Latest news with #BBC-produced
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Cathedral has spending suspended over debts
A cathedral can no longer spend money after hundreds of thousands of pounds in debts were discovered. Bangor Cathedral in Gwynedd has had its spending suspended after furniture worth £418,000 was part-funded by the diocese and about £20,000 was spent on three trips abroad - two to Rome and one to Dublin - sources close to the cathedral told BBC-produced Newyddion S4C. It comes after the publication of two critical report summaries earlier this month which outlined concerns relating to safeguarding, behaviour and financial management at the church. A cathedral spokesperson said it had agreed to repay the cost of the trips and an "independent review" last year found no financial inconsistencies. Multiple serious referrals made about cathedral Calls for Archbishop to resign over safeguarding reports Safeguarding investigation launched at cathedral The debts are to the Bangor Diocese, which is a separate charity. The trips were allegedly paid for by the diocese, despite mainly involving cathedral staff, with the second Rome visit characterised by its extravagance. It is said to have involved "an overnight stay in the Radisson at Manchester Airport before an early flight, followed by accommodation in four-star hotels in Rome, plus dinner and taxis throughout". It was also alleged that "most of the participants on the second and third trips did not contribute towards the cost". The cathedral acknowledged there was inadequate consultation and information regarding the expenditure on furniture and that the Dean and Chapter of Bangor Cathedral had agreed to repay the costs of the trips abroad. It also said the Church in Wales centrally was helping rectify issues with financial record-keeping and the debt would be repaid by next year. The cathedral said, while spending was suspended, it was continuing with the process of appointing a new dean. Church report into inappropriate behaviour claims Church at precarious moment after Welby resignation Archbishop of Canterbury resigns over Church abuse scandal
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Yahoo
Bosses who hired paedophile head 'absent from work'
Senior council officers who employed paedophile headteacher Neil Foden are "absent from work", BBC News has been told. An email sent to Gwynedd councillors by the authority's chief executive stated there were arrangements in place to lead its children and family support department while the head and deputy head are absent. Foden, 66, was imprisoned for 17 years in July last year, for sexually abusing young girls over a four-year period. He was head of one Gwynedd school and strategic head of another when he was arrested, and was later convicted of 19 charges, including 12 counts of sexual activity with a child and two counts of sexual activity with a child while he was in a position of trust. In the email from Chief Executive Dafydd Gibbard, seen by BBC-produced Newyddion S4C, all 69 Gwynedd councillors were told it was "unlikely we will be able to return to our normal arrangements for a while". Both absent senior officers were named in the letter, along with their titles and information about the staff stepping up into the roles. However, it does not state why they are not in their posts at present. Paedophile head teacher jailed for 17 years Sex abuse head teacher 'could have been stopped' Sex offender head teacher 'ran class with terror' Cyngor Gwynedd declined to reveal the details surrounding the absences, stating that "short-term arrangements have been put in place to lead the department". Sharron Carter and Aled Gibbard will be "sharing the responsibilities of the head of the children and family support department", Mr Gibbard wrote, with Dylan Owen, the council's corporate director, supporting the two temporary leaders whilst continuing to "provide strategic guidance to the department". Genevieve Woods, a specialist safeguarding barrister, was commissioned by the council earlier this year to investigate events in 2019, when concerns were raised with the authority about Foden's behaviour with some teenage girls. She revealed her findings in mid-March, with Cyngor Gwynedd saying in April that because the report contained "sensitive and confidential information" it would not yet be made public. During Foden's trial, it emerged that in 2019, a senior member of staff was concerned about his "close relationship" with some teenage girls, although the concerns had been for Foden's own reputation and that he could be putting himself at risk of accusations. The concerns were shared with Cyngor Gwynedd, but the court heard that a decision was made not to investigate further. BBC Wales understands four members of staff were part of the decision not to investigate at the time, and a BBC Wales Investigates programme into the case revealed three of those were still employed by the council. Councillors have been told a number of recommendations, and associated actions, are in place following Ms Woods' report. These include that the council will put in place arrangements for dealing with concerns which do not reach the formal child safeguarding threshold, as well as strengthening whistleblowing and record keeping arrangements, and providing safeguarding training to all council staff. The full report has been sent to the independent investigators of the statutory Child Practice Review, which is being carried out by North Wales Safeguarding Board. Cyngor Gwynedd said it had received "legal advice from independent experts on the next steps". It added: "As a responsible employer, Gwynedd Council has a responsibility to respect the confidentiality of staff. Because of this, we cannot share information relating to the employment of individuals." A request for comment has been passed on to the absent staff members through Cyngor Gwynedd. Council to apologise to paedophile head victims Sex abuse head teacher report not being made public Police probe new allegations into paedophile head
Shafaq News
13-05-2025
- Shafaq News
Visit Kurdistan: Walk in the footsteps of Shanidar Cave – now a global tourism magnet
Shafaq News/ Tucked into the rugged cliffs of Bradost Mountain in Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, Shanidar Cave (Neanderthals) stands as one of the world's most significant archaeological treasures. For decades, it has drawn historians, archaeologists, and adventure seekers. But today, this ancient wonder is witnessing a remarkable revival in global interest—thanks to the recent BBC-produced documentary 'The Real Neanderthal' streaming on Netflix. Unearth the Past at Shanidar Cave First excavated in the 1950s by archaeologist Ralph Solecki, Shanidar Cave gained international fame with the discovery of ten Neanderthal skeletons dating back 35,000 to 65,000 years. One particular find, Shanidar IV, sparked global intrigue due to the 'flower burial'—a possible sign of ritualistic funerals among Neanderthals that challenged long-held beliefs about their intelligence and emotional depth. Alongside the Neanderthal remains, archaeologists have uncovered more than 30 proto-Neolithic skeletons from around 10,600 BCE, offering a rare, continuous glimpse into early human life and death. A Tourism Renaissance Sparked by Netflix According to the Directorate of Antiquities in the Soran Independent Administration, the documentary has dramatically boosted interest in the cave. Abdul Wahab Suleiman, head of the Directorate, told Shafaq News that following the film's release, more than two billion people worldwide searched for 'Kurdistan' online—driven by curiosity about the cave's ancient secrets. 'Thousands of interested individuals now want to visit this historical site to see firsthand where Neanderthals lived,' he noted. In response to this surge, the local government—working in coordination with the University of Cambridge and the Erbil General Directorate of Antiquities—is launching a new tourism development plan. Projects include a dedicated archaeological museum near the site and a cable car to transport visitors from the mountain base directly to the cave entrance. These enhancements aim to turn Shanidar into a world-class heritage and tourism destination. Set approximately 2,200 feet (670 meters) high in the Zagros Mountains, the cave is a scenic three-hour drive from Erbil International Airport. Though the final stretch includes winding mountain roads, the journey rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas and a profound sense of timelessness. Inside, travelers can explore its vast chambers and intricate rock formations. Guided tours bring to life the scientific importance of the site, while surrounding trails offer hiking opportunities for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Visitor Farhad Hussein, who came with his family after watching the Netflix documentary, expressed enthusiasm but also highlighted gaps: 'We have a great interest in knowing what's inside this cave. But unfortunately, there are no tourist facilities here. We hope the government pays more attention to this area.' Planning Your Visit Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most pleasant conditions for hiking and sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F), while winters may bring snowfall and cold winds across the mountains. Wear durable footwear for the rocky terrain, bring water for the hike, and carry a flashlight for navigating the cave's darker passages. Why Shanidar Matters Shanidar Cave is more than an archaeological site—it is a portal into humanity's prehistoric journey. With its stunning natural setting and profound historical significance, it bridges the ancient with the modern. Now, with the eyes of the world turning toward Iraqi Kurdistan, Shanidar offers travelers not just a destination, but an unforgettable story etched into stone. Whether you're tracing the footsteps of Neanderthals, experiencing a cultural renaissance, or simply soaking in the majesty of the Bradost Mountains, a visit to Shanidar Cave promises an experience that will echo through memory—just as it has echoed through millennia.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Calls for Archbishop to resign over safeguarding reports
There are calls for the Archbishop of Wales to resign after two critical reports highlighted safeguarding concerns and misbehaviour at a north Wales cathedral. The report included complaints about a "culture in which sexual boundaries seemed blurred", inappropriate language being used and alcohol consumed excessively. The Church in Wales acknowledged safeguarding weaknesses, management practices lacking in rigour and transparency, and misconduct relating to alcohol use and sexual behaviour at Bangor Cathedral. The Most Reverend Andrew John offered his "most heartfelt apology to any members of the cathedral community who have been hurt or who feel I have let them down". The Church in Wales said it had created an implementation group to ensure the issues are addressed. The full reports have not been published, but summaries were posted on the Church of Wales' website. Since the publication of the summaries, there is dismay in some quarters about a perceived lack of detail and candour into the church's response. Church report into inappropriate behaviour claims Safeguarding investigation launched at cathedral Bishop Andy John elected Archbishop of Wales Despite repeated requests for an interview with Rev Andrew John, who is both Archbishop of Wales and Bishop of Bangor, BBC-produced Newyddion S4C were told the church believe the cathedral's community should be allowed to "reflect on the reports and statement without additional commentary". John Pockett, a member of the Church in Wales for almost 70 years and previously Cathedral Steward and Intercessions leader at Llandaff Cathedral, called for the Archbishop of Wales to consider his position as head of the Church in Wales. "The leader of the Church in Wales is at the centre of all this. He is the Archbishop, he is the leader and it has happened at his Cathedral. "It sullies the name of the Church in Wales across the country. [Archbishop of Wales] Andy John needs to come out and state plainly what has happened." He added there was "great concern about the future of the church across the country" and "about the lack of honesty, openness and transparency". "We have a right to know what went on and we have a right to expect better," he said. The Church in Wales also said an oversight board had been appointed, to scrutinise the work of the implementation group and support a new dean, who has yet to be appointed. Ruth Jones, Labour MP for Newport West and Islwyn, who chairs a Westminster parliamentary group on safeguarding in faith communities, has called on the church to offer a full explanation to members and the public. "I am concerned - it's more what the reports don't say because they are quite short," she said. "They indicate there have been issues, but we don't know what the issues are so what are the solutions? "I would urge [the Archbishop] to come forward and speak out about what the issues have been and how they're putting them right so everybody visiting Bangor Cathedral, whether they're visiting for the day or have been there 50 years, can feel safe in that environment." Professor Sir Malcolm Evans was a member of the Statutory Panel of the Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse in England and Wales (IICSA inquiry) which investigated child sexual abuse in churches, schools, custodial institutions, political parties, religious groups, and children's homes, and made a series of recommendations. Whilst child abuse is not mentioned at Bangor Cathedral, Sir Malcolm said he was concerned. He said it was "in everyone's interest to have maximum transparency" and that it was "disappointing" they had published summaries rather than the full reports. "One of [IICSA's] key recommendations was that audits should take place and that they should be public." He said IICSA had praised several aspects of the Church in Wales's work at a national level, but said it was "distressing" these practices and policies at a national level do not seem to have been implemented at Bangor Cathedral. "These are the things that genuinely and really keep people safe over time. "It seems on the face of it that something seriously has gone wrong in translating what the policies of the Church in Wales actually are into the practice on the ground." The Church in Wales accepted the IICSA report recommendations at the time stating it had a national online safeguarding case management and record keeping system and that relevant staff would be trained in accordance with their procedural guidance. In relation to Bangor Cathedral, it said that the formation of an implementation group and oversight board demonstrated the church's determination to follow the IICSA report's guidance and upholding the highest standards in relation to safeguarding, governance and behaviour. The chair of the Chapter of Bangor Cathedral, the Ven David Parry, said it was committed to taking the recommendations forward as matters of urgency, adding: "Significant changes are already under way. "We recognise that it will take time to heal some relationships and build trust." In a statement, the Rev Andrew John said the failings can only cause the "deepest sorrow" to all who take part in, and who care about, the church. He said: "It is because of my concern about the issues which had been reported to me that I requested the visitation report and the safeguarding review. "Those reports contain much that gives us cause for concern, they also, through the recommendations, identify a way forward by which those matters can be resolved." Abuse reported to church 17 years before police told Church at precarious moment after Welby resignation Welby formally relinquishes Archbishop role
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hospital ward closure 'immoral', families say
The failure to recruit NHS staff in a rural part of Wales is having a "cruel and immoral effect" on patients, families have warned. The Dyfi Ward at Ysbyty Tywyn in the south of Gwynedd closed temporarily two years ago but the health board said it still cannot get enough staff to safely reopen it. Family members said they now must travel long distances to visit loved ones, including journeys of up to two hours to Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor. Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board said it had faced challenges in recruiting and maintaining staffing levels but would "rethink" health care in the area. Too few consequences for NHS underperformance - Miles Hospital waiting times fall for third month 'Long way to go' for NHS board's special measures Sian Lewis, whose father died less than three weeks ago, said he spent his final weeks being moved between hospitals far from home because there was no care available for him in Tywyn. "It's been awful, he wasn't able to come back to Tywyn at all," Ms Lewis told BBC-produced Newyddion S4C. "I'm very sad and angry." She added: "My mum is 91 and she couldn't just go and see him, she had to rely on us and friends to take her there." Lisa Markham, who lost her father six years ago when the inpatient ward at Ysbyty Tywyn was open, said she felt lucky her father was able to spend his final days close to family and in his own community. "I look back with gratefulness and thanks... my [grandparents] and then my dad had amazing care here as they died. "We, his children and grandchildren, could come to visit him, and it was an amazing time where he could just say goodbye to us and we to him." She added: "It makes you angry when you see what Sian has had to go through because her father was so far away." Campaigners said the long distances were made more inaccessible due to limited and unreliable public transport in the area. They said this meant people were missing vital time with family during their final days. Janet Maher's father died on the Dyfi Ward just six months before its closure and said having care in this rural part of Wales was "invaluable". "It's so sad, cruel and immoral that they haven't opened the ward. "The love and care they showed my father... he died after two weeks on the ward, and we were just so grateful for the care he received." She added: "Everyone has the right to have that care like he did." Betsi Cadwaladr said a shortage of staff led to the closure of the ward two years ago, but it was expected to reopen. Health board chair Dyfed Edwards said a major campaign to recruit locally, nationally and internationally had not succeeded. Mr Edwards highlighted new community scheme Tuag Adref which ensures care at home and the minor injuries unit at the hospital which was open five days a week. He said Betsi Cadwaladr had no intention to close the ward completely and that the board would be discussing the way forward for health services in the area in May. Back of queue threat for people who miss NHS appointments Drug dispensing robot hailed as 'ground-breaking' Corridor care in Welsh hospitals 'endemic', doctors say
