Contents Winter 2017
The sad passing of Allison Wilson, art teacher at HMP Magilligan for more than 26 years, has a bearing on patrons of the arts. Patronage originated during the Roman Empire when a Roman citizen was granted the role of protector (patronus) of a foreigner settled in Rome and endowed with private sponsorship. Notable early patrons included Gregory the Great and the Medici family A lesser known 20th century poet patron with Irish ancestry was John ‘Jack’ Sweeney, the patron of the Woodbury Poetry Room at Harvard University. So, what is the relevance to those connected to prison?
Patronage persists both in its public and private endowments, yet many artists receive nominal or no support. Allison Wilson epitomised the individual patron. She was dedicated to encouraging prisoners and must be commended. The Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) as a patron with Staff and Board of Directors, actively implement and realise the importance of the role that enables the production of art. PAF are unusual in this respect as active patrons and we value their advocacy. The patron recognises the talents of the artist and provides support to foster creativity.
In this spirit of patronage, I wish to thank Governor Gary Milling for his continued support of PAF Residencies involving the arts in prison. I want to commend the contribution from prisoners, Service Providers, and Prison Staff in the atmosphere which supports TimeIn
Features in this issue include Child Centred Visits, an interview with Holocaust survivor Martin Stern, Fingerprint Learning, homophobia in prison, IT future predictions, as well as our poetry, reviews, and PAF mentoring updates while the Creative Writing Group in 2017 excelled gaining 12 Koestler Trust Awards, and Paddy Nash’s Music Class gained 5 Awards.
John Steinbeck said ‘that a great teacher is a great artist [and] might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit’. He would have undoubtedly included Allison Wilson as great teacher, great artist, great friend, and a great patron of the arts.
This is our Christmas edition, and I respectfully offer season’s greetings to celebrate our many cultures and traditions.
Pamela Mary Brown
Brain Fit Learning Future Predictions
Koestler Awards
Yoga & Stress Management
PAF Mentoring
Paddy Nash New Album
Homophobia in Prison The Holocaust
RE: RISE IN TOBACCO PRICES (SUMMER 2017 ISSUE)
Dear TimeIn,
I have little sympathy for the plight of smokers in prison. I think the authorities should ban smoking completely. Not only is passive smoking a serious health issue but it is inconsistent with policy in other government establishments. By permitting prisoners to smoke they encourage addictive behaviours and facilitate criminality by using tobacco as currency. Gambling and extortion would be far more difficult, and the air far sweeter.
I think the writer has forgotten that he is in a prison when he bemoans only receiving £11 of the taxpayers’ hard-earned money. To describe money given to prisoners as wages is ridiculous; it’s a hand-out. While there is a need for some prisoners to receive this subsistence allowance to let them buy some basics it should be regarded as a privilege, not a right.
BASIC MEANS BOREDOM
Dear TimeIn,
Recently I was dropped to Basic for misconduct. No problem! But it left me worse off in a lot of ways, like taking other substances and getting into trouble. Not caring about nothing I gave up looking after myself physically. Basic means boredom and it takes away any routine or structure a prisoner has. It means losing all your privileges: gym, wages cut to £4.00 a week, and loss of TV during the day. This creates two problems; it affects a prisoner’s mental health and turns them to other substances.
In a survey, we asked ten prisoners, if they got the gym everyday would they stop taking other substances, get addicted to training and look after themselves? Eight out of the ten said yes. On a bigger scale, the results would be the same. I know from personal experience this would work and give prisoners an option, instead of free time to misbehave.
WELL, MY OLD DARK PASSENGER
Everyone has that guy who would try to steer you into the dark-side of life. Yes, this life is hell. Yes, a kick-ass ride where life just flies by. That Dark Passenger is the weakness in your mind! That silent noise that says ‘let’s skip the gym and watch the match with a beer, I’ll just stay for a pint or two’. Then as that last pint is running down, sure enough the Dark Passenger strikes again. In no time, you’re drunk and making mistake after mistake. The
Dark Passenger has had his way. The destruction starts to unravel itself and your messages are packed with hate because the Dark Passenger has taken over.
In my mind, the Dark Passenger has won. My wife, so sad. My family are glad that the Dark Passenger never took over completely. They’ve known so many taken away by the crazy Dark Passenger. If only that Dark Passenger would make a compromise and help me out, maybe even let me do something different for once.
I’ve got it. Hey, Dark Passenger I’m saying goodbye. You’ve had twenty years, it’s time to let you go. You’ve taken so much. Let me drive in peace. I want to take you over, bye and see ya. Even only for a little while let go of my side and let me drive in peace. At last, I’m free. I’ve lasted a while and the strength comes back to my body. I feel proud. I’m seeing things ahead ok now and I’m having a great drive. I stop at the lights. I see a sign ‘happy hour’.
Aahh, no, I don’t want to drive. Let’s go, Dark Passenger, back to the madness. I struggle to drive. I’m beaten again. Please Dark Passenger leave me alone. You’ve beaten me. Please give up this fight. Please give me a break. I just want to find another way. It’s been over sixty years now. Please, Dark Passenger, stop for a break. My family all gone now. Please let me go, even for just awhile. I can’t afford to drink. My pension money just doesn’t last. Please, I beg you, I have nothing left. Let me go, but I know you’re with me to the end. I truly hate you.
Yours Forever,
The Dark Passenger >> MN
Dr John Kelly has been piloting a programme aimed at helping older prisoners become more active inside, both physically and mentally. Time In interviewedDr Kelly regarding his work >> AF
What is Fingerprint Learning?
When they first hear about it, a lot of prisoners and prison staff think it has something to do with fingerprinting! In fact it refers to the fact that our brains are ‘wired’ to learn in ways that are more individual than the education system caters for. The complexity of each brain is more unique than our fingerprints.
What inspired you to develop the programme?
I am a medical doctor who got involved in education about thirty years ago. I found that young people who did not thrive in the education system often had ‘learning styles’ that schools did not cater for. Once I had the chance to arrange for them to be taught according to the individual ‘grain’ of their brains we saw their self-esteem and achievement turn around within months.
Is it available to all prisoners?
When Governor Treacy became governing Governor in Magilligan, he invited me to deliver the programme to volunteers. This has been a pilot programme but it has also been rolled out in Maghaberry and Hydebank.
How do prisoners go about getting involved?
To this point we have worked with volunteers. It will be up to the prison authorities to decide whether to give the opportunity to a wider group of inmates in the future.
Does the programme work for everyone? What evidence is there of the successes of ‘whole brain’ learning?
Yes it does. Over the past ten years we have demonstrated it raises self-esteem and self-awareness in learners as well as overcoming barriers to learning that may have been ingrained when younger.
What’s unique about Fingerprint Learning ?
Our workshops actually take the time to explain how the brain learns rather than just being used as a tick list or diagnostic sheet to be filled in for an education assessment.
Unfortunately, in terms of day to day teaching, education has not caught up with what Fingerprint Learning is seeking to do. We still have a one-size-fits-all approach in schools. Although the brain is the main organ in the body that teachers work with, educators are taught almost nothing about how it learns. Understanding the role of the brain in learning is an ongoing area of research.
If you’re interested in getting involved with Fingerprint Learning, make sure to speak to SO Jeff McNally in PDU.
ACTIVITYTRACKERS
As part of the pilot scheme some prisoners were issued with wearable activity trackers. These digital devices record the number of steps taken in a day, the calories burned, distance travelled, and even quality of sleep!
“Ihaveenjoyedthechallengethatthe trackers bring. Me and many of the menonthelandingencourageeachothertoreachour goalsandwhenit’srainingwewalkupanddownthe wingtoachieveourtargets.Icanseemyprogresssince MayandcanidentifyperiodswhenIwasstressed.The trackerhasbeena usefultoolinmylifeinside.”
FUTURE PREDICTIONS
TimeIndecided to look at fantastical future predictions as given by Dr Robert M. Goldman in 2017. Welcome to the Exponential Age >> AF
Digital Cameras: In 1998 Kodak had 170,000 employees and sold 85% of photo paper worldwide. Within a few years they went bankrupt. Most mobile phones are a smartphone. Who needs a camera?
Artificial Intelligence: ‘Watson’, AI developed by IBM, can give basic legal advice with 90% accuracy. It helps nurses diagnose cancer x4 more accurately. Facebook has software that can identify faces better than humans. By 2030 computers will be more intelligent than humans.
3D Printing: Airplane parts are 3D printed in remote airports. The space station has a printer to create spare parts that are out of this world! Smartphones will soon have 3D scanning possibilities to create your perfect shoe. In China, they have already 3D printed a complete 6-storey office building. By 2027 10% of everything produced will be 3D printed.
Health: Medical devices will work on phones. They will scan your retina, your blood, and your breath. 54 biomarkers can identify almost every disease. It will be inexpensive. Everyone on the planet will have access to world-class medicine, potentially for free.
Agriculture: There will be a $100 agricultural robot in the future. Farmers in Third World countries will become managers of fields instead of working them. Laboratory produced veal is cheaper than cow veal. Insect protein contains more protein than meat.
Longevity: The average life span increases by 3 months per year. Four years ago, life span was 79 years, now it’s 80. By 2036 there will be more than one year increase per year.
Work: 70-80% of traditional jobs will disappear within 20 years. It is not clear if there will be enough corresponding new jobs created within that time.
Bitcoin: the digital currency will become mainstream this year and may become the default reserve currency.
Education: The cheapest smartphones cost $10 in Africa and Asia. In 2020 70% of humans will own a smartphone, providing access to education for everyone.
Apps: ‘Moodies’ tell which mood you are in and by 2020 apps will reveal by your facial expressions if you are lying.
In the future, if it doesn’t work with your phone, forget the idea.
Autonomous Cars: In 2018 the first self-driving cars will be available. Soon you won’t own a car; you will call a car. It will arrive at your location and drive to your destination. Our kids won’t need a driver’s licence. We will need 90-95% fewer cars. 1.2 million people die each year in car accidents. With self-driving cars that figure will drop significantly. The current car insurance model will disappear.
Uber: the software giant that doesn’t own cars but is the biggest car sharing company in the world. Traditional taxi firms have disappeared since its launch.
Real estate: If you work while you commute, people will move further from cities to live in more beautiful neighbourhoods. Airbnb is the biggest hotel company worldwide but don’t own any properties.
Koestler Trust Exhibition Launch
20 September 2017
The Koestler Trust annual exhibition celebrated its 10th anniversary in the Royal Festival Hall in the Southbank Centre, London. Anthony Gormley, sculptor best known for his ‘Angel of the North’, curated the exhibition which was titled ‘Inside’.
The selected artworks were produced by detainees in prisons, secure hospitals, and immigration removal centres and also ex-offenders in the community.
HMP Magilligan gained 17 awards: 3 silver, 3 bronze, 4 highly commended, 6 commended, and a first time entrant award (see pages 15-17). The awards were granted over many categories: singer-song writing, sculpture, screenplay, graphic design, flash fiction and short story, longer fiction and novel, anthology, poetry collections, and individual poem
The awards, when first established in 1962 by HungarianBritish author and journalist Arthur Koestler, had around 200 entries. This year’s awards were selected from over 7,000 submissions.
Sally Taylor, Chief Executive speaking at the launch in September said, ‘there is immense creativity among the prison population’. Taylor added, ‘that at a time when there are many pressures on prison resources, the arts can have a transformative impact and can change lives for prisoners, for families, and for people in the community.’ Taylor also acknowledged the work done by artists and arts organisations in prisons.
Rab Butler, the Home Secretary, opened the very first Koestler Trust exhibition. Following in his predecessor’s footsteps, Sam Gyimah MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Justice, opened this year’s exhibition. Mr Gyimah said that ‘the arts have a huge role to play in terms of rehabilitation.’ He added, ‘we want prisons to be places of reform,’ and explained that while 1 in 2 prisoners reoffend, the chances of reoffending while engaged with arts in prison is greatly reduced. He concluded, ‘this cannot be underestimated and putting arts at the centre of what we do makes a huge difference.’
Shân Maclennan, Creative Director at the Southbank Centre, said at the opening that ‘in the arts, be it music, poetry, visual arts, we are all people first; all you ever are is a person. Art is a great equaliser.’
Anthony Gormley noted his reason for accepting the invitation to curate the exhibition: ‘I wanted to celebrate a great resource: the imaginations of over 95,000 prisoners currently in the UK.’ Koestler wanted art in prison to be appraised and rewarded outside the prison system. Thanks to the Koestler Trust this precedent continues today >> PB
Obituaries • Allison Wilson • Steve Davis
‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is a much loved Christmas movie about a suicidal man who is shown what life would have been like if he had never existed. He realises that even though he lives in a small town he has made the world a better place.
On 28th September 2017 Allison Wilson lost her fight to cancer. She had been teaching Art at Magilligan prison for over 26 years. Allison made a difference to many lives. Her GCSE and A level results were outstanding and this year she came into work in pain so that her students could finish their work and get the best grades possible. She inspired, advised, and helped many to progress to full-time education. She was passionate about Art, making many students realise they had a talent. She would listen to problems and offer advice. She really cared about people and this is why she was loved so much.
Allison had a ‘A WONDERFUL LIFE’ and should be an inspiration to us all. >> IL
TimeIn wishes to covey a special acknowledgment to HMP Maghaberry governor Stephen Davis who sadly passed away after a short illness.
Aged 55, Governor Davis worked for the Prison Service for more than three decades and served as governor of the Maze, Magilligan, Hydebank Wood and Maghaberry. Mr Davis joined the Northern Ireland Prison Service in 1985, initially serving as assistant governor of Crumlin Road Gaol.
Fred Caulfield, Director of Prison Arts Foundation (PAF), an associate of Governor Davis, said:
‘I would like to convey how saddened I was to hear that Steve Davis had passed away.
I was really privileged to have worked with him in various prisons during my years in the NIPS.
Steve was an asset to the Prison Service as a whole and his knowledge and experience will be greatly missed. On behalf of the Prison Arts Foundation we would like to express our sincere sympathy to Steve's family.
On a personal note I would like to express how devastated I was to hear of the passing of Allison Wilson. I knew she was unwell but really hoped that she would get better. I had received a text from her a few weeks before her passing and I was looking forward to meeting up with her to have a chat and a coffee but sadly this was not to be.
I came in contact with Allison shortly after joining the Prison Arts Foundation and she was extremely helpful to me within the area of Art. Allison, on several occasions in her own time, helped me to organise and set up art exhibitions for which I was really thankful. Her talents in art shone through the pupils in her classes in Magilligan Prison and some of them have
Steve was always a supporter of the work of the Prison Arts Foundation because he could see the benefits it delivered in each of the prison establishments. I will always remember him.’
progressed into the community and continue with their art through PAF. I am really disappointed that I did not get a chance to thank her or say goodbye. On behalf of the Prison Arts Foundation and me personally I would like to offer our sincere sympathy to Allison's family.
Fred Caulfield, Prison Arts Foundation
Governor Steve Davis
Allison Wilson
Yoga will improve your health and help your immune system and strengthen it. The word “yoga” means experiencing oneness mind and body. It’s a system of exercises practised to promote control of the body and mind.
In prison people work out with weights or go to the gym which is good for getting fit, but it doesn’t always relax or heal in the way some people need.
Meditation can help us discover our “innerself”… who we really are. There are many different types of yoga and meditation, so finding the one that suits you is key. Remember, this is not a rigorous work-out but a gentle exercise for your mind and body. It allows us to train our consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquillity.
Some of the benefits include gaining control over our active minds, releasing tension, relaxing nerves, gaining a stronger will, and maintaining an inner balance. Each pose is only held for a number of seconds, just be still…and relax. Concentrate on the breath. Everything starts to work properly, from the glands, to the nervous system, to you.
One of the first things people notice after practice is feeling refreshed afterwards, and later this deepens into a change of attitude… until finally you receive a flash of knowing who you really are. In Eastern philosophy this is called “seeing your own nature”. Everyone with a yoga/meditation practice is on the path bringing the mind home, away from distraction… being in the present… NOW!
Monks and Nuns, as well as prisoners, have ‘homes’ called cells. When a person chooses to go to a cell they want time for silence and self-reflection. They want time to get closer to understanding… and people in prison have indeed ‘chosen’ in their own way, to take ‘time-out’ away from society. It’s just coming to terms with it; “I’m here of my own doing” sort of thing.
Meditation can be in many different forms music, sounds of nature i.e. waterfalls or whale or dolphin songs/sounds. It can be eyes open or closed. A mantra can be used, focus on heartbeat, focus on breathing etc.
Benefits include releasing tension, relaxing nerves, gaining a stronger will and maintaining an inner balance.
For thousands of years meditators have known that we all have an inner power. If we allow it to heal body and mind by sitting in silence we can change our lives, but we have to do that for ourselves. When we work with our breath, we are working with the life-force itself. This is both powerful and sacred. Meditation is very simple.
First silence the body by moving into the right position. Then silence the mind through focus on the breath… as for yoga itself, you’d have to check what suits you.
There are Books, CDs and DVDs in the prison library.
But what you will ultimately find will be inside yourself the ‘real’ you >> SC
Try It
If you can find the right sitting position comfortable, stable and upright you are well on the way to getting the hang of meditation. For those starting out, it’s fine to sit on a chair or on the edge of your bunk.
There are various positions that can be adopted, including;
Full Lotus: Put your right foot on your left thigh, then your left foot on your right thigh.
Half Lotus: Pull your right foot in close to your body and then place your left foot on your right thigh.
If you want a free book and CD to help you set up a regular yoga practice, write to The Prison Phoenix Trust, PO Box 328, Oxford, OX2 HF
“Artis my lifeline.” This is how Zara describes the impact which artmaking has made on her sense of self and career while in Hydebank Wood College. For six years she engaged with PAF’s Art Residency Programme and during that time our Artist-In-Residence supported her to submit several works to the Koestler Trust. Zara won a number of awards over the years including Gold, Silver, and Highly Commended. Most recently her work received the ‘Lamberth Family Gold Award for Sculpture 2015’ and her ‘Slice of Pavlova’ was selected by the curators for Koestler’s RE:FORM UK Exhibition of Art by Offenders at Southbank Centre in London.
MENTORINGSCHEME
Before Hydebank Wood College, art did not play a significant role in Zara’s life. She enjoyed art at school but never identified herself as an artist or recognised her talent. After her release, Zara applied to the mentoring scheme and in
PAF Mentoring Programme One Year On A Case Study on Creative Future’s Pathway match Zara* and Anne >> AC
December 2016 was matched with one of our Fine Arts mentors - Anne. They worked together for over 6 months and Zara received 17 mentoring sessions. In her application, Zara explained, “I would like someday to have my own exhibition,” and she achieved her goal. Anne said her mentee “was aware of her goals and showed enthusiasm throughout the programme. With my guidance and experience she was able to stay focused and achieve the goals.”
Anne structured several mentoring sessions around sourcing images to paint and looking at different styles of artists work. They visited art galleries throughout Northern Ireland including the ‘Royal Ulster Academy’s Annual Exhibition’ and the ‘True Colours’ Exhibition’ in the Ulster Museum. Zara found “the work of Northern Irish Artist, Colin Davidson, most inspiring.”
CREATIVEHUB
Anne planned some practical mentoring sessions in PAF’s new Creative Hub, a studio environment, in Belfast. Zara said these sessions were valuable as Anne gave her feedback on paintings she had been working on at home. Discussions with her mentor gave Zara the confidence to expand her painting technique and produce a final body of work for exhibition.
Zara launched her first solo exhibition ‘Reflective Moments’ in July 2017. Her body of work was representative of memories from childhood to present day Her subject matter incorporates humour and local surroundings. She has used mostly acrylic paint in the works, blending mixed media to create texture.
IMPACT&SUCCESS
Engagement in PAF’s arts mentoring scheme encouraged Zara to promote and sell her work to a wider audience. 13 of the original 16 artworks displayed were sold during her exhibition, and she has been commissioned to paint a further 7 pieces for both individuals and local businesses.
Since the completion of her mentoring, Zara has continued to link in with her local arts club, and she has also taken on
the secretary role within her local AA group which comes with a certain level of responsibility and commitment.
REFLECTIONS
When reflecting on her mentoring journey Zara said “contact, structure and routine is something the mentoring programme gave her”. It also gave her “confidence on many levels … a big step for me was travelling to Belfast for my mentoring sessions with Anne in the creative hub. This was a real personal achievement.”
Zara’s engagement with art is a success story on two levels: the first relates to Zara’s artistic achievements, and the second, the beneficial impact of art-making on Zara’s sense of self, her emotional well-being and her relationships.
*namehasbeenchangedtoprotectconfidentiality
APPLYFORMENTORING
FlashFactsOctober2017
Status of Eligible Applications:
22 mentees matched with a mentor
3 applicants in screening stage
Status of Matched Relationships:
12 mentees selected for First Steps pathway
10 mentees selected for Creative Futures Pathway
14 Art mentees, 7 Creative Writing mentees,
1 Music mentees
89 mentoring sessions delivered
13 active and ongoing
Completion of Mentoring Relationships:
4 successfully completed
2 ended due to recall or reoffending
2 ended due to illness or loss of contact
1 mentoring ended by the mentee
Our programme activity may be coming to an end in March 2018 but we still encourage people to apply as this will be evidence for our funders of the demand for the scheme beyond the pilot. You can ask for an application form or for further information from a PAF Artist in Residence if you are in Prison, or your Probation Officer, Sentence Manger or contact PAF staff directly by writing to Prison Arts Foundation (PAF) Unit 3, 2-10 Bridge Street, Belfast, BT1 1LU.
Christmas Cards from Honest Jim
Merry Christmas from London
I would like to share the plight that plagues this city ofwhichIhavepersonalexperience - homelessness. Of all the life-destroying catastrophes that can befall a person, surely the most heart-breaking isthe social calamity of homelessness. Human beings are domes- ticated beings that usually spend their lives under one roof. It’s in our nature to stay in a place of warmth and safety where we can eat, sleep, and raiseourchildren.Weallhaveabasichuman rightto accommodation, just as we have rights to be free of slaveryoroppression.
All around us, homeless people live invisible and out of sight. They are everywhere yet we never notice them. Every morning the legion of the lost surface from a supermarket doorway, a train station or from
under cardboard boxes abandoned on the street. In summer they sleep in parks and cemeteries. In wintertheybreakashopwindowtogetarrestedsothey Incanstayinasecurepolicestation. their thousands they bow their heads against the elements, stumbling onwards in search of suste- nance and abed for the night. Unwashed, with sunk- en surrendered eyes, and shoes held together with knotted rags, they resemble an army of zombies. Though not quite undead, they’re not exactly living either.
I will send another Christmas card to share more thoughts with you soon. Until then, season’s greetings.
Honest Jim
Happy Christmas
Following on from my last card, I would like to share with you more thoughts on being homeless They search for a meal, a shower, and a place to keep safe during daylight hours. There they sit until nightfall when it’s time to bed-down again.
Living without benefits or being registered with a doctor, their health suffers from the degrading existence. They develop chronic bronchitis, asthma, and tuberculosis. They catch chest infections and pneumonia. They get skin infections and terrible blisters on their feet. Some develop drug or
alcohol addictions. Others suffer from malnutrition. Many develop mental health problems such as stress and depression. Some commit suicide. Worldwide, we have abolished slavery, outlawed racism, and granted equal human rights to all. Now we need to eradicate homelessness. It is no life for a human being. We must ensure that everyone has a roof over their heads and a bed to sleep in.
At this festive season it’s not too much to ask, is it?
Honest Jim
SPORTS DEPT.
The older adult ramble events are planned by the gym staff. We try and take 6-8 men out at a time every month along with two PEIs (Physical Education Instructors). The walks vary in location and difficulty but generally last about 2 hours (normally in a local forest/beach). The men then stop and have a cup of tea/coffee and a sandwich. The walks are carried out under the umbrellas of ‘mental health’ and ‘exercising for the older adult.’ This particular walk is the second time this group has been together and are gelling well, even though some of the guys had not known each other prior to the group being formed.
In September 2017, Magilligan held a DofE Bronze award presentation. This was the first joint staff/ inmate expedition in Magilligan. Receiving the awards were 3 inmates and 2 staff (one inmate was not present to receive the award). The inmates’ families were also present at the ceremony as well as members of Magilligan Senior Management Team and Val Pitman, OBE. Plans are in place for the 2018 expedition season.
Nature is not just our life support machine, early warning system, pantry, gym, art gallery, laboratory, temple, retreat or symbol of divinity; nature has value in itself.
At HMP Magilligan the landscape is changing. Biodiversity is encouraged by managing sterile areas for more wildflowers, bees, and insects. Plantings provide flowers and nectar for a longer season. Care of the ecosystem should flow naturally through daily living so that we all survive and thrive.
The Horticulture programme takes an ethical approach to encourage a greater sense of self as part of a whole, caring for the earth, and a fairer share of benefits for all species. Wellbeing and recycling are considered in all new horticulture projects.
Did you know Ireland is host to 31,000 species of animals and plants?
The two greatest threats are habitat changes and pollution.
Gardening trends for 2017 include, Extreme Naturalism, Edible gardens, Verticalgardens,GardeningforHealth, andHauteCoutureHouseplants.
Didyouknow that our most popular drink, tea, is only affordable because of Industrial Espionage and Theft?
In 1848 Scottish Botanist, Robert Fortune, sneaked into China in disguise to learn the secret of tea cultivation and production on behalf of the British East India Company who copied the process in their extensive estates in India.
Child Centred Visits
Being separated from your children is very difficult all year round and not least during the festive period. Here at Time In we decided it was important to highlight Child Centred Visits by speaking to Lesley Bird, the Senior Officer for Visits.
Lesley, thanks for taking the time to talk to us about Child Centred Visits (CCV). A lot of new and existing prisoners won’t have heard of them – what are they and how do they differ from regular visits?
Who are allowed them?
Child Centred Visits are available to all prisoners with children under 16, once all child protection checks are completed and approved. We also run Family Induction Visits which are available to all prisoners.
How often are they run and how do you apply for them?
Both CCV and Family Induction Visits are run according to demand but we aim for at least one a month. Prisoners can ask their Class Officer, their Sentence Manager, or families can contact us on telephone numbers displayed in leaflets and posters.
Are they in addition to or instead of regular visits?
A domestic visit has to be booked but then it is extended on through the lunch period.
Where do they take place?
In the visit hall. For CCV the normal domestic visit takes place, then when the visit has finished the mother leaves the hall and the children stay with the father. They have lunch and are free to use the play area.
For the Family Induction visits, the domestic visit takes place and the children stay with the father in the visit hall. We then take the adult family members on a tour of the prison over the period of lunch time lock-up. The family get to see the facilities and the residential locations available to prisoners. This received very positive feedback from the families.
What kind of events do you run?
We have a family day with Zoolab and a storyteller. We are currently planning our Halloween parties and Christmas parties, and we are in the process of making plans to improve the outside area, so we can have picnics and sports days in better weather. >> AF
If you’re interested in applying for a child centred visit, make sure to speak to your Class Officer, Family Officer or Sentence Manager.
Alternatively, telephone the Family Officer:
MAGHABERRY: 028 92616064 HYDEBANK: 028 90494331
MAGILLIGAN: 028 77720516
Koestler Trust Awards receive thousands of submissions each year. Poetry and prose writing categories receive the most entries indicative of their long tradition in the criminal justice system.
HMP Magilligan did exceptionally well in 2017, achieving seventeen awards. These were for writings covering Flash Fiction and Short Story, Longer Fiction and Novel, Poem, Poetry Collection and Anthology as well as awards for Screen Play, Song and Sculpture.
Koestler Award HIGHLY
COMMENDED AWARD FOR POETRY
An Ugly Word byLS
Sectarianism is an ugly word Shrouded in a them
And us culture, passed on
By bitter and divisive generations
To keep the flames of hatred
Burning, these closed cultures
Remain an obstacle to progress
Hindering shared equality
Loving, caring and collaborative
Where orange or green
Are just colour; not a Brand on our backs holding Society back, in the dark Days of our past, the Question I ask, how long
Must this madness last
Before we emerge as one
Out of the sickening gloom
Which overcomes and devours
Our mental scope
Mocking Peace Process hope.
Koestler Award
BRONZE AWARD FOR ORIGINAL SONG
Old Love byBL
Chorus
She’s an old love turned memory to me an Old love that just cannot be She stole my heart and tore it apart
This old love turned memory to me. (1)
Well I saw her today in the town of Kilrea
That old love turned memory to me She passed me by and I started to cry For I knew that we never would be.
Chorus (2)
I called her name and She wasn’t the same and She tore the heart out of me
Now she’s an old love turned memory to me
And old love that just cannot be
But now she’ll have my heart and it never will Part from that old love turned memory to me.
(Bridge)
Now she’ll have my heart and It never will part from That old love turned memory To me
Koestler Award
COMMENDED AWARD FOR LONGER FICTION & NOVEL
Forever Inside byPM
Paul walked along the hospital corridor following the signs. He sat down with twelve or so people seated at a dining area. He looked around tentatively, realising he couldn’t tell the difference between visitor and patient. A man and two women entered. Paul was there to see his girlfriend Maria. She was late and Paul was annoyed.
John, a patient, was in the centre of the room. He stood up as soon as the new arrivals sat down. ‘I WAS SITTING ONE DAY IN THE MIDDLE OF MY DINNER.’
John spoke loudly to his captive audience.
Paul looked bemused. The women giggled and John grinned from ear to ear.
John sat down beside Paul.
‘Do you have any razors?’ John whispered.
‘No, I don’t have any blades on me.’ Paul was startled.
John walked to another man, leaned in, and whispered. The visitor recoiled and
shook his head. John frowned and stood up and looked for another person to harass. He spotted a woman sitting on her own and he sat down beside her. The woman pulled back and shook her head. John lowered his head and walked out of the visiting area and down the corridor.
Maria came in wearing pink pyjamas and a flowery dressing gown. She gave Paul a peck on the cheek.
‘How are you? Have you seen the doctor yet? What’s the story?’ Paul asked.
‘The doctor wants to speak to you,’ Maria sounded ominous.
‘What the hell does he want to speak to me for?’ Paul said loudly and was immediately embarrassed by his outburst. Mistakenumberone,he thought.
‘What do you want me to say to him?’ Paul asked tenderly.
‘Tell him I was depressed lately, a bit more than usual,’ Maria suggested.
‘I know you’re not feeling good, but I can only get two weeks off work to look after Sean. What’s going to happen?’
‘Ask your sister to look after Sean, just until you get back from work,’ Maria suggested and Paul realised this could work.
‘What’s the story with yer man that left
the room?’ Paul asked and leaned forwards.
‘Oh, that’s John. Did he ask for razor blades? Don’t give him blades and let the staff know. He’s not a well man, a danger to himself.’
Paul reached into his plastic carrier bag and pulled out a bottle of lemonade and a packet of biscuits. He gave them to Maria. He crumpled the plastic carrier bag.
‘Here, take this bag, you can use this,’ he said. Mistake number two Paul thought, realising the context of his suggestion. He needed to be more careful.
A large man in a white coat carrying a folder appeared in the visiting area.
‘Ahem! Maria Wilson,’ he called.
‘That’s the doctor,’ Maria said. ‘Come on, Paul, he wants to speak to you.’
They followed the doctor along the corridor and went into the office.
‘Hello there, how are you?’
The doctor peered up from his notes.
‘Were you aware that Maria was not well due to past events?’
‘She never hinted that anything was wrong. This comes like a bolt from the blue,’ Paul said.
‘Has she been drinking lately?’
‘Well, a small drink some nights, but every night last week she drank a carryout. I didn’t think much about it.’
‘She’s suffering with depression. I’ve recommended she stays here for a few weeks. She will get counselling. You know she is manic depressive?’
‘Ok.’ Paul gave the doctor a puzzled look. ‘She’s going to get better?’
‘Yes, but she will need rest, and counselling. Be patient with her.’
The doctor began to write in the file on the desk.
‘I take it, that’s me done,’ Paul stood .
The doctor nodded but didn’t speak and Paul left the office.
‘How did it go?’ Maria asked.
‘You’re mad as a hatter,’ Paul joked.
‘Jesus.’ Maria fell back onto her chair in shock.
The smile left Paul’s face. He realised he shouldn’t tease her. ‘Sorry, Maria, he didn’t say anything like that.’
Maria hit Paul arm playfully then linked arms as they returned to the visiting room. Everyone was still huddled in small groups and John had returned also.
Maria looked at the subdued figure. John was wearing a navy dressing gown, tied at the waist with a bright red belt; he reminded her of a Union Jack. His right leg juddered as if to an unconscious beat. John fell forward, his head slightly bowed as if in a dream world.
‘Something’s wrong.’ Maria was concerned.
‘You should call the nurse,’ Paul said.
John stood up. His dressing gown sleeves covered his hands making his arms look elongated. He began to sway and sat back down. He seemed to have fallen asleep. Maria noticed something dripping from his sleeve, something dark. Her eyes followed a drip to the floor where a dark patch had formed on the carpet. John had a sickly grey pallor.
‘I’m going to check that John is okay,’ Maria said.
Maria gently tugged his arm and got no response. His sleeve was cold and wet. She reached down to put her hand on the stain. The carpet camouflaged the
Koestler Award
HIGHLY COMMENDED AWARD FOR ORIGINAL SONG
99 Years bySF
Verse 1 You think I’m unforgiven, for the wrong that I’ve done
This ain’t a life worth living, but where can I turn
See theirs no one to blame, yes it’s all on me ya
Just wish I could fly away,
colour and when Maria lifted her hand back she had blood on her hands.
‘John, wake up! Wake up!’ She shook him.
Paul grabbed Maria to calm her.
‘Go call the nurses, I don’t see any alarms,’ Paul said.
Maria ran down the hallway. Paul pulled the sleeve up over John’s blood soaked hand. He saw three deep gashes across John’s wrist. Paul checked the other wrist and it is had another three gashes. He asked for a handkerchief and a woman produced two from her handbag. He tied these around the wounds then moved John onto the floor. He checked John’s breathing and got no response so he tilted John’s chin. He loosened the dressing gown and began chest compressions. His actions were pointless but he wanted to give the man a fighting chance.
A nurse knelt down beside Paul and said she would take over the compressions. Paul was exhausted; he fell back onto the floor. His coat was smeared with blood. Maria hugged him and he welcomed the gesture.
The nurse called for the defibrillator and a blanket. Paul had an ominous feeling when he saw the blanket. The nurse attached the shock pads to John’s chest and shouted at people to move back. Everyone was quiet. The only sound came from the defibrillator.
‘STAND CLEAR! PRESS THE ORANGE BUTTON TO SHOCK, STAND CLEAR!
and for once be free
Pre-chorus Surrounded by bare walls, steel door staring at me
Chorus 99 years ya, that I’ll never see
Don’t think I’m complaining, I’ll leave that be
99 years that I’ll never see
Verse 2 Past time put pen to paper, let the words flow free
Hide from the old grim reaper, that’s still looking for me
No never sold my soul,
MACHINE SHOCKING, STAND CLEAR’
The nurse pushed the button to shock and began more compressions. She shook her head then reached for the blanket and placed it over John’s head.
‘It is too late.’ The nurse said.
‘Hurry along,’ another nurse called.
‘The visit’s over, say your goodbyes!’
She addressed both visitors and patients.
‘I’ll see you tomorrow,’ Paul said to Maria.
‘I can’t stay here, not after…’ Maria was shaking.
‘John’s death is a shocker,’ Paul was resolute. ‘There was nothing anyone could do. Think about yourself and get better for Sean and me.’
Paul walked down the corridor and into the washroom. He slowly washed the blood from his hands.
‘Jesus’ Paul said out loud. ‘John decided enough was enough. He is forever inside this building. I’m a free man.’ Paul dried his hands and walked towards the exit.
gave it away for free ya
Still dammed by all, for doing the devils deeds
Bridge If I grew up on a different street,
Would it make me different or is it me
Pre-chorus Surrounded by bare walls, steel door staring at me
Chorus
Outro Ya 99 years that I’ll never see
Ya 99 years, that I’ll never see
Ya 99 years
Discovery of the Indus Valley The Origins of Civilisation?
According to History of India website, the Indus Valley Civilisation is one of four known ancient civilisations including Sumer (Mesopotamia / modern Iraq), Egypt, and China (Yellow River civilisations).
Until the recent discovery of the Indus Valley sites it was believed that Sumer may have been the oldest “cradle of Western civilisation”. However, there are strong indications that the Indus Valley may be the most ancient of all.
Excavations of the Indus Valley sites suggest this ancient civilisation spread from the Himalayan foothills in the East to Sutkagan Dor (450km west of Karachi) in the west. And from the Yamuna river basin (50 km north of Delhi) in the north to Khambat (Gujarat) in the south. It’s worth noting that ancient Sumerians believed their ancestors came from the “mountains” to the “north east” which could be indicative of north India where the Indus Valley people lived.
DISCOVERY
The discovery of the ancient site originated in 1856 when the British East India Company was laying railway lines. The workforce negotiated remote parts in arid territory. It proved difficult to find the ballast bedding ma-
terial causing problems for Lord Alexander Cunningham, Director of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
On a supply expedition, two British engineers, John and William Brunton, were informed by villagers of an “ancient city” called Brahmanibad that lay a few miles away, but on investigation, all they could find there were burnt bricks. Since they only looked for ballast, the rubble was blasted and converted into ballast bedding material and spread along a 150-kilometre section of railway line.
However, the engineers had stumbled upon the remnant of an ancient civilisation and many objects were found which stirred the interest of the archaeologists. In 1875 the first Indus Valley seal was studied by Lord Cunningham and more seals were discovered over the next decade. Archaeologists speculated that an ancient civilization originated there a few centuries before the invasion of Alexander the Great in 324 B.C.
EXCAVATION
In 1920 R.D.Banerjee, an Indian officer of ASI, discovered a pre-Buddhist Stupa and a flint scraper which led him to believe that the site was much older. Banerjee declared it to have flourished
no less than 1000 years before the invasion of Alexander the Great. A later excavation uncovered structures built with burned bricks, but they could not ascertain who had built them. Items including pottery, weights, beads and seals were discovered, the seals identical to the square seals found fifty years earlier in 1856.
REVISEDHISTORY
This excavation was a turning point in the history of ancient archaeology. Ruined cities of Harappa and MohenjoDaro buried more than 20 metres deep were excavated. The location of the site was near the Indus River and therefore named “The Indus Valley Civilisation”.
Prior to the discovery Western historians believed Indian civilisation had its origins in the Gangetic plains. They thought the first cities of Indian civilisation began comparatively “recently” in and around Patna, Varanasi and other centres along the banks of the Ganges. But, after this momentous discovery, the world stood in awe and began preparations to rediscover themselves in a completely new light amongst their most ancient roots. >> DR
www.HistoryOfIndia.quora.com
Following the success of HMP Magilligan in this year’s Koestler awards, it prompted a few of the TimeIn team to look at the work of Arthur Koestler. During the exploration of his works, in particular the classic 1941 novel DarknessatNoon, the team were intrigued to discover Tap Code, something commonly used by prisoners for hundreds of years.
Tap Code is a way to encode text messages on a letter-byletter basis, in a very simple way. The message is transmitted using a series of tap sounds, hence its name. The method of communicating is usually by tapping either the metal bars, pipes, or the walls inside a cell.
Tap Code is based on a simple square using a 5×5 grid of letters representing all the letters of the Latin alphabet, except for K, which is represented by C.
The listener only needs to differentiate the timing of the taps to isolate letters. Each letter is communicated by tapping two numbers:
The first designating the row.
The second designating the column.
For example, to specify the letter "M", one taps three times, pauses, and then taps twice.
Because of the difficulty and length of time required for specifying a single letter, prisoners often devise abbreviations and acronyms for common items or phrases, such as "GN" for Good night, or "GBU" for God bless you.
To communicate the word "FREEDOM", the cipher would be the following: (2,1) (4,2) (1,5) (1,5) (1,4) (3,4) (3,2). The pause between each number in a pair is smaller than the pause between letters.
By comparison, Morse Code is harder to send by tapping or banging because it requires the ability to create two different sounding taps (representing the dits and dahs of Morse Code). A Morse Code novice would also need to keep a "cheat sheet" until he or she remembers every letter's code, which the captors would likely confiscate. Tap Code can be more easily decoded in one's head by mentally using the table.
United States prisoners of war (POWs) during the Vietnam War are most known for having used Tap Code. In Vietnam, the Tap Code became a very successful way for isolated prisoners to talk. POWs would use the Tap Code in order to communicate to each other between cells in a way which the guards would be unable to pick up on. They used it to communicate everything from what questions interrogators were asking (in order for everyone to stay consistent with a deceptive story), to who was hurt and needed others to donate meager food rations. It was easy to teach and newly arrived prisoners became fluent in it within a few days. It was even used when prisoners were sitting next to each other but not allowed to talk, by tapping on the other’s thigh. By overcoming isolation with the tap code, prisoners were able to maintain a chain of command and keep up morale.
>> AF
LEONARD
COHEN was born on 21st September 1934 in Quebec Canada and died on November 7th 2016 aged 82 in Los Angeles California. MARIANNE IHLEN was born 18th May 1935 in Norway and died on the 29th July 2016 aged 81 years, three months prior to Cohen’s passing. Leonard and Marianne had a magical love affair which lasted almost ten years. Even when they separated they had an unbroken bond. This bond would be immortalised in Cohen’s song So LongMarianne.
They lived together until Leonard’s first child Adam was born to Leonard’s lover Suzanne Elrod in 1972. Suzanne Verdal, the wife of one of Leonard’s artistic friends, was the subject of Leonard’s song Suzanne Cohen produced 14 albums in total, his first album SongsofLeonard Cohento his final album in 2016 YouWantItDarker. He completed 16 poetry collections in his career with two novels TheFavouriteGameand BeautifulLosers1994 and 2003 respectively.
Leonard met Marianne on a Greek island called Hydra in 1960. The island was home to a notorious bohemian colony and frequented by writers and artists. Marianne was Leonard’s first and arguably his greatest muse. She was an inspiration for the creative Cohen among his many subjects covering politics, religion, isolation, and sexuality. Marianne died of leukaemia and unable to attend the funeral, Leonard’s farewell letter was read out.
‘OurbodiesarefallingapartandIthinkIwill follow you very soon; know that I am so closebehindyouthatifyoustretchoutyour hand,Ithinkyoucanreachmine.’
Another song connected to her was Birdona Wire SolongMariannewas not intended as a farewell. Cohen would later admit that ‘I didn’t think I was saying goodbye, but I guess I was.’
Leonard eventually left Hydra and stayed in North America to launch his singing career. He sent a telegram to Marianne saying ‘Have a flat. All I need is my woman and her child’. Marianne, and her son Axel, joined Leonard.
Cohen began practicing Buddhism in 1970 and was ordained a Buddhist monk in 1996, although he continued to considered himself Jewish. His 2001 album TenNewSongs is dedicated to Joshu Sasaki, a venerable teacher at Mount Baldy Zen Center.
Cohen had two children with Suzanne Elrod who was pictured on the cover of DeathofaLadies’Man. She inspired the DarkLadyof Cohen’s DeathofaLady’sMan(1978). Cohen and Elrod separated in 1979. They had two children; Adam (b.1972) and Lorca (b. 1974). Lorca became a photographer who shot the music video for Cohen’s song ‘Because of’ (2004). She was the official photographer and videographer for her father’s 2008-10 world tour. Leonard had three grandchildren; Cassius, Viva, and Lyon. >> PM
SO LONG MARIANNE…
interview with Paddy Nash
Congratulations on the new album, Paddy. The title, ‘Gate Fever’, was clearly influenced by your work in Magilligan Prison. Is being locked-up the theme?
The theme of the album in general is more to do with the longing to be somewhere else. It’s about sacrifice, injustice, and regret. I wanted to write some songs about the things that make me angry, the people and time that I’ve lost, and lives tinged with hope.
This is your first solo album –how different an experience was it compared to your previous albums?
The whole album was recorded, mixed, and mastered in 6 days. I had 17 songs in total and my goal was to pick 10 that would sit together well on an album. With the band there’s a lot of messing about in the studio with arrangements and harmonies. It usually takes about 30 days over the period of a year to complete. This album was more in line with the old school method.
What’s the feedback been like to the new album?
Really positive. It’s been well received by critics and fans of the band alike. I was worried as the music has been stripped back and my voice has to carry the songs. With the band I can usually hide or blend my vocal in the cacophony, but here it’s up front and vulnerable. Thankfully it paid off.
What’s next for Paddy Nash – more solo material, a tour, a new album?
Most albums have a shelf life of about a year so I’ll be doing some solo shows and tours up until about June 2018. After that I’ll get the band together for a new album. I have half of the songs written already. Expect a more Rockabilly sound. I’d also love to do a live album of my comedy songs just to put them down on tape.
GATE FEVER
New album by Paddy Nash
For those who aren’t already familiar with your music, and who may be interested in checking it out, what is the Paddy Nash sound?
Like a poor man’s Springsteen if he grew up listening to Christy Moore.
In 2017 we sadly lost music greats including Leonard Cohen and Tom Petty. How much of their work has inspired and resonated with you?
Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever was a rite of passage for me. I was 16 when it came out and I knew a few chords on the guitar. I learned every song on that album and it made me become a better musician.
When I was older and fancied myself as a bit of a songwriter. A friend played me a Leonard Cohen album. I knew from that moment that if I wanted to be serious I’d need to start re-learning my craft. These were two giants of music who I have been a fan of ever since first hearing them. Their like will never been seen again. I mean where is the new Cohen, the new Petty? Where are they? I haven’t heard them. >> AF
For thoseinterestedinpurchasing‘GateFever’, thenewalbumfromPaddyNash,youcanorderit throughtheTuckshoptoday.
Respect-Equality-Diversity-Choice
Have you ever experienced homophobia in prison?
MMc: Yes I have. The last time I was in prison I had a few cell mates who expressed how disgusted they were at the thought of two men together. One said he used to love Hollyoaks but when a gay couple joined he wanted to throw the TV out the window.
PP: I expected the worst when I arrived and felt quite suicidal at the time. I was surprised at how nice everyone is. Yes, you get the odd idiot who won’t give you the time of day but you get that anywhere you go.
Were you frightened about coming to jail because of your sexuality?
MMc: I was very frightened. I imagined I would be bullied or beaten up. Knowing I would be in a male dominated environment really scared me, having been bullied for a big part of my life by males.
The Prison System has a duty of care (Section 75, Northern Ireland Act 1998) to ensure that you are not discriminated against in relation to your sexual orientation. Time In has interviewed two gay prisoners prepared to share their stories.
ality if I tried. I consider myself camp as Christmas. My personality is loud and out there so to hide what I am is impossible. Even my clothes are loud, but that’s just me.
Has your experience in prison as a gay man been different to how you imagined?
MMc: It’s been a bit of a mixture. Because I met those homophobic cell mates, prison was everything I had imagined it would be; scary and full of hatred. Yet I was surprised as the majority of guys are really happy, go-with-theflow people who have been friendly and supportive. That was the biggest shock of all.
I’ve seen a lot of prison television shows and the majority of the prisoners would fit the stereotype of bullies.
PP: You can’t live to please everyone, you have to be yourself and not hide who you are. I personally think that hiding then coming out breaks the trust you’ve made with other prisoners. Building friendships on a lie can put you in a vulnerable position.
Did you consider pretending to be heterosexual while in prison?
MMc: No. To be honest I was just so scared. I was focused on what was going to happen to me in here. I didn’t plan to come in and tell anybody I was gay either. I did try to hide it, though, because one guy asked me right out if I was gay and I said no.
PP: Personally, I couldn’t hide my sexu-
PP: I imagined prison to be a terrible place. Magilligan is a lot more relaxed and accepting of my sexuality. The staff are part of the reason I feel comfortable here. They always watch out for me and try to help me. Because some prisoners were stand-offish at the start after seeing the officers being relaxed with me they slowly realised I’m the same as everyone else. I wouldn’t have coped as well if they hadn’t been as accepting. Was your family concerned about your safety?
MMc: I’m pretty sure they were. My mum cried a lot but we never really talked about my safety as a gay man in prison. I suppose it was just easier that way.
PP: My Mum found it hard to cope. My brother had been to jail but she knew he would be ok. I was completely different. My brother can handle himself whereas I am like tinker-bell. Once I settled in she coped a lot better.
HOMOPHOBIA IN PRISON
What advice would you give a gay man who has just received a prison sentence?
MMc: Try and be as positive as you can and be nothing but yourself because the guys in there are surprisingly accepting and very protective. Also be prepared and be aware because like anywhere there are still people with dim views and closed minds.
PP: Be honest about who you are and try not to worry like I did. I find people are accepting. When I’ve had days feeling down prisoners have tried to cheer me up and told me to wise up. We’re all in the same boat. If you have any problems speak to the staff. They’ll help make you feel safe.
Do the staff treat you any different?
MMc: From what I can see everyone is treated exactly the same. If you’re nice to them then they are pleasant and if you’re acting like a fool then you’re going to be treated like one.
PP: Fill your time up with prison jobs or education courses. It’s a good way of fitting in and filling up your days because there’s nothing worse than feeling isolated.
De Profundis
LGBT ADVICE LINES
The Rainbow Project was founded in 1994 in with the aim of promoting the health and well-being of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people in Northern Ireland.
T: 028 90319030 W: www.rainbow-project.org
Family Ties is a support group for parents, guardians and family members of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.
W: www.familytiesproject.org.uk
Faith and Pride states “you can be Christian and Gay.” It is run by a group of gay Christians
T: 07043 311073 W: www.faithandpride.org
Cara-Friend Helpline
T: 028 9032 2023 gay men
T: 028 9023 8668 lesbians
Samaritans Listeners offer confidential support 24/7 to inmates who are having a difficult time in prison whatever their sexual orientation. Ask an officer on the landing to arrange a Listener visit
The playwright Oscar Wilde was imprisoned in 1895 for being a homosexual. He slept on a plank bed, had one hour’s exercise a day, and was unable to write with the exception of letters. Wilde realised that the regulations did not specify how long a letter could be. If a letter were not finished he could take it with him when he left prison.
DeProfundis , Wilde’s thesis, was composed in the form of a long letter, and writing in the evenings. It took him three months to complete.
Quotes from DeProfundis
“Ihavesaidtoyoutospeakthetruthisapainfulthing.To beforcedtotellliesismuchworse.”
“Societytakesuponitselftherighttoinflictappallingpunishmentsontheindividual,butitalsohasthesupremevice ofshallowness,andfailstorealizewhatithasdone.”
“Wewholiveinprison,andinwhoselivesthereisnoevent butsorrow,havetomeasuretimebythrobsofpain,and therecordofbittermoments.”
“Whatissaidofamanisnothing.Thepointis,whosaysit.”
“Themostterriblethingaboutitisnotthatitbreaksone’s heart hearts are made to be broken but that it turns one’shearttostone.”
“Idon’twritethislettertoputbitternessintoyourheart, buttopluckitoutofmine.FormyownsakeImustforgive you.”
“ArtonlybeginswhereImitationends.”
“Todenyone'sownexperiencesistoputalieintothelips ofone'sownlife.Itisnolessthanadenialofthesoul.”
“Alltrialsaretrialsofone’slife,justasallsentencesare sentencesofdeath.”
time in crossword • freedom songs • issue 11
For hundreds of years freedom songs have given hope to people going through struggles be this slavery, civil rights and oppressions. How many songs of freedom can you unshackle from the clues below? >> AF
DOWN
1. One of the few Lynyrd Skynyrd love songs (4,4)
2. By Queen about the women's liberation movement (1,4,2,5,4)
6. A 1976 disco song by Candi Staton (5,6,3,4)
8. Nelly Furtado could fly away at any time (2,4,1,4)
10. Written in 1967 by Bob Dylan (1,5,2,8)
11. According to Tom Petty, “If you don’t run, you rust” (3,7)
13. This song & the Hoff brought down the Berlin wall (7,3,7)
15. For Dylan, the clangs of liberty never rang so loud (6,2,7)
16. Performed in the movie TheBluesBrothers(5)
17. This song by Tom Petty includes the lyrics “She’s a good girl… loves her mama…” (4,6)
18. This Proclaimers song was used in the film Shrek (2,2,2,3)
19. “Me and ”, this song was most famously released posthumously in 1971 by Janis Joplin (5,5)
20. Rod Stewart covered this song in 1975 (1,2,7)
3. The song has been recorded by well over 100 artists, who all just like the King, wanted out (6,7,2)
4. A #1 on the Country Chart by Hank Williams (4,5,6)
5. Released in 1999 by American gospel duo Mary Mary (8)
7. The Specials want the release of Prisoner 46664 (4,6,7)
9. Bob Marley’s last single before his death in 1981 (10,4)
11. Springsteen played this for the first time in May 1974 (4,2,3)
12. Movie audiences first heard this performed by Roy Rogers in 1944 musical HollywoodCanteen. (4,5,2,2)
14. “Call me ”, a 1972 rock song by JJ Cale with cover versions by various artists, including Cash and Mayer (3,6)
Hacksaw Ridge is another epic movie from director Mel Gibson (Passion of Christ, Apocalypto). It’s a gripping tale based on the true events of Desmond Doss who was an army medic and conscientious objector. Doss refused to bear arms during WWII as he did not believe in taking human lives.
It is an inspirational film with a lot of heartfelt scenes where Desmond saves 75 men without even blinking an eyelid. Gibson took on this mighty project in awe of one man who put his life on the line. Doss even showed sympathy toward the enemy; Gibson wanted to promote the amazing story of com-
radery, bravery and total disregard for his own life. This film is one that would make even the toughest man have a tear in their eye. I would highly recommend this; it is truly an inspirational and moving film, well worth the watch.
This film is available in HMP Magilligan library to Enhanced prisoners only.
>> TMcC
The Dead Eight - Book Review
Carlo Gébler’s Dead Eight is a historical fiction set in 1940’s, Co. Tipperary, where a body has been discovered near the village of New Inn in Southern Ireland. It was an enjoyable read and it gave a history lesson in terms of the way people lived in that era. ‘Foxy’ Moll McCarthy is the main character who does what she has to do in order for herself and her children to survive. At the same time, Moll is trying to find love.
The story is gripping, it has a few surprises and narrative twists and turns, with memorable lines such as “there was a smell of burned potato, pipe, old man and turf”. It took me three day’s to read this book and was worth every second. It is fast paced and suited the type of work I like to read that draws you in to the story. I know Carlo Gébler on a personal level and have spoken to him on a few occasions throughout my time in Maghaberry, but this has been the first time I’ve read any of his work.
This book will prompt you to read more of Gébler’s writing. His style and storytelling technique is gripping. Highly recommended.
>> S.Á.J
THE HOLOCAUST THE
Onthe 23 October, Doctor Martin Stern, Holocaust survivor, visited HMP Magilliagn.
Dr Stern’s lecture took place in the RAF Nissan huts structure in Foyleview where a school group and other guests were first given an interactive tour by Governor Milling. Each hut was designed to replicate the conditions of the Jewish people while being transported to concentration camps. Sound effects, art work and Hitler’s speeches evoked the atmosphere of the Third Reich. The artwork created by prisoners included the liberation photographs from Auschwitz images wrapped in barbed wire, the white rose of Munich, a torn piece of striped fabric, and a canvas with tattooed numbers. Governor Milling explained that extermination camps were built to kill: ‘at Auschwitz they could murder 2,000 people an hour’.
A short video about Holocaust survivor Ivor Perl was played in by the filmmaker and animator Gemma GreenHope. Over 600 names were written on the curved walls of those killed. Governor Milling said that it would ‘take another 10,000 Nissan huts to inscribe the names of all who were murdered’. Outside were black and white figure cutouts: black represented absence, white new growth and hope.
The question put to the student was ‘would this happen
again?’ The Eight Stages of Genocide were discussed: classification, symbolisation, dehumanisation, organisation, polarization, preparation, extermination, and denial.
Dr Stern was arrested in Holland in 1944 aged five. He was taken with his one-year-old sister to Theresienstadt, Czechoslovakia A woman in the camp cared for them and stole food from the kitchen to feed them. The camp was inspected by the Red Cross in June 1944 and conditions had been disguised to dupe the inspection team. Fifteen thousand children passed through Theresienstadt. 90% were murdered. Stern and his sister were in the minority that survived.
After the war Stern returned to Holland, and in the 1950s moved to the UK and studied medicine at Oxford. He retired 15 years ago and was invited by The National Holocaust Centre and Museum in Nottinghamshire to speak in schools. Stern is now, in his own words, ‘one of the few left to speak the truth’ and feels it is his duty to tell it. He admits that a ‘single person can’t change the world’ and yet ‘it is complicated when we try to understand people who commit atrocities.’ Stern insists that the individuals responsible for the Holocaust presumed ‘they [were] creating a paradise’ but in reality created a world of suffering. Stern advised the pupils to ‘keep learning until their last breath as there are always questions to be answered.’
Auschwitz Concentration Camp
One pupil asked Dr Stern about survivors’ guilt. Stern explained that at the time he was a child and therefore other people helped him to be a survivor. He said that people had to witness terrible things to survive, and even to kill or perform actions that resulted in others losing their lives.
Stern described Hitler as a man pushed forwards in public life by educated followers who were deeply anti-Semitic. He talked about the atrocities perpetuated by tyrants such as Mao Zedong, Stalin and Pol Pot. He explained that these were highly intelligent men yet ‘you must look at all the factors; society helped produce these people.’
Stern recommended the book by Roy Baumeister ‘Evil: Inside Human Violence and Cruelty’. The thesis expounds how when evil is carried out on another human being, the victim becomes absorbed within it but to the perpetrator it is marginal and a minor event. Stern added that ‘the line between good and evil runs between my heart, and your heart, and their heart’.
Later that evening the inmates in Foyleview, got an opportunity to hear Dr Stern speak. The immense historical detail of the Holocaust remains with us in witnesses such as Dr Stern and in his memories, such as the Nazi transport trains. Stern admitted to being grateful that modern engineers had redesigned railway tracks without gaps between the steel, and so changing the sound of trains which no longer make the clickety-clack noises which he heard during his internment.
Stern talked about trains going into the concentration camps like Auschwitz and Sobibór and making the murders systematically more efficient. Ordinary Germans cramped people onto these death transports where 6 million Jews
THEQUESTIONPUTTOTHE STUDENTWAS
‘WOULDTHISHAPPEN AGAIN?’
and 6 million non-Jews perished during the Holocaust: gypsies, Jehovah Witnesses, homosexuals, and people with disabilities.
In meeting Dr Stern you are in the presence of the Holocaust through a survivor. His testimony encompasses the full magnitude of the genocide.
27th January is World Holocaust Day. This year’s theme is the ‘Power of Words’.
Prisoners are invited to talk to a member of staff about the possibility of family members visiting the exhibition in HMP Magilligan. >> PB
Governor Gary Milling with Holocaust survivor Doctor Martin Sternat at Foyleview in HMP Magilligan
EXHIBITION
2017
An exhibition of Art Work and Creative Writing organised by the Northern Ireland Library Service was held at Limavady Library from 18th September to 11th October 2017 during Community Relations and Cultural AwarenessWeek
The exhibition was a collaborative venture with the Northwest Regional College (NWRC) based at HMP Magilligan and the Prison Arts Foundation’s (PAF) Creative Writing Group.
TIME IN asked Paul Wilson, Deputy Head of Education at Magilligan, about their input.
and “Absolutely stunning” made this a very worthwhile venture. We even had members of the public wishing to purchase some of the artwork!
Why is it important to showcase work created by students engaging with the NWRC?
I believe that it is very important to showcase the excellent work of our students. It is an opportunity to advertise and promote the role NWRC is playing in delivering a high quality education programme, to help rehabilitate and embed the skills required for the workplace, and to prepare students for their release.
What are the current courses on offer by the NWRC in Magilligan?
Why did the Education Department at Magilligan want to have a display during Cultural Awareness Week?
Cultural Awareness provides an opportunity to celebrate all aspects of our culture, promote cultural diversity, inspire new ideas, and promote understanding. Therefore this was a very good opportunity for NWRC to demonstrate the good teaching that happens here and to show the public that there are many talented students who have been inspired to create new ideas through positive engagement with our curriculum.
What was the feedback from the public and was it a success?
There were many visitors to the exhibition and the public were very impressed with the displays. Comments such as “Brilliant display”, “Love this display”, “Amazing pieces of work”
ed in only 2 days while other qualifications can be achieved in 5 weeks. For more information on what we offer contact your Class Officer or speak to any of our teaching staff. You can also arrange a meeting with Jillian, our Pastoral Care Teacher, who is regularly on the wings.
What’s new in the pipeline?
We always listen to the student voice through our forums, learner feedback forms, and interaction with our teaching staff. As such we hope to introduce new courses such as Creative Writing, Entry Level ICT, and others in the next few months.
AWARDCEREMONY
NWRC have a broad range of accreditations on offer, from vocational courses such as Painting & Decorating, Joinery, Furniture Making, Tiling, Metal Work, Plastering, and Horticulture through to Essential Skills, Employability, Art, Food Safety, and Computer Maintenance. We are constantly reviewing our curriculum in collaboration with employers to provide enhanced employment opportunities by engaging positively with our students.
Are some courses more popular?
Yes. All students have different abilities and interests and we offer a broad curriculum to suit their needs. For those with shorter sentences, are there still accredited courses that they can avail of?
Many of our courses are held over short periods. Some can be complet-
On Tuesday 24th October North West Regional College, in partnership with HMP Magilligan, held an award ceremony for the presentation of OCN/City & Guilds qualifications. The students were rewarded for all their hard work and had their families in attendance.
Deputy Governor Ken Hall presented certificates in Essential Skills Application of Numbers, Communications & ICT, through to qualifications in Food Safety, Welding, Tiling, Painting, ICT Systems Support, Horticulture & Joinery. The event proved a great success with musical entertainment being provided by Paddy Nash after lunch. Families commented on how proud they were to attend the ceremony and we intend to hold future ceremonies to celebrate the success of our students.
Cruse Bereavement
When someone dies we can feel feel a host of emotions including being abandoned, angry, guilty, shocked and sad. The death could have happened recently or a long time ago. Talking about how you feel when someone has died can help.
Cruse Bereavement Care are volunteers from the community and do not work for the prison service. Cruse will offer you a weekly hour-long session with a volunteer.
When you meet you can talk as much or as little as you want and the volunteer will listen and provide support.
All you need is to fill in a Cruse referral form, or ask your Class officer to contact Cruse. An appointment will be made to do an assessment, after which you will be allocated a volunteer who will see you each week on the same day.
If someone close to you has died, you can feel sad or upset. Cruse Bereavement Care is here to help.
Turning
Pages from Shannon Trust is a reading programme specifically designed for adults who struggle with reading.
It’s a peer led, confidential, one to one programme that can be worked through at the pace of the learner in short bursts of 20 minutes a session, with completion certificates earned at the end of each manual.
If you are interested in improving your reading or becoming a Mentor, there are several ways to get involved in the programme:
● Ask an officer on the landing to arrange an appointment.
● Ask an existing Shannon Trust Mentor or Learner to refer you.
● Fill in one of the sign up sheets posted around the blocks.
Samaritans Listeners
are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer support to inmates who are having a difficult time. The service is available to everyone regardless of their age, ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation. To make a request ask an officer on the landing. The scheme is independent of the prison authorities and completely CONFIDENTIAL.
INFORMATIONSERVICES
Multiple support services are available for all those in custody and their families. If you would like to get in contact with any of them speak to your Class Officer or the Family Support team.
AD:EPT provides a range of services to people in custody who have problems with drug and alcohol abuse.
Adept works across the 3 prisons in NI and have vast experience in helping people in custody. All Adept workers are trained professionals who offer a sensitive and confidential service.
If you would like help and support with a drug or alcohol problem, there are several ways you can contact Adept:
● Ask an officer on the landing to arrange an appointment.
● Ask your medical officer or probation officer to refer you or at your resettlement meeting.
● Ask at your Induction/Core Harm reduction meeting.
Church Services
Prison can be a reflection of society and the spiritual needs of inmates are catered for here as outside. The main denominations have chaplaincies but others are also accommodated. You can contact a chaplain by asking your class officer to phone the office and leave a message. You can also have a request put on the computer system or you may speak to a chaplain at the Sunday Service and make appropriate arrangements.
Roman Catholic, Combined and Free Presbyterian services are held on Sundays at 9.00, 9.15 and 9.30 a.m. respectively.
Foyleview services are on Wednesday (Free Presbyterian) and Thursday (Roman Catholic and Combined) from 4 – 4.30 p.m.
Mihail Eminescu was a prominent Romanian poet who lived from 1850 – 1889. He is widely cited as being the individual responsible for transforming both the form and content of Romanian poetry. Eminescu’s work uses simple language and innovative rhyme. Among his prose writings, the bestknown are the stories “Cezara” and “Sărmanul Dionis” (1872).
Original Poem by Mihai Eminescu
O, RÃMÂI
"O, rãmâi, rãmâi la mine -
Te iubesc atât de mult!
Ale tale doruri toate
Numai eu ştiu sã le-ascult;
În al umbrei întuneric
Te asamãn unui prinţ, Ce se uitã adânc în ape
Cu ochi negri şi cuminţi;
Şi prin vuietul de valuri, Prin mişcarea naltei ierbi, Eu te fac s-auzi în tainã
Mersul cârdului de cerbi;
Eu te vãd rãpit de farmec
Cum îngâni cu glas domol, În a apei strãlucire
Întinzând piciorul gol
Şi privind în luna plinã
La vãpaia de pe lacuri, Anii tãi se par ca clipe,
poetry
Clipe dulci se par ca veacuri."
Astfel zise lin pãdurea, Bolţi asupra-mi clãtinând;
Şuieram l-a ei chemare
Şi am ieşit în câmp râzând.
Astãzi chiar de m-aş întoarce
A-nţelege n-o mai pot…
Unde eşti, copilãrie, Cu pãdurea ta cu tot?
Direct Translation
OH, STAY
Oh, stay, stay here with me
I love you so much
I miss all of you with a longing
It is only me who understands
In the shadows at dark
I am your prince
Looking down at the deep water
With gentle black eyes
When you hear the water
And the grass moving
You will hear the secret
From a herd of deer
Your spell holds me captive
How do I mimic your soft voice
In the glistening waters
You rejuvenate your bare feet
And watching a full moon
With sparks near the lake
Your years are like a moment
Moments that are sweet in this century
Thus a forest talks gently
An arch shakes overhead
Whistles to call
And I go out love’s battlefield
Today if I return
I understand I can’t
Where are you now childhood
In the forest, with everything?
Final Version
OH, STAY
Oh stay, stay completely with me
In my heart, I love you so much
I’m longing for the one I miss
I imagine your gentle touch
Among the shadows of the night
I am a lone prince among men
Look down into the deep water
Your gentle sullen eyes intense
When you listen to the water
And the soft grass gently moving
You will overhear our secret
And the wild deer ever roving
I’m captivated by your spell
A silk voice permeates complete
In the serene shimmering stream
You dip and bathe your youthful feet
Gazing in awe at the full moon
Stars shine solemn over the lake
Years have passed by in a moment
Moments that I will not forsake
The forest still talks so gently
In a sweep, trees shake overhead
A piercing wind whistles to call
In the field where love rests it’s dead
Today, this moment I return
But I know I can’t anymore
Childhood memory, far away
In the forest they still endure?
TRANSLATIONMETHODOLOGY
FG completed a direct transition of the poem from Romanian to English. PM scanned the poem focusing on the eight beats per line pattern and the ABCB rhyming scheme. PM prepared a new version adding structure while developing imagery. TMcC and PB built on this version while remaining true to content. The final version was edited and appraised by all.
SONNET 25: >> PM
The sentinel silhouette evolves as the lonely timeless old oak tree stands proud yet slightly bowed in places tall on the crest, at the edge of the field branches reach high to the sky for all to climb he is a warrior against all weathers with a seasonal quantity of seven hundred thousand leaves in its armoury against fungal disease and all nature’s elements wear and tear and decay continuing the never ending spiral of living and dying on the wheel of fortune; it goes on
like a thermometer for nature’s health he shows a world of pain; nature’s our wealth.
The Beauty of the Portrait (ALLISON 28/09/2017)
Allison’s gift of creativity opened many channels for release within the confines of prison, her generosity and artistic endeavour inspired myself like many before me she willingly gave me the gift of the love of art her channelling of educational knowledge was for me infectious and paramount to the study of all things earthly― she helped me hone my personal technique and I am all the better for having been taught by Allison.
she made art so accessible with her generous spirit, her legacy; helping numerous men through the educational minefield of art. >> PM
My Dream for Freedom (a chain link poem)
Stuck in prison, I long for freedom, Freedom to be home with my family,
Family that I rely on for support, Support I need to get through life, Life is a beautiful thing that I should embrace,
Embrace this world and all within, Within my heart I find peace and love,
Love is something eternal, Eternal time to change,
Change my ways to stay outside, Outside if I truly believe, Believe in myself and never be put down,
Down with those who bully and hate,
Hate is a terrible way to feel, Feel my way through the bad choices,
JaPaNeSe PrOvErB
Let’s take a trip down memory lane
All of the hurt anger and pain
Retracing the steps, you ask what I gain?
Choices are important if I want to better myself,
Myself I keep my focus on,
On these walls, I see razor wire twisted and sharp,
Sharp is the best way to keep my mind,
Mind over matter, it’s all a test,
Test myself and my capability, Capability to change and improve my thinking,
Thinking of my family and friends, Friends show me they care,
Care for those who are less fortunate,
Fortunate is what I feel, for my good health,
Health is something I need if I get my freedom,
Freedom is something I dream of.
>> TMcC
HAIKU 44
Only the wise see the truest meaning of life honesty prevails. >> PM
Drilling the mistakes I’ve made into my brain
Well I’m deterring myself with the power of shame
You enjoy the most beautiful summers
― After enduring the harshest of rains >> DMcB
SHOULD SPORT BE USED IN POLITICS?
President Donald Trump has criticised NFL stars kneeling during the singing of the national anthem in protest against perceived racial injustice. Former San 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick started the protest last year. "Taking the knee" was meant to highlight police brutality against African Americans
Some people have called for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar to be reallocated over allegations of corruption in the awarding of the tournament, treatment of workers building the stadiums, brutal treatment of LGBT minorities, and allegations that Qatar supports Islamic Terrorist organisations.
MoscowOlympics1980 In protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the USA led a boycott that saw 80 out of 147 nations compete. GB supported the boycott, but Margaret Thatcher couldn’t stop athletes participating. They competed under the Olympic flag and Britain's five gold medals, including Seb Coe's gold in the 1500m, Steve Ovett in the 800, and Allan Wells in the 100m, celebrated to the Olympic anthem. LosAngelesOlympics1984 In direct retaliation, the Soviet Union and its allies boycotted the next Olympics. With many athletes absent, the USA won a record 83 gold medals. "It ought to be remembered [that] the Games, more than 2,000 years ago, started as a means of bringing peace," said US President Ronald Reagan." And in those days, even if a war was going on, they called [it] off to hold the Games. I wish we were still as civilized." >> IL
H IS FOR HOPE, NEVER LOSE HOPE THERE IS ALWAYS LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL
M IS FOR MIND, KEEP YOUR MIND OCCUPIED YOU’LL BE FINE
P IS FOR PRODUCTIVITY, DO SOMETHING PRODUCTIVE AND YOUR TIME WILL FLY
M IS FOR MAKE IT HAPPEN, MAKE THAT CHANGE AND BETTER YOURSELF
A IS FOR ALWAYS PUTTING YOURSELF FIRST, YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN MAKE YOUR TIME EASIER
G IS FOR GRIPPING EVERYTHING THROWN YOUR WAY THROUGH EDUCATION OR WORK
I IS FOR INSPIRATION, TAKE INSPIRATION FROM WORK AND EARN A QUALIFICATION
L IS FOR LEARNING FROM YOUR MISTAKES AND BEING ABLE TO RECTIFY THEM
L IS FOR LOOKING ON THE BRIGHT SIDE, THERE IS ALWAYS SOMEONE WORSE OFF
I IS FOR INITIATIVE USE YOUR INITIATIVE AND FIND A WAY TO PROGRESS THROUGH THE SYSTEM
G IS FOR GETTING A GRIP, SHOW YOU CAN MATURE AND SEE YOUR ERRORS
A IS FOR ABILITY, DO EVERYTHING TO THE BEST OF YOUR ABILITY TO CHANGE
N IS FOR NEVER AGAIN, ONCE YOU GET OUT NEVER COME BACK
CROSSWORDANSWERS
Young Hearts Run Free
I’m Like A Bird 10. I Shall Be Released
Big Weekend 13. Looking For Freedom 15. Chimes Of Freedom
Think 17. Free Fallin
18. I’m On My Way 19. Bobby McGee 20. I Am Sailing
Free Bird 2. I Want To Break Free
Please Release Me
Take These Chains
Shackles
7. Free Nelson Mandela 9. Redemption Song
11. Born To Run 12. Don’t Fence Me In 14. The Breeze Thanks to outgoing JM for his tenure as Deputy Editor & Layout Designer and to Cover Designer DMcC. Good luck in your future endeavours! TimeInTeam
