Podcast appearances and mentions of calum macdonald

Guest Preacher - Rev. Calum Macdonald (Retired)Series: Guest Preacher Preacher: Rev. Calum MacdonaldLord's Day EveningDate: 20th April 2025Passage: Matthew 16:1-20

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, host Calum MacDonald, along with guests Kirsty Buchanan, Jo Tanner, and Lord Harrington, delve into the implications of Donald Trump's tariffs and the ongoing trade war. They discuss the immediate and long-term impacts of these tariffs on global economies, particularly focusing on the UK and US relations. The conversation highlights the need for radical changes in the UK economy, the potential for investment opportunities, and the strategic importance of the steel industry. The episode concludes with a discussion on the escalating trade tensions and their potential consequences for global stability. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver discuss the significance of Tartan Week, the recent defection of Jamie Greene from the Scottish Conservatives to the Liberal Democrats, and the challenges faced by political parties in Scotland. The conversation highlights the tribal nature of the Scottish Parliament, the shifting political landscape, and the implications of these changes for the future of the Scottish Conservatives and the broader political environment. We also hear from newly elected Alba Party leader, Kenny MacAskill on his strategy for independence. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner, assess the implications of President Trump's impending tariffs on the UK economy and the global market. They discuss the political strategies surrounding these tariffs, the potential impact on trade relations, and the broader economic consequences. The conversation also transitions to the assisted dying legislation currently progressing through Parliament, highlighting the political dynamics at play.We also consider, at length, the Assisted Dying Bill. We look at complexities of the assisted dying legislation currently under review in the UK Parliament. Nikki Da Costa, Former Director of legislative affairs at Number 10, discusses the significant changes made to the bill during the committee stage, particularly the removal of key safeguards intended to protect vulnerable populations. The discussion also highlights the challenges surrounding the implementation of the bill, including the readiness of the NHS and the ethical implications of the proposed legislation. As the bill moves forward, the conversation emphasises the importance of addressing concerns about the potential impact on vulnerable individuals and the responsibilities of MPs in the legislative process.Kit Malthouse, a Conservative MP, backs the assisted dying legislation. They discuss the various amendments made to the bill, the safeguards put in place, and the ongoing debate surrounding the right to choose. Malthouse addresses concerns about the safety of the bill, the role of the NHS versus private provision, and reflects on the personal impact of the legislative process. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, host Calum Macdonald and guest Andy Maciver discuss Scotland's role in global politics, particularly in light of current events involving Ukraine and Donald Trump. They explore Scotland's economic interests, military significance, and the potential for leveraging military assets to enhance Scotland's political influence. The conversation also touches on the reliability of the USA as an ally and the implications for European defence strategies. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver analyse the current landscape of Scottish politics, focusing on the dynamics within the Scottish Labour Party, the implications of energy policies, and the ongoing debates surrounding gender recognition reform. The conversation highlights the importance of effective political communication, the challenges of leadership, and the need for a balanced approach to energy pricing and local community benefits. The hosts reflect on recent events, including the Scottish Labour Conference and the reactions to the leadership of Anas Sarwar and Jackie Bailey, while also addressing listener feedback and concerns about key political issues. In this episode, the hosts discuss listener feedback on previous podcasts, analyse the recent budget passed in Scotland, and explore the implications of MSP resignations. They delve into the challenges of recruiting new politicians, the impact of experienced politicians leaving, and the widening attainment gap in education. The conversation concludes with a look at John Swinney's new political strategy and its potential effects on the upcoming elections. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner, delve into the pressing issues surrounding online harms, particularly focusing on the risks posed by social media to children. We're joined by Jess Asato, Labour MP for Lowestoft. They discuss the need for stricter regulations, the role of parents and schools in safeguarding children, and the legislative measures being proposed, including the Safer Phones Bill which is moving through Parliament this week. The conversation highlights the alarming statistics regarding children's exposure to harmful content online and the urgent need for a societal response to protect young people from digital dangers. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner delve into the current political landscape in Westminster. They discuss the leadership styles of Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch, focusing on Starmer's perceived lack of principles under pressure and Badenoch's recent performance at PMQs. The conversation delves into the current political landscape, focusing on the challenges faced by the Conservative Party, the importance of clear communication in politics, and the implications of leadership transitions. It also addresses the complexities surrounding assisted dying legislation and whether there should be consequences for inappropriate Whatsapp groups. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver delve into the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on Labour's recent pledges to maintain free services, the challenges of political messaging, and the ongoing crisis in the NHS. They discuss the implications of Anas Sarwar's commitments, the effectiveness of Labour's strategy, and the need for a more holistic approach to healthcare. The conversation also touches on the performance of politicians in the media and the dynamics of political interactions behind closed doors. In this conversation, and on the ineffectiveness of current political discourse. They explore the challenges of long-form political interviews and answer listener questions on a variety of topics. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Jo Tanner, delve into the current political landscape, focusing on key issues such as Donald Trump's controversial proposal for Gaza, the ongoing Chagos Islands dispute, and insights from a new book on Keir Starmer's leadership. The conversation highlights the complexities of international relations, the challenges faced by political leaders, and the implications of recent political developments in the UK. The conversation delves into the current political landscape, focusing on the leadership styles of Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer. It discusses the public's perception of action versus inaction in leadership, the loyalty dynamics within political teams, and the psychological aspects influencing political behavior. The complexities of Brexit negotiations and the challenges of maintaining trade relationships with both the EU and the US are also explored, highlighting the delicate balance required in modern politics. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and - joining the podcast for 2025 and beyond - Jo Tanner, discuss Rachel Reeves' recent speech on economic growth, focusing on the controversial Heathrow expansion and the Labour Party's growth strategy. The conversation explores the implications of the speech, the challenges facing the government, and the potential impact on businesses and the economy. The conversation delves into the significant barriers to trade and the chronic skills shortage affecting the economy. It discusses the challenges to economic growth, including public perception of infrastructure projects and the need for effective communication strategies in politics. The rise of the Reform party is examined, highlighting the lack of scrutiny they face. Finally, the discussion touches on future economic predictions, the potential for austerity, and the implications of tax rises. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're joined by Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton. In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein, and Andy Maciver discuss the current state of Scottish politics, focusing on the recent budget negotiations involving the Scottish government and the Liberal Democrats. They explore the dynamics of political collaboration, the implications of the rise of the Reform Party, and reflections on political messaging in both Scottish and US contexts. The conversation highlights the importance of engagement and the challenges faced by various political parties in a changing landscape. The conversation delves into the current political landscape in Scotland, focusing on coalition dynamics, budget analysis, NHS challenges, the National Care Service controversy, and Labour's strategy against the rise of Reform UK. Key themes include the implications of coalition decisions, the effectiveness of the current budget, and the accountability of political leaders in addressing public service issues. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss the recent Southport stabbings and the subsequent national inquiry into the failures of the Prevent strategy. They analyze the political implications of the tragedy, the responses from key political figures, and the broader societal impact of such events. Then we turn to the inauguration of President Trump.Republican Amy Koch discuss the recent inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States. They reflect on the event, Trump's speech, and the implications of his messaging for the Republican Party and American politics. Amy shares her nuanced perspective as a Republican strategist, highlighting the challenges and opportunities Trump faces in his new term. The conversation also touches on the political landscape, the role of Congress, and the expectations for Trump's early actions in office.Democrat Chris Jackson reflects on the political landscape following Donald Trump's inauguration, discussing the implications for Joe Biden's presidency, the contrasting leadership styles of Trump and Biden, and the challenges facing the Democratic Party. He emphasizes the need for Democrats to connect with average voters and the importance of addressing pressing issues like inflation and immigration. The discussion also touches on international relations, particularly regarding Russia and Ukraine, and the impact of political norms and pardons in the current climate. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Holyrood Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald, along with Geoff Aberdein, Andy Maciver, and Professor Sir John Curtice, delve into the current polling landscape in Scotland as it pertains to the upcoming Holyrood elections in 2026. We reveal results of our exclusive poll and analyse the implications. They discuss the implications of recent polling data, the rise of the Reform Party, and the challenges faced by both the SNP and Labour. The conversation also touches on the performance of the UK government and its impact on Scottish politics, the dynamics of leadership within the Scottish Labour and SNP parties, and the potential for coalition governments in the future. The insights provided by Professor Curtice highlight the complexities of voter sentiment and the shifting political landscape in Scotland. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, host Calum MacDonald and guest Kirsty Buchanan engage with Ambassador Peter Ford, who shares his insights on the current situation in Syria following the fall of the Assad regime. The conversation explores the implications of the regime's collapse, the rise of ISIS and Al-Qaeda, and the consequences of international interventions. Ford emphasises the dire state of affairs in Syria, the complexities of choosing leadership, and the responsibilities of the UK and international community in addressing the ongoing crisis.The conversation delves into the complexities of military intervention in Syria, reflecting on past decisions made by the Labour Party and the implications of those choices. It transitions into a critique of David Lammy's performance as Foreign Secretary, exploring the challenges he faces in a rapidly changing global landscape. The discussion then shifts to the pressing issue of the housing crisis in the UK, examining Labour's ambitious housing targets and the feasibility of achieving them amidst planning challenges. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Whitehall Sources podcast, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss Keir Starmer's recent speech outlining the Labour Party's new foundations, missions, and milestones. They delve into the six specific milestones set by Starmer's government, analysing their feasibility and the implications for public accountability. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the civil service in implementing government policies and the dynamics of political strategy in the current landscape, including the significance of immigration as a public concern. The episode concludes with reflections on the appointment of Chris Wormald as the new cabinet secretary and what it means for the future of government delivery. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This conversation reflects on the life and legacy of John Prescott, a significant figure in British politics and the Labour Party. The hosts, Calum MacDonald, Kirsty Buchanan, and Adam Boulton, share personal anecdotes and insights about Prescott's character, his role in the New Labour movement, and his impact on political discourse. They discuss his authenticity, sense of justice, and the unique qualities that made him a memorable politician. The conversation also touches on the changes in political culture and the challenges of finding authentic leaders in today's political landscape. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss various pressing political issues in the UK, including prison overcrowding, the Labour Party's involvement in US elections, and the upcoming budget. Kirsty shares insights from her experience in the Ministry of Justice, emphasising the complexities of the criminal justice system and the need for reform. The conversation also touches on the political implications of Labour's actions and the fiscal strategies being employed by the government. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss the mounting expectations surrounding the upcoming UK budget, the implications of Sue Gray's resignation, and the unexpected twists in the Conservative leadership contest. They explore the challenges facing the party, including issues of unity and direction, and the potential impact of the leadership debates on the party's future.Jordan Urban, a senior researcher at the Institute for Government, discusses the recent political dynamics surrounding the Labour government, particularly focusing on the resignation of Sue Gray and its implications for governance. The discussion delves into the roles within Number 10, the structural challenges faced by the government, and the importance of clear direction and communication in effective governance. Urban emphasises the need for a coherent organisational structure and the impact of personal dynamics on the functioning of government, while also highlighting the challenges that lie ahead for the Labour party as they navigate their early days in power. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan delve into the current political landscape, focusing on the escalating tensions in the Middle East and the ongoing Conservative leadership contest in the UK. They analyse the speeches of the four candidates vying for leadership, discussing their strengths, weaknesses, and the implications for the party's future. The conversation highlights the complexities of international relations and domestic politics, emphasising the need for clarity in the Conservative Party's direction amidst a challenging political climate. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Whitehall Sources, Calum Macdonald discusses the current political landscape with Kirsty Buchanan and Theo Bertram. They touch on topics such as Keir Starmer's speech, the challenges facing the Labour government, and the upcoming budget. They also discuss the recent trip to Germany and the future of UK-EU relations. The main themes of the conversation include setting the baseline for the government's agenda, focusing on economic growth, and the importance of planning reform. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss various topics related to the upcoming election. They talk about the length of the campaign, the impact of polling, and the challenges faced by the Conservative Party. Kirsty also shares her experience at her son's school and discusses the views of children on politics. Adam Bell, former Energy SpAd and now Director of Policy at Stonehaven joins. We explore energy policy in the UK and the different approaches of the political parties. The main themes include the division between parties on how to tackle climate change, the feasibility of decarbonising the grid by 2030, the challenges of infrastructure development, the role of community benefits, the potential for judicial reviews, the need for a skilled workforce, the political consensus on net zero, the purpose of a state-owned energy company, and the fiscal rules and investment needed for the energy transition. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kirsty Buchanan, former special advisor to Theresa May, and Calum Macdonald discuss the prison system in the UK, and Sir Keir Starmer's six pledges for the next general election. The conversation touches on the challenges of the prison system, the need for a fresh look at remand and recall, and the importance of rehabilitation and reform. It also explores the effectiveness of political pledges and the need for realistic and achievable goals. The conversation covers various topics, including the Labour Party's five missions and the addition of a sixth mission related to border security. The discussion also touches on the timeline for achieving these missions and the importance of managing expectations. The hosts then shift to a clip of an interview with Rishi Sunak on the Loose Women program, where he is questioned about his policies towards pensioners. The hosts analyse the interview style and the effectiveness of different interview techniques. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's Deputy PMQs wile Rishi Sunak is in Germany, with Oliver Dowden facing questions from Angela Rayner. Tim Shipman and Calum Macdonald join Matt Chorley to pause and unpack the action from the Commons as the deputies trade blows over council tax, the Renter's Reform Bill and second homes. Plus: Columnists Alice Thomson and Robert Crampton discuss whether we are seeing the end of the news anchor, AI in recruitment and why saying ‘back in your day' in the office could be unlawful. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the end of the show a question from Roger Hyam Recommendations: Ruth The Glasgow Girl (Paperback) - Aasmah Mir  A Glasgow Girl is the coming of age story of Aasmah Mir's childhood growing up in 1970s Glasgow. From a vivacious child to a teenage loner, Aasmah candidly shares the highs and lows of growing up between two cultures - trying to fit in at school and retreating to the safe haven of a home inhabited by her precious but distant little brother and Helen, her family's Glaswegian guardian angel. Intricately woven into this moving memoir is the story of Aasmah's mother, as we follow her own life as a young girl in 1950s Pakistan to 1960s Scotland and beyond. Both mother and daughter fight, are defeated and triumph in different battles in this sharp and moving story. A Glasgow Girl is a remarkable memoir about family, identity and finding yourself where you are. This book was previously titled A Pebble in the Throat. https://www.waterstones.com/book/a-glasgow-girl/aasmah-mir/9781472288554  Blue Lights - series - BBC For three police recruits in Belfast, the pressure is immense. Facing criminal gangs and divided communities, they don't know who to trust. The odds are, they won't all make it. https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/p0f2cxpr/blue-lights  Hollyrood Sources Podcast The Holyrood Sources podcast analyses Scottish politics through the experiences of those who have lived and breathed it as Special Advisers to the Scottish Government, SNP and opposition parties. Join hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Chief of Staff to the First Minister, 2007-2014) and Andy Maciver (Former Head of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives). Their insight is second to none - they've been there. What does Scottish Politics look like after Nicola Sturgeon? Holyrood Sources bring you the insider information you need to navigate the next chapter. https://holyroodsources.com/  Stuart When a struggling comedian shows one act of kindness to a vulnerable woman, it sparks a suffocating obsession which threatens to wreck both their lives https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81219887  Eamonn Living - film - netflix Overwhelmed at work and lonely at home, a council bureaucrat's life takes a heartbreaking turn when a medical diagnosis tells him his time is short. Influenced by a local decadent and a vibrant woman, he continues to search for meaning until a simple revelation gives him a purpose to create a legacy for the next generation. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt9051908/ 

Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Chris Ward discuss the budget.Kirsty was a Special Adviser to Theresa May and Chris was an adviser to Sir Keir Starmer, working on several budgets with the Labour leader.The conversation discusses the recent budget and its implications. It explores the lack of impact and ill feeling within the Conservative Party. The topic of national insurance contributions is also examined, along with the public's perception of the budget. The conversation delves into the technocratic approach and the need for a potential rethink of fiscal rules. It highlights the disappointment in the lack of surprises and the challenges faced by the Labour Party in differentiating itself from the Conservatives. We explore Keir Starmer's response to the budget and how it positions Labour for the election. Chris shares insights into the preparation and logistics of the opposition's budget response. They also discuss the economic challenges that the next government will face and the differences in economic policies between Labour and the Conservatives. The conversation touches on the role of fiscal rules in political decision making and the potential legacy of the budget. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An t-Urramach Calum Domhnullach a searmonachadh air Isaiah 53:10

An t-Urramach Calum Domhnullach a searmonachadh air Eoin 10:27-29

An t-Urramach Calum Domhnullach a searmonachadh air Lucais 5:8

In this episode, Calum Macdonald and Kirsty Buchanan discuss various political topics, including Rishi Sunak's interview with Piers Morgan, his admission of the government's failure on NHS waiting lists, Wes Streeting's vision for NHS reform, and Liz Truss's PopCon event. They also explore the potential for a split in the Conservative Party and the rise of populist conservatives. Rishi Sunak's interview with Piers Morgan sparked controversy and raised questions about his decision to make a bet on the fate of refugees.Wes Streeting's vision for NHS reform emphasises the importance of both spending money and implementing necessary reforms.Liz Truss's PopCon event showcased the rise of populist conservatives and their focus on issues such as immigration and left-wing extremism.There is a potential for a split within the Conservative Party, with some members aligning with populist conservatives and others advocating for a more moderate approach. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kirsty Buchanan and Calum Macdonald discuss Rishi Sunak's difficult week and the challenges he faces as Prime Minister. They explore the lack of vision and direction in the Conservative Party and the jockeying for position within the party. They also discuss the missed opportunities and the need for bold actions. Additionally, they touch on COP 28 and the climate deal, highlighting the compromises and lack of progress. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

While Rishi Sunak gives evidence to the Covid inquiry, at Westminster his MPs are debating whether to back his Rwanda policy. Can he find a way out of his nightmare before Christmas, and save his premiership? Matt is joined by three wise experts to look at the options.Plus: Tom McTague, Libby Purves and Calum Macdonald discuss the state of the Covid inquiry, David Cameron's row with Humza Yousaf and whether Keir Starmer can take the countryside. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rishi Sunak faces resignations and rebellions over his immigration policy, with questions being asked about his survival as prime minister. Will his emergency press conference be enough to persuade his critics to back him? Matt is joined by The Times' Political Editor Steven Swinford and Politics Professor Philip Cowley to gauge the scale of unrest within the Conservative Party.Plus: Times Radio's Calum MacDonald explains what we learned from Boris Johnson's second day of evidence at the Covid inquiry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Boris Johnson is on oath to tell the truth at the Covid inquiry, as he explains what worked and what didn't as the British state struggled to respond to the deadly virus.Matt is joined by Times Radio's Calum MacDonald to break down the key moments including his disappearing Whatsapp messages, the role of Dominic Cummings, and why there was so much swearing in Number 10.Plus: It's PMQs Unpacked, with Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer clashing over Rwanda and Starmer sharing more dad jokes.Matt is joined by Lara Spirit and Tim Shipman (just about) to pause and analyse the action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Holyrood Sources. Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver discuss the issues of the moment, with politicians past and present, and others - to analyse where we stand. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes a 'Social Business Champion'? In this Fit for the future podcast, produced in partnership with Buzzacott accountants, we explore the brilliant and blustery journey of Point and Sandwick Trust, a social enterprise based in the Outer Hebrides off the north-west coast of Scotland that built and operates the UK's biggest community wind farm. Point and Sandwick – winner of this year's NatWest SE100 Social Business Champion award – has been recognised as leading the way in community renewable energy. Not only does it generate power, but with the income this makes, it also provides significant support for projects and amenities within the local community. One such amenity is Bethesda Hospice, which must find more than £400,000 revenue to provide its crucial services to the islands each year, a significant part of which is provided by the wind farm. In the podcast, Pioneers Post's Tim West and Eddie Finch from Buzzacott speak to Point and Sandwick director Calum MacDonald about how they have built, funded and sustained this award-winning successful social business through good times and bad – and they also hear from Bethesda Hospice general manager Carol Somerville and finance development officer Joanne Ferguson about the work of the hospice, and the importance that Point and Sandwick has to the local community.

We're back with a fresh start for the new parliamentary session. Calum Macdonald is joined by Kirsty Buchanan - former Special Adviser to Theresa May when she was Prime Minister - and Alice Perry, who was a Labour Councillor for 11 years; was on Labour's National Executive Committee for eight years, including one as chair, and was involved in drafting three general election manifestos for the party as well. They discuss the government's response to the crumbly concrete in public buildings crisis. Plus, James Heale from The Spectator who, along with Harry Cole from The Sun, wrote Out of the Blue: The inside story of the unexpected rise and rapid fall of Liz Truss…and Mark Littlewood, who is Director General of the Institute of Economic Affairs - the free market think tank which inspired Liz Truss as she took office, join the podcast to reflect on one year since Liz Truss took office - and very slightly more than one year since she left. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Calum Macdonald, Andy Maciver and Geoff Aberdein are joined by Stephen Flynn - the SNP's Westminster leader. We start by discussing the Labour Shadow Cabinet's defence of the two-child cap policy and the claim that Britain has no money. Stephen Flynn, as a Scottish nationalist, emphasises the need for clarity in their vision for Scotland, particularly in terms of economic growth and harnessing renewable resources.As more SNP MPs announce their intention to stand down at the next election, the discussion then shifts towards the impact of social media on politics, with Stephen highlighting the role it plays in spreading toxic and negative comments towards politicians. Stephen goes on to share thoughts on recent resignations in politics, reflecting on why good people are leaving and the difficulties in attracting them. Transitioning from oil and gas to alternative energies also features - Stephen supports the idea of a just transition and a green industrial revolution. Plus, will Stephen Flynn ever make the move to Holyrood as an MSP? Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Twenty years ago, Caley Thistle's players and supporters were gearing up for the club's first ever Scottish Cup final; this week, we're all looking forward to our fifth! Join Moff, Riley, AY and Wyness Shuffle debutants Sandy Sutherland and Calum MacDonald as they begin the countdown to the big one by looking back at our recent excellent run, hearing from a few familiar voices, and speculating on who will be running out at Hampden next Saturday. Let's Shuffle! 01:13: Welcome. Moff introduces the panellists and we discuss our plans for semi-final Saturday. 07:00: The Game. The panellists analyse the recent league matches against Dundee (07:25), Hamilton (12:40) Cove (17:30), Arbroath (20:25) and Morton (22:48) 24:50: Talk to Me: Nathan Shaw. Riley sits down with ICT's in-form attacker to discuss his first season in Inverness and his feelings about playing at Hampden, then the panellists discuss his impact on recent performances. 34:10: Hot Tub Semi-Final Time Machine 1 – 2003. Riley gets into the hot tub with friend of the pod Ross Tokely to hear his memories of playing in the club's first-ever Scottish Cup semi, followed by the panellists' slightly more fragmented memories of our narrow 1-0 loss to Dundee. 49:37: The Opposition. Moff finds out a bit more about 2023-vintage Falkirk courtesy of Ross Wayne from the Falkirk Daft podcast, then we discuss what we can expect from the Bairns next week. 01:15:02: Hot Tub Semi-Final Time Machine 2 – 2004. ICT's Mr Versatile David Proctor climbs into Riley's slightly soiled bathwater to recall the drawn semi-final against Dunfermline in 2004, and the 3-2 defeat in the replay at Pittodrie. 01:25:28: The Playoffs. While the main focus of the podcast might be the Scottish Cup semi-final, there's also a very real chance that we'll have Premiership playoffs to negotiate in May. The panellists look forward to the matches we might have to play and discuss our potential opponents and our chances. 01:47:37: Hot Tub Semi-Final Time Machine 3 – 2019. With the water now looking a very murky grey, Caley Thistle winger Tom Walsh climbs into the hot tub and tells Riley about playing in the 3-0 semi-final loss to Hearts in 2019. 02:01:28: Talk to Me: Robbie Deas. Stevie has another chat with our outstanding defender, whose return from injury has coincided with our upturn in form, and gets his thoughts on next week's game, and his time with the club more generally. 02:09:25: Semi-final preview. The panellists debate the likely ICT line-up and tactics for the semi-final, the financial implications for the club, and the possibility of a new club song…

Sarah Southern, who worked with David Cameron, and Tom Hamilton who worked for 10 years for the Labour party, with Ed Miliband and Jeremy Corbyn, join Calum Macdonald to discuss why everything's broken and how to strategise around fixing it. Peter Murrell, the former SNP Chief Executive was arrested and released pending further investigation; Tory MP Scott Benton offered to table parliamentary questions, leak a confidential policy document and lobby ministers on behalf of gambling industry investors who proposed paying him thousands of pounds a month, an undercover investigation for The Times has found. Strikes are ongoing (one analysis suggests the level of strike action thats underway or pending puts us back to square one in terms of scale), police and fire service racism, misogyny, homophobia; the police are also failing to attend 120 burglaries a day, and our rivers and beaches are filled with literal sewage.How do politicians strategise around being the person / party to fix everything that's broken? How can you establish a sense of direction? How do you get the cabinet to sing from the same hymn sheet and present a united front?  Sarah and Tom explain, as well as reminiscing about preparing for PMQs, and the most divisive referendum there ever was (on the alternative voting system, obviously). Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Calum Macdonald, Andy Maciver and Geoff Aberdein look at the Windsor Framework that's been agreed by Rishi Sunak to solve Northern Ireland's place post-Brexit and ask: does this provide a route map to independence for Scotland, and for the SNP leadership candidates to campaign on? Plus, as teachers go on strike again and NHS waiting lists increase, we assess what's in the new First Minister's in-tray. And, how much power do the Green party have right now, and will they - and should they - still have any power when the new First Minister takes office? Thanks for your emails - let us know if you agree or disagree or want to share a story or ask a question. The email address is hello@holyroodsources.com. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On our first episode, the three candidates who will be the next SNP leader and First Minister of Scotland are confirmed: Kate Forbes, Humza Yousaf and Ash Regan. Join hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein (Chief of Staff to the First Minister, 2007-2014) and Andy Maciver (Former Head of Communications for the Scottish Conservatives) to discuss the first week of campaigning which has been bruising for some, and difficult for all. Geoff and Andy compare this leadership contest with previous elections and campaigns that they've worked on. Geoff suggests that, if the SNP aren't careful, Labour will be able to campaign against the SNP on the grounds of being out of touch and not standing up for the concerns of people around Scotland. Andy describes the difficulties of the first week as the SNP "arguing in front of the children for the first time." Email us with your thoughts: hello@holyroodsources.com Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Holyrood Sources hears from those who have lived and breathed governing and opposition in the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood. As the SNP prepares to choose its new leader, and Scotland gets a new First Minister, what will they do? How will they govern? What does life after Nicola Sturgeon look like? What does it mean for the Yes campaign for independence? Join hosts Calum Macdonald, Geoff Aberdein and Andy Maciver and guests as a new era in Scottish politics begins. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/holyroodsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane and Fi have swanned off on holiday, so Chloe Tilley and Calum Macdonald are here to hold down the fort for the last time before their return on Monday.They're joined by Dr. Maggie Aderin-Pocock, space scientist and science communicator.If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioAssistant Producer: Kate LeeTimes Radio Producer: Rosie CutlerPodcast Executive Producer: Ben Mitchell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane and Fi have swanned off on holiday, so Chloe Tilley and Calum Macdonald are here to hold down the fort. They're joined by Director Shekhar Kapur to talk about his new film 'What's Love Got to Do with It?', in cinemas on February 24th. If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radio Assistant Producer: Kate LeeTimes Radio Producer: Rosie Cutler Podcast Executive Producer: Ben Mitchell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane and Fi have swanned off on holiday, so Chloe Tilley and Calum Macdonald are here to hold down the fort.They're joined by GB diver Matty Lee to chat Olympic gold, I'm A Celeb and performance pressure.If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioAssistant Producer: Eve SalusburyTimes Radio Producer: Rosie CutlerPodcast Executive Producer: Ben Mitchell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane and Fi have swanned off on holiday, so Chloe Tilley and Calum Macdonald are here to hold down the fort.They're joined by Adam Vaughn, Environment Editor of The Times to talk about water pollution, and by Lola Tambling, the 14 year old skateboarder who placed sixth in the World Skateboarding Championship this weekend.If you want to contact the show to ask a question and get involved in the conversation then please email us: janeandfi@times.radioAssistant Producer: Kate LeeTimes Radio Producer: Rosie CutlerPodcast Executive Producer: Ben Mitchell Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest PreacherSeries: Guest Preacher Preacher: Rev. Calum MacdonaldLord's Day EveningDate: 15th January 2023

Welcome to a brand new year on Whitehall Sources! (12th January is also Frankie's birthday). Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan (Former Special Adviser to Theresa May) and Frankie Leach (former adviser to Jeremy Corbyn) are refreshed and raring to go with analysis, inside stories and insight into life in Whitehall. New year, same strikes - but is this the week progress is being made? Kirsty and Frankie assess the strategies of the government and the opposition when it comes to breaking the strike deadlock. Also, the prime minister head to Scotland. Calum gives a rash political prediction for 2023 based on his Scottish-ness. What does Rishi Sunak hope to achieve when he meets Nicola Sturgeon? And we enter The Tunnel. Brexit negotiations are intensifying so we explain what it all means and who's going to be annoyed about it. Send your thoughts and questions for Kirsty, Frankie and Calum. Email us: hello@whitehallsources.com. Join our mailing list on our website: whitehallsources.com - we'll have some huge announcements for you in 2023. Thanks for joining us. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nope, not the name of Matt Hancock's memoir - but a reflection on Rishi Sunak's first month as Prime Minister. Calum Macdonald hosts; Kirsty Buchanan, who used to advise Theresa May as PM, is joined by Frankie Leach who was an adviser to Jeremy Corbyn when he was Labour Leader of the Opposition. The Conservatives have lost a year due to in-fighting - did Rishi Sunak end up getting any "honeymoon" period when he became Prime Minister? We reflect on the role of the media and respective parliamentary parties in *allowing* a honeymoon for a new leader; Frankie tells us how Jeremy Corbyn and his Chief of Staff fended off a coup; Kirsty considers the nobility of Theresa May trying to maintain party discipline, and were we all surprised by Matt Hancock on I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here? If this is the end of the honeymoon, what does ongoing strike action mean for Rishi Sunak? Email us to say hello and have your say: hello@whitehallsources.com Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kirsty Buchanan OBE and Lord Reddrop (*Tbc) join man-of-the-people Calum Macdonald to take you behind the door of Number 10 Downing Street and unpack all that's going on. Is it valid to use someone as the "enforcer" in a political party? Gavin Williamson had to resign because of his conduct and how he dealt with others in the Conservative party. Kirsty and Oscar explain what the Chief Whip does and whether "good-cop-bad-cop" works in party discipline. More than that - is this just one of many problems now facing Rishi Sunak? We look at the economy, ahead of the autumn statement on November 17th and the short leash the Conservative party have got the prime minister on, depending on what he announces. Plus how much of a challenge will it be when Boris Johnson appears before the privileges committee. And what happens when nurses say they want to go on strike? For Chequers and Balances we're joined by Frankie Leach who used to advise Jeremy Corbyn when he was the Leader of the Opposition. Frankie identifies a shift in mindset among the Labour party as they set their sights on winning the next general election. Plus a bit more on Matt Hancock on I'm a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here - is there a chance we all begin to empathise with him? Share your thoughts on Hancock in the jungle. Email us: hello@whitehallsources.com Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a very special Community Pioneers Podcast  entitled " The Power of the Eigg Story, Yesterday and Today' . Moderated by Calum MacDonald with Camille Dressler of Comunn Eachdraidh Eige (Eigg history Society) handling the Q&A ; this event featured three Iconic Scottish Writers, Lesley Riddoch, Alastair McIntosh and Andy Wightman. As you will hear, they all played a part in the Eigg community buyout. Their stories and memories provide a fascinating glimpse to what happened 25 years ago and outline some lessons for the future. Organised by Communn Eachdrtaidh Eige as part of their "voices of the Eigg Community buyout" programme funded by Scotland's Year of Stories 2022, this is a unique audio insight. 

Welcome to episode 1 of Whitehall Sources. This week, in our first charm offensive, Calum Macdonald, Kirsty Buchanan and Oscar Reddrop discuss a horrifying 1922 Committee meeting for Prime Minister Liz Truss which - it seems - is indicative of the turning of the parliamentary Conservative party - which Kirsty describes as Liz Truss's "most immediate threat." Also, we stretch a car metaphor to its limit as we discuss U-turns. Why is communication strategy so bad that no-one knows what growth means, and no-one can think of a good name for economic announcements? Kirsty and Oscar give us unique insights into their time working with Liz Truss, Theresa May and Boris Johnson, and tell us what PM Truss could learn from her predecessors. Welcome to the political cul-de-sac. Email us your analysis and your feedback - what did you like, what didn't you like? Our email address is hello@whitehallsources.com. Find us online: whitehallsources.com or search for Whitehall Sources on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Whitehall Sources, you hear from those who have lived every second of politics. Two top advisers to our most recent prime ministers analyse the successes and failures of today's politicians, sharing their experiences of working behind the world's most famous door. They are your Whitehall Sources. Kirsty Buchanan worked with Theresa May as PM, and Liz Truss when she was Secretary of State. Oscar Reddrop advised Boris Johnson through crises of our times, including the war in Ukraine and throughout his ultimate downfall. Journalist and broadcaster Calum Macdonald manages their in-tray of talking points, U-turns and crises. Other politics podcasts don't bring you close enough to the action. Whitehall Sources brings you onto Whitehall, and inside Number 10 Downing Street every week as politics implodes around us. Subscribe now, and to become one of our "sources" - offering your analysis and hot take on what we're talking about, email hello@whitehallsources.com Support the podcast by becoming a member at: https://plus.acast.com/s/whitehallsources. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

News from Westminster is never far from the headlines, with political conversation part of the national discourse every day. Government policy, especially for those passionate about LGBT rights, is an important talking point for many people across the UK. Now, Calum Macdonald tells the story of LGBT men and women in the front and back benches. From the story of Maureen Colquhoun the first out lesbian in Parliament to Chris Smith, the first openly gay MP, the programme will explore how Pride In Politics has never been more important. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vài năm trở lại đây, việc nhập khẩu rác thải nhựa bất hợp pháp độc hại, gây ô nhiễm không khí và ảnh hưởng đến sức khoẻ người dân trở thành vấn nạn nan giải tại Malaysia. Chính quyền đã đưa ra nhiều biện pháp để không biến Malaysia thành bãi rác thế giới, nhưng những nhà công nghiệp hoạt động ngoài vòng pháp luật lại có thêm nhiều mánh khoé luồn lách hơn. Cư dân Kuala Langat ở Malaysia vào đầu năm 2018 lần đầu tiên phát hiện khói có mùi khét gây kích ứng mắt, da và ảnh hưởng nghiêm trọng đến khí quản. Kể từ đó, ngày lẫn đêm, những làn khói độc hại buộc mọi người phải đóng cửa sổ mọi lúc. Khói độc đó là bốc ra từ các nhà máy đốt nhựa bất hợp pháp. Trong phóng sự của thông tín viên RFI Gabrielle Maréchaux, người dân Malaysia bức xúc và bất lực trước tình trạng không khí ngày càng ô nhiễm nghiêm trọng. Một cư dân cho biết :    Gia đình tôi sống ở trong khu vực này, tôi có hai đứa con, một bé trai 9 tuổi và một bé gái 6 tuổi. Họ thường đốt nhựa vào buổi tối, và chúng tôi có thể nhìn thấy khói. Con trai tôi bị đánh thức vì có một số triệu chứng của dị ứng như chảy nước mũi hay ngứa mắt. Tôi biết rằng tất cả đều liên quan đến khói từ việc đốt rác, vì khi chúng tôi đi nghỉ dưỡng ở vùng khác, cả tuần đấy con trai tôi không sao cả. Ngôi trường của con trai tôi cũng ở trong khu này. Không khí ô nhiễm nghiêm trọng ở một mức độ báo động, nhưng chúng tôi không có lựa chọn. Vì đó là trường công nên không có điều hoà nhiệt độ, và họ phải mở cửa sổ ra (vì thời tiết nóng). Thế nên, lũ trẻ phải hít không khí độc hại. Điều này làm tôi tức giận. Tôi không biết nói gì hơn. Tôi thường nghĩ đến những gia đình khó khăn hơn. Họ không có điều hoà nhiệt độ, mà chỉ có quạt, thế nên họ phải mở cửa sổ. Và hơn nữa họ cũng không có máy lọc không khí. Tôi cho rằng đây là một thảm kịch.  Tại Malaysia, ngành sản xuất nhựa tái chế là một trong những ngành có tốc độ tăng trưởng cao nhất kể từ năm 2000. Với hơn 1.300 nhà sản xuất nhựa, Malaysia là một trong những quốc gia có ngành công nghiệp sản xuất nhựa tái chế lớn nhất toàn cầu. Năm 2016, lượng hạt nhựa được tạo ra từ quy trình tái chế trị giá 30 tỷ ringgit (MYR) đã được xuất khẩu sang các nhà sản xuất nhựa trên toàn thế giới. Tương tự như phần lớn các nước đang phát triển ở Đông Nam Á, hệ thống quản lý chất thải của Malaysia không phù hợp để xử lý lượng chất thải nhựa được tạo ra từ ngành công nghiệp này. Các biện pháp chính để xử lý rác thải nhựa trong nước là xử lý tại các bãi chôn lấp và đốt rác tự nhiên.   Một nghiên cứu năm 2019 do Quỹ Thiên nhiên Thế giới (WWF) thực hiện cho thấy Malaysia đứng thứ hai ở châu Á về sử dụng nhựa bình quân đầu người hàng năm. Với 16,78 kg mỗi người, Malaysia qua mặt cả các quốc gia lớn hơn như Trung Quốc, Indonesia, Philippines, Thái Lan và Việt Nam về tổng lượng chất thải phát sinh mỗi năm. Trong khi rác thải nội địa vẫn là một vấn đề nan giải, Malaysia lại phải đối mặt với lượng rác thải toàn cầu.  Sau khi Trung Quốc ngừng thu mua gần như toàn bộ rác thải  để tái chế từ năm 2018, Malaysia trở thành địa điểm mới thu hút rác từ mọi nơi trên thế giới, tạo đòn bẩy cho ngành công nghiệp tái chế rác thải của nước này. Các số liệu của Liên Hiệp Quốc cho thấy nhập khẩu rác thải nhựa của Malaysia đã tăng gấp ba lần kể từ năm 2016, lên 870.000 tấn vào năm 2018. Chỉ riêng đối với Hoa Kỳ, lượng rác thải mà quốc gia này xuất khẩu đến Malaysia đã tăng 330 % trong quý đầu của năm 2018. Song song với đó là sự gia tăng nhanh chóng về số lượng các nhà máy tái chế rác. Tại thành phố Jenjarom, cách Kuala Lumpur không xa, nhiều nhà máy đã được khai trương vào năm 2018. Trước cửa các nhà máy này là những đống rác chất thành núi, mà họ cũng không ngần ngại đốt nó, tạo nên các làn khói dày đặc. Hơn nữa, nhiều nhà máy hoạt động không có giấy phép và thường là ít quan tâm đến vấn đề bảo vệ môi trường. Đại diện của tổ chức Greenpeace tại Malaysia, nhà hoạt động môi trường Heng Kiah Chun, trên đài RFI giải thích quyết định của Trung Quốc đã làm thị trường tái chế rác hỗn loạn ra sao :   Kể từ nay Đông Nam Á trở thành địa điểm lý tưởng mới cho rác thải toàn cầu. Lý do chính là nguồn nhân công rẻ. Thêm vào đó là quản lý lỏng lẻo trong phân loại rác của các nước phát triển. Lý do nữa đó là khu vực này cũng là một nơi chiến lược, sở hữu các cảng contener lớn nhất thế giới, đứng sau Trung Quốc. Có hai loại rác thải nhựa. Một loại là nhựa hỗn hợp sạch mà chúng ta có thể dễ dàng tái chế. Loại thứ hai là loại không thể tái chế được nữa.  Chúng đến được Malaysia do khai lậu với hải quan. Loại này được được để lẫn với nhựa có thể tái chế trong cùng một contener. Chúng được các nhà buôn lậu rác thu mua về, vì giá thành rẻ hơn, sau đó họ đốt chúng hoặc đổ ra môi trường tự nhiên. Ngành công nghiệp nhựa hợp pháp từ chối quan tâm đến vấn đề này, bởi nó không đem lại giá trị gì cả. Nếu họ chỉ muốn tái chế loại nhựa này, họ phải rửa trước rồi mang đi nung chảy, mà làm như vậy thì không đem lại lợi nhuận.  Theo Ngân hàng Thế giới, khoảng 1,82 tỷ tấn chất thải rắn đô thị được thải ta mỗi năm trên toàn cầu. Đến năm 2050, chất thải dự kiến sẽ tăng lên 3,08 tỷ tấn mỗi năm. Với lượng chất thải khổng lồ như vậy, chắc chắn chúng phải được chuyển đến một nơi nào đó. Báo Le Monde cho biết, thay vì thực sự phân loại và tái chế chất thải, nhiều quốc gia đã chọn cách rẻ hơn là ép rác nhựa thành kiện và bán chúng.  Malaysia là một trong 166 quốc gia ký kết công ước Bâle về kiểm soát các hoạt động vận chuyển quốc tế chất thải độc hại, được thông qua sau hội nghị khí hậu quốc tế COP 14, cấm xuất khẩu chất thải không tái sử dụng được nữa. Nhưng theo Le Monde, văn bản pháp lý đó đã không được tôn trọng. Những container “nhựa bẩn” vẫn cập cảng Malaysia nhờ khai báo gian dối. Le Monde cho biết thêm, việc vận chuyển chất thải nhựa từ bên này sang đầu bên kia thế giới trên thực tế lại không tốn nhiều chi phí đối với các nhà kinh doanh.   Từ châu Âu, quá trình vận chuyển sẽ mất một tháng để cập hai cảng lớn của Malaysia là Tanjung Pelepas và Kelang. Khi đến nơi, các đoàn xe tải có nhiệm vụ chở chúng đến các nhà máy tái chế đã được nhà nước phê duyệt, để tái chế nhựa đúng theo quy định về môi trường và sức khoẻ của địa phương. Tuy nhiên, theo nhà nghiên cứu tại Hiệp hội bảo vệ người tiêu dùng Penang, Mageswari Sangaralingnam, được Le Monde trích dẫn, quy trình hợp pháp này được tuân thủ “ngoại trừ việc các nhà máy này giữ lại các chất thải dễ tái chế nhất và sau đó bán phần còn lại cho các nhà máy bất hợp pháp”. Hơn nữa, các công ty bất hợp pháp này không bận tâm đến môi trường. Họ đổ chất thải trên đất nông nghiệp mua được từ nông dân địa phương, sau đó phân loại tại chỗ bởi những người lao động nghèo được trả lương thấp,  không có đồ bảo hộ. Họ thu tất cả những gì có thể tái chế được, rồi mang đi rửa đi các dấu vết của phân bón, thuốc trừ sâu hay kim loại nặng…vv. Nước rửa sau đó được thải vào các con sông liền kề. Điều này ít gây tốn kém hơn nhiều so với việc lắp đặt hệ thống xử lý rác thải, có thể tốn tới vài triệu đô.   Một khi bãi rác đã được khai thác hết, nó sẽ bị đốt để nhường chỗ cho lượng rác mới. Hai năm trở lại đây, truyền thông quốc tế đồng loạt tố cáo vấn nạn rác thải đến từ phương Tây đã tác động thế nào đến quốc gia Đông Nam Á này. Tuy nhiên, theo nhà hoạt động của Greenpeace Heng Kiah Chun, điều này không đem lại nhiều thay đổi, mà chỉ khiến các nhà máy tái chế rác hoạt động bí mật hơn.  Theo điều tra gần đây, chúng tôi phát hiện ra rất nhiều chất thải nhựa xuất xứ từ nước ngoài bị bỏ trong thiên nhiên, chúng ta có thể biết được rác thải đến từ quốc gia nào thông qua bao bì, ví dụ như đến từ Pháp, Anh, hay Mỹ… Và khi chúng tôi công bố điều này, các nhà máy tái chế nhựa bèn nghiền nát các loại chất thải nhựa không thể tái chế được, trước khi đổ chúng ra ngoài môi trường thiên nhiên. Đây là cách để phá huỷ bằng chứng để chúng tôi không thể tìm nguồn gốc của rác nữa. Và, theo thời gian, các chất thải nhựa này sẽ biến đổi thành các vi nhựa một cách nhanh chóng, khi chúng bị thiêu đốt. Và điều này dẫn đến việc nguồn nước và chuỗi thực phẩm bị ô nhiễm bởi vi nhựa. Vì thế chúng tôi cần hành động để bảo vệ hệ sinh thái của chúng tôi. Những kẻ gây ô nhiễm phải trả giá, chứ không phải người dân của chúng tôi.  Malaysia đã thắt chặt việc cấp phép nhập khẩu, tăng cường giám sát và thực thi tại các cảng. Năm 2019, 170 nhà máy tái chế bất hợp pháp đã bị đóng cửa. Vào năm ngoái, cũng như một số nước khác trong khu vực, Malaysia đã mạnh tay, gửi trả lại 150 container chứa 3.737 tấn chất thải, bao gồm 43 container cho Pháp, 42 cho Anh, 17 cho Mỹ và 11 cho Canada. Hai lý do được chính phủ Malaysia viện dẫn : các vấn đề về chất lượng của nhựa được gửi đến và thiếu giấy phép hợp lệ.  Được đài RFI trích dẫn, bộ trưởng bộ Môi trường, bà Yeo Bee Yin tuyên bố như sau :   Người dân Malaysia đang phải chịu đựng, bởi chúng tôi phải đối mặt với không khí độc hại, nguy hiểm, do việc đốt rác thải nhựa gây ra. Điều này dẫn đến nhiều nguy cơ mắc các bệnh, gây ô nhiễm nguồn nước và tạo ra các nơi đổ rác bất hợp pháp, và các vấn đề về môi trường khác. Malaysia, cũng giống như các nước đang phát triển, có quyền có được bầu không khí trong lành cũng như nguồn nhiêu liệu tái tạo, giống như những gì mà các nước phát triển có được.  Chính phủ Malaysia cũng đưa ra 19 tiêu chí mà các nhà nhập khẩu rác thải cần phải đáp ứng để được cấp phép nhập khẩu. Thế nhưng, vấn nạn ô nhiễm do tái chế rác bất hợp pháp vẫn chưa có dấu hiệu chấm dứt. Trong khi đại dịch Covid-19 khiến nhiều ngành bị chững lại, thì ngành tái chế rác thải dường như không bị ảnh hưởng, mà ngược lại vẫn tăng trưởng. Việc đổ chất thải nhựa và đốt rác lộ thiên vẫn tiếp diễn. Nguyên do có thể là vì chính quyền khó có thể duy trì các biện pháp kiểm tra, ít người giám sát hơn. Trả lời báo Malaysia Mail, ông Mageswari, thuộc Hiệp hội bảo vệ người tiêu dùng Penang, cảnh báo rằng việc xử lý những nhà máy tái chế bất hợp pháp không được thực hiện triệt để. Khi chính phủ hành động đóng cửa các nhà máy này ở một vùng thì họ lại chuyển đến vùng khác và chất thải vẫn bị “bỏ rơi” ở nhiều nơi. Hiện nay 17 000 tấn chất thải nhựa ở Jenjarom vẫn nằm nguyên trong đống bụi bẩn.   Vào tháng 8/2020, tổ chức cảnh sát quốc tế Interpol đã công bố “Báo cáo Phân tích Chiến lược - Các xu hướng tội phạm mới nổi trên thị trường chất thải nhựa toàn cầu kể từ năm 2018". Báo cáo chỉ ra sự gia tăng của các lô hàng “nhựa bẩn” bất hợp pháp được chuyển đến Đông Nam Á thông qua nhiều tuyến đường trung chuyển để che giấu nguồn gốc của chúng. Báo cáo nhấn mạnh mối liên hệ giữa mạng lưới tội phạm và các công ty tái chế chất thải hợp pháp làm vỏ bọc cho các hoạt động phi pháp qua việc làm giả mạo tài liệu và gian lận trong khai báo chất thải. Một trong những nghiên cứu điển hình của báo cáo liên quan đến việc thị trưởng của một thị trấn nhỏ ở Pháp đã bị giết vì cố gắng phản đối việc đổ chất thải bất hợp pháp trong thị trấn của mình. Điều này minh chứng cho một loại bạo lực thường liên quan đến các nhóm tội phạm có tổ chức.  Theo ông Calum MacDonald, chủ tịch Cơ quan Tư vấn của Ủy ban Tuân thủ và Thực thi Môi trường của Interpol, báo cáo này chỉ ra nhu cầu cấp thiết trong việc phân tích cách thức hoạt động của nhóm tội phạm khai thác các lỗ hổng để phạm pháp. Ông cũng kêu gọi các cơ quan thực thi pháp luật tích cực hơn trong việc bảo đảm tôn trọng luật về xuất nhập khẩu.  

Rev. Calum Macdonald Series: Guest Preacher Preacher: Rev. Calum Macdonald Lord's Day Morning Date: 23rd May 2021 Time: 11:00 Passage: Luke 23:26-43

A Mighty Wind And Tongues Of Fire Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 28th April 2021 Time: Passage: Acts 2:1 ------------------- Pentecost was a popular day in the old Jewish calendar. The name comes from the fact that it was held 50 days after the great Festival of Passover (the Greek word for five is "Pente"). It was a happy festival because it also marked the end of bringing in the harvests. It was a festival for which all Jewish men were expected to go to Jerusalem to celebrate there. We are told that the city was full of people from all over those areas of the world where Jewish people had settled — mostly areas surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. For Christians, this day became specially important because it was on this day that God the Holy Spirit was "*poured out*" from heaven like "*a mighty rushing wind*" and "*divided tongues as of fire*" came upon all the people who were gathered together waiting as Jesus told them to do for just such an event as this. What did it all mean? First of all it meant Jesus had kept his promise to send the Holy Spirit. Secondly it gave new courage power and authority to the apostles and other followers of Jesus. In the third place the great miracle of the apostles speaking in the many languages of the people who were from many different countries meant they could understand the Gospel and tell people about it when they went home. And fourthly this was like the "birthday" of the Christian Church as it began to go into all the world. ## Prayer Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for the Holy Spirit and his place in my life. Amen

Thank You Lord Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 25th April 2021 Time: Passage: Psalm 9:1 ------------------- Probably one of the first things we were taught to do and say was "thank you," when we were given a sweet or some other gift. It was likely too, that we got into trouble when we ran away and forgot to say "thank you!" Saying "thank you" is good in two ways: it makes us see that what we are given is something special to us, and it lets us see that what we are given is something special to the person who gives us a gift. It gives a warm feeling all round. If we just grab a gift and go off without saying "thank you," the giver will be disappointed in us and won't really feel good either. The Bible itself is full of places where people gave thanks to God. We have every reason to give him thanks. One of the most beautiful expressions of thanks to God is in 2 Corinthians 9:15 which says, "Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift." The gift, of course, is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation. The writer of many psalms sang his thanks with his whole heart — it was sincerely and joyfully given. May we never grudge saying "thank you" to God. Every day we receive God's good gifts and we are constantly receiving his love and grace through Jesus Christ. ## Prayer Help me, dear Lord, to give you my thanks from my whole heart. Amen

The Heavens — The Work Of God's Fingers Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 22nd April 2021 Time: Passage: Psalm 8:3 ------------------- King David of Israel was the writer of this psalm. David was not brought up in a palace; his father was not a king. David, the youngest of all his brothers, was a shepherd boy in his early years, and he knew and loved everything about the natural world around him. I think it is very easy to see how David with his strong poetic talent just loved to sing about the world around him, the world which God has made. I have always loved the way David writes about the sky in this psalm. You can imagine him lying on his back in the open one starry night and just marvelling in the glorious beauty of the stars. He saw them as jewels set in a staggeringly lovely setting — all the work of God's fingers — God is so mighty and so fond of beauty. When we live in a city perhaps we don't take time to appreciate the creation of God. The bright lights of the city tend to make it difficult to see the stars in their glory. When everything around us is man-made — the buildings, the roads, the lights and so on then we are apt to leave God out of the picture. But this should not be so. We must never forget our Creator — God. All the "artistry" of God went into the creation of the heavens but also into the creation of people "What is man?" asks David. Then he tells us — people receive God's special attention. ## Prayer Dear Lord, help me to give my special attention to you. Amen

Fasting Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 19th April 2021 Time: Passage: Acts 13:3 ------------------- We are all so keen on food and everything to do with it that the thought of fasting doesn't sound very appealing. Mind you, there is one popular diet routine that has two days of fasting in the week. I'm told it works! The Bible's teaching about fasting has a much deeper, spiritual meaning to it. Sadly, like all good ideas we find in the Bible, fasting has suffered at the hands of people who used it either as a means to try to get something from God or to make them look good in the eyes of others — "see how seriously I take my Christian life!" Others adopted fasting as an extreme way of living, thinking it would make them more acceptable to God. These were wrong ideas. True Christian fasting is nearly always associated with some really significant event in a person's life when much prayer and heart searching are required. Fasting involves not merely giving up food for a short time, but laying aside as much as we can of other things in order to pray and study God's word so that we can get to know God's will for a particular course of action. When Paul and Barnabas were set aside to go on their missionary journey this was one of the most important events in the early church's history. No wonder the elders fasted and prayed about it. Fasting sharpens the mind and helps us to concentrate on finding what God wants us to do.

Tracing The Family Tree Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 16th April 2021 Time: Passage: Matthew 1:1 ------------------- Many people spend many hours trying to trace their family tree and they feel really excited when they discover an "important" or famous person connected to them in some way. The family tree of our Lord Jesus Christ is important for several reasons. First of all, we see that the life of Jesus has long roots in the history of God's people — he is called the son of David and the son of Abraham, and Matthew shows just how Jesus is connected to these two great heroes in the Old Testament story. Matthew's family tree of Jesus shows us something else of great importance. Beginning with the family tree and then as he goes through the Gospel story, Matthew shows us how the Lord Jesus is the fulfilment of all the prophecies and promises which are highlighted in the Old Testament. Right down to the details of what happened to Jesus even on the cross, Matthew shows how the Old Testament becomes completed in the Lord Jesus. In the same way it is only in Jesus that our lives are completed. Without Jesus Christ in our lives we are lost and without hope in the world — there is a terrible emptiness that is only filled by Jesus himself. We become complete in Christ How really great it is to be connected with the One whose family tree truly began in heaven! When we become "connected" to him, we too will inherit a place in his heavenly home. ## Prayer Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for taking me into your family. Amen

The Best Hiding Place Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 13th April 2021 Time: Passage: Psalm 119:114 ------------------- I'm sure we have all played "hide and seek." It was a great thing to get the best hiding place before you heard the words "Coming, ready or not!" The best hiding place! We all wanted that. The man who wrote the text at the top of the page wanted that too. But he wasn't playing a game. He was very serious about living his life in a way that would please God. He was also very sure that God would hide him in safety from the attacks of the evil one (Satan) and those people who tried to mock him because he trusted in God's word. In Psalm 91 the writer says, "_Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty._" That is a perfect hiding place. Again in Psalm 32 King David sang, _You_ (God) _are my hiding place;you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory_" (NLT). A. M. Toplady, who wrote a famous hymn about the salvation we find in the Lord Jesus Christ, wrote about the same theme. He said "Rock of ages, cleft for me, hide me **now**, my refuge be". He wrote these words after he had sheltered from a storm in a crevice that had been formed in a huge rock. At the end of the hymn when he was writing about going to heaven he wrote, "Rock of ages, cleft for me, hide me **then**, my refuge be." We are safe for time and eternity in Jesus. ## Prayer Dear Jesus, keep me in the shelter of your salvation now and always. Amen

God Loves Rainbows! Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 10th April 2021 Time: Passage: Genesis 9:13 ------------------- The people of South Africa were once described as a "rainbow nation." This was a brilliant way to speak of the people there who have many different languages, cultures, traditions and colours. God must love rainbows, as they are mentioned at three very important times in the Bible. The first time was just after the great flood which had destroyed so much of the earth and the evil people who were living at that time. When the flood subsided God made a solemn promise that he would never destroy the earth by such a flood again. And God set a rainbow in the sky as the sign of that promise. We read of a rainbow again when the prophet Ezekiel had a really wonderful vision when he was in the land of Babylon, where God's people were in captivity, and they thought God could not be with them there. But the sign that He had given him to show that God was there, all around him and in all his power and glory, was a beautiful rainbow — another sign of the promise not to forget his people. The third time we read of a rainbow, a truly magnificent and beautiful one, is in the last book of the Bible. Again the rainbow was around the throne of God, this time in heaven. It was another sign of the greatness and glory of God, reminding us of his promises, his power and his everlasting faithfulnes for all who love and follow him.

A Guiding Light Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 7th April 2021 Time: Passage: Matthew 5:14 ------------------- Several years ago I preached in the old Parish Church of Corstorphine, Edinburgh, on behalf of the Bible Society. The church building is very old in parts and has a little window in the eastern wall that has an interesting history. Before the city grew to its present size Corstorphine was a village, and on its east side there was a loch and a well-used pathway near the loch that wound its way through very marshy ground. To help people find their way the church always had a light in its little east window so that people would be guided by the light and find their way safely to the village. Jesus tells those of us who are Christians that we are the light of the world. That means we have to be guides to people who are not Christians. Jesus also said "_Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven_" (Matthew 5:17). Even when we may not be able to speak to people about the Christian faith the way we live will be a guide to them as to what is right and good. Remember, Jesus himself is our great example. He is the Light of the world, so as we follow him our lives will also be lights guiding people towards the Lord himself. ## Prayer Dear Lord Jesus, help me to be a guiding light to those who are still in the darkness of unbelief, for your name's sake. Amen

Looking Up At An Empty Sky Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 4th April 2021 Time: Passage: Acts 1:9 ------------------- The Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ. Perhaps we don't take as much notice of the ascension of Jesus as we should. We all love the story of the birth of Jesus, and so we should; we thank God for the perfect life of Jesus, and so we should. We are humbled by the sufferings and death of Jesus, and so we should be; and the wonder of the resurrection of Jesus makes us shout, "He is risen indeed. Hallelujah!" Pentecost is the start of glorious things for the Church of Christ and we bless God for that. But all of these wonderful happenings were confined to a small corner of the world, and to one nation of people in particular. The ascension of the Lord Jesus to heaven and to the very throne of God signals the start of the great worldwide mission of the church of Jesus Christ. Why? Because from heaven Jesus sent his Holy Spirit to give power to the messengers of the Good News of Jesus as they went with his authority to make disciples of all the nations. This work will continue until the Lord Jesus returns in glory to "judge the living and the dead" and to establish all his people in their everlasting heavenly home. The apostles of Jesus saw him lifted up from them and at first no doubt wondered how they could get on without him. They kept looking at the empty sky until the heavenly messengers assured them that Jesus would return. In the meantime they had plenty of work to do!

Nesting Time Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 1st April 2021 Time: Passage: Psalm 84:3 ------------------- This is the time of year when the birds are busy building nests so that they can raise their families. The birds mentioned in Psalm 84, the sparrow and the swallow, found safe nesting places within the temple among God's worshippers. While the birds were safe in the temple, even more blessed were God's people who came to worship and enjoy fellowship with God there. The person who wrote the psalm says that he would rather be a door-keeper for one day in God's house than spend thousands of days enjoying sinful pleasures in rich, luxurious surroundings. The writer tells of the journey people made to get to God's temple; it was a journey that often was rough and hard and tiring. But it was all worthwhile just to get to God's special place and be able to praise him and enjoy his blessing. Our Christian life can also be much like a journey. It is not always easy; there may be hard days, there may even be persecution of one kind or another. But it is all worthwhile. The writer speaks of God's altar, the place of sacrifice. We remember the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ — not just at Easter, but every day. We remember all the blessings we receive from his death. It makes our Christian journey possible and so worthwhile. May God bless you and help you to praise and worship our Saviour.

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and Times Radio presenter, Calum Macdonald. This week - reactions to the publication of the Holyrood reports, news that the BBC is moving key departments and staff away from London and the slow death of the newsroom. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Calum share their personal media recommendations. RECOMMENDATIONS: Stuart: ‘Revealed: the truth about the peers who are born to rule’ - Sunday Times report - www.thetimes.co.uk/article/revealed-the-truth-about-the-house-of-lords-peers-who-are-born-to-rule-nbdvcfrv3 Calum: ‘Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway’ - www.itv.com/saturdaynighttakeaway Eamonn: ‘Pilgrimage’ - BBC2 series - www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09w7lc0 Times Radio: www.thetimes.co.uk/radio Follow Calum on Twitter: @CalumAM For more information about Talk Media, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia

Stuart and Eamonn are joined by journalist and Times Radio presenter, Calum Macdonald. This week - reactions to the publication of the Holyrood reports, news that the BBC is moving key departments and staff away from London and the slow death of the newsroom. At the end of the episode, Stuart, Eamonn and Calum share their personal media recommendations.RECOMMENDATIONS:Stuart: ‘Revealed: the truth about the peers who are born to rule’ - Sunday Times report - www.thetimes.co.uk/article/revealed-the-truth-about-the-house-of-lords-peers-who-are-born-to-rule-nbdvcfrv3Calum: ‘Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway’ - www.itv.com/saturdaynighttakeawayEamonn: ‘Pilgrimage’ - BBC2 series - www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09w7lc0Times Radio: www.thetimes.co.uk/radioFollow Calum on Twitter: @CalumAMSupport the podcast and gain access to bonus content: www.patreon.com/talkmediaKeep up to date with the show on Twitter: @TBLTalkMediaFor more information about the podcast, visit: www.thebiglight.com/talkmedia See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In the November edition of the Politics of Sound, Iain Carnegie invites political journalist and presenter of the Early Morning Breakfast Show on Times Radio, Calum MacDonald to pay his own visit to the Politics of Sound virtual Record Shop to select his three all-time favourite albums.Calum emerges with an brilliant selection by Taylor Swift, Jason Isbell and Del Amitri and reveals how his fascination with broadcasting started very young, the case for a new political news radio station in the UK, his musical journey as an accordion player and his experience of playing the Cowardly Lion in a production of The Wizard of Oz!Calum's Early Breakfast Show can be heard Monday - Fridays on Times Radio from 5 - 6am.Follow Politics of Sound on Twitter: @politics_sound

A Mighty Wind And Tongues Of Fire Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 28th April 2020 Time: ------------------- Pentecost was a popular day in the old Jewish calendar. The name comes from the fact that it was held 50 days after the great Festival of Passover (the Greek word for five is "Pente"). It was a happy festival because it also marked the end of bringing in the harvests. It was a festival for which all Jewish men were expected to go to Jerusalem to celebrate there. We are told that the city was full of people from all over those areas of the world where Jewish people had settled — mostly areas surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. For Christians, this day became specially important because it was on this day that God the Holy Spirit was "*poured out*" from heaven like "*a mighty rushing wind*" and "*divided tongues as of fire*" came upon all the people who were gathered together waiting as Jesus told them to do for just such an event as this. What did it all mean? First of all it meant Jesus had kept his promise to send the Holy Spirit. Secondly it gave new courage power and authority to the apostles and other followers of Jesus. In the third place the great miracle of the apostles speaking in the many languages of the people who were from many different countries meant they could understand the Gospel and tell people about it when they went home. And fourthly this was like the "birthday" of the Christian Church as it began to go into all the world. ## Prayer Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for the Holy Spirit and his place in my life. Amen

Thank You Lord Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 25th April 2020 Time: ------------------- Probably one of the first things we were taught to do and say was "thank you," when we were given a sweet or some other gift. It was likely too, that we got into trouble when we ran away and forgot to say "thank you!" Saying "thank you" is good in two ways: it makes us see that what we are given is something special to us, and it lets us see that what we are given is something special to the person who gives us a gift. It gives a warm feeling all round. If we just grab a gift and go off without saying "thank you," the giver will be disappointed in us and won't really feel good either. The Bible itself is full of places where people gave thanks to God. We have every reason to give him thanks. One of the most beautiful expressions of thanks to God is in 2 Corinthians 9:15 which says, "Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift." The gift, of course, is the Lord Jesus Christ and his salvation. The writer of many psalms sang his thanks with his whole heart — it was sincerely and joyfully given. May we never grudge saying "thank you" to God. Every day we receive God's good gifts and we are constantly receiving his love and grace through Jesus Christ. ## Prayer Help me, dear Lord, to give you my thanks from my whole heart. Amen

The Heavens — The Work Of God's Fingers Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 22nd April 2020 Time: ------------------- King David of Israel was the writer of this psalm. David was not brought up in a palace; his father was not a king. David, the youngest of all his brothers, was a shepherd boy in his early years, and he knew and loved everything about the natural world around him. I think it is very easy to see how David with his strong poetic talent just loved to sing about the world around him, the world which God has made. I have always loved the way David writes about the sky in this psalm. You can imagine him lying on his back in the open one starry night and just marvelling in the glorious beauty of the stars. He saw them as jewels set in a staggeringly lovely setting — all the work of God's fingers — God is so mighty and so fond of beauty. When we live in a city perhaps we don't take time to appreciate the creation of God. The bright lights of the city tend to make it difficult to see the stars in their glory. When everything around us is man-made — the buildings, the roads, the lights and so on then we are apt to leave God out of the picture. But this should not be so. We must never forget our Creator — God. All the "artistry" of God went into the creation of the heavens but also into the creation of people "What is man?" asks David. Then he tells us — people receive God's special attention. ## Prayer Dear Lord, help me to give my special attention to you. Amen

Fasting Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 19th April 2020 Time: ------------------- We are all so keen on food and everything to do with it that the thought of fasting doesn't sound very appealing. Mind you, there is one popular diet routine that has two days of fasting in the week. I'm told it works! The Bible's teaching about fasting has a much deeper, spiritual meaning to it. Sadly, like all good ideas we find in the Bible, fasting has suffered at the hands of people who used it either as a means to try to get something from God or to make them look good in the eyes of others — "see how seriously I take my Christian life!" Others adopted fasting as an extreme way of living, thinking it would make them more acceptable to God. These were wrong ideas. True Christian fasting is nearly always associated with some really significant event in a person's life when much prayer and heart searching are required. Fasting involves not merely giving up food for a short time, but laying aside as much as we can of other things in order to pray and study God's word so that we can get to know God's will for a particular course of action. When Paul and Barnabas were set aside to go on their missionary journey this was one of the most important events in the early church's history. No wonder the elders fasted and prayed about it. Fasting sharpens the mind and helps us to concentrate on finding what God wants us to do.

Tracing The Family Tree Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 16th April 2020 Time: ------------------- Many people spend many hours trying to trace their family tree and they feel really excited when they discover an "important" or famous person connected to them in some way. The family tree of our Lord Jesus Christ is important for several reasons. First of all, we see that the life of Jesus has long roots in the history of God's people — he is called the son of David and the son of Abraham, and Matthew shows just how Jesus is connected to these two great heroes in the Old Testament story. Matthew's family tree of Jesus shows us something else of great importance. Beginning with the family tree and then as he goes through the Gospel story, Matthew shows us how the Lord Jesus is the fulfilment of all the prophecies and promises which are highlighted in the Old Testament. Right down to the details of what happened to Jesus even on the cross, Matthew shows how the Old Testament becomes completed in the Lord Jesus. In the same way it is only in Jesus that our lives are completed. Without Jesus Christ in our lives we are lost and without hope in the world — there is a terrible emptiness that is only filled by Jesus himself. We become complete in Christ How really great it is to be connected with the One whose family tree truly began in heaven! When we become "connected" to him, we too will inherit a place in his heavenly home. ## Prayer Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for taking me into your family. Amen

The Best Hiding Place Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 13th April 2020 Time: ------------------- I'm sure we have all played "hide and seek." It was a great thing to get the best hiding place before you heard the words "Coming, ready or not!" The best hiding place! We all wanted that. The man who wrote the text at the top of the page wanted that too. But he wasn't playing a game. He was very serious about living his life in a way that would please God. He was also very sure that God would hide him in safety from the attacks of the evil one (Satan) and those people who tried to mock him because he trusted in God's word. In Psalm 91 the writer says, "_Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty._" That is a perfect hiding place. Again in Psalm 32 King David sang, _You_ (God) _are my hiding place;you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory_" (NLT). A. M. Toplady, who wrote a famous hymn about the salvation we find in the Lord Jesus Christ, wrote about the same theme. He said "Rock of ages, cleft for me, hide me **now**, my refuge be". He wrote these words after he had sheltered from a storm in a crevice that had been formed in a huge rock. At the end of the hymn when he was writing about going to heaven he wrote, "Rock of ages, cleft for me, hide me **then**, my refuge be." We are safe for time and eternity in Jesus. ## Prayer Dear Jesus, keep me in the shelter of your salvation now and always. Amen

God Loves Rainbows! Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 10th April 2020 Time: ------------------- The people of South Africa were once described as a "rainbow nation." This was a brilliant way to speak of the people there who have many different languages, cultures, traditions and colours. God must love rainbows, as they are mentioned at three very important times in the Bible. The first time was just after the great flood which had destroyed so much of the earth and the evil people who were living at that time. When the flood subsided God made a solemn promise that he would never destroy the earth by such a flood again. And God set a rainbow in the sky as the sign of that promise. We read of a rainbow again when the prophet Ezekiel had a really wonderful vision when he was in the land of Babylon, where God's people were in captivity, and they thought God could not be with them there. But the sign that He had given him to show that God was there, all around him and in all his power and glory, was a beautiful rainbow — another sign of the promise not to forget his people. The third time we read of a rainbow, a truly magnificent and beautiful one, is in the last book of the Bible. Again the rainbow was around the throne of God, this time in heaven. It was another sign of the greatness and glory of God, reminding us of his promises, his power and his everlasting faithfulnes for all who love and follow him.

A Guiding Light Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 7th April 2020 Time: ------------------- Several years ago I preached in the old Parish Church of Corstorphine, Edinburgh, on behalf of the Bible Society. The church building is very old in parts and has a little window in the eastern wall that has an interesting history. Before the city grew to its present size Corstorphine was a village, and on its east side there was a loch and a well-used pathway near the loch that wound its way through very marshy ground. To help people find their way the church always had a light in its little east window so that people would be guided by the light and find their way safely to the village. Jesus tells those of us who are Christians that we are the light of the world. That means we have to be guides to people who are not Christians. Jesus also said "_Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven_" (Matthew 5:17). Even when we may not be able to speak to people about the Christian faith the way we live will be a guide to them as to what is right and good. Remember, Jesus himself is our great example. He is the Light of the world, so as we follow him our lives will also be lights guiding people towards the Lord himself. ## Prayer Dear Lord Jesus, help me to be a guiding light to those who are still in the darkness of unbelief, for your name's sake. Amen

Looking Up At An Empty Sky Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 4th April 2020 Time: ------------------- The Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ. Perhaps we don't take as much notice of the ascension of Jesus as we should. We all love the story of the birth of Jesus, and so we should; we thank God for the perfect life of Jesus, and so we should. We are humbled by the sufferings and death of Jesus, and so we should be; and the wonder of the resurrection of Jesus makes us shout, "He is risen indeed. Hallelujah!" Pentecost is the start of glorious things for the Church of Christ and we bless God for that. But all of these wonderful happenings were confined to a small corner of the world, and to one nation of people in particular. The ascension of the Lord Jesus to heaven and to the very throne of God signals the start of the great worldwide mission of the church of Jesus Christ. Why? Because from heaven Jesus sent his Holy Spirit to give power to the messengers of the Good News of Jesus as they went with his authority to make disciples of all the nations. This work will continue until the Lord Jesus returns in glory to "judge the living and the dead" and to establish all his people in their everlasting heavenly home. The apostles of Jesus saw him lifted up from them and at first no doubt wondered how they could get on without him. They kept looking at the empty sky until the heavenly messengers assured them that Jesus would return. In the meantime they had plenty of work to do!

Nesting Time Reader: Calum Macdonald Date: 1st April 2020 Time: ------------------- This is the time of year when the birds are busy building nests so that they can raise their families. The birds mentioned in Psalm 84, the sparrow and the swallow, found safe nesting places within the temple among God's worshippers. While the birds were safe in the temple, even more blessed were God's people who came to worship and enjoy fellowship with God there. The person who wrote the psalm says that he would rather be a door-keeper for one day in God's house than spend thousands of days enjoying sinful pleasures in rich, luxurious surroundings. The writer tells of the journey people made to get to God's temple; it was a journey that often was rough and hard and tiring. But it was all worthwhile just to get to God's special place and be able to praise him and enjoy his blessing. Our Christian life can also be much like a journey. It is not always easy; there may be hard days, there may even be persecution of one kind or another. But it is all worthwhile. The writer speaks of God's altar, the place of sacrifice. We remember the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ — not just at Easter, but every day. We remember all the blessings we receive from his death. It makes our Christian journey possible and so worthwhile. May God bless you and help you to praise and worship our Saviour.

Paul: A Remarkable Man Series: Guest Preacher Preacher: Rev. Calum Macdonald Date: 29th September 2019 Time: 18:00

Let Me Die the Death of the Upright Series: Guest Preacher Preacher: Rev. Calum Macdonald Date: 29th September 2019 Time: 11:00

Not Offended Series: Guest Preacher Preacher: Rev. Calum Macdonald Date: 3rd March 2019 Time: 18:00

Doubting Thomas Series: Guest Preacher Preacher: Rev. Calum Macdonald Date: 3rd March 2019 Time: 11:00

John Urquhart examines the unique relationship between Gaelic language learners and the rock band Runrig. As well as learners from Scotland, Germany and Thailand, John meets Calum Macdonald and former band member Donnie Munro to discuss the importance of the language to the band since they first played together in 1973. Sùil air a' cheangal eadar Runrig agus luchd-ionnsachaidh na Gàidhlig. Tha Iain Urchardan a' coinneachadh ri luchd-ionnsachaidh na Gàidhlig à dùthchannan cho fad às ris a' Ghearmailt agus Dùthaich nan Thai agus a' cluinntinn mun bhuaidh a thug a' chòmhlan orra gus a' Ghàidhlig ionnsachadh. Tha Iain cuideachd a' bruidhinn ri Calum Dòmhnallach agus ri Donnie Rothach agus iadsan a' mìneachadh cho cudromach 's a tha an luchd-leantainn dhan chòmhlan.

Coming soon, the reboot of Trust Me I'm a Journo, as Calum Macdonald investigates the seemingly endless stream of fake news around the world.

Part 2 of the show From smartphones & tablets, to dealing with malware & protecting your privacy, our resident expert, Fevzi Turkalp joins Calum MacDonald on BBC Radio 5Live to bring all the tech advice you need to choose the best tech for your needs & keep your existing gadgets running smoothly. In this week's extended tech phone-in, Fevzi advises listeners on… ○ Improving poor Wi-Fi signals ○ Getting better mobile phone reception ○ Watching movies online ○ Ridding your android phone of viruses & malware ○ How does a Chromebook differ from a Windows PC ○ Consumer protection when paying by credit card or debit card ○ Getting you tablet repaired ○ The future of Windows Phone ○ Getting Internet in an “off-grid” property ○ Apple Airpods – are they worth it and will I lose one? The Tech phone-in is broadcast live on BBC Radio 5Live on the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month, from 2am to 3am. You can follow Fevzi on Twitter @GadgetDetective #Fevzi #Turkalp #Gadget #Detective #Calum #MacDonald #BBC #Radio #5Live #Tech #Technology #Help #Advice #WiFi #Signal #Phone #Telephone #Reception #Films #Movies #Online #Stream #Smartphone #Virus #Malware #Chromebook #PC #Credit #Debit #Tablet #Repair #Windows #Internet #Web #Apple #Airpods

Part 1 of the show From smartphones & tablets, to dealing with malware & protecting your privacy, our resident expert, Fevzi Turkalp joins Calum MacDonald on BBC Radio 5Live to bring all the tech advice you need to choose the best tech for your needs & keep your existing gadgets running smoothly. In this week's extended tech phone-in, Fevzi advises listeners on… ○ Improving poor Wi-Fi signals ○ Getting better mobile phone reception ○ Watching movies online ○ Ridding your android phone of viruses & malware ○ How does a Chromebook differ from a Windows PC ○ Consumer protection when paying by credit card or debit card ○ Getting you tablet repaired ○ The future of Windows Phone ○ Getting Internet in an “off-grid” property ○ Apple Airpods – are they worth it and will I lose one? The Tech phone-in is broadcast live on BBC Radio 5Live on the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month, from 2am to 3am. You can follow Fevzi on Twitter @GadgetDetective #Fevzi #Turkalp #Gadget #Detective #Calum #MacDonald #BBC #Radio #5Live #Tech #Technology #Help #Advice #WiFi #Signal #Phone #Telephone #Reception #Films #Movies #Online #Stream #Smartphone #Virus #Malware #Chromebook #PC #Credit #Debit #Tablet #Repair #Windows #Internet #Web #Apple #Airpods

This week, Calum Macdonald investigates how fake news is affecting teachers and pupils in schools in the UK. Plus, a trip, of course, to the United States to keep in touch with the latest fake news shenanigans stateside. Facebook/ Twitter/ Subscribe - trustmeimajourno.com

Calum Macdonald chats to Paul Horner, king of fake news articles, to find out whether his made up stories might have influenced the outcome of the US Presidential Election 2016, and sent Donald Trump to the White House. What do you think? Leave a comment or email: hello@trustmeimajourno.com Find the podcast on iTunes via the website: trustmeimajourno.com

Calum Macdonald investigates #PizzaGate, in the first of his series looking at Fake News. What do you think? Leave a comment or email: hello@trustmeimajourno.com Find the podcast on iTunes via the website: trustmeimajourno.com

Coming soon - Trust me, I'm a Journo. A podcast looking at the big fake news stories of the moment, hosted by Calum Macdonald. Email hello@trustmeimajourno.com For more, click trustmeimajourno.com

Actor Richard Schiff discusses the US Election with Calum Macdonald. He's been campaigning for Hillary Clinton.

Samuel Singyangwe, Dr Harry Edwards, Nomiki Konst and Harlan Hill join Dotun Adebayo and Calum Macdonald to discuss whether the Black Lives Matter movement may influence the outcome of the US Election 2016.

Milo Yiannopoulos, Ben Shapiro, Nomiki Konst and Harlan Hill join Calum Macdonald to discuss whether the Alt Right may influence the outcome of the US Election 2016.