  |
Sleeping on a volcano, says VOGG
|
August is renowned for the lack of political activity, at least in most parts of the world. But here on The Rock, it's 'business as usual', notes the VOGG.
They add: There have been disruptions at the frontier since the beginning of the month, with no signs of it abating. Then, the Guardia Civil's incursion into Gibraltar Harbour and now, the Chief Minister 'disturbs' his repose for 'preparatory' talks at a secret location; secret for some, Malaga for others.
Except for a few 'politically-correct' words from the Chamber of Commerce, GFSB and TGWU, at the outset of the problems at the border, all the Gibraltarians have heard, on the matter, is the Government's deputy leader, Joe Holliday, singing the praises for the "Tripartite Forum', which enabled him to phone the Palacio de Santa Cruz, directly (sic). That nobody at the MAE can confirm this does not seem to be of any material consequence to the powers that be. Every day that passes, it appears that the rhetoric of the 'new climate' is nothing more than a process of 'thought reform' (as Mao Tse - tung would call it), but, 'brainwashing' in any other language.
The VOGG add: With all the talk of a possible (or probable) airport agreement in the autumn, The VOGG has heard from a very reliable source, that a few days ago, two Spaniards were observed photographing the airfield's crash - gate at Eastern Beach. When asked their purpose, they replied that it was in connection with the 'forthcoming deal'.
This together with the Chief Minister's sudden departure, with the now customary minimum detail announced, are the type of occurrences that create speculation, scepticism and outright mistrust on The Rock. So much for transparency and accountability, so regularly vaunted by this administration.
After nearly a year of the 'new climate', the Spaniards, rhetoric aside, maintain their position on sovereignty, with everything else conditional on the advancement of their claim. The UK, for its part, has not abandoned its 'Spanish Dimension" solution, but 'allows' the Gibraltar and Spanish Governments to 'get on with it'. The Chief Minister, 'a man for all seasons', in the meantime, uses all his political and diplomatic attributes to square the circle. This may well be lauded by his sycophants, but more and more people now consider his stance as a rear - guard action, which can only lead to a 'callej?n sin salida'.
Under the circumstances and unless the F&CO resumes bilateral talks with the MAE, The VOGG is considering putting its anti-UK protests on hold. However, it will not stand idly by during these testing times. If and when it is deemed appropriate it will relocate to 6 Convent Place, on matters relating to 'the talks' and to the House of Assembly on the Constitutional Reforms' issue.
Once again The VOGG reiterates, with the fullest conviction and understanding of the situation, based on exhaustive research, that there is a tremendous 'mal de fondo' on the street and the Government would be wise to take heed of such feelings. "We are sleeping on a volcano... Do you not see that the earth trembles anew?" (Alexis de Tocqueville), says the statement from Paul TUNBRIDGE / Jim WATT, Spokesmen.
|
|
|
|
