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Irish Independent
a day ago
- Politics
- Irish Independent
Obituary: Cathal MacLiam, activist who helped ensure Irish voters had a bigger say on European issues
A strong supporter of the civil rights movement in Northern Ireland and active campaigner against the apartheid regime in South Africa, he also helped to ensure Irish voters got a greater say on European political issues. MacLiam was born on Christmas Eve, 1931, in Galway city to Charles Wilson and Elizabeth (nee Goulding), both from Dublin. Originally given his father's name, he opted for the Irish-language version at an early stage. He attended a Christian Brothers national school, but his parents were unhappy with the corporal punishment he suffered and secured early admission to the Jesuit school Coláiste Iognáid/St Ignatius College. He later became a medical student at University College Galway, but dropped out after a year, moving to Liverpool and later London. Jobs he held included laboratory work at Birkbeck College, part of the University of London. At his 23rd birthday party in London in 1954, he met and fell in love with Helga Boehmer, a German physiotherapist. They married in 1955, and had five children. He was a firm friend of political activist and historian Desmond Greaves. Both were key figures in the Connolly Association in London and used its newspaper, The Irish Democrat, to promote the rights of the Irish immigrant community as well as urging British Labour politicians and trade unionists to get involved in the Northern Ireland situation. MacLiam returned in 1956 to an Ireland caught up in an employment and emigration crisis, but managed to secure a position in the developing telecommunications sector. He and Helga lived in Finglas, north Dublin, before moving permanently to Rathmines. He later became an official in Liberty Hall with the Irish Transport and General Workers' Union (ITGWU, which later merged with another union into Siptu). Cathal MacLiam worked closely on political issues in Dublin with scientist and activist Roy Johnston, and they had many discussions with the 'official' wing of the republican movement, led by Cathal Goulding (a first cousin of MacLiam) and Tomás Mac Giolla, both of whom took a more political approach than the Provisionals at the time. MacLiam was chairman and secretary of the Wolfe Tone Society, which he and Johnston were involved in founding. When Ireland joined the EEC, he became active in the Irish Sovereignty Movement, with Trinity College lecturer Anthony Coughlan, in seeking to protect Ireland's independence within the common market. MacLiam played an active role in the Irish Anti-Apartheid Movement They were strong supporters of the Crotty case, as it was called, taken in 1986-87 by agricultural economist Raymond Crotty, which sought a referendum on the Single European Act (SEA), aimed at creating a single internal market throughout the EEC. The Supreme Court found in Crotty's favour and a referendum took place on May 26, 1987. As a result of the Crotty case, major European treaties since then have to be put to the Irish people by way of referendum. MacLiam and his associates also supported court actions taken by political activist Patricia McKenna, which ultimately resulted in a Supreme Court decision that public money could not be used in a partisan way in a constitutional referendum. MacLiam played an active role in the Irish Anti-Apartheid Movement, which organised a major protest in January 1970 against the visit of the South African rugby team that played against Ireland at Lansdowne Road. Having been in poor health for some time, Cathal MacLiam died peacefully at home on July 14. Helga MacLiam died in August 2016. In accordance with their wishes, their bodies have been donated to the School of Anatomy in the UCD Medical Department. A memorial occasion celebrating his life will be held later. Cathal MacLiam is survived by his sisters Joanna and Cecily, and his five children: twins Fionnula and Egon, Conor, Bébhinn and Kilian, as well as four grandchildren.
Bangkok Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Bangkok Post
EEC Honours 25 Entrepreneurs for Service Excellence
The Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee (EECO), also known as the EEC, recently hosted a ceremony to present the 'EEC Select Best Service 2025' certification to 25 entrepreneurs from Chachoengsao, Chonburi, and Rayong provinces. The event was held at Central Festival Pattaya Beach under the theme 'EEC Select Best Service = Service + SMART & SMILE.' The honoured services and service-oriented products were recognised for meeting high standards, reflecting local identity, showcasing innovation, supporting the use of local raw materials and employment, and demonstrating environmental responsibility. Mr Chula Sukmanop, Secretary-General of the EECO, said: 'EEC Select Best Service is a mechanism to elevate the products and services of communities in the EEC area to the international level, in line with the concept LOCAL ROOTS to GLOBAL REACH. We expect these awardees to gain both domestic and international recognition, expand marketing channels, and strengthen business networks—ultimately contributing to stable and sustainable income for local communities.' The 2025 awards were categorised into six groups: food and beverage, community-based tourism, accommodation and hotels, souvenir shops, spa and wellness, and service-oriented products. Evaluation was based on five criteria: production inputs, sustainable value creation, service process, uniqueness, and marketing. Certification levels were awarded based on scoring: 1 star (65+), 2 stars (75+), and 3 stars (85+). Notable recipients include: 3-star: Takhian Tia Tourism Community Enterprise; Pattaya Ko Me Na Tourism Community Enterprise; Mee Suk Farm by Agarwood Agricultural Production Community Enterprise; Deya Massage. 2-star: Bo Thong Buri Restaurant; Uncloud Coffee (JPJN Co., Ltd.); Star Convention Hotel; BCP Ban Chang Hotel. 1-star: Je Nong Zaap Ver Restaurant. In the service-oriented product category, 17 entrepreneurs with 38 products were recognised. Among 3-star recipients were: Chonburi: Fresh watermelon (Nichacha Charme); natural black hair colour shampoo (Ban Tom Herbal Group); synbiotic cricket protein (Kamisu Super Ento Products). Chachoengsao: Flavoured sauces (Thaplap Rice Mill Mango Group); fruit wines under FURANO brand. Rayong: Bath sets and balms (Mee Suk Farm). Two-star product awardees included hand-crafted wallets and scarves (Guge Style), herbal balms (Bensu Co., Ltd.), kimchi watermelon (Nichacha Charme), natural cleaning products (LTK Intertrading), Thai sauces (Transforming Dream Weaver Enterprise), and dyed fabrics and woven crafts (various community enterprises). The sole 1-star product award was presented to the Eco Print natural pattern shirt by Tisa Thai Fabric in Chachoengsao. Beyond certification, the recognised communities benefit from increased consumer confidence, media exposure, and access to new sales channels via EEC partner networks including Nai Lert Park, the Thai-Vietnamese Friendship Association, and Bang Khla Market. They will also participate in the Smart SME Expo 2025 from 7–10 August at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani.
Bangkok Post
5 days ago
- Business
- Bangkok Post
Risks and rewards of Beijing's BRI
Thailand may play a pivotal role in advancing China's vision of regional connectivity through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), but scholars caution that while the initiative presents substantial opportunities, it also brings significant challenges. They urge the government to adopt strategic policies that safeguard national interests and promote constructive global engagement. Launched in 2013, the BRI, also known as the New Silk Road or One Belt One Road, is a global infrastructure and investment strategy that now involves more than 150 countries. The initiative comprises overland economic corridors across Central Asia and maritime routes through Southeast Asia, South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. In an interview with the Bangkok Post, Asst Prof Sineenat Sermcheep, director of the Asean Studies Center at Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Economics, underscored Thailand's strategic importance due to its geographical position and economic compatibility with the BRI. "Thailand is a vital link within the China-Indochina Peninsula Economic Corridor [CICPEC], connecting China with Asean nations," she said, adding the country has also engaged in BRI's regional trade and logistic projects such as the China-Laos-Thailand railway. These efforts align with key national strategies, including Thailand 4.0 and the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), which focus on innovation and high-tech industries -- areas that also attract Chinese investment under the BRI. "Thailand's targeted industries under the Thailand 4.0 scheme closely match those outlined in China's 'Made in China 2025' plan," Ms Sineenat said, adding this synergy has drawn Chinese investment, particularly in advanced technology and infrastructure within the EEC. She also highlighted several key agreements under the BRI framework between Thailand and China, including the Strategic Cooperation Agreement and the China-Laos-Thailand Economic Corridor, which are designed to improve transport connectivity, increase trade, and deepen economic cooperation. Political science lecturer, Anekchai Rueangrattanakorn, from Silpakorn University, said the BRI is not just an economic initiative, but a means of contributing to regional stability. He pointed to China's mediating role in conflict-prone regions along BRI routes as evidence of the country's interest in maintaining peace to safeguard its investments. "The BRI reflects not only China's economic ambition but also its aspiration to be seen as a responsible global power," he said. "Thailand could leverage this position to work more actively with China in resolving regional crises, particularly the ongoing conflict in Myanmar, a country central to the BRI's regional goals." Ms Sineenat said the BRI has strengthened Thailand–China ties through increased trade, infrastructure projects, and cultural exchanges. The China-Laos-Thailand railway, she said, supports both tourism and trade, while the development of Laem Chabang Sea Port as a maritime node under the BRI aims to connect with major Chinese ports like those in Ningbo and Guangzhou. "This maritime link will further boost trade between southeastern China and Thailand," she said. The BRI also supports Thailand's digital transformation, smart city initiatives, and the growth of e-commerce and digital payment systems. Thai businesses, especially in sectors like AI, green energy, and fintech, have benefited from access to Chinese markets and technologies. If fully realised, Ms Sineenat said, the BRI could accelerate Thailand's industrial modernisation and open up new markets in Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa. Mr Anekchai agreed, noting BRI projects such as the Laos-Thailand railway have already strengthened economic ties while boosting intra-regional trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. "The multilateral collaboration doesn't just foster long-term political trust between Thailand and China, but also signals Thailand's commitment to a win-win approach, which could enhance broader regional partnerships." He said the BRI could elevate Thailand's status as Asean's key connectivity hub and a more prominent diplomatic actor. However, he warned that such engagement requires careful diplomacy. "Thailand must strike a balanced foreign policy, working with China without alienating Western partners. A constructive and balanced approach is essential," he said. Ms Sineenat also warned about economic risks, including trade imbalances and fierce competition from Chinese firms, particularly affecting local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). She also pointed to digital vulnerabilities. "Thailand must avoid over-reliance on Chinese imports and ensure fair trade," she said.
Bangkok Post
6 days ago
- Business
- Bangkok Post
ESTAR targets 5% growth in revenue by year-end
SET-listed developer Eastern Star Real Estate (ESTAR) aims to grow its revenue by 5% to 2 billion baht by the end of this year, focusing on high-demand locations as it shifts to the upper-end segment amid a stagnant market. Managing director Pairoj Wattanavarodom said three of the four new projects planned for launch this year are located in Ban Chang in Rayong, largely due to development of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). "The EEC is a long-term initiative that is continuing regardless of changes in the government or prime minister," he said. "Rayong province has received the highest level of investment under this programme." Mr Pairoj said housing demand in Rayong has continued to grow, particularly the luxury segment, as the province boasts the highest per capita income in the country, averaging 1.03 million baht in 2024, with a gross provincial product of 1.08 million baht. Housing demand has increased significantly due to expansion of U-tapao airport and the development of the Eastern Aviation City covering more than 6,500 rai, which was officially contracted for construction last month. The project, slated to open in 2029, is projected to generate over 50,000 jobs. "Investment in infrastructure is a key driver of housing demand, even amid an economic slowdown," he said. "Since the motorway reached Ban Chang three years ago, we've successfully sold out units in several of our existing projects in the area." One of the three new projects in Rayong, Grand Velana Crown U-Tapao Ban Chang, is located within the Eastern Star Golf Course. This 1.15-billion-baht development comprises 84 single detached houses priced between 11 and 20 million baht. "Thanks to the motorway, some buyers at this project are foreigners who relocated from Pattaya, which has become overcrowded and where they would have to pay 20–30 million baht for homes the same size as ours," said Mr Pairoj. The other two projects in Rayong will be located on Burapapat-Sukhumvit Road, also in Ban Chang. Both will feature single detached houses priced between 5 and 9 million baht, with launches scheduled for the second half of 2025. The remaining project is in Bangkok, in the Phutthamonthon Sai 1 area, with a total value of 1.5 billion baht. Units will be priced between 20 and 30 million baht, targeting a segment where purchasing power remains strong. "High mortgage rejection rates are affecting the market for homes priced at 5 million baht and below, and this trend is now extending into the 5–10 million baht range," Mr Pairoj said. "By shifting to the upper-end segment, we are confident in meeting our performance targets." This year ESTAR expects to generate 2 billion baht in revenue, up from 1.91 billion baht in 2024. In the first quarter it recorded 294 million baht, exceeding its target for the first half of the year.
GSM Arena
08-07-2025
- GSM Arena
Xiaomi 16 grabs a certification on its way to launch
The Xiaomi 16 has been rumored to launch in China by the end of September, right after Qualcomm unveils the chipset that will be powering it. The phone has now received the EEC certification, ahead of its global launch. It's unclear when that will take place - its predecessor was introduced to international markets this February at MWC, but if the Xiaomi 16 launches in China in September, waiting five months for it to make its global debut is stretching things quite a lot, so perhaps Xiaomi will change things this time around - it remains to be seen. The certification reveals the Xiaomi 16's model number for global markets, which is 25113PN0EG. The Chinese model will have a "C" at the end instead of the "G", while the Indian model - you guessed it - will end in "I". According to previous rumors and leaks, the Xiaomi 16 will have a massive 7,000 mAh battery, a 6.3" to 6.39" flat OLED display, and three 50 MP cameras on the rear (including a main with a 1/1.3" type sensor and a periscope telephoto). Xiaomi 15 Via
