working class myself, but you have a look round the city centre next time you are there Al, I do so frequently and I cringe. Building Buchanan Galleries didn't change anything and there are many here who are happy to remain right where they are, playing top dog in their communities and terrorising others. We had a shooting in daylight last week Al, more gang warfare, more killing, we had children under 10 being caught carrying knives. Nigeria is Nigeria but aren't we supposed to be part of the civilised West? Someone tell that to the trash who are in control.
Al, you missed the last part of my contribution ".............especially the ones running around with knives." Yes, Nigeria has its problems too, but making out Glasgow is without any is plain silly. Great shops wow, but people in their thousands who don't care about their city, the city's reputation or their own because their lives are immersed in things like Bucky! And I am working class myself, but you have a look round the city centre next time you are there Al, I do so frequently and I cringe. Building Buchanan Galleries didn't change anything and there are many here who are happy to remain right where they are, playing top dog in their communities and terrorising others. We had a shooting in daylight last week Al, more gang warfare, more killing, we had children under 10 being caught carrying knives. Nigeria is Nigeria but aren't we supposed to be part of the civilised West? Someone tell that to the trash who are in control.
Posted by: Eric, Glasgow on 10:26am Mon 14 May 07
Its a legitimate claim. The solution is to bring Glasgow up to the standard of Western Europe rather than critizing those who seek to
exploit it. We know Glasgow has terribble crime and deprivation problems that nobody will face up to. Live expectancy in parts of Glasgow is lower than Bagdad. So thank you Nigeria for bringing this
up , as it might just focus the attention on real issue. To spend 26 million on security only seves re-inforce that the problem is real.
Its a legitimate claim. The solution is to bring Glasgow up to the standard of Western Europe rather than critizing those who seek to
exploit it. We know Glasgow has terribble crime and deprivation problems that nobody will face up to. Live expectancy in parts of Glasgow is lower than Bagdad. So thank you Nigeria for bringing this
up , as it might just focus the attention on real issue. To spend 26 million on security only seves re-inforce that the problem is real.
Posted by: g, Scotland on 10:30am Mon 14 May 07
[quote][bold]Cally[/bold] wrote:
Al, you missed the last part of my contribution \".............especially the ones running around with knives.\" Yes, Nigeria has its problems too, but making out Glasgow is without any is plain silly. Great shops wow, but people in their thousands who don\'t care about their city, the city\'s reputation or their own because their lives are immersed in things like Bucky! And I am working class myself, but you have a look round the city centre next time you are there Al, I do so frequently and I cringe. Building Buchanan Galleries didn\'t change anything and there are many here who are happy to remain right where they are, playing top dog in their communities and terrorising others. We had a shooting in daylight last week Al, more gang warfare, more killing, we had children under 10 being caught carrying knives. Nigeria is Nigeria but aren\'t we supposed to be part of the civilised West? Someone tell that to the trash who are in control. [/quote] Once again doomsayer- Glasgow is no different from any big city around the world. The proeblems you talk of are common in every big city. In the case of Nigeria, it's a far more dangerous place.
I doubt that you are really from Glasgow. There are so many positive things about Glasgow, but YOU would be hard pressed to name them.
Brush off your "chip" and get behnd something positive. Glasgow has choosen the East End of Glasgow for the games as part of a regeneration strategy. To address the very problems you highlight, yet you would rather moan about the existing problem.
Cally wrote:
Al, you missed the last part of my contribution \".............especially the ones running around with knives.\" Yes, Nigeria has its problems too, but making out Glasgow is without any is plain silly. Great shops wow, but people in their thousands who don\'t care about their city, the city\'s reputation or their own because their lives are immersed in things like Bucky! And I am working class myself, but you have a look round the city centre next time you are there Al, I do so frequently and I cringe. Building Buchanan Galleries didn\'t change anything and there are many here who are happy to remain right where they are, playing top dog in their communities and terrorising others. We had a shooting in daylight last week Al, more gang warfare, more killing, we had children under 10 being caught carrying knives. Nigeria is Nigeria but aren\'t we supposed to be part of the civilised West? Someone tell that to the trash who are in control.
Once again doomsayer- Glasgow is no different from any big city around the world. The proeblems you talk of are common in every big city. In the case of Nigeria, it's a far more dangerous place.
I doubt that you are really from Glasgow. There are so many positive things about Glasgow, but YOU would be hard pressed to name them.
Brush off your "chip" and get behnd something positive. Glasgow has choosen the East End of Glasgow for the games as part of a regeneration strategy. To address the very problems you highlight, yet you would rather moan about the existing problem.
Posted by: cath dougall, glasgow on 11:03am Mon 14 May 07
What sort of a lunatic fringe responds to this? I suppose I'm one. Glasgow has severe problems, but you can still go about at night relatively safely, you can get an education health care and free police protection. We also have the freedon of speech. Nigeria is an opressed poverty filed society where people have little freedom to express themselves, those who go against the regime often pay a high price. Get real - Glasgow ain't perfect but it IS my home city and I think we should stop always putting it down and apprecaite what we do have. In that I agree with the Nigerian minister in that we should talk up our own place for a change
What sort of a lunatic fringe responds to this? I suppose I'm one. Glasgow has severe problems, but you can still go about at night relatively safely, you can get an education health care and free police protection. We also have the freedon of speech. Nigeria is an opressed poverty filed society where people have little freedom to express themselves, those who go against the regime often pay a high price. Get real - Glasgow ain't perfect but it IS my home city and I think we should stop always putting it down and apprecaite what we do have. In that I agree with the Nigerian minister in that we should talk up our own place for a change
Posted by: Tom, Department of Reality on 11:28am Mon 14 May 07
David in london, where can I send my comments if they will influence the decision against Glasgow
I commented last week this was baloney, a total waste of millions, now looking at the free flights, business class etc seems like I wasn’t so far from the truth ,,, gravy train or what!!!!
ooopppps almost forgot, were getting 1000 homes on the banks of the Clyde, eehhh come on lads, that’s not so bad, it works out at only 2,800,000 a home
What a circus, hey wait a minute, I have just had a great idea, why don’t we also have that Eurovision song contest here at the same time,, we could build some of them Opera houses and maybe an open air Karaoke centre ,,,,, what you say, don’t be stupid ,,, eh ok,,, but I didn’t start it
David in london, where can I send my comments if they will influence the decision against Glasgow
I commented last week this was baloney, a total waste of millions, now looking at the free flights, business class etc seems like I wasn’t so far from the truth ,,, gravy train or what!!!!
ooopppps almost forgot, were getting 1000 homes on the banks of the Clyde, eehhh come on lads, that’s not so bad, it works out at only 2,800,000 a home
What a circus, hey wait a minute, I have just had a great idea, why don’t we also have that Eurovision song contest here at the same time,, we could build some of them Opera houses and maybe an open air Karaoke centre ,,,,, what you say, don’t be stupid ,,, eh ok,,, but I didn’t start it
Posted by: Peter Thomson, Kirkcudbright on 12:12pm Mon 14 May 07
Nice try by the Nigerian Minister to highlight the same sort of problems that occur in Nigeria and Glasgow. My brother in law is working for Shell in Nigeria and was selected for the job partly because he is an ex- Dutch Marine and knows how to handle himself and weapons. His 4x4 is armoured and the windows are sealed shut. As soon as he, his driver and his bodyguard leave the Shell compound the doors are locked until they reach their destination.
Now I know the East end of Glasgow can be a bit rough on a Saturday night but the last I heard you do not need to have an armoured 4x4 to drive down the old Edinburgh Road or be likely to be rammed while sitting at the lights at Glasgow Cross.
So let's have a good laugh at the guy and give him ten out of ten for trying and then get on with doing what Joke and Nu-Labour failed to do and improve Scotland - the Commonwealth Games will be a good boost to Glasgow's economy as long as the Labour Council does not come up with its usual 'jobs for the boys' malarkey and yet again lines their friends pockets at the expense of Glasgow.
Nice try by the Nigerian Minister to highlight the same sort of problems that occur in Nigeria and Glasgow. My brother in law is working for Shell in Nigeria and was selected for the job partly because he is an ex- Dutch Marine and knows how to handle himself and weapons. His 4x4 is armoured and the windows are sealed shut. As soon as he, his driver and his bodyguard leave the Shell compound the doors are locked until they reach their destination.
Now I know the East end of Glasgow can be a bit rough on a Saturday night but the last I heard you do not need to have an armoured 4x4 to drive down the old Edinburgh Road or be likely to be rammed while sitting at the lights at Glasgow Cross.
So let's have a good laugh at the guy and give him ten out of ten for trying and then get on with doing what Joke and Nu-Labour failed to do and improve Scotland - the Commonwealth Games will be a good boost to Glasgow's economy as long as the Labour Council does not come up with its usual 'jobs for the boys' malarkey and yet again lines their friends pockets at the expense of Glasgow.
Posted by: Oscar on 12:15pm Mon 14 May 07
I can't wait to go to Abuja as I'll finally get the chance to meet my good friend Soloman Jehosophat Kalumbe. He's holding $64 million in a Lagos account for me. It only cost me £16,000 to gain access to this money so it's a win-win situation...
Glasgow should walk away from the bid, just because Machester and Melbourne had supposedly good games doesn't mean Glasgow will. Anyone remember Bob Maxwell and Edinburgh?
I can't wait to go to Abuja as I'll finally get the chance to meet my good friend Soloman Jehosophat Kalumbe. He's holding $64 million in a Lagos account for me. It only cost me £16,000 to gain access to this money so it's a win-win situation...
Glasgow should walk away from the bid, just because Machester and Melbourne had supposedly good games doesn't mean Glasgow will. Anyone remember Bob Maxwell and Edinburgh?
Posted by: Paul Bunyan, Govan, Glasgow on 12:16pm Mon 14 May 07
Commonwealth Games? Who needs 'em? Won't up my £5.35 an hour wage, will they? Let Nigeria have 'em, and welcome!
Commonwealth Games? Who needs 'em? Won't up my £5.35 an hour wage, will they? Let Nigeria have 'em, and welcome!
Posted by: Oscar on 12:21pm Mon 14 May 07
"Edinburgh '86 will stand as a monument to the pitfalls of modern sport," said the Daily Telegraph.
"Edinburgh '86 will stand as a monument to the pitfalls of modern sport," said the Daily Telegraph.
Posted by: Tom, Department of Reality on 1:19pm Mon 14 May 07
Paul ,,, well said buddy, it sure won’t make you richer
Oscar ,,,,, we could say Edinburgh was a lesson to far
Peter ,,, Jobs for the boys ,,, never!!!! Honestly!!!!
Oscar ,,,, Hey c'mon buddy get real, I am also holding that money for him, as well as 128 Mio from mother Vanessa in the Philippines who is on her deathbed,,,, 36 Mio for Doctor Lumbago in Kenya who has fallen on hard times with his oil wells and wants to use my post office savings account, and lastly from the Sultan of Jumbatti who contacted me from his Yahoo address (but he told me it was a secret so don’t spread it around), and as if that wasn’t enough fantasy, blow me down if I didn’t only go and read somewhere that Glasgow is going to pay 288,000,000 to host the Commonwealth games ,,,,,, mmmmm I wonder of they are in contact with doctor Lumbago and Jumbatti
Paul ,,, well said buddy, it sure won’t make you richer
Oscar ,,,,, we could say Edinburgh was a lesson to far
Peter ,,, Jobs for the boys ,,, never!!!! Honestly!!!!
Oscar ,,,, Hey c'mon buddy get real, I am also holding that money for him, as well as 128 Mio from mother Vanessa in the Philippines who is on her deathbed,,,, 36 Mio for Doctor Lumbago in Kenya who has fallen on hard times with his oil wells and wants to use my post office savings account, and lastly from the Sultan of Jumbatti who contacted me from his Yahoo address (but he told me it was a secret so don’t spread it around), and as if that wasn’t enough fantasy, blow me down if I didn’t only go and read somewhere that Glasgow is going to pay 288,000,000 to host the Commonwealth games ,,,,,, mmmmm I wonder of they are in contact with doctor Lumbago and Jumbatti
Posted by: paul taylor, new glasgow nova scotia on 1:25pm Mon 14 May 07
Mr. Bell
My vested interest in Halifax 2014 was to end the bid because we were headed for the exact same game plan for construction and finances as the Montreal Olympics . In my 15 months of daily observation of all three cities in this bid process I took the time to research all aspects of life in the three cities. My knowledge of your city was gained from this very media. I saw the Feral boys documentary by the CBC which you people seem to think is a hatchet job but considering SKY TV from europe also did pretty much the same show for your domestic audience need I say more. All cities have problems with crime but some have problem worse then others . Snabbing a man on his doorstep for wearing the colors of his soccer team is actually something that has never occuried in Halifax and probably hasn't happened in Abuja. Snabbing a US Sailor in Halifax over a piece of jewelry occuried in Halifax. Glasgow's problem is not the crime but the actual ignoring of the facts locally while the media local will have this boosterism .
your Press is really an arm of the committee. Where our press actually asked the hard questions about the bid which was doomed because it made absolutely not business sense
Mr. Bell
My vested interest in Halifax 2014 was to end the bid because we were headed for the exact same game plan for construction and finances as the Montreal Olympics . In my 15 months of daily observation of all three cities in this bid process I took the time to research all aspects of life in the three cities. My knowledge of your city was gained from this very media. I saw the Feral boys documentary by the CBC which you people seem to think is a hatchet job but considering SKY TV from europe also did pretty much the same show for your domestic audience need I say more. All cities have problems with crime but some have problem worse then others . Snabbing a man on his doorstep for wearing the colors of his soccer team is actually something that has never occuried in Halifax and probably hasn't happened in Abuja. Snabbing a US Sailor in Halifax over a piece of jewelry occuried in Halifax. Glasgow's problem is not the crime but the actual ignoring of the facts locally while the media local will have this boosterism .
your Press is really an arm of the committee. Where our press actually asked the hard questions about the bid which was doomed because it made absolutely not business sense
Posted by: paul taylor, new glasgow nova scotia on 2:03pm Mon 14 May 07
I have searched high and low for this statement by the Nigerian sports minister in an independent press and all I find is Scottish papers reporting this . Of course Scottish papers are far from independent .
Not one single report outside of Scotland or the UK which the British are just your masters anyways LOL
Does this mean it has happened ? Considering the minister of sport is not even on the Abuja committee again a lame attempt to promote ones bid with something that could very well not be true or prompted by an out of context statement like Scott Logan's in 2006. Just like the statement by the Glasgow 2014 committee that they visited every country in the commonwealth but St Helena and the Falkland islands which is not true by their own admission. The committee flew the sports officials of Nuie to New Zealand because of the access time involved.
I have searched high and low for this statement by the Nigerian sports minister in an independent press and all I find is Scottish papers reporting this . Of course Scottish papers are far from independent .
Not one single report outside of Scotland or the UK which the British are just your masters anyways LOL
Does this mean it has happened ? Considering the minister of sport is not even on the Abuja committee again a lame attempt to promote ones bid with something that could very well not be true or prompted by an out of context statement like Scott Logan's in 2006. Just like the statement by the Glasgow 2014 committee that they visited every country in the commonwealth but St Helena and the Falkland islands which is not true by their own admission. The committee flew the sports officials of Nuie to New Zealand because of the access time involved.
Posted by: Oscar on 2:21pm Mon 14 May 07
Paul, I take it from a 'business sense' you mean the capital costs of new builds for the majority of the facilities, particularly those without much in the way of a core following in NS?
As you've been involved in this process far beyond where we are informed, can you tell us what benefits Glasgow might gain from hosting the games?
Incidentally I think you're right about our media, there's a real supine compliance in some quarters with no questions asked of the city fathers and their rather profligate spending ways. I'm concerned about the coaxing/bribery aspect of the bid process actually offering to pay cash to indivual participants strikes me as wrong.
Paul, I take it from a 'business sense' you mean the capital costs of new builds for the majority of the facilities, particularly those without much in the way of a core following in NS?
As you've been involved in this process far beyond where we are informed, can you tell us what benefits Glasgow might gain from hosting the games?
Incidentally I think you're right about our media, there's a real supine compliance in some quarters with no questions asked of the city fathers and their rather profligate spending ways. I'm concerned about the coaxing/bribery aspect of the bid process actually offering to pay cash to indivual participants strikes me as wrong.
Posted by: Oscar on 2:22pm Mon 14 May 07
Paul, I take it from a 'business sense' you mean the capital costs of new builds for the majority of the facilities, particularly those without much in the way of a core following in NS?
As you've been involved in this process far beyond where we are informed, can you tell us what benefits Glasgow might gain from hosting the games?
Incidentally I think you're right about our media, there's a real supine compliance in some quarters with no questions asked of the city fathers and their rather profligate spending ways. I'm concerned about the coaxing/bribery aspect of the bid process actually offering to pay cash to indivual participants strikes me as wrong.
Paul, I take it from a 'business sense' you mean the capital costs of new builds for the majority of the facilities, particularly those without much in the way of a core following in NS?
As you've been involved in this process far beyond where we are informed, can you tell us what benefits Glasgow might gain from hosting the games?
Incidentally I think you're right about our media, there's a real supine compliance in some quarters with no questions asked of the city fathers and their rather profligate spending ways. I'm concerned about the coaxing/bribery aspect of the bid process actually offering to pay cash to indivual participants strikes me as wrong.
Posted by: hamish, austrasia on 2:42pm Mon 14 May 07
yes who cares if he did or not.The fact is the games will waste huge funds ,but some time a big party done well has uplifteing benifits in civic pride which seems to come from some unexpected places.and reminds people there is opportunities outside glasgow and gives glasgow a chance to shine .Lets see were the volunteer helpers come and what areas.Glasgow has a world class cbd most other large citys a more like ghost towns or theme parks .Glasgow has a beating heart but some problems with the lmbs.These games will challenge the city and it will come out at the othere end better for it.as for its problems yes there a local issue totally disregarded by central goverment ,but there is a wind of change in the air.
yes who cares if he did or not.The fact is the games will waste huge funds ,but some time a big party done well has uplifteing benifits in civic pride which seems to come from some unexpected places.and reminds people there is opportunities outside glasgow and gives glasgow a chance to shine .Lets see were the volunteer helpers come and what areas.Glasgow has a world class cbd most other large citys a more like ghost towns or theme parks .Glasgow has a beating heart but some problems with the lmbs.These games will challenge the city and it will come out at the othere end better for it.as for its problems yes there a local issue totally disregarded by central goverment ,but there is a wind of change in the air.
Posted by: George Laird, New Labour gerrymandered Glasgow ghetto on 5:27pm Mon 14 May 07
[quote][bold]Bryan Weir[/bold] wrote:
A Nigerian saying Scotland has crime problems? What next? Isn\'t Nigeria a dangerous and corrupt society or have I been imagining all the reports that come out of their. How many innocent foreigners have been kidnapped by bands of marauding bandits in Glasgow lately? I have to deal with several attempts to defraud me from Nigeria every day. It has been going on for years. Their government knows about and they have done nothing about it. That alone should have vetoed their bid.[/quote] Dear Byran Weir
"How many innocent foreigners have been kidnapped by bands of marauding bandits in Glasgow lately?"
Very good question Byran but I would like to tell you a tale from the New Labour gerrymandered Pollok ghetto.
Once upon a time there was a chap called 'Goats' Kelly who lived in the ghetto just across the streets from me in Kempsthorn Crescent, the worst street in Glasgow (source the Evening Times).
Kelly was a local character known throughout the area, after some dispute he was violently killed and his body dumped at the Pollok centre. It was said at the time that he was dumped naked and that his sexual organs were cut off and stuffed in his mouth.
Do you know of any Nigerian bandits cutting off victim's sexual organs and stuffing them in their mouth in Nigeria?
Support the Nigerian bid, I certainly am.
[bold]New Labour Glasgow, so bad that the Glasgow Commonwealth Games Team is based in Stirling and not even run by Glaswegians.[/bold]
Says it all!
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Bryan Weir wrote:
A Nigerian saying Scotland has crime problems? What next? Isn\'t Nigeria a dangerous and corrupt society or have I been imagining all the reports that come out of their. How many innocent foreigners have been kidnapped by bands of marauding bandits in Glasgow lately? I have to deal with several attempts to defraud me from Nigeria every day. It has been going on for years. Their government knows about and they have done nothing about it. That alone should have vetoed their bid.
Dear Byran Weir
"How many innocent foreigners have been kidnapped by bands of marauding bandits in Glasgow lately?"
Very good question Byran but I would like to tell you a tale from the New Labour gerrymandered Pollok ghetto.
Once upon a time there was a chap called 'Goats' Kelly who lived in the ghetto just across the streets from me in Kempsthorn Crescent, the worst street in Glasgow (source the Evening Times).
Kelly was a local character known throughout the area, after some dispute he was violently killed and his body dumped at the Pollok centre. It was said at the time that he was dumped naked and that his sexual organs were cut off and stuffed in his mouth.
Do you know of any Nigerian bandits cutting off victim's sexual organs and stuffing them in their mouth in Nigeria?
Support the Nigerian bid, I certainly am.
New Labour Glasgow, so bad that the Glasgow Commonwealth Games Team is based in Stirling and not even run by Glaswegians.
Says it all!
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Posted by: George Laird, New Labour gerrymandered Glasgow ghetto on 5:44pm Mon 14 May 07
Dear Peter Thomson
"Now I know the East end of Glasgow can be a bit rough on a Saturday night but the last I heard you do not need to have an armoured 4x4 to drive down the old Edinburgh Road or be likely to be rammed while sitting at the lights at Glasgow Cross."
Just to update you in Corkerhill Road, Glasgow, man who wasn't driving an amourored 4x4 got his brains blown out all over the street near a college.
Best to blow the dust of the body armour and get the tin lid out for any future Glasgow trip.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Dear Peter Thomson
"Now I know the East end of Glasgow can be a bit rough on a Saturday night but the last I heard you do not need to have an armoured 4x4 to drive down the old Edinburgh Road or be likely to be rammed while sitting at the lights at Glasgow Cross."
Just to update you in Corkerhill Road, Glasgow, man who wasn't driving an amourored 4x4 got his brains blown out all over the street near a college.
Best to blow the dust of the body armour and get the tin lid out for any future Glasgow trip.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Posted by: Alanski, Edinburgh on 6:57pm Mon 14 May 07
Nigeria's sports minister was certainly undiplomatic in his language, and can't really put Nigeria on a pedestal as a model of a safe society, but what he said about Glasgow has a lot of truth in it! I am a Glaswegian, and still appalled at the deprivation, poverty, violence and 'ned' culture that has been around for many years and really has to be dealt with head on. I am sick of it - and don't anyone tell me that Labour are the answer, because they are obviously not. Too many people are in denial about this huge social problem, and Glasgow has been let down by corrupt (mainly Labour) politicians, who are a total disgrace.
Nigeria's sports minister was certainly undiplomatic in his language, and can't really put Nigeria on a pedestal as a model of a safe society, but what he said about Glasgow has a lot of truth in it! I am a Glaswegian, and still appalled at the deprivation, poverty, violence and 'ned' culture that has been around for many years and really has to be dealt with head on. I am sick of it - and don't anyone tell me that Labour are the answer, because they are obviously not. Too many people are in denial about this huge social problem, and Glasgow has been let down by corrupt (mainly Labour) politicians, who are a total disgrace.
Posted by: Thomas Cochrane, Glasgow on 7:07pm Mon 14 May 07
Seems the Comonwealth Games are pretty much on a par with the World Cup and the Olympics as far as graft and dirty dealing are concerned. The mud slinging is quite funny for the spectators on all corners of the globe.
Sorry George Laird but I have travelled a lot in the last 30 years and have no doubt the Glasgow is no worse than any other Western city.
(and I do take on board the huge social problems that Glasgow has) - wasn't it the Casino choosing committe recently that placed Manchester above Glasgow as an area of deprivation? I love Manchester and know it fairly well - didn't they stage a successful Games?
The Games are a huge PR event with some very expensive infrastructure and buildings left behind.
I have also spent time in Nigeria - a lovely country with substantial problems and it is a fact that Abuja outstrip Glasgow's problems 100 to 1.
Should the games (like the super Casino) go to the place with the greatest deprivation?
Should we take seriously the PR campaigns ongoing from both camps?
Should I as a Glaswegian give a **** if we get the games or not?
I am looking forward to Wednesday to see how 60 thousand Spaniards get on in this "cesspit of crime" city. I have a feeling they will get on just fine and enjoy the experience.
P.S. my new neighbours are assylum seekers from Nigeria. A family of 4 who had to flee from their country because the Father had the **** cheek to campaign for an opposition political party. He was pretty badly tortured and his wife is still a bag of nerves.
If you are interested his opinion on the matter if that most of the cash will end up in some rich bastards pocket wherver the games are held. I have to say I agree.
Seems the Comonwealth Games are pretty much on a par with the World Cup and the Olympics as far as graft and dirty dealing are concerned. The mud slinging is quite funny for the spectators on all corners of the globe.
Sorry George Laird but I have travelled a lot in the last 30 years and have no doubt the Glasgow is no worse than any other Western city.
(and I do take on board the huge social problems that Glasgow has) - wasn't it the Casino choosing committe recently that placed Manchester above Glasgow as an area of deprivation? I love Manchester and know it fairly well - didn't they stage a successful Games?
The Games are a huge PR event with some very expensive infrastructure and buildings left behind.
I have also spent time in Nigeria - a lovely country with substantial problems and it is a fact that Abuja outstrip Glasgow's problems 100 to 1.
Should the games (like the super Casino) go to the place with the greatest deprivation?
Should we take seriously the PR campaigns ongoing from both camps?
Should I as a Glaswegian give a **** if we get the games or not?
I am looking forward to Wednesday to see how 60 thousand Spaniards get on in this "cesspit of crime" city. I have a feeling they will get on just fine and enjoy the experience.
P.S. my new neighbours are assylum seekers from Nigeria. A family of 4 who had to flee from their country because the Father had the **** cheek to campaign for an opposition political party. He was pretty badly tortured and his wife is still a bag of nerves.
If you are interested his opinion on the matter if that most of the cash will end up in some rich bastards pocket wherver the games are held. I have to say I agree.
Posted by: Cally, Glasgow on 7:50pm Mon 14 May 07
g.scotland I am from Glasgow, I was born here, I have lived here all my life and I work in the city of Glasgow every day, so doubt all you like, you're wrong.
g.scotland I am from Glasgow, I was born here, I have lived here all my life and I work in the city of Glasgow every day, so doubt all you like, you're wrong.
Posted by: paul taylor, 609-747 on 8:17pm Mon 14 May 07
[quote][bold]Oscar[/bold] wrote:
Paul, I take it from a \'business sense\' you mean the capital costs of new builds for the majority of the facilities, particularly those without much in the way of a core following in NS?
As you\'ve been involved in this process far beyond where we are informed, can you tell us what benefits Glasgow might gain from hosting the games?
Incidentally I think you\'re right about our media, there\'s a real supine compliance in some quarters with no questions asked of the city fathers and their rather profligate spending ways. I\'m concerned about the coaxing/bribery aspect of the bid process actually offering to pay cash to indivual participants strikes me as wrong. [/quote] well Oscar not too far into a sports festival bid is a reality of who takes control of the ratepayers monies with these affairs ,what are the real reasons and what is the real picture. Scotland in 1986 had a deficit with the commonwealth games and now wants a third kick at the can ? 1986 with a majority of the countries boycotting over South Africa and Recycled Venues should have had a very positive balance sheet but it did not. Or atleast that is what is claimed
You have to ask what spin your population is being fed and by whom.
The simple fact in Canada is that sports revolves around the winter and not the summer. The British Isles plays soccer year round and facility improvements make sense but really you are not getting that with the bid at all. Glasgow IMO would be a very creditable bid if the redevelopment of Hampden Park in the late 1990s was for a dedicated athletics facility like Abuja built for the All-African Games .
Hampdem you are looking at an unrated IAAF facility Abuja you are looking at Class One which is required for the Olympics.
Somehow the boat was missed with Hampdem and now it is a temporary scafolding platform for the games will provide little so called legacy. temporary Scafolidng has never been used for a major sports festival ever. The case for an indoor arena of 10000 really is as off in Glasgow as a 25000 seat stadium is in Halifax . Basketball and Ice Hockey don' t have the following in the British Isles to sustain those sports to justify a 10000 arena.
The only real legacy I see is the arena,velodrome and the redevelopment of a brownfield industrial site on the east end which is a surefire way from huge cost overruns.
All sport festival bids are understated for costs and predicting costs to occur in the future is not a precise science. All you have to look at is Londons 2012 problems and learn that history seems to repeat itself on a regular basis when you ignore what goes on in your own back yard but are ignorant of what is going on in other cities.
The Nigerians for some reason have someone guiding them on a path similar to Seoul, South Korea towards being geared for sports festivals like the commonwealth games and perhaps the Olympics.
does not mean they will do a great job operationally but they are certainly avoiding capital costs with the highest readiness for a games in the entire 80 year history.
If Abuja is awarded and has the organizational talent of a Calgary 1988 or Los Angeles 1984 they would indeed host the best commonwealth games ever. The facilities and urban planning is there they need boots on the ground who are able to pull it off in a world class way
Oscar wrote:
Paul, I take it from a \'business sense\' you mean the capital costs of new builds for the majority of the facilities, particularly those without much in the way of a core following in NS?
As you\'ve been involved in this process far beyond where we are informed, can you tell us what benefits Glasgow might gain from hosting the games?
Incidentally I think you\'re right about our media, there\'s a real supine compliance in some quarters with no questions asked of the city fathers and their rather profligate spending ways. I\'m concerned about the coaxing/bribery aspect of the bid process actually offering to pay cash to indivual participants strikes me as wrong.
well Oscar not too far into a sports festival bid is a reality of who takes control of the ratepayers monies with these affairs ,what are the real reasons and what is the real picture. Scotland in 1986 had a deficit with the commonwealth games and now wants a third kick at the can ? 1986 with a majority of the countries boycotting over South Africa and Recycled Venues should have had a very positive balance sheet but it did not. Or atleast that is what is claimed
You have to ask what spin your population is being fed and by whom.
The simple fact in Canada is that sports revolves around the winter and not the summer. The British Isles plays soccer year round and facility improvements make sense but really you are not getting that with the bid at all. Glasgow IMO would be a very creditable bid if the redevelopment of Hampden Park in the late 1990s was for a dedicated athletics facility like Abuja built for the All-African Games .
Hampdem you are looking at an unrated IAAF facility Abuja you are looking at Class One which is required for the Olympics.
Somehow the boat was missed with Hampdem and now it is a temporary scafolding platform for the games will provide little so called legacy. temporary Scafolidng has never been used for a major sports festival ever. The case for an indoor arena of 10000 really is as off in Glasgow as a 25000 seat stadium is in Halifax . Basketball and Ice Hockey don' t have the following in the British Isles to sustain those sports to justify a 10000 arena.
The only real legacy I see is the arena,velodrome and the redevelopment of a brownfield industrial site on the east end which is a surefire way from huge cost overruns.
All sport festival bids are understated for costs and predicting costs to occur in the future is not a precise science. All you have to look at is Londons 2012 problems and learn that history seems to repeat itself on a regular basis when you ignore what goes on in your own back yard but are ignorant of what is going on in other cities.
The Nigerians for some reason have someone guiding them on a path similar to Seoul, South Korea towards being geared for sports festivals like the commonwealth games and perhaps the Olympics.
does not mean they will do a great job operationally but they are certainly avoiding capital costs with the highest readiness for a games in the entire 80 year history.
If Abuja is awarded and has the organizational talent of a Calgary 1988 or Los Angeles 1984 they would indeed host the best commonwealth games ever. The facilities and urban planning is there they need boots on the ground who are able to pull it off in a world class way
Posted by: Dave, Glesga maaaate on 8:22pm Mon 14 May 07
[quote][bold]Cally[/bold] wrote:
Al, you missed the last part of my contribution ".............especially the ones running around with knives." Yes, Nigeria has its problems too, but making out Glasgow is without any is plain silly. Great shops wow, but people in their thousands who don't care about their city, the city's reputation or their own because their lives are immersed in things like Bucky! And I am working class myself, but you have a look round the city centre next time you are there Al, I do so frequently and I cringe. Building Buchanan Galleries didn't change anything and there are many here who are happy to remain right where they are, playing top dog in their communities and terrorising others. We had a shooting in daylight last week Al, more gang warfare, more killing, we had children under 10 being caught carrying knives. Nigeria is Nigeria but aren't we supposed to be part of the civilised West? Someone tell that to the trash who are in control. [/quote] I'd rather be in the same city as bucky swilling bams than gun toting bandits and corrupt officials. Not to say that our own officials leave something to be desired at times. I also wonder why Parkhead would host any opening ceremony rather than Hampden. Hampden is the national stadium after all. The fact that so many anti british idealists congregate at Parkhead every other week is also something that bemuses me. Its slightly contradictory of the whole commonwealth idea is it not?
Cally wrote:
Al, you missed the last part of my contribution ".............especially the ones running around with knives." Yes, Nigeria has its problems too, but making out Glasgow is without any is plain silly. Great shops wow, but people in their thousands who don't care about their city, the city's reputation or their own because their lives are immersed in things like Bucky! And I am working class myself, but you have a look round the city centre next time you are there Al, I do so frequently and I cringe
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