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by **Aels** » Thu Jun 28, 2012 9:41 am

Live: Aelsh election results

Live text reporters: Elwyn Dryffdyn, James Anderson

2100: Hello and welcome to Aels Radio Television's live online text coverage as general election results come in from around the country tonight. Voting closed an hour ago and we're expecting the first results to be announced as soon as 10 pm.

Chief Minister Paul Duncan-Jones is fighting his third general election as leader of Aelsh Labour, having taken over from the current President of Tyneala, Rhonwen Brynwen, in 1084. He fought his first election in 1085, with his Labour party winning 73 seats in the 145-member Senate, and four years later that number increased by one to 74. Before the Senate was dissolved three weeks ago, Labour held 73 seats, 38 more than the largest opposition party Plaid Ymrau.

2105: Plaid, meanwhile, are still led by Rhodri Evans, who has been the leader of the opposition since he won the party leadership in 1088. This is his second election as leader of Plaid Ymrau, and recent opinion polls suggest his party may be making inroads on Labour. Plaid are a moderate party on the issue of a full split from Tyneala, with both unionist and separatist factions within the party.

2110: The third party, of course, are the Social Democrats, led by Jordan Walsh. It is one of the four parties with Senate seats that is unionist. They held 15 seats going into this election, and are likely to maintain around that number of ASMs. It has been highly speculated that the Social Democrats will be asked to form a coalition government should Aelsh Labour fall short of the 73 seats necessary to form a government.

2115: The minority parties in play held 22 seats between them going into the election. The pro-independence Aelsh National Party, led by Catrin Curtis and Aels Greens, led by Siôr Daly, had six seats each; while the unionist Conservative Party, led by Rhiannon Rhodes, and the Tyneala Forward Party, led by Padrig Parry, each had five seats.

2120: So here's how things work: polling opened at 8 am this morning across the three counties in 130 constituencies. Each voter had two voting slips: one for their constituency, and one for the unitary authority in which their constituency lies. There are 130 constituency ASMs, in addition to another 15 ASMs elected to represent the entire electorate within a unitary authority.

Polling was largely uneventful, and with a clear day, a high turnout in excess of 70% is expected.

2126: The seats being watched as key seats are those which saw ASMs elected with majorities under 1,000 in 1089. There are 25 such seats, with 13 of these held by Labour. Also seen as a big key seat is the constituency of North Drayfill, represented by Plaid Ymrau's Michael Morgan since 1056. Mr Morgan is stepping down from politics after serving 37 years in the Senate. His last majority here was nearly 7,000 votes—but Labour have been campaigning hard here.

2134: With Mr Morgan's retirement, the title of "Gentleman of the Senate", accorded to the longest-serving Senate member, will pass to Labour's Walter Turret – that is, if he is re-elected. Mr Turret has served Inner Doversham West since 1064.

2137: Incidentally, Mr Turret was the constituency ASM elected with the largest majority in 1089, winning by 9,816 votes over his Plaid rival. Labour also had the second-safest seat, Outer Trechoid, held by Peter Woods. Mr Woods, who has been in the Senate since 1073, won by 9,701 votes last time.

2145: As we wait for first results to come in, don't forget you can get in touch with us, by email at newsonline@art.ym, by text at (+189) 3013199 (outside Tyneala) or 30139 (inside Tyneala), or use the comments box on this page.

2151: Speaking of the President, Rhonwen Brynwen, her term as head of state of both Aels and Ancharmunn is up next year, when she will hand over to a Charmunnry successor. Ms Brynwen, Mr Duncan-Jones's predecessor as Chief Minister, is expected to be named to the Aelsh parliamentary upper house, the Council of Advisers, upon her retirement from the presidency.

2156: We're nearing the announcement of the first results soon. So what have been the hot topics this election, then? The unrest on Victorwick involving ethnic Citiz and Mytanar, and the subsequent military action by both governments, have been mentioned by both Mr Duncan-Jones and Mr Evans on the campaign trail, but voters know that Aels' foreign affairs are essentially dictated by Ballyfeeaknock, and that is not likely to have played a major role.

Instead, it's more likely that finance and the thorny issue of Aels' constitutional status within the Celtic Union that will play in voters' minds.

2200: Right, from here on out we're expecting results announced, one seat at a time, by the Chief Returning Officer at Government House in Drayfill. Each constituency returning officer would have reported the results of the electronic count to each candidate, allowing time for challenges to be made for the vote to be recounted by hand. Once there are no objections, the results are transmitted securely to Drayfill for the announcement.

2203: BREAKING NEWS There are reports that the vote majority in three constituencies are around the 300 mark, and have been challenged by losing candidates. Manual recounts are underway in these constituencies, and that has resulted in a delay in announcing the results. It's likely that these constituencies will be announced at the end of all the others, rather than in their normal slot.

2209: Chief Returning Officer Sean Edwards has just announced that results from 126 counties are final, and will be announced in about six minutes or so. The remaining four constituencies are being recounted, he says.

2210: Unitary authority results will be announced starting 10 minutes after the last constituency result has been announced, as per convention, Mr Edwards has confirmed.

2213: Willie O'Hanlon, in County Coshtaherd, Ancharmunn, via text on 30139 has asked what a Plaid Ymrau victory, or a hung Senate, will mean for Tyneala's future.

As our chief political analyst John Terfel explains, Plaid Ymrau are a split party on the issue of the future of the union between Aels and Ancharmunn. There is a growing sense within Plaid that the party needs to decide one way or another, instead of sitting on the fence as it has done for many decades. However, as it currently stands, Plaid support the status quo, so there isn't likely to be a major change if they win outright.

A hung Senate produces more questions. If Labour and the Social Democrats form a government, again, both parties are pro-Union and the status quo will be maintained. Labour will work as hard as they can to form a Unionist coalition, even if it means joining forces with the Conservatives. If Plaid were invited to form a coalition, they would have to rely on the stoutly separatist National Party and the Greens, who are also pro-independence. If that happens things will be a lot spicier in Aelsh – and indeed Charmunnry – politics.

2217: All right, here comes Mr Edwards again, hopefully with some results this time. Oh, here's a quick party key when reading the results… Aelsh Labour (LAB), Plaid Ymrau (PL), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Aelsh National Party (ANP), Aels Greens (GR), Conservative Party (CON), Tyneala Forward Party (TFP), Other (OTH), Independent (IND)

RESULTS…
Drayfill West. David Drayton (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 4,844. John Terfel notes: Mr Drayton's margin of victory has decreased by around 1,500 votes from 1089, but otherwise.
Drayfill South. James Carwyn (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 4,538.
Drayfill and Coast. Petri Morgan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 7,968. John Terfel notes: This is one of Plaid's strongest seats, as Mr Morgan held the seat by 7,523 votes last time. He's actually increased his majority this time.
Inner City of Drayfill. Rhonda Jones (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 7,882. John Terfel notes: Ms Jones was always expected to retain her seat, but she's increased her margin of victory by nearly 3,600 votes. Incredible.
North Drayfill. Judith Masters (SDP) elected, with a majority of 3,144. John Terfel notes: This was the most closely-watched seat, arguably. Michael Morgan, at 80, has decided to retire from the Senate, and it was widely expected to be a close fight between Labour, which dedicated much resources to this seat, and Mr Morgan's Plaid. Instead, the SDP has nicked in here and taken the seat. Incredible.
Drayfill East. Brian Kennedy (PL) elected, with a majority of 2,199. John Terfel notes: This seat was held by one-term Labour ASM Mary Hill, who was expecting to be re-elected. Her electorate have clearly told her she hasn't done enough for them, with a swing of nearly 7,000 votes. Chalk this one up as one of Plaid's inroads into Labour territory.

2225: Right, that's the first batch of them done. Some stunners there, so let us know your thoughts. You can get in touch with us by email at newsonline@art.ym, by text at (+189) 3013199 (outside Tyneala) or 30139 (inside Tyneala), or use the comments box on this page.

After the Drayfill constituencies, the Senate stands at LAB 3, PL 2, SDP 1.

2226: Mr Edwards is back with the next set of results, from Trechoid and from Penfro. Chief Minister Paul Duncan-Jones is the incumbent for Dinas Penfro, and is widely expected to be re-elected for another term in the Senate. Leader of the Opposition Rhodri Evans is also an ASM for a Penfro constituency, and is seeking re-election in North Penfro.

RESULTS…
Trechoid Central. Pauline Evert (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 5,782.
Outer Trechoid. Peter Woods (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,169. John Terfel notes: This was a very safe Aelsh Labour seat – in fact, the second-safest. Mr Woods has been the ASM here for 20 years, and had a majority of 9,701 votes last time. That nearly 8,000-vote swing will have the Labour bigwigs worried.
Gorllewin Tricoed. Hebert Wallace (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 3,642.
Trechoid City and Northeast. Hilda Jones (SDP) elected, with a majority of 2,305. John Terfel notes: Labour's Ashley Warden, who was elected in 1089, has surprisingly been defeated in a seat Labour have held since 1073. Another early setback for the government.
Trechoid South and Southwest. David French (LAB) elected, with a majority of 3,113. John Terfel notes: And yet with every setback Labour seems to gain something to nullify the losses. This has been a Plaid seat held by Margo Dunstable since 1085, but after eight years it's returned to Labour.
Dinas Penfro. Paul Duncan-Jones (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 5,589. John Terfel notes: The chief minister was always going to be re-elected, so the real question here was with what kind of margin. 5,589 votes is about 1,400 less than four years ago, but he'll be happy with this.
Penfro Bay. Craig Price (ANP) elected, with a majority of 7,201. John Terfel notes: This is rather out of the blue. All right, so practically speaking nothing much is different here, as this was a safe Green seat beforehand – i.e., pro-independence. However, the last Green majority here was over 6,000 votes, so the Nationalists have really been working hard here. Geraldine Cross, the Green ASM for Penfro Bay since 1081, is now standing for the moderate Plaid in a different constituency.
Penfro Metropolitan. Lucas Mandelbrook (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 812. John Terfel notes: This is always one of the most competitive seats in the legislature, in addition to having one of the smallest electorates. Mr Mandelbrook was elected four years ago with a majority of 776, so he's actually increased his winning margin this time.
Penfro Outer East. Pierre Framlington (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 1,204.
Penfro Inner East. Gerald Rodgers (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 5,736.
North Penfro. Rhodri Evans (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 8,985. John Terfel notes: In another sign of Plaid's growing popularity, opposition leader Mr Evans has increased his majority by nearly 1,400 votes.
Penfro South and Regions. Stanley Pursewin (CON) elected, with a majority of 5,642. John Terfel notes: While the Nationalists may have gained Penfro Bay, they've lost Penfro South and Regions, which is a huge blow. It's a swing of over 12,500 votes to the unionist Tories, which will make for some head-scratching at ANP headquarters.

2243: So, even more surprises as we go through the next two major urban cities. As things stand, the Senate make-up is LAB 8, SDP 4, PL 3, CON 2, ANP 1. For all that's been said about Plaid making a fresh charge, it seems like it's the Social Democrats who are angling at becoming the second-largest party.

2245: Right, here we go again. This time Mr Edwards will deliver results from the last remaining major cities: Doversham, Imeall an Uisce, and Plaidstone-upon-Celts. Imeall an Uisce's three constituencies all returned Tyneala Forward Party ASMs last time, and it will be interesting to see if that holds.

RESULTS…
Doversham Metropolitan. Roger Wealdstone (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,720.
Doverston and Outer Doversham. Charles Crayston (TFP) elected, with a majority of 1,806. John Terfel says: The seat was held by two-term ASM Chelsea Smith of the Conservative Party, but at least it's stayed in unionist hands.
Inner Doversham West. Walter Turret (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 9,242. John Terfel says: Walter Turret is now the "Gentleman of the Senate", with another strong electoral showing. A 9,242-vote majority reinforces his popularity among his constituents.
Inner Doversham South. Bryn Thomas (PL) elected, with a majority of 6,011. John Terfel says: Oh dear, this one's gone horribly wrong for Labour. Sandy Pollock was a three-term ASM, first elected in 1081, who had a nearly-5,000-vote majority last time. She will be thoroughly disappointed, as will the chief minister. Then again, apart from the west, Inner Doversham has always been a Plaid stronghold, and it's likely their influence here has finally won them back the seat they lost in 1077.
Inner Doversham East. Andras Bevan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 5,124.
Inner Doversham North and Suburbs. Bethan Cadogan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 7,751.
Imeall an Uisce–Core. Alistair Conor Cook (IND) re-elected, with a majority of 7,134. John Terfel says: Mr Cook, who represented the Tyneala Forward Party at the last election, stood as an independent in this one after falling out with his party. It hasn't put voters off, though, as he's safely re-elected.
Imeall an Uisce–Outer. Paul Denbigh (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 8,947.
Ymyl y Dŵr. Ross Mac Braden (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 5,606. John Terfel says: It's no surprise that this border city remains in favour of strong ties with Ancharmunn and Tyneala, and that's proven with the re-election of all three incumbents.
Radius and Plaidstone. Harriet McVeigh (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 8,143.
Plaidstone Harbour. Tadgh Mac Carnagh (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,636. John Terfel says: Here a rare swing the other way – actually in favour of Labour. Two-term ASM Al Reeves of the Social Democrats has lost out here.
Plaidstone Town. Drystan Walsh (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 5,686.
Plaidstone Waterston. Dafydd ap Siôn (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 2,071.

2306: Phew, that took a while, didn't it? Right, let's recap how the parties are doing at this point. Aelsh Labour have 12 seats, Plaid Ymrau have 6 seats, the Social Democrats have 5 seats, the Tyneala Forward Party have 4 seats, the Conservatives have 2 seats, the Aelsh National Party have 1 seat, and an independent (linked to the TFP) has 1 seat. The Aels Greens have yet to register, which must be a concern for them.

2307: And, as always, if you have any questions you can get in touch with us by email at newsonline@art.ym, by text at (+189) 3013199 (outside Tyneala) or 30139 (inside Tyneala), or use the comments box on this page. We'll get to your questions after the 130 constituencies have been announced.

2308: Next we move on to the smaller cities and larger town constituencies.

RESULTS…
Llanislwyn Modern. Mikael Jorgensen (SDP) elected, with a majority of 504. John Terfel says: Another loss for Plaid, as Bethan Evans is ousted in Llanislwyn Modern. The other Llanislwyn ASM seeking re-election is Jorgensen's fellow Social Democrat, Charlotte Woodward, so this result may suggest Ms Howard's majority will increase.
Llanislwyn Kermadec. Charlotte Woodward (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 6,234. John Terfel says: That's a huge increase for the SDP from 1089, when this seat was won by just 823 votes. They are a party on the up.
Pentref-ar-y-Bae North. Laura Anderson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,872.
Pentref-ar-y-Bae South. Lewis Johnson (LAB) elected, with a majority of 309. Mr Edwards, the chief returning officer, adds that this was one of the four seats in which the vote was recounted. John Terfel says: This is a major blow for Plaid, who've lost one of their longest-serving ASMs. Glyn Idwal has been their man here since 1073, and after 20 years Mr Idwal will no longer be a member of the Senate. Expect Plaid to nominate Mr Idwal to the upper-chamber Council of Advisers.
Goldcliff. Scott French (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 3,132.
Aberwood. Geraldine Cross (PL) elected, with a majority of 3,029. John Terfel says: This seat was declared as 'one to watch' before the elections, and the results have proven those predictions right. Geraldine Cross, the former Green ASM for Penfro Bay since 1081, has defeated the SDP's Owen Wallace, who also held this seat since 1081.
Amman Glen. Ryan Llewellyn (SDP) elected, with a majority of 2,456. John Terfel says: Another loss for Plaid, who may well be wondering where this has gone wrong. However, it's worth noting that there are still around 90 constituencies to declare, so we shouldn't read too much into this first third of results.
Pontyport. John Cargill (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,470. John Terfel says: There we go. Plaid have finally, after much waiting, taken a second "safe" seat from Labour. Marged Price had served Pontyport for 12 years.
Fishwick. Charles Ryan (ANP) re-elected, with a majority of 2,185. John Terfel says: A third term beckons for Mr Ryan, and with an increased majority of about 300 votes. Encouraging for the Nationalists.

2320: Quite a few interesting results from those constituencies. As we sit, the new Senate make-up is LAB 15, PL 8, SDP 8, TFP 4, CON 2, ANP 2, IND 1, GR 0. The change from the previous Senate (based on the 40 declared seats) is as follows: LAB -1, PL -1, SDP +2, TFP ±0, CON ±0, ANP ±0, GR -1, IND +1. John Terfel, our chief political analyst, says that there is not enough in those results to read into any trends which may be developing. However, he points out that Labour barely had a majority after the last election, and even a single lost seat will mean they are unable to form a majority government.

2324: After a short break, here's Mr Edwards again. He announces that results will now be delivered 15 constituencies at a time.

RESULTS…
Harling. Bryn St Iago (PL) elected, with a majority of 2,073. John Terfel says: Big loss for Labour, who had four-term ASM – and Cabinet Minister for Transport – Alexander Simmons seeking re-election here.
Hampress. Morwen Gough (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 696.
Carlow. Kenny Lawton (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,595. John Terfel says: Another blow for Labour as they see yet another seat slip out of their grasp. Kieren Mervin was a one-term ASM.
Bexing. Caitlin Horton (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 776.
Launcester. Owain Sutton (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 1,568.
Greater Torring. Rachel Miah (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,549.
Lesser Torring. Padrig Parry (TFP) re-elected, with a majority of 2,937.
Caerfremin. Holly Rowley (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 964.
Chilcompchester. Rhys Johnston (GR) re-elected, with a majority of 251. Chief returning officer Mr Edwards confirms this was one of the seats with a recounted vote, as the Conservative candidate Michael Saunders was at one stage leading the count. John Terfel says: The Greens finally defend a seat, and even then only by the skin of their teeth. What must leader Siôr Daly be thinking?
Gradstock. Rhiannon Rhodes (CON) re-elected, with a majority of 2,733.
Barkhall. Siân Jones (PL) elected, with a majority of 648. John Terfel says: Score one for moderate Plaid as they take Barkhall from the ANP. Barkhall had been in ANP or Green hands since 1081.
Dinshindam. Simon Coles (CON) elected, with a majority of 2,182. John Terfel says: I do wonder if the Greens will now step back and re-evaluate their position on independence. They're losing seats everywhere and maybe a return to true Green politics, away from the thorny issue of Tynealan unification, will help.
Hadcott. Andruws Mayberry (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,164. John Terfel says: Another knock for the separatist movement in the Senate as the ANP lose another seat to moderate Plaid. Starting to think that even the separatists within Plaid will now be forced to keep their concerns to themselves, as clearly the electorate are in no mood for a split. What is notable about recent results is that Labour haven't made any inroads in any of these seats.
Neuadd y Benyd. Siôr Daly (GR) re-elected, with a majority of 471. John Terfel says: Even that was a close shave for the Green leader, as his winning margin falls by nearly 800 votes. A post-mortem will be ongoing right this very moment.
Whitting. Siwan Potts (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 877.

2340: That's the next batch of 15 seats announced, with massive losses by the separatist movement. However, notably, Labour hasn't won any of these seats. Plaid seem to be making real inroads in these places, even if they aren't necessarily winning Labour seats. The Nationalist leader Catrin Curtis's seat is due to be announced in the next set of results so we'll see if she hangs on to her seat.

2341: The current make-up of the Senate: LAB 16, PL 14, SDP 9, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 2, GR 2, IND 1. We hope to have leader of the opposition, Rhodri Evans, speaking to us soon, hopefully after the next set of results. Text or email any questions you may have for him. We suspect he'll be fairly pleased…

2345: Here we go again as Mr Edwards is back to deliver the results from constituencies 56 through 70.

RESULTS…
Treuddyn. Ian Davis (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,404. John Terfel says: Another seat lost by the Nationalists. A horrible day at the polls for the separatist camp.
Rhescae. Catrin Curtis (ANP) re-elected, with a majority of 1,598.
Christle. Wendy Primer (ANP) elected, with a majority of 835. John Terfel notes that this is another Green seat, this time lost at least to the Nationalists.
Spitalfords. Aaron Cunningham (ANP) elected, with a majority of 925. John Terfel says: The Greens will need to rebrand themselves if they are to ever become a significant political party, as they lose yet another seat here.
Moulton-upon-Celts. Frank Woodward (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,036. John Terfel says: Well, isn't that one that we haven't seen in a while! A Labour candidate has been elected, and to top it off they've snatched the seat from Plaid, whose incumbent ASM Elise Storey had served since 1077.
Middleworth. Trefor Pollard (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,429.
Capresthrone. Madeleine Thornton (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,231.
Westhoughster. Dafydd Vaughn (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,425.
Great Totting. Hubert Tamworth (SDP) elected, with a majority of 699. John Terfel says: A lost Plaid seat, although they won't be too worried given their other gains.
Lesser Totting. Alun Graves (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,155.
Chadderster. Alwyn Baker (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,993.
Croster. Lucy Wilson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,521.
Ulverster. Briallen Joyce (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 714.
Winderdale. Tyler Price (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,627.
Twigham. Dewey Nixon (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,045.

0004: That's probably more like it for Labour, who must've been concerned at the way things were going. We've just spoken to Plaid's Rhodri Evans, but before some quotes from that interview, here's the latest Senate floor: LAB 21, PL 20, SDP 10, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 1.

0006: Mr Evans, who spoke to us by phone for five minutes from his constituency office in North Penfro, said he was "extremely pleased" by the gains Plaid has made from the separatist camp. However, he admitted there was a significant faction within his party with breakaway sympathies and said that the party would have to "reconcile our differences on the issue" and move forward, "especially in light of today's results".

0006: Mr Evans also said that while he did not expect Plaid would be the largest party today, "we believe we have won enough seats to prevent a majority Labour government". Mr Evans did however acknowledge that a unionist coalition would not be difficult to form between Labour and the Social Democrats.

0007: On his re-election as ASM for North Penfro, Mr Evans thanked the voters for giving him an increased majority of nearly 1,400 votes from 1089, and said he would lead a "strong opposition".

0008: Here comes the next set of 15 constituencies, from Brackendale to Dinningsdale.

RESULTS…
Brackendale. Taylor Howard (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,045.
Longtown. Cledwyn Jones (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 968.
Brampsdale. Robert Sims (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,406.
Harksdale. Rhod Davies (PL) elected, with a majority of 583. John Terfel says: Labour's Georgia Newton, the Cabinet Minister for Employment, has been unseated by a strong challenge from Plaid. Chalk it as a win for the opposition.
Esling. Samuel Werrington (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,056. John Terfel says: Social Democrat Eirwen Holden held this seat after winning a by-election in 1090, caused when she was expelled by Labour. She's been unseated for good this time.
Lamber. Jonathan Barlow (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 862.
Longhoughster. James Barnard (LAB) elected, with a majority of 250. Mr Edwards says this was another of the recounted seats. John Terfel notes: Another Plaid loss, although this one won't hurt too bad as they only held the seat for one term.
Alndale. Emrys ap Siôn (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,958.
Elling. Ellie O'Neill (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 549.
Widdiring. Geraint Hamilton (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,828.
Ashings. Gwilim Heffin (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,749.
Stanning. Billy Read (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 986.
Bedlingdale. Elfed Harries (PL) elected, with a majority of 673. John Terfel says: An SDP loss this time, they've held this seat since 1085.
Cramlingdale. Thomas Sinclair (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,430.
Dinningsdale. Gwyneth Richards (LAB) elected, with a majority of 680. John Terfel says: Some concern in the SDP camp as they lose another seat, although this time they only held it for one term. The SDP are still five seats off their previous total, but they're likely to win at least one unitary authority Senate seat as well, if not more.

0025: So it's been all Labour and Plaid in those 15 constituencies, as the two main parties trade blows and start to pull away from the pack. After 85 declared seats, Aelsh Labour have 30, Plaid Ymrau have 26, the Social Democratic Party have 10, the Conservative Party have six, the Tyneala Forward Party and Aelsh National Party have five each, the Aels Greens have two, and one is held by an independent.

0030: Just three more rounds of this until we have all constituencies declared and we move on to the unitary authority areas. Sean Edwards, our Chief Returning Officer, is back with the results for seats from Fellington to Suttonside.

RESULTS…
Fellington. Gethin Tudur (LAB) elected, with a majority of 2,243. John Terfel says: Lowri Morgan had been Plaid's ASM in Fellington since 1077, and this will be a blow to them.
Seahampton. Geraint Pryce (LAB) elected, with a majority of 2,841. John Terfel says: If the last one was a blow, this is a right hook that sends Plaid down. Plaid have lost their deputy leader, Morwen Atkinson, who had served Seahampton for 20 years.
Loftus. Jordan Walsh (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 1,561.
Seamerton and Cay. Owen Summers (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,827.
Bridling. Pedr Pryce (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 562.
Ealington. Teleri Price (LAB) elected, with a majority of 419. John Terfel says: Labour are making gains left, right and centre here. They take this one back from the Social Democrats, who held it for one term.
Dunningsworth. Amélie Middlewich (SDP) re-elected, with a majority of 1,336.
Cowdenton. Kiera Evans (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,620.
Cottinghamton. Matthew Goodwin (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,892.
Swant. Sophia Hill (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,850.
Airmyndale. Branoc de Rais (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,196.
Blacktofton. Morgan Morgan (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,601.
New Adderston. Isabella Framfield (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,786.
Cwmgwaed. Victoria London (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,186.
Suttonside. Charlie Woodside (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 736.

0046: We've been told to expect finalised results for all 145 seats by 2:15 am. The new Senate will be sworn in tomorrow. With 100 seats declared, here is how that new Senate looks: LAB 39, PL 30, SDP 12, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 1.

0047: Chief minister Paul Duncan-Jones has just been on television to say that he doesn't expect to be able to form a majority government, which Labour has had since 1056. Aels could be headed for its first coalition government since the Social Democrats headed a two-party coalition with Labour from 1052 to 1056. Mr Duncan-Jones has not indicated which party or parties will be asked to join Labour in a coalition, and also remained quiet on whether his deputy Lucy Wilson will remain DCM in the new government. John Terfel suggests that Mr Duncan-Jones may believe that he will be able to ask one of the smaller parties, perhaps the Tyneala Forward Party, to form a deal.

0049: Here we go with the next 15 seats, from Burghton to Steadson. Before the election, all but one seat of these 15 were held by the government. Our chief political analyst John Terfel believes Labour could lose up to five of their 14.

RESULTS…
Burghton. Dylan Kay (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 715.
Swaffhampton. Eve Hardy (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,986.
Acleton. Bledri O'Donnell (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 2,483.
Disslingdale. Jake d'Avennes (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,374.
Preshampton. Melissa Hughes (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,194.
Sea Lane. Evan Griffiths (PL) elected, with a majority of 978. John Terfel says: A swing in the winning majority of nearly 2,500 votes from Labour to Plaid. Won't be the last we see of this.
Woodfordton. Siân Hughs (IND) elected, with a majority of 650. John Terfel says: Ms Hughs becomes the second independent elected to the Senate at this election, knocking off a Labour ASM. She's aligned to the Tyneala Forward Party, but chose to stand as an independent.
Grangedale. Oliwier Donaldson (LAB) elected, with a majority of 1,341.
Chapelton. Ifan Evans-Jones (PL) elected, with a majority of 537. There goes another 'safe' Labour seat – John Terfel tells us Labour held that since 1073, with outgoing ASM Alana Crowther having served since 1081.
Minsterton. Collwen Gibson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,821.
Farlow. Amélie MacLean (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,224. The chief minister's wife is re-elected with an increased majority from the last election.
Darrow. Leigh Miller (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,792.
Wickdale. Dylan Dafis (PL) elected, with a majority of 616. John Terfel: Another gain for Plaid as they take out a rising Labour star.
Wappington. Ray Sutherland (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,597.
Steadson. Sara Scott (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,633.

0105: Well, that makes things rather interesting now as Plaid won four and an independent won one of the last 15, with Labour returning with 10 of their original 14. Just the final 15 constituency ASMs and 15 unitary authority area ASMs to be declared, and here's how the Senate looks: LAB 49, PL 34, SDP 12, CON 6, TFP 5, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 2.

0110: Here we go with the final 15 constituencies to be declared.

RESULTS…
Sydendale. Iestyn Tomos (CON) elected, with a majority of 652. John Terfel says: Whoa. Chalk this up as an upset for both Labour and Plaid, as the Conservatives sneak one more in to improve to 7 seats in the new Senate.
Stockdale. Caitlín Ní Cheallacháin (TFP) elected, with a majority of 1,913. John Terfel says: Another one for the minor parties, as Labour and Plaid both slip up again. What's happening here?
Stanton. Eirianwen Maddox (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,471. John Terfel says: Normal service resumed, of sorts, but Labour will not be liking their losses here.
Stamfordston. Matthew Bell (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,083.
Kensing and Quays. Nia Vaughan (PL) elected, with a majority of 1,470. That's a Labour loss too.
Slipton. Anthony Murray (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,822. In a change for Labour, Mr Murray's actually increased his majority by about 1,300 votes.
Raynerston. Carys Cronne (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 956.
Nantnewydd. Beatriz Ballifeary (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,150.
Rhydmawr. Grant Brown (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,924.
Penpont. Madeleine Reilly (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,869.
Llanech. Findlay Jones (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,642.
Ynysgof. George Shannon (TFP) elected, with a majority of 530. John Terfel says: Another seat for the TFP, which may be doing them some good as it would arguably improve their chances of being invited to form a coalition.
Caerstrad. Declan Crawford (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 2,566.
Afonporth. Jason Walker (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,030.
Llanpwll. Kai Mitchell (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,573.

0126: As earlier announced, there will be a pause of 10 minutes before the 15 unitary authority area results are announced. Before that though, here's where we stand: LAB 58, PL 37, SDP 12, CON 7, TFP 7, ANP 5, GR 2, IND 2.

0128: Plaid have already improved on their previous total of 35 seats, while the Social Democrats have suffered the next biggest loss of seats after Labour at this point. John Terfel points out that in the extremely unlikely situation that Labour win all 15 unitary authority area seats, they will have managed 73 – enough to form a majority government. He speculates that if they only fail to win one or two, they may attempt to form a minority government with the implicit backing of the two independents, rather than go for a full coalition.

0135: Right, here we go as chief returning officer Sean Edwards makes his way to the announcing rostrum for the final time tonight.

Unitary authority area results…
Drayfill City Council. Rebecca Parry (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 7,806.
Gyngor Dinas Penfro. Chelsea Wyatt (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 8,725.
Doversham City Council. Sam Roadside (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 8,416.
Trechoid City Council. Padrig Docherty (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 6,249.
Comhairle Imeall an Uisce. Keira Wallace (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 10,122.
Plaidstone Council. Eoin Mac Conmara (LAB) elected, with a majority of 4,116. John Terfel says: Oh dear, not a good day for the Social Democrats as they lose one of their UAA seats to Labour. They're ten seats down on their previous total, although one of the seats they hold is yet to declare. They will be happy to have remained the third largest party.
Gyngor Llanislwyn. Siân Roderick (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 1,375. The confirmation of this result ensures that Labour will not be mathematically able to form a majority government.
Pentref-ar-y-Bae Village Council. Jonathan Webster (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 1,984.
West Hilshore Council. Sioned Rhydderch (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 9,344.
Hilshore Central Council. Eamon O'Connell (LAB) elected, with a majority of 15,913. Siorus Nerys, the incumbent Labour ASM, chose not to stand for re-election.
Hilshore East Authority. Jade Witney (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 4,106.
Dovershore West Council. Alex Lane (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 15,719.
East Dovershore and Regions Assembly. Caryl Rhys (LAB) elected, with a majority of 6,656. John Terfel says: And that compounds the day for the Social Democratic Party. Despite a strong start, they've faded, and will likely finish with 10 fewer seats than they had had.
West Pwentshore Council. Alexandra Hutchinson (LAB) re-elected, with a majority of 7,300.
East Pwentshore Authority. Kiera Tiwlip (PL) re-elected, with a majority of 11,620.

0155: And that's it, all the results have now been announced. Labour will probably not be too unhappy despite losing their razor-thin majority of one, as they're still the largest party by far. Plaid have made a significant gain, while the Social Democrats are the biggest losers in relation to expectations. The pro-separatist movement also took a beating today at the polls.

0200: So here's the final make-up of the new Senate:
Aelsh Labour 69 seats (lost 4)
Plaid Ymrau (Aelsh Party) 41 seats (gained 6)
Social Democratic Party 12 seats (lost 3)
Conservative Party 7 seats (gained 2)
Tyneala Forward Party 7 seats (gained 2)*
Aelsh National Party 5 seats (lost 1)
Aels Greens 2 seats (lost 4)
Independents 2 seats (gained 2) *both linked to the TFP

0205: Thanks for sticking it out with us. We'll have reaction in the morning, when chief minister Paul Duncan-Jones will meet with his potential new coalition partners.

by **Virabia** » Fri Jun 29, 2012 7:22 pm

The Vonghurst Star
Brantaland Unification Talks Fail

PUERTA ANSARES - For the past month, one issue has dominated both not only the news of Brantaland but the confederacy as a whole, the subject of the two Brantalands unifying into one nation within the confederacy with a shared capitol in Puerta Ansares. While talks between the two nations leaders, John Faulkner and Júan Pablo seemed to get off to a great start and unification looked imminent there were a few irreconcilable differences between the two nations. Among reasons cited was the fact that the two nations economies, while both overseen by the Confederate/UDR government in Vonghurst would not co-exist peacefully if placed into more local control.

"Anyway you look at it," said Fran Laurie, an economist at the University of Aurora, "the two economies are different on a fundamental level. With the northern half, it's almost all small scale farming while in the south you see, in the eyes of the international community, a much more developed economy. Perhaps the only one in the confederacy with anything that looks similar to even a mixed economy. This is in vast contrast to the northern Brantaland which has a socialist state in similar vein to the UDR, the Uke Islands as well as Angry Islands."

Aside from economic concerns, one of the fears of many who opposed the unification was that the north would lose a lot of it's right to self governance. Under the current system, the Brantaland House of commons has only 50 seats and while those 50 seats would be tacked on to to Asambléa Naçíonal, it wouldn't have much impact on a 300 seat body as Brantaland would only get one sixth representation. It would also see the northern half lose a lot of it's representation to the Grand Confederate Assembly. As it stands now, Brantaland has 45 seats in the Grand Assembly but if they were to join with Brantaland Sur, the regions that is presently the northern half of Brantaland would receive only 15 seats, since it is their national status that grants them an extra amount of seats in the body. While then northerners weren't opposed to this, they wanted promise that their voice would still be heard with the same amplification but, that was not promised by the southerners.

Thus, the call for a United Brantaland once again fails. While it has been a dream, especially in the south, since before the confederacy had even come into existence it looks like, for now at least, it will remain a dream and the world will continue turning because, at the end of the day, nothing much would have changed and what little would would have been for the worse. While there continue to be claims that it will bring economic "prosperity" to the north, the north seems rather uninterested and prefers to stick to the Virabi model which has led the nation to have one of the highest standards of living within the confederacy.

((OOC: I've been so distracted writing this, thus it's one big pile of suck))

by **Aels** » Sat Jun 30, 2012 7:10 am

(OOC: ICly, this piece was reported in the Welsh-language Stiwdio Newyddion Tirelyrch, but it is being presented here in English for obvious reasons.)

Aels to introduce new upper chamber

DREFHIL— The Council of Advisers, the upper house of Aels' legislature, will be replaced with a new, larger body known as the Assembly Chamber of Excellencies.

The announcement was made by the current speaker of the Council of Advisers, William Dowingham, after an hour-long debate amongst the current Council's 15 members, who will all now step down next week.

Currently, the Council of Advisers serves purely as a rubber-stamping upper house for the Senate, made up of eight appointees by the Chief Minister, four by the opposition, and three independents. As a result, the Council make-up is usually dependent on who wins each lower house election.

The proposal, put forward by the leader of the opposition in the Senate Rhodri Evans, was passed 11 to 4, with four Aelsh Labour advisers voting in favour of the change.

Mr Dowingham, who said he voted in favour of the proposal, said it would make the new upper house "more independent of the Senate", and would be "more useful as a check and balance on the Senate, rather than as a rubber-stamp".

The new Assembly Chamber, which is backed in the lower house by all parties except Aelsh Labour who are officially "neutral" on the idea, will be made up of 25 independent members at first and will expand each year.

Each chief minister will be allowed to appoint 12 new members for every full four-year term of his government, while the Senate opposition may appoint up to 8 new members per full term. Smaller parties in the Senate will each be allowed up to 4 appointments per full term.

These appointments are to be for a term of 6 years, renewable once at the choice of the party. Appointed membership will, however, be capped at 80 excellencies per party.

The 25 independent members will serve terms of 10 years each, and will each appoint their successors. They will also be accorded a formal title linked to a city or town of their choosing, a title which will pass on to their successors.

Living Aelsh former ministers in the Tynealan Cabinet, including the president of Tyneala, will be accorded indefinite membership of the Assembly Chamber automatically upon expiration of their cabinet term.

All Speakers of the Senate, as well as living former Speakers of the Council of Advisers, will also be accorded indefinite membership as an excellency.

Excellencies appointed by parties will be addressed as "The Honourable His/Her Excellency"; former Tynealan Cabinet ministers and speakers of both houses of legislature will be addressed as "The Right Honourable His/Her Excellency"; and independent members will be addressed as "The Right Honourable Excellency of", with their title.

Mr Evans, who is awaiting the results of the general election, has welcomed the announcement as a "furtherment of democracy" in Aels.

Mr Evans said: "Previously, the Council of Advisers was nothing but a body of yes-men, which would change with every change of government in the Senate.

"While the new Assembly Chamber will still be appointed largely by the chief minister, there are now limits and smaller parties will be allowed to appoint upper house members as well. The independent Excellencies will also hold more sway in scrutinising legislation.

"This is a step in the right direction and everyone in Aels should welcome this."

by **Camwood** » Sat Jun 30, 2012 9:09 am

Nanford University Makes Controversial Offer
BUISNESS - By: Blake Harold

NANFORD (RPA) -- After debating went on for days on the floor of the Executive Committee of Camwood, Nanford University finally was able to write to the The Atraezan Oil Corporation to propose a research and educational partnership.

The first part of the deal was to cooperate in research and exploration efforts. Nanford University has been innovating in all fields of study, particularly pharmaceuticals and robotics, this will be Nanford's first venture into the world of energy and petroleum.

The second part of the proposal was more complex. Basically, the university want to unleash a co-op program with the company. Basically, in this program, students can study at Nanford and get handson, in-the-field experience while earning a degree in resource engineering.

The Controversy came when the idea was presented to the Executive Committee. Many Committee members believe that Camwood should maintain an unofficial embargo with the Mlogradians because of their abusive, oppressive government. In the end, keey figures such as the Minister of Commerce and Minster of the Treasury persuaded a majority of the committee to put political differences aside to grow the economy and innovate altogether.

Despite the controversy, this is definitely a step in the right direction for Camwood becoming an international presence.

by **Azerxurade** » Tue Jul 03, 2012 4:01 pm

Şimaldakı Abadlıq Layihə Edib
Renovation project of Şimaldakı unveiled
By Fəxri Əlizanzadə

ŞİMALDAKI (JULY 03) - Today, the mayor of Şimaldakı, Heydar Arrentxalkade, unveiled the new renovation project of the Azərşuradean capital which includes two base themes. The first and most important theme is called "Mən Sevirəm Səni, Şimaldakı" (I LOVE Shimaldaku); whilst the second one is "Bizim Şimaldağımız" (Our Shimaldaku). In a very interesting ceremony held in the İçərişəhər Tower that included representatives from both sides of Azərşuradə (the independent one and the Euskirribakondaran one), and of course both sides of the city (Şimaldakı, capital of the independent Azərşuradə; Dakı, capital of the Euskal province of Azərşuradə); the two themes for the city's renovation process were unveiled. Through these themes, all the politics of Şimaldakı will be aimed to get a very modern city by 2013, just like Dakı is already. After performances by Hüsniye Əlizadə, Mala Ärlangga and Irina Haldebaukú, artists who represent the Azərşuradean music scene; two videos showed how the themes will be incorporated to the city's laws, development and culture.

Mən Sevirəm Səni, Şimaldakı (I LOVE you, Shimaldaku)
The main theme shows the wish of a better sense of belonging of the Şimaldağılı peoples. Various important personalities have already pointed out that the lack of a proper sense of belonging is the main reason for the city's current situation. Therefore, the campaign was made in order to make the Şimaldağılı peoples be proud of their hometown. Besides advertisements on the streets, TV, radio and internet; the campaign will be the official sponsor of many events to take place in the city: theatre, opera and Muğam plays; major concerts; international sports matches; film festivals and national ceremonies. Its first work however, will be the ceremony of July 12 2012, that will celebrate one month of independence. The next day, the elections will be held as well; so, the project is already planning those celebrations all around the city's districts.

Bizim Şimaldağımız (Our Shimaldaku)
The second theme is aimed towards placing a bid from Şimaldakı to become the sixth Rushmori Capital of Culture. In here is all the planning for the cultural events (the first theme just sponsors them), and it will run until 2013 as well. Some projects will take into account the neighboor Euskal city of Dakı in order to provide opportunities for the whole Böyük Dakı Metropolitan Area.

Both logos will be unveiled soon in the Flame Towers, located in Dakı; since they can be seen all around the Böyük Dakı Metropolitan Area. The inhabitants of the Metro Area are very happy with the projects and are already volunteering for any event to take place. Fortunately, the city's administration does need volunteers. The campaign will be promoted nationally in Azerbaijani and Euskal; whilst internationally, it will all be in English language.

by **Cotdelapoms** » Thu Jul 05, 2012 12:51 pm

(An Editorial, translated from the original French)

A New Cotdelapoms?

This is unquestionably a time of great transition in Cotdelapoms, perhaps the most active time in our nation's history. After a decade of leadership, Jean-Pierre Dandenault is no longer our Prime Minister, having been replaced by the considerably more populist Jarvis Coquerique under the most peculiar circumstances- a run off election in Cap Nordique after two members of the Anti-Rushmore Party were involved in the biggest scandal in our nation's history. The human trafficking scandal managed to do what 12 years of voter apathy could not- bring down the unpopular conservatives and managed to expose the Anti-Rushmore party as the racist hypocrites they are. It also introduced the nation to Tynealan organised crime, which has been a boon for our nation's true-crime and suspense novelists, who have held the best seller lists hostage with titles such as The Ballyfeeanock Boys and Punts, Pints and the Lash. Whilst the quality of the writing may be shoddy, the topics have taken hold of the imagination of the public.

The Anti-Rushmore Party must have gotten even more enraged now that a Cotdelapomaise, Karine Lessard, has become the delegate for Rushmore in the World Assembly, making Cotdelapoms de facto leaders of Rushmore. The sorts of people who partied in the streets for a few days straight after the World Cup of Hockey victory would probably be annoyed that with our symbolic ascent to super-power status we've managed to do so without our best foot forward. Cotdelapomais news is relevant to the world now- and recently it has been a mixed bag. Whilst populist Jarvis Coquerique is a fantastic representative of the nation, Jean-Pierre Dandenault and the Progressive Conservatives' lengthy reign perpetuated almost entirely out of inertia has been getting a lot more attention internationally. We as a nation have a lot of things with unexplainable popularity- nobody watches the Coupe Darjeeling or the tv programme 'Lâche pas la patate!'* and yet somehow they are perpetually highly rated.

This sums up Cotdelapoms well- our general modestness and esotericism plays well for our own nation, but doesn't necessarily make us models for the world.

We may be fantastic peace keepers with a generally model culture, but our general moral high horse may have been acceptable to ride when she was new, but after the conservative government's handling of the human trafficking scandal can now be used for glue. We are a popular tourist destination with our many cultural events, museums, festivals, and high-end consumerism, but being cultural leaders doesn't necessarily make our nation fit to determine policy for the world. We may have a reputation for being modest, friendly, intelligent and cultured- but our biggest news story internationally prior to the human trafficking scandal was that the celebrations for winning an ice hockey (far from the world's most popular sport, even if it's religion here) tournament lasted days and days of public drunkenness and generally disorderly behaviour.

So here we are today, with seemingly all the tumult done- a new nation. Cotdelapoms 3.0, bigger, bolder, with authority. We are human, and now that we have proved it we can do what makes humans great, which is to grow and learn. Jarvis Coquerique's vision of a Cotdelapoms that manages to maintain all of its' current greatness whilst bridging the growing divide between the ultra-wealthy corporate class and the middle-class, fixing up some of the human rights violations going on elsewhere on the continent with true Cotdelapomais delicacy, and working with the governments of Tyneala and Mytannion to clean up the organised crime problems that are taking over certain northern cities.

A change in mindset needs to occur across the country in order to grow into our new position as world powers, however. Even our national anthem espouses the idea that we are an average nation. We love the concept of lagom, just enough for everyone to be comfortable. Paradoxically, this is why we have gotten to the point where big corporations and organised crime can exert so much control over the country- few ordinary citizens want to step out of line and take what belongs to them because they feel they have enough- they have been sated and feel no need to act on their own behalf beyond that. So as we become a new Cotdelapoms, I call upon every member of the current government to repeat this mantra to themselves every morning when they wake up in order to help us out abroad:

"Power is a blessing if you allow it to be- and maybe there are better people to have power than me, but I have it so why not make the most of it?"

Catchy, no?

*Ideally, however, foreigners will not be made aware of Lâche pas la patate!, a truly baffling game show that could never exist outside of Cotdelapoms- we are people who are seemingly obsessed with the "comedic device" of having two unrelated things happen simultaneously, in this case forcing contestants to both cook and answer pop culture trivia questions in order to win paltry sums of money. All during the prime 8 to 9 pm block.

by **Aels** » Sat Jul 14, 2012 9:43 am

Transport Minister announces overhaul of road system

DRAYFILL— The Aelsh road system is set to undergo its biggest overhaul in 20 years, the Transport Minister has announced.

Matthew Goodwin today set forward his transport white paper, which include plans to build a new motorway linking Goldcliff in Dovershore to Penfro in Pwentshore, and to reform the "confusing" road categorisation system.

Mr Goodwin, the Aelsh Labour Senate member for Cottinghamton, said findings of a Senate transport committee investigation showed that a majority of motorists found the road categories, and road numbering, "extremely cumbersome and confusing".

Shadow Transport Minister Alex Lane (Plaid Ymrau, Dovershore West Council) said the proposals were an "unnecessary waste of taxpayer money."

Mr Lane said that the cost of replacing all existing road signs to change references to the existing road numbering system—in which roads are given a designation based on their class and their location—would have to be paid for from money that could be used for upgrading the national railway system.

The white paper recommends the following changes:

R-class and C(D)-class roads, which are all double-carriageway, to be reclassified as A-class roads, and their speed limits standardised
C-class and R(S)-class roads, which are single-carriageway rural or inter-town roads, to be reclassified as AB-class roads
Speed limits on B-class roads, usually found in built up areas, will be lowered
The requirement that roads be numbered with the first letter of the county will be removed
Upgraded motorways to be numbered using the regular classification system with a (M) denominator
Motorways to be renumbered:
- No change to the M-1N and M-1S motorways
- The Cross-Hilshore Route M-H1 will become the M-2 Great Hilshore Highway
- The East Hilshore Route M-H2 will drop its name and be known as the M-3 Motorway
- The Coastal Highway M-D1 will become the M-4 Coastal Highway
- The South Dovershore Route M-D2 will become the South Dovershore M-5 Motorway
- The Great Pwentshore Highway M-P1 will become the M-6 Great Pwentshore Highway
- The Cross-Pwentshore Motorway M-P2 will drop its name and be known as the M-7 motorway
- The Kermadec–Totting Express M-P22 will become the Kermadec–Totting M-8 Expressway
- The proposed new motorway linking Goldcliff and Penfro will be unnamed and known as the M-9 motorway
- The Drayfill Loop M-H21 will become the M-21 Drayfill Loop
- The Plaidstone Loop M-H22 will become the M-22 Plaidstone Loop
- The Western Route M-D21 will drop its name and be known as the M-41 motorway
- The East Dovershore Link M-D3 will drop its name and be known as the M-42 motorway
- The Quays Link upgraded motorway will, under the new guidelines, become the A-81(M) in Dovershore and A-71(M) in Pwentshore
The environmental toll on vehicles registered in Aels will be extended nationwide, with the cost of the toll raised by up to 500% to 20 to 70 punts a month, with certain vehicular classes paying more

The two Aels Greens senate members have vowed to vote against the legislation, saying that the increase in vehicular tax was not enough to offset the environmental concerns of building a new motorway.

The bill will receive its first reading in the Senate next month, with a second reading the week after.

by **Arcadian Islands** » Sun Jul 15, 2012 9:33 am

Sweet Times Ahead for Cane Farmers

ARCADIAN cane growers are crossing their fingers for fine weather so they can kick off what is being touted as a record harvest for the industry across the archipelago. A sugar cane comeback has been sweeping the islands with thousands of hectares of prime rural land returning to sugar production this year. High sugar prices coupled with the certainty of forward selling has seen many Arcadian farmers drop bananas and cattle grazing to turn to cane growing this year.

Growers on Glasshouse Island were scheduled to be the first to start crushing cane this week, but last week’s rainfall has delayed the harvest for the next few days.

Peak industry body, the Arcadian Canegrowers Association (ACA), has predicted sweeter times ahead for local growers, with chief executive officer Steve Patten claiming the impending harvest was marked by more optimism than seen in a decade. More than 61 million tonnes of cane is expected to be crushed this year, with a production value of R3.4 billion predicted.

ACA deputy chair Marianne Larnier told The Arcadian that cane farmers were feeling positive about the season.
"The crops look really good and the price is better than expected," she said. "It is just a matter of seeing whether this weather is going to be good to us. But everyone is positive and happy to start."

Hunter Island will begin harvesting later this month, and local ACA representative Ethan Wilkie-Watson said spirits were high despite minor flooding last week. "Everyone has got a bit of confidence back into the industry," he said. "Hopefully a dry crushing and a good crop come through and we see a good season." Mr. Wilkie-Watson also said prices were expected to rise slightly, and with a recent drop in the value of the Rum, farmers would come out of the season well.

Mr. Patten commented that the industry had rebounded faster than expected from last year’s ravaging cyclone, and the resurgence was being driven by a market hungry for sugar; "After a decade of doing it tough, all eyes will be on our performance this season," he said.

Cook Island growers are also expected to begin harvesting later this month, followed by Panian Island and Banks Island farmers.

by **Urszag-Csatoria** » Mon Jul 16, 2012 3:33 pm

Greetings, citizens. All Hail Csar Laszlo XVII! Here is the latest bulletin of news information for the peoples of the great Unified Csardom of Urszag-Csatoria form the Administration News Service, approved by the Tanácsadók.

** ** ** ** **

Workers at the Locomotive Works of the State have achieved a great increase in productivity in the last quarter, maintaining production of the new Laszlo Locomotive Mk III at unprecedented levels. Growth continues to accelerate with progress up 17% last quarter after only a 14% increase in working hours. This is surely a great testament to the inspiration given to the workers by our Dear Leader Csar Laszlo XVII - only his vision could inspire the industrious workers of the nation to produce such great works of Urszcsar engineering as the Laszlo Locomotive Mk II at such fevered pace. Workers are being rewarded for their success with a great lunch on Imperial Day.

** ** ** ** **

Workers at the State Mining Cooperative were inspired recently by the news that representatives of the great Csar Laszlo XVII from the Tanácsadók would be accompanying chiefs of the Local Civil Service on tours of the mines at Kőszén-Erdei. Under their watchful eye and with encouragement that the will of our Dear Leader was with them, production of iron ore increased 4%, whilst extraction of coal for the great power stations of the Csardom increased by a commendable 7%. Such efforts are to be applauded, and our national salute goes out to the men who ~~risk their lives~~ earn their living in the mines.

** ** ** ** **

The Peoples' Army were called upon once more to crush the nationalist separatism of the terrorists around Hortobágy that would seek to create their own heathen republic from within our national borders. It is not clear whether the rebel scum had any backing from wealthy international sympathisers, but our own Tanácsadók damned any that would seek to help and oppose the Hortobágy separatist scum, as well as praising the brave men and woman of the Peoples' Army for their crushing and decisive victory over the rebel scum. The 12th Division of the Great Hussars supplemented the offensive by the Peoples' Army, with a 100% casualty rate for the rebels. Let their demise be a lesson to all that the iron fist of Csar Laszlo XVII comes crashing down on any that seek to disrupt the Unified Csardom.

** ** ** ** **

The national football team, in their first ever international tournament, recorded a strong and historic victory in their first ever match of the World Cup*, with a 1-0 win over the hosts and former winners of Inis na Dún. Scorer of the goal and captain of the team Lipot Csalfa was hailed as a national hero after the match, with a decree from the Tanácsadók praising the whole team for their efforts in the name of Csar Laszlo XVII and the Unified Csardom as a whole. Hopes are now high for Domonkos Takács and the rest of the Hussar's campaign in Inis na Dún after showing the might of the Urszcsar citizens in this opening fixture. May they crush all opposition before them and return home bearing the World Cup before them!

** ** ** ** **

*[OOC: The Urszcsar press will be, for what are (hopefully) obvious IC reasons, be presenting the Cuppet as the World Cup to the citizens of Urszag-Csatoria. Also, although these are Cuppet RPs first, and news reports second, I still think they're relevant enough to post here too.]

by **Aels** » Sat Jul 21, 2012 3:57 am

Fifteen trapped in Llanpwll mine shaft collapse

Llanpwll— Part of a mine has collapsed at a copper mine in Pwentshore trapping 15 miners, authorities have confirmed.

Westhoughster and Cramlingdale Fire Service said it was alerted to an incident at the mine at 8:07 a.m. by residents of Llanpwll, a community of around 14,600 people located some 25 km south of Westhoughster.

The company which owns the mine said that the miners' shift had only just begun at 8 am, and that six other miners had managed to escape with injuries after an initial explosion.

Pwentshore Copper and Gold Excavations Ltd said it was setting up a support team to liaise with families and co-ordinate with the East Pwentshore Authority (EPwA) on the rescue effort.

EPwA council leader Cllr Jermaine Price has appointed Westhoughster and Cramlingdale Fire Service chief Captain Hewitt Jones to lead the rescue and recovery efforts, while specialist teams are being sent from the county capital Penfro and the national capital Drayfill.

Capt Jones said: "We believe that the explosion occurred some minutes after 8 a.m., and the last six miners into the mine just moments earlier managed to get out, with injuries.

"Local residents informed East Pwentshore Hospitals of the casualties, and also informed the Westhoughster Police and the Westhoughster and Cramlingdale Fire Service.

"We responded immediately, with the Westhoughster Police arriving on scene at 8:17 a.m. to find a collapsed mine shaft. This information was then relayed to our fire crews, who attended the incident site at 8:25 a.m.

"At this stage we have no definite cause of the explosion. However, we do not believe it safe to undertake an immediate rescue operation."

It is understood that the miners have emergency shelter zones inside the mine, although it is unclear how much food and air is available for the 15 trapped miners.

A statement released by the company said each miner would likely have 45 minutes of emergency oxygen on hand if the oxygen in the mine is depleted.

The two Plaid Ymrau local Aelsh Senate members, Kai Mitchell (Llanpwll) and Kiera Tiwlip (East Pwentshore Authority UAA), have both visited the site of the mine to offer support to affected families and the rescue team.

Chief minister Paul Duncan-Jones has chaired an emergency Cabinet meeting at which the condolences of the government were put on record, while in Ballyfeeaknock the president of Tyneala, Rhonwen Branwen, herself a former Aelsh Senate member for Llanpwll, expressed her shock at the incident.

It is thought that if any of the trapped miners survived the initial explosion and reached a safety zone, they may be able to survive for up to a week if the oxygen levels do not deplete before then.

—Aels Radio Television

by **Socialist States Owen** » Tue Jul 24, 2012 2:11 pm

Energy Minister resignation final straw as general election is called in Eura
A special report by Chief Political Correspondent Lyle Evans in Bastion

Euran Parliament has called another general election just over three years into the second term of Andrew Lafferton's Social Party government, after a vote of no confidence followed Minister of Energy Reginald Brothley resigning in disgrace following allegations regarding his personal life.

Mr Brothley, 41, announced his resignation from his position at the head of the Ministry of Energy two days ago. Brothley's final statement as minister made clear his "deep regret" over "a series of events which have made my position untenable." The series of events in question were the public disclosure by this paper and others of undeniable video evidence, and evidence from correspondence via email, of Brothley using £60,000 of taxpayers money to purchase banned substances and hire prostitutes over a period of only three months last year. He will not be leaving his post as an MP due to today's events, although he will most likely lose his seat at the general election regardless.

Brothley is the third cabinet member to succumb to scandal in six months; combined with the Meffers Pharmaceuticals scandal and a severe decline in the approval rating of PM Andrew Lafferton and his key cabinet ministers, this latest scandal finally prompted the opposition (and a large segment of the government backbenches) to narrowly pass a vote of no confidence in the government this morning. The vote was a landmark in Euran political history as it was conducted in a single morning session and the Social Party, holding a decent majority (1,827 of the 3,000 seats in the House of Members), managed to lose the vote.

A vote of no confidence in the administration of Andrew Lafferton went through narrowly, 1579 aye's to 1392 nay's with only 29 MP's abstaining from the vote. As a result an election will be called and marked to go ahead within three months. In the meantime, Reginald 'Brothel' Brothley has been replaced on an interim basis by newly promoted junior minister Sebastian Clark. The vote of no confidence itself passed thanks to a huge backbench rebellion in the Social Party, led by experienced minister and former Minister of Housing Charles Watervale. 526 of 1,827 Social MP's voted in favour of the vote of no confidence, perhaps suggesting that a good portion of the party is not only outraged by the failure of the current leadership, but also confident of being able to see off the Capital and Liberal parties challenge to complete a term in office.

However, this could prove to be a severe misjudgement. A very poor year for the current leadership will be reflected against the entire party at the polls, meaning this could be the political equivalent of falling on the sword - on the other hand, it could be a pre-emptive move to force the leaders of the Social Party to see off a Capital Party challenge now in case things got worse in the remaining two years of this government's second five year term. Either way, it seemed inevitable that the legitimacy of the current administration would come into question, even from within the party, following a string of public disasters.

Now Mr Lafferton must prepare for what will be a short electoral campaign Emplor's sources suggest that both Lafferton and Capital Party leader Jonathan Crow are already planning their respective campaigns, beginning with trips abroad. Lafferton is likely to head to Swartaz to curry support in the likeminded centre-left neighbours of Mytannion, while Crow is suspected to be preparing for a personal visit to see the leader of Ancharmunn's Laoch ár Dhúchais party, Cahir O'Malley. Meanwhile, Lafferton has confirmed deputy Prime Minister James Tynan will be taking a more advanced role in government until the election so that the leader can campaign. He said in a statement that Tynan "is ready to fill the gaps where I may be unable to carry out certain duties for the next few months."

by **Mapletish** » Sat Jul 28, 2012 5:07 am

OOC : The news below contains several references to places not present in Rushmore,however as present in the Mapletish Alternative Earth.It is considered as Mapletish news as considered as Mapletish is in Rushmore

Mapletish to send 5000 troops to the North-South Refugian Dispute.

Struggait - It has been confirmed as of today afternoon that the Mapletish military is sending 5000 troops in South Refugia's war effort against the North.After a high-profile separation of the late-United Refugian Federation through a legislation by the former members of parliament from the Northern region of Refugia.

The reason for the split was mainly due to the fact that the Northern Regional Government were unhappy at how the annual budget was distributed from the Central Government.The South has been receiving an annual sum of 70% of the national budget as stated in the National Constitution in the Distribution Of Budget Section.

Attempts to amend the segment of the Constitution by the MPs of the Northern Regional Government were rejected,thus bringing the entire case right onto the National Parliament.With the legislation of the separation voted on favour with the South having the rights to receive all of the Monetary Reserves Of United Refugian Federation and all outstanding debts were accounted onto the North. The legislation met with strong opposition from North MPs but the end result was a 51%-50% outcome with the Former URF president voting in favour of the legislation.

One day after the separation of the both regions,the North declared a full-scale war on the South.The South responded by bombing the causeway that connects the North and the South and the raising of the Central Gates to block off any possible attempts of attack on the South.

After a meeting between the two leaders of Mapletish and South Refugia,the Minister Of Defence has promised South Refugia military and monetary support ahead of their N-S Dispute.The first batch of troops will arrive in Mapletish's Overseas Military Support Base in South Refugia by 11pm tonight.

by **Crolacia** » Sat Sep 01, 2012 12:11 pm

Karlssen: More integration in Rushmore

Minister of Foreign and Rushmore Affairs, Enna Karlssen, stated today that ''more integration in Rushmore is needed'' , answering Pernilla Andersdottir, leader of the opposition when she said that ''Rushmore Union would make all the countries poorer and would make a big mess in Rushmore''. Enna Karlssen came up with the idea of Rushmore Union earlier this month which caused a quarrel in the government,when the Greens supported that idea,while half of the Liberal ministers disagreed.

Enna Karlssen

''We want a peaceful, prosperous and united Rushmore. All the countries would benefit from it'', Karlssen said. The idea caused interest in Rushmore too, when some countries answered Karlssen, stating that they wouldn't be joining RU if it's made. ''I really don't see the problem there. It would be better for all countries'', she said. Whilst she supports RU, she disagrees a single RU currency. ''A single currency would make the countries weaker to an economic crisis. If a nation would collapse economically, all of the nations with the single currency would have to bail it out. Single currency would make a domino effect; if a big economy would collapse, all the others would too. A single currency isn't something that I would agree with, but a Rushmore Union is, and I strongly agree with that idea.

We made a poll on the RU idea and polled 5000 citizens. Crolacians seem to agree with the RU (although many citizens are undecided), but the vast majority wouldn't support a single currency. The results:
Would you support the making of Rushmore Union?
Yes- 46%
No- 32%
Undecided- 22%

Would you support a single currency within the Rushmore Union?
Yes- 21%
No- 73%
Undecided- 6%

by **Crolacia** » Tue Sep 04, 2012 6:46 am

GDP rises by 1.4%

The national statistics agency, Statika, revealed today the economic statistics for the 2nd third of the year. The economy (GDP) has grown by 1.4%. The growth is lower than expected,but many think it's because of a dry summer for agriculture. Statika has also revealed the unemployment statistics.

The unemployment has risen by 0.3% and it now stays at 4.6%. Unemployment has been lowering since the start of the summer tourist season but it now rises because the summer is almost over. The expected growth of the unemployment was 0.6%, but it seems that the government's investments and subsidies are starting to pay off.

"We are happy with the results", Prime Minister Jakob Vinkosson said today. "The unemployment did rise, but not by 0.6% as the economic experts thought. GDP has also grown and that is good but I really want to see the growth of 2% at the end of the year. We must work hard with our and foreign investors and try to lower the unemployment to 4% also to the end of the year." This results will probably add to the popularity of the two ruling parties, Liberals and Greens. In the polls. Citizens are satisfied with the statistics and that could be crucial to the upcoming elections in December.

by **Ancharmunn** » Wed Sep 05, 2012 5:02 pm

The Voice

Seanad set to vote in new president

The impasse over selecting who should replace Rhonwen Brynwen as president of Tyneala finally looks set to be resolved following months of deadlock. Brynwen, whose term officially ended in December of last year has remained in office whilst the parliament of Ancharmunn has procrastinated over choosing her successor.

With the Dáil Tearmann having finally named it's presidential candidates Brynwen can finally look to retire from the presidency, after which she is expected inaugurated into the Council of Advisers, the upper house of parliament in Aels.

The process of deciding a head of state in Tyneala alternates between it's two constituent states, Aels and Ancharmunn. The standard term for a president stands at five years, though the process for selecting who to fill the role is left to the individual nations, leading to the delay in Ancharmunn naming a replacement. It is understood that confusion has reigned through the Charmunnry parliament over which process to follow.

With the parliament in Ballyfeeaknock set to go on a summer long recess in the coming days an emergency meeting was to be held on the matter. A late night sitting of the Dáil Tearmann however has seen the process for electing the next president and further presidents set out. Presidential candidates may be nominated by members within the Dáil, with the upper house of parliament, the Seanad Tearmann then having the duty to elect them.

With the President of Tyneala being a largely ceremonial position with little to no affect on policy it is also thought that members of the Dáil opposed to the presidency had been seeking to delay any position in the hope of dragging the matter on long enough for the entire office to be dropped.

The presidency however remains safe, at least for now which the Dáil having nominated three candidates. Predictably the three candidates mirror the three parties to have seats in Ancharmunn's government. The three candidates are;

Teague Healy, nominated by the governing Labour Party – Best known as the chairman of the organising committee of the ninth Handball World Cup, which was hosted in Ancharmunn. The event was largely seen as a success, though Healy's running of it wasn't without criticism. An apparent desire for controversial incidents in a bid for him to be seen more didn't exactly endear him, whilst some of the businessess he chose to associate the tournament with had questionable backgrounds.

Colm Pritchard-O'Higgins, nominated by Laoch ár Dhúchais – With a mixed Charmunnry-Aelsh heritage many would say Pritchard-O'Higgins has the perfect background to be the head of state for the two nations. He is however staunchly unionist, to the point of insisting that Aels and Ancharmunn do not exist and that only Tyneala does.

Dónal Ó Ruaidhín, nominated by Páirtí na n-Gaedheal – With his party largely restricted to the Gaelic speaking county of Na Hoileáin Órga between Ancharmunn and Ossidiacqua, Ó Ruaidhín lacks the profile necessary for president in his own nation let alone in Aels. By some distance the outsider.

Rather predictably the number of nominations for the three candidates largely adhered to the number of seats of the three parties has in the Dáil. Were the Dáil's say final it would be Healy succeeding Brynwen as president. However, given that the Seanad is largely free of members from within the political parties a far more open race is expected. The Seanad is expected to elect the next president of Tyneala upon it's return from recess at the end of summer.

by **Crolacia** » Fri Sep 07, 2012 2:59 pm

Parliament adopts Citizens' Privacy Act

Crolacian Parliament voted and by a vast majority adopted Citizens' Privacy Act, which will ensure bigger and better privacy rights for all citizens of Crolacia. The Act was accepted by a vast majority of MPs. 179 voted 'Aye', 17 voted 'Nay' and 4 abstained. The Act is praised by civil rights organizations and Green Party will probably gain some percentages in the polls because of proposing it. The Act is also accepted by citizens, who are proud Crolacia has a law like this one; rare in Rushmore and in world.

Crolacian Parliament

Citizens' Privacy Act forbids police to investigate a citizens' homes and search their personal data. From now on, personal data in the police dept. will be viewable only to a small number of people, to insure no one forges data of citizens. Citizens' Privacy Inspection will be founded to investigate all bodies that have access to personal data of citizens. Personal data of citizens will be brief; it will just have basics needed for police. Police will not be able to monitor citizens or their homes and will not be able to monitor their phone calls.

This bill also forbids government or a private company to use implants, notably Radio-frequency identification (RFID), on humans, animals, clothing, luggage, cars or any other things to ensure privacy of all citizens and stop monitoring and control of people. A recent survey showed that 96% of Crolacians are against RFID chips. This bill forbids use of the mentioned chips and as that is supported by the citizens. There are many more things in this bill that support and defend privacy rights. The Citizens' Privacy Act comes to force September 10th.

by **Ancharmunn** » Sun Sep 09, 2012 11:02 am

The Voice

Pritchard-O'Higgins voted in as next Tynealan president

The long running delay to the ascension of Tyneala's next president has finally come to an end following the Seanad Tearmann having elected Laoch ár Dhúchais nominee, Colm Pritchard-O'Higgins, as the nation's next head of state.

The Labour nominee, Teague Healy, had gone into the vote as the slight favourite due to his backing party's majority of the Charmunnry parliament. The former Handball World Cup Committee Organising Committee chairman however looks to have paid the price for his controversial handling of that tournament with the Seanad having instead voted in the Tynealan nationalist with 46 votes to Healy's 41. Páirtí na n-Gaedheal's outsider Dónal Ó Ruaidhín meanwhile tallied 13 votes.

Born and raised in Porthmageed in the north-eastern borderlands to a Aelsh mother and Charmunnry father Pritchard-O'Higgins was put forward by his party as a president whose background could exemplify the union between the two Tynealan constituent states. However his strong unionist stance to the point that he refuses to recognise Aels and Ancharmunn as separate entities make him a controversial choice for devolutionists and Aelsh and Charmunnry nationalists across the union.

Whilst nominally elected for a five year term, there remains some debate as to how long Pritchard-O'Higgins will remain in office. A significant amount of speculation has suggested that Pritchard-O'Higgins's term could be cut short in order to keep the terms of presidency to their previously scheduled dates. Should that happen Pritchard-O'Higgins could be replaced by an Aelsh elected president in four and a half years time. The Tyneala Legislature however insists that any such decisions remain to be discussed and made at a point in the future.

by **Sargossa** » Fri Oct 05, 2012 8:46 am

SSM | Sargossan State Media
International Edition

President Announces Succession Plans

Gonzalo Pereira reports from Soluca;

Today President Joaquín Delgado announced the start of a six month period of ‘transitional succession’ as he prepares to hand the reins of power to the man now confirmed as his chosen successor.

That man is Gregorio Emparán who, in recent years, has effortlessly advanced from his role as a talented administrator within the Defence Ministry to become the youngest full general in Sargossan history and one of the President’s closest advisors. Emparán’s full ascension into the inner circle was completed last year with his marriage to Adriana Delgado, daughter of the President.

‘It’s a very good move.’ Professor Jaime Nieto, political analyst and lecturer at the University of Torreón, confirmed. ‘The Delgado years have seen unprecedented growth for this country but both they and he can’t last forever. He recognises that and is making the change at an opportune time. And Emparán has already proven himself in a number of high profile posts as a skilled administrator who isn’t afraid to make the tough decisions when necessary.’

The coming months will see a staggered transfer of power from President Delgado to his son-in-law, while General Emparán will be spending time appointing his replacement at the Colonial Ministry while discerning the structure of his wider government. Because in six months’ time Gregorio Emparán will become one of the most powerful men in all of Rushmore.

Viva El Presidenté.

by **Crolacia** » Fri Oct 05, 2012 1:47 pm

In Memoriam Concert for Southern Flegavia

A in memoriam concert for Southern Flegavia was held last evening in Crolacia's capital, Springfield. The concert was held due to a massive earthquake that caused mess in Southern Flegavia and killed thoudsans of people. The countries affected by it are heavily damaged and Crolacia decided to hold a in memoriam concert for all killed and all damaged.

The yesterday's heart-touching concert

Concert lasted for 3 big hours, with many famous Crolacian artists performing, such as Erina Garlan, Jella, Leticia Rushden, Nitta and others. The earthquake caused all FNU (Flegavian Nations Union) nations to withdraw from all international events, such as 23rd edition of WorldVision. Telephone lines were mantained during the concert to raise money and send it to the damaged nations.

Crolacians have proved they have a big heart; they raised 12 million NS$ in one evening! The phones were ringing for the whole night and the atmosphere at the concert was really heart-touching. Crolacian government decided to send additional 30 million NS$ to the damaged nations. So, Crolacia will send around 42 million NS$ to all nations damaged in the shocking earthquake.

by **Carmadin** » Sat Oct 06, 2012 5:59 pm

Suppose I'd better post this, even though it's quite a few IC years old

Chahr, Carmadin- After years of ridiculous digraphs and ligatures, Carmadin has a new standard alphabet. While this one is quite complicated as well, we know that our complication-loving nation will happily embrace the new alphabet as yet another item that is a hallmark of our unique culture. Joyn oh Ahlt, head linguist at the Carmadin Linguistics center, issued a statement yester day about the new language:

[quote=Joyn oh Ahlt]
Allt deild okkar, og reyndar allt tungumála sent hefur verið spennt til að vinna þetta, út nýja opinbera stafrófinu þjóðarinnar. Við höfum eytt vikum vinna að því að tryggja að sérhver hljóð er nákvæmlega fulltrúa með staf í stafrófinu, til að tryggja að það er eins einfalt og Carmadese getur verið.[/quote]

Unfortunately, Mr Ahlt spoke all in Icelandic, so we had to bring in a team of translators to decode what he'd said. It seems this is one of the hazards of working with linguists, but, anyhow, Mr Ahlt said:

[quote=Joyn oh Ahlt]
Our entire department, and indeed the whole linguistic center, has been thrilled to work on this, out nation's new official alphabet. We've spent weeks working to ensure that every sound is accurately represented by a single letter in the alphabet, to ensure that it is as simple as Carmadese can be.[/quote]

There you are then, we have a new alphabet to use, and the Carmadese papers will begin printing in it ASAP, I belive. Here is our new alphabet:
Letter   Previous Sound


Ää       aeh
Ŏŏ       oh
Åå        aw
Œœ     oy
Ōō       oo
Uu       uh
Èè       eh
Ǔǔ      ow
Ēē       ee
Ìì         ih
Éé       ay
Ǝǝ      auh
Ưư       ur
Íí         iy
Āā       ah/aa
Óó       o
Üü       yu

Ww     w
Ʃʃ       sh
Jj        j
Mm     m
Tt       t
Ʒʒ      zh
Rr       r
Xx       ks
Gg       g
Nn      n
Çç      ch
Dd      d
Pp      p
Zz      z
Qq     kh
Ll      l
Ŋŋ    ng
Kk    k
Ff    f
Þþ   th
Ss    s
Hh   h
Bb    b

by **Pasceaux** » Fri Oct 12, 2012 5:22 pm

LTN Pasceaux
Télévésion Paso
터러떠숀파소

Pasceaux - Pasceaux High School East Advanced Choir is preparing for a tour through Rushmore:
Jean Tchui (제안 뀌)
Ana Dal (아나 달)
Louis Uin (르잇 윈)
Jacumo Dal (자쿠모 달)
Guelemo Tchui (궤레로 뀌)
Guelemo Gaf (궤레로 값)
Izabel Tchui (이싸벨 뀌)
Louis Jagl (르잇 잙)

by **Aels** » Mon Nov 05, 2012 11:22 am

Developing story: Multiple trains involved in 'massive accident' outside Longhoughster
Longhoughster— At least three trains are thought to be involved in a major accident near Longhoughster Wakeside station this morning.

Witnesses on the ground are describing scenes of total confusion amid mangled wreckage and a burning fire, with many people feared dead.

It is understood that the 21:45 CrossAels Trains overnight service from Ballyfeeaknock Central to Drayfill West Bay, a service usually run by 14-coach trains, is one of the three vehicles involved in the incident.

CrossAels Trains confirmed that it had lost radio contact with one of its trains, but refused to specify the service.

Northern Railways separately said it believed its 07:15 Fishwick South to Chadderster service was also involved in the crash, adding that it had advance booking details for 314 passengers on board although more people were likely to have bought tickets at Fishwick South this morning.

No other train operator has issued a statement saying one of their passenger trains was involved in the crash, raising the possibility that a cargo service was involved.

The accident took place just before 8 am, with the weather said to have been foggy, possibly obscuring drivers' views.

The Labour parliamentarian for Longhoughster, James Barnard ASM, is expected to visit the crash site later today with deputy chief minister Padrig Parry. Chief minister Paul Duncan-Jones, currently abroad on a private trip, is expected to return to Aels tomorrow.

Sources in Ancharmunn say it is likely that Charmunnry representatives will also visit the incident scene when appropriate, as a number of Charmunnry would be expected to be on board the cross-Tyneala service.

—Aels Radio Television

by **Aels** » Fri Nov 09, 2012 5:38 am

(OOC: ICly, this piece was reported in the Welsh-language Stiwdio Newyddion Tirelyrch, but it is being presented here in English for obvious reasons.)

Looking for answers as death count tops 125
LONGHOUGHSTER— As disaster rescue morphs into disaster recovery after the largest vehicular loss of life in the history of the Celtic Union, questions continue to be asked about what caused Tuesday morning's accident at Longhoughster Wakeside.

We now know that Monday's 9.45pm CrossAels Ballyfeeaknock to Drayfill service, carrying nearly 1100 passengers, was the main cause of the disaster.

Signallers at Wakeside station attempted radio contact with the driver of the train – now believed to be dead although his body has not been identified – at 7.56am after they noticed he passed a red signal at high speed shortly after departing Platform Four.

The train was to have been held at the signal to allow the delayed Northern Railways train from Fishwick South safe passage into the adjacent Platform Three.

The head-on collision was inevitable, though no-one could have forseen the back carriage of the Northern train derailing onto another track where it was smashed into by an empty cargo train passing through Wakeside.

After all the carnage, with bodies still being found by the hour and the known death toll now in three digits – including all three train drivers – questions remain unanswered and may never be fully known.

Chief among them, of course, was why did the CrossAels driver pass the red signal, and why did signallers not contact both trains – not just the CrossAels train?

And could Wakeside – a relatively small station with just five platforms – be better designed to ensure trains moving in each direction do not have adjacent platforms?

Chief minister Paul Duncan-Jones faces a massive test of leadership in the wake of the disaster. Already he has appointed Matthew Goodwin ASM, the Cabinet Minister for Transport, to lead an inquiry into the disaster. Mr Goodwin has approached his Charmunnry counterpart to jointly lead the inquiry, as at least seven of those killed lived in Maernoffa^*.

Grieving families have barely had time to come to terms with the news that they have lost a loved one. But the country – all of Tirelyrch^† – needs answers.

And the only way to get answers is to start the investigation now.

*Aels Welsh name for Ancharmunn (An Tearmann – Mae'r Noddfa)
†Aels Welsh name for Tyneala

by **Crolacia** » Fri Nov 23, 2012 4:40 pm

Elections are close; analysts predict close results; a Labour-Green fight?

Elections are very close. The pre-election campaign is heating up, with Labour and Conservative leaders bashing each other. Analysts predict that this elections will be closest in generations. Labour made some good moves, but Conservatives can still bash them in other things. But what about smaller parties? It is expected that Greens will make a biggest gain in this elections because of their transparent politics and good bills. It's really early to say how will other small parties be. But at the end it all comes down to the election day.

Mina Hretstund, Green Party leader

Meanwhile, sources close to the Greens and Labours are claiming that there has been a fight between Mina Hretstund and Jakob Vinkosson. Labours and Greens are together in the government and were having great relations during their term. Political coalitions are, by Crolacia's constitution, possible only after the election results to form a government, but not before the elections, which means that every party is running by itself. The fight was allegedly started when PM Vinkosson wanted to impose some of his policies before the ones from the Greens. Mina Hretstund then, allegedly started to argue with him which ended by Vinkosson hunging up. But then again, nothing is sure and this might be false information. But it may also be the truth. Seems like Mina Hretstund wants to become Crolacia's new Prime Minister.

Conservatives are, on the other side, campaigning well throught Crolacia and spreading their manifesto. Parties on right side of our political spectrum are expected to have a small gain, especially the Independence Party since their members were guests in many talk shows commenting the new Rushmori Union that Foreign Minister has been talking about. Conservatives are campaigning against Labour economic policies which brought us a recession of -1.9 and -2.2 in 2009 and 2010. Conservatives can also point finger at the government for raising national debt as well as deficit. But, Labours can be happy about what they did. They lowered the unemployment from 7.3% to 4.6% and had a positive GDP growth of 1.2% and 1.4% in 2011 and 2012 (Q3). It's going to be a close election.

Rushmore Press Association Newswire (Closed | Rushmore)

Rushmore Press Association Newswire (Closed | Rushmore)

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