shirleymckie.myfastforum.org

Iain McKie · Joined: 08 May 2007 Posts: 262 Location: Ayr, Scotland.

The Way Ahead

This posting has been prompted in part by the ongoing ‘Ronnie Biggs’s debate where as I see it the contributors, despite having much in common and being committed to fighting injustice, at times appear to see each other as the enemy. This can only provide succour to the real enemy complacency and our at times self serving and incestuous justice system.

Over the past year the quality of postings on this forum has dramatically improved and they are a credit to contributors. I would argue that its voice is all the stronger because of this.

The moderator’s role is to maintain a vigorous level of debate, with all sides of the argument being heard, while at the same time ensuring that gratuitous insults and language are avoided. With a few exceptions the debates have effectively self moderated with respect being shown despite obviously wide differences of opinion.

There is little doubt that, despite the justice system’s self satisfied approach, injustice in Scotland is a very serious issue. The only chance many of those who have suffered have of being heard is for others to speak up in their defence. This voice must be consistent, coherent and persuasive. Without this those fighting injustice will persist in their unequal battle and be lone voices on the outside of a complacent and incestuous system.

Whether we like it or not being heard is also dependent on becoming an accepted part of the Justice system ,with a right to be consulted, and not a body of oddball obsessives who can be easily be sidelined and dismissed.

Some of course would understandably shy away from linking to a system where obtaining justice has become a time consuming, costly and eventually frustrating exercise that demands exceptional advocacy skills, persistence and support.

The challenge is how we can become an accepted part of that system whilst remaining independent and retaining the right to speak out against its failings and excesses?

I believe this must involve creating a working relationship with the legal profession, the media and politicians and their support will only be forthcoming if we can show that we are responsible people willing to engage in reasoned argument and debate.

I have always hoped that this forum would at least help start this process and that this debating chamber would develop into a service for those fighting injustice and provide mentoring for those who for various reasons are unable to take up the battle on their own.

Many of you have proved that the energy and the skills are there – the question is how do we marshal them against injustice?