Who Gave Them The Right

Carbotec · Post by **Carbotec** » Tue 27 May 2014 5:46 pm

I am outraged!

I understand that the BRS have been involved with the Interior Ministry about the White Residency Card!

Who gave them the authority to liaise on behalf of the Ex Pat community to "make suggested improvements/amendments to the draft proposal????

BRS members have not been consulted for their opinions or input!

They are representing a small minority in this expat community, and I for one certainly DO NOT want
These people representing my interests.

Off to get the helmet out!

Munchkin · Post by **Munchkin** » Tue 27 May 2014 6:25 pm

Successive TRNC Governments have kicked the EX-Pat community in the teeth and discriminated against them for so long now There will be no Ex Pat community left very soon, the White Residency Card is to little to late, they (the TRNC Governments) will take everything and give NOTHING in return.

Ex Pat opinions mean nothing in the TRNC so consulted or not it's waste of breath.

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Tue 27 May 2014 6:39 pm

dELICATE SITUATION. wE ARE VISITORS HERE AND KNOW TO WHAT WE ARE COMING. I PERSONALLY FEEL CHEATED THAT THE GOAL POSTS ON CITIZENSHIP HAVE BEEN MOVED, BUT I EQUALLY ACCEPT I HAVE NO RIGHTS AT ALL . (sorry caps stuck). I would not dream of telling the government what they must do with ex pats, and one must also accept that there are probably Russians, German,s Dutch etc in this 'ex pat' category. So if the BRS consider they are representing a few hundred Brits, what about the others who certainly have not been consulted.

So what do others think? My own feeling is that if the government wants my opinion, I am ready to give it, but expect nothing in return. aND I DO NOT WANT TO BE REPRESENTED BY ANYONE UNLESS I SO INSTRUCT THEM.

The other matter to be borne in mind is that people in the Med are polite. They would never say 'push off' but will always smile and listen, and then possibly file the whole thing in the waste paper basket.

As to Brits leaving - that is for many many reasons, and in many instances it is because of medical attention costs, and/or education for children.

So come on guys. Does the poster of the thread need to get out his helmet, or might you stand side by side, swords drawn??????????

Ragged Robin · Post by **Ragged Robin** » Tue 27 May 2014 8:12 pm

Maybe the question should be whether the BRS represents the interests of all the British
communities. The make up of British is so different from that when the BRS was founded, and it seems the BRS are now looking after part time residents and no one is seeing to the interests to those who have made a permanent home here.

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Tue 27 May 2014 8:38 pm

Valid point. However, I thought that the British High Commission was th eplace to turn to for answers (except borrowing money). They have said recently how 'We are here for you'. And maybe they are the best authority.

Not sure that any voluntary , social organization with a membership, can truly represents the interests of the many , especially the non members for whom BRS also claim to speak.

Makum · Post by **Makum** » Tue 27 May 2014 10:15 pm

I can only admire the BRS for attempting to get involved in a situation where lip service will be payed but little difference will be made to any outcome. The piper that calls the tune is not listening and they are dealing with the dancing monkey, so weather they have the right or not carries little significance if those that are listening are in no position to make a change

Deniz1 · Post by **Deniz1** » Wed 28 May 2014 4:14 am

Can some one explain what the white kimlik card is for? What difference does it make to every day life here?

Agobard · Post by **Agobard** » Wed 28 May 2014 5:18 am

I am not a great enthusiast for ex-pat organisations any where but, in this instance, it would seem that the BRS are damned if they do and damned if they don't! The government are apparently intent on changing the residency regulations and are planning to issue 'white cards' for a permanent residency instead of the annual/bi annual charade. The BRS, who do, in fact, represent some of the expat community, have been invited to discuss this issue with the minister concerned. I can't really see the problem with this. It is surely better than some unworkable,stupid law being passed which causes a raft of other problems in the future - this wouldn't be the first time that this has happened!

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Wed 28 May 2014 5:38 am

Not a BRS member? When was the last time the BRS asked YOU what you wanted or if they could represent YOU?

Carbotec and all, I stand beside you! I came to the TRNC on my own, the BRS offered no help. I came to fight and win/lose my own battles, I did not ask for the help of the BRS. I am totally disgusted with the "Raj" and "Gunboat" attitude of the BRS, who are in effect a social club in the minority of all British Residents in the TRNC. They have no more power with the Government of the TRNC than a bunch of children have with their teacher, yet they proport to represent the views and wish's of all. If they do indeed represent the views and wish's of all British Residents then their organisation should be transparent to all British Residents and not just those who pay to join the club. Do not represent me, I do not need you nor do I want you!

As for support and representation by the British High Commission - I have been in situations where (working for the British Government) I have had the High Commission door firmly slamed in my face. Read the troubles around the world these days where the British High Commission has been involved - from the loss of a passport to the murder of a family and all you will get is "The British High Commission is providing Consular Services", if you have ever had to suffer "Consular Services" you will begin to understand that they are just as effective as the BRS!

I havefound that if you are polite and willing to try to understand not only the TRNC system but Cypriots as a whole, there are very few things you can not achieve for yourself. As for the 10% discount BRS card - whenever I have been asked if I have a BRS card and answered NO, I have always been told "No problem, we give 10% discount anyway" - so don't let that huge BRS saving make you join anything!

oldie · Post by **oldie** » Wed 28 May 2014 6:16 am

Brilliant Waddo could not have put it better myself.

Carbotec · Post by **Carbotec** » Wed 28 May 2014 6:30 am

Waddo......Could not agree more with your thread especially the line below, how true.

I am totally disgusted with the "Raj" and "Gunboat" attitude of the BRS, who are in effect a social club in the minority of all British Residents in the TRNC.

Deniz1 · Post by **Deniz1** » Wed 28 May 2014 6:33 am

Never mind the BRS I think our unsung heroess is Marion Stokes she has tirelessly worked for the betterment of all.

Robert The Bruce · Post by **Robert The Bruce** » Wed 28 May 2014 9:11 am

Marions

Re your post No3. I am NOT a "visitor" here and nor are the majority of the ex-pats . We came to live here permanently and have done so for the last 16 years and the fact that successive governments have changed the rules on Permanent Residency does not alter that fact. It makes me very angry when you and others here , including the Government, say we are visitors and the longer we are treated as third class people the more i dislike this place.
Many ex-pats also use the term "guests" which again we are not. guests implies something like staying in a hotel, the difference being that if you were a hotel guest you would be treated with respect and courtesy, something that is sadly lacking here

tomsteel · Post by **tomsteel** » Wed 28 May 2014 10:22 am

The 'norm' would be a government would deal with another government's official representative. Here the British High Commission should represent expat UK citizens. However, it does not do so and ergo a vacuum exists, which the BRS has elected itself to fill. Rightly, or wrongly, it's a fact - it is doing so. I am a member of the BRS (for how long further?) and I deplore the manner of the hijacking of the 2014 AGM, where bully-boy tactics ruled the day.

My passport stamp from the TRNC Government clearly states I am a 'Temporary Visitor' and has done so annually since arrival in 2008. I guess, therefore, that is what the Government here has decided my status is. Semantics, from expats, as to our status is an irrelevance, be it guest, visitor, citizen et al. We have no vote, no voice, nobody to represent us. If you cannot accept this fact, I suggest you depart henceforth and stop the 'Wingehing Pom' tone. It did us no favours down under.

karmels · Post by **karmels** » Wed 28 May 2014 11:24 am

What will happen next month when we vote for a new Government?
All the Government posts could change, then it will be back to square one.
The BRS will have to go back to the Government offices and find a new person to talk to.
So it goes on and will still go on every four years as it has done for many many years.

PoshinDevon · Post by **PoshinDevon** » Wed 28 May 2014 11:59 am

This posting sums up my thoughts as well. Cannot understand people who really moan about North Cyprus - yes it's nowhere near perfect but it is the place for us. Those that feel they are disliking the place more and more perphaps ought to consider whether it is time to say a fond farewell and move to somewhere they will be happier.

As for the BRS I think that after 2 months there are still many unhappy members still waiting for explanations.

Summer has arrived so time to chill and enjoy all that North Cyprus offers.

tomsteel wrote:The 'norm' would be a government would deal with another government's official representative. Here the British High Commission should represent expat UK citizens. However, it does not do so and ergo a vacuum exists, which the BRS has elected itself to fill. Rightly, or wrongly, it's a fact - it is doing so. I am a member of the BRS (for how long further?) and I deplore the manner of the hijacking of the 2014 AGM, where bully-boy tactics ruled the day.

My passport stamp from the TRNC Government clearly states I am a 'Temporary Visitor' and has done so annually since arrival in 2008. I guess, therefore, that is what the Government here has decided my status is. Semantics, from expats, as to our status is an irrelevance, be it guest, visitor, citizen et al. We have no vote, no voice, nobody to represent us. If you cannot accept this fact, I suggest you depart henceforth and stop the 'Wingehing Pom' tone. It did us no favours down under.

Carbotec · Post by **Carbotec** » Wed 28 May 2014 1:25 pm

Deniz1 wrote:Never mind the BRS I think our unsung heroess is Marion Stokes she has tirelessly worked for the betterment of all.

This thread is not about singing someone's praises, it's about the BRS taking it upon their selves to make suggestions on my and your behalf. Please stick with the thread.

Ragged Robin · Post by **Ragged Robin** » Wed 28 May 2014 2:12 pm

Permanent Residents are those who live here all the year round and make it their home, and do not return regularly to the UK to escape the heat, for health care etc.

1. With due respect to Marion Stokes and sympathy for those she helped, surely she concentrated on those with house buying problems? Help is need by permanent residents with other problems and are not being met by the BRS OR the British High Commission.

2. It would help to be clear what The Govt.s proposals are re the White Card, and the proposed BRS amendments? Does anyone know where they can be found.

3. I would also like to know if anyone is representing the Brit Community in the "Peace talks"" particularly regarding health care. Anyone know?

tomsteel · Post by **tomsteel** » Wed 28 May 2014 3:07 pm

My family lives here in the TRNC 'all the year round.' Our annual/bi-annual UK passport TRNC stamps most definitely states "Temporary Visitor". Ergo, we are not 'Permanent Residents'. Where did this classification originate from? Does your passport stamp state such?

Lovelife · Post by **Lovelife** » Wed 28 May 2014 3:25 pm

I am not a member of the BRS and recent events/debacle/ puts me off from joining.
However reading their website and information put on it brings this paragraph to light-:

"The objects of the Society are to foster friendly relations with the people of Cyprus, to advise and assist members and to make representation on their behalf to the authorities".
By definition, you joining and becoming a member you are agreeing to what they state they will do for you.

I will also ask the question IF (and its a big IF)they were successful in getting their requests for this white card and people gain permanent residency, will you all still be outraged? or will you take up permanent residency?

As Tomsteel states you are temporary visitors, that is what is formally documented and that's what you are, whether you like it, or agree with it.

''I have found that if you are polite and willing to try to understand not only the TRNC system but Cypriots as a whole, there are very few things you can not achieve for yourself.'' Agree with you Waddo

2 months on from this AGM and it appears the current committee still evoke strong reactions, have members made their feelings known to them and have members called for an EGM? or are you all going around in circles and getting no where?

Time to be proactive and not reactive.
LL

Robert The Bruce · Post by **Robert The Bruce** » Wed 28 May 2014 4:29 pm

Clearly some like their status as "Temporary Visitor" when they in fact live here permanently and have done for a number of years. Stating that you feel that status is wrong is not "whingeing" as someone put it. That same someone who has whinged about a number of other things on here but chooses to conveniently forget that. Inane comments are not the answer to a serious issue .

Posh In Devon
As you dont actually live here, I believe, then you really have little experience of life here in it's entirety so again i think your blase comment is rather needless to say the least. Live here for 10 years or more ( permanently) , watch the goalposts move regularly and then see if you feel the same way. Somehow i doubt you will !!!!!!!!!!

PoshinDevon · Post by **PoshinDevon** » Wed 28 May 2014 4:52 pm

Robert the Bruce - You are indeed correct in saying I do not live there permanently (At the moment).

However please be aware that I have lived and worked in Cyprus for many years in the early 70's and also from 1983 - 86, 1991 - 93 plus in 2005 - 8. Probably totalling in excess of 12 years. Add to this the dozen or more times we have holidayed on the island both north and south, plus having a property in the north and I believe I am entitled to my opinion. I also am an avid reader of about all things Cyprus both north and south and follow news events and read on line papers to keep up to speed with what is happening.I would go so far to say that as my experience of living and working on the island spans many decades I have been able to see the way of life, appreciate how things happen (or not as the case may be) plus understand the history, culture and the people of this lovely island.

The TRNC is a small state very much in its infancy, isolated to a large extent and having to do the best it can given its present situation. In my opinion there has been change for the good over the years....remember it was not that many years ago when crossing north to south and vice versa was either not allowed or a real challenge. I can assure you that the "goal posts" as you put it will always be changing and of course things are not perfect, but since our love affair with the island started many years ago we have adapted and not let it spoil our enjoyment.

This forum encourages sensible debate and dialogue - we all have differing opinions whilst I appreciate your frustration, please do not tell me how I should feel about North Cyprus.

Should you feel the need to reply then can I suggest you use the PM facility to contact me direct so as not to detract from the thread so far.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Wed 28 May 2014 7:19 pm

Why is it that people think that the issue of a White Card, if indeed it happens, will be down solely to the efforts of the BRS, in that this was the wish of the people they represent. Keep in mind that they are not the only body/society within the TRNC that makes approaches to the Government on issues regarding foreign residents.

Slightly off topic - as changes in the laws in the TRNC are almost always a reflection of changes in law in Turkey - you may find this interesting: http://kalkan.turkishlocalnews.com/port ... -an-update

rocking · Post by **rocking** » Wed 28 May 2014 7:44 pm

I agree with Agobard in this instance.

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Wed 28 May 2014 7:59 pm

Thanks Waddo. Does anyone know if this is now the case as the paper was dated April 2013. It seems many countries change their rules. The Residency Visa we had in Australia has changed out of all recognition and offers a much better deal than what we had. The only trouble is the cost of living has gone up so much, we would need a lottery win!

One must therefore doubt whether it is the ex pats that have any real pressure to bring on the Government. The Government decides what is best for the country. The rules in TRNC on residency have changed form when we came and we have lost out as have other,s but one has to accept that change is as much a part of life as breathing.

It seems to me the main point that is made by the first poster is that the BRS represents only a few people (it's members) and therefore should not lay claim to representing all, especially as they have not sought the permission of its membership (let alone those who are not) to be their representative nor do a poll as to what members feel they would like to ask the government.

And it is only fair to reiterate that according ot our visas we are a Visitor, and if that is what the government states there is no argument, even if one feels in ones heart one is permanent. iT IS ONLY AS PERMANENT AS THE GOVERNMENT PERMITS, WHILST STILL CALLING US ALL 'VISITORS.'

Robert The Bruce · Post by **Robert The Bruce** » Wed 28 May 2014 8:12 pm

Posh In Devon

Not distracting from the thread at all but when did I tell you how you should feel about Cyprus. Please do not attempt to put words there that i didnt say. I actually said see if you feel the same after living here for 15 years or so. I could say to you dont tell me i should leave if I dont like the way things are but I wont stoop tp that . Sauce for the goose etc.
Anyway as for the white Kimlik card i do not see the purpose or benefit of it. We will still no doubt be classified as "temporary visitors" despite the fact that many of us have sunk our lives in to this island and got precious little in return other than a nice tan. Okay we didnt fall victim to the property scams and cons as they came a long time after we came here but many others have and a White Kimlik card will not help those unfortunates. The BRS did not do a lot to help those people either . Marion Stokes did. Really the BRS is a (very) toothless tiger and does not represent the vast majority of ex-pats here ( and probably a lot fewer after its recent shenanigens !!!)

Dalartokat · Post by **Dalartokat** » Wed 28 May 2014 8:34 pm

Marions, yes there are changes in Turkey, have a look at http://www.Yellali.com and it will keep you up to date.

http://www.yellali.com/news/article/63/ ... nce-issues

http://www.yellali.com/news/article/61/ ... ement-gdmm

Ragged Robin · Post by **Ragged Robin** » Wed 28 May 2014 8:55 pm

I would still like to know what the proposals are and what the BRS suggested alterations. I have just had a quick look at the BRS site and can find nothing about it so presumably they are not prepared to share with expatriates who are not members representations they (the BRS) are making on their behalf!

Does anyone know? Carbotec in your first post you said you "understood the BRS were making representations about the white card - where did you get that from?

The BRS was founded precisely because the British HIgh Commission was not willing/able to assist residents of the TRNC because of international non-recognition. That situation has only changed in that for financial reasons British consular services worldwide have reduced the service they give expats !

What has changed is the nature of the British Ex Pat population , which is much more diverse than when the BRS started and its members all lived here full time. I doubt if one - particularly voluntary - organisation COULD represent all the different interests.

PoshinDevon · Post by **PoshinDevon** » Wed 28 May 2014 9:35 pm

Robert the Bruce

I have my own life experiences from living on the island and you have yours. I "feel" positively about the place despite all the things that in some peoples view are not right.

On this occasion we will just have to accept that we feel differently and agree to disagree.

karmels · Post by **karmels** » Wed 28 May 2014 9:46 pm

Ragged Robin.
The BRS was founded many years before your statement about the British High Commission making any such statement.
Remember the TREE at the post office ( 1983 ) when the BRS had less than 40 members, it was only when the expat population increased in the years of the building boom did the BRS start to try to represent their members at a Government level, but has I have mentioned before the top jobs change every four years in the elections, so when the BRS approach a new member of parliament he will have no recollection of any past agreements with the BRS?? and so it goes on and will do till the end of time.
As stated earlier. the white Kimlik card will not be worth the paper it will be printed on, four years down the line it could all change, as it seems the goal post seem to do??
May I suggest we leave the BRS committee to their own ends and let them run around in ever decreasing circles till they disappear up their known ??????

Carbotec · Post by **Carbotec** » Thu 29 May 2014 5:52 am

Ragged Robin wrote:I would still like to know what the proposals are and what the BRS suggested alterations. I have just had a quick look at the BRS site and can find nothing about it so presumably they are not prepared to share with expatriates who are not members representations they (the BRS) are making on their behalf!

Does anyone know? Carbotec in your first post you said you "understood the BRS were making representations about the white card - where did you get that from?

The BRS was founded precisely because the British HIgh Commission was not willing/able to assist residents of the TRNC because of international non-recognition. That situation has only changed in that for financial reasons British consular services worldwide have reduced the service they give expats !

What has changed is the nature of the British Ex Pat population , which is much more diverse than when the BRS started and its members all lived here full time. I doubt if one - particularly voluntary - organisation COULD represent all the different interests.

Hi ragged Robin".....if you were a BRS member you would have received an email about it.

You doubt if one voluntary organisation could represent the changing expat community, they are not even getting close,
The BRS needs young blood.

terry2366 · Post by **terry2366** » Thu 29 May 2014 6:01 am

It needs someone who will serve the members rather than failed politicians photographers and the like who are only out to try and make themselves feel important. They are serving their own ends not ours. How they could be elected from the 31 left after the organised upheaval I do not know and still officially the previous committee have not handed over . I do not think I would be using their lawyer if she has advised them it's ok. This will rumble on and on till next year and the committee will be remembered for what they are pompous and useless. We have long memories !! And it's a small island. The mud will stick.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Thu 29 May 2014 7:45 am

Nobody gave the BRS the right - that is the simple answer! I am not known to be a supporter of the BRS nor any other group who wish to take my life into their own hands without giving me the free right to agree/disagree with their agenda and global wish. I will support any government that has been voted into power by the people of the land in which I reside. I have the free choice to either stay or leave and can exercise that right at anytime I feel the need - regardless of the cost in finance or any other personal issues.

I disagree with the attitude of the BRS in that they represent a minority group of paying members without any attempt to find out what the majority of the people wish!

However, I must add that the new BRS web site includes information on their activities that was not previously available and apart from the floating "Credit West" banner is most helpful to non-members.

Whilst I can understand why there is never a comment, on the public forum, from the BRS Committe regarding BRS intervention in ex-pat activities and worry's as no volunteer body would be able to keep up with all the questions and provide answers that would satisfy the majority. It is obvious that the BRS committe must read the public forums, therefore I ask them to consider this:

Using the same rules that apply to forum registration - in that the poster of any thread can be identified by the forum owner - provide a function on the BRS website that would allow for constructive suggestions from non-members and also provide a simple "Poll" system regarding questions they wish to take to the Government, having first published such questions in the public area of the BRS website.

The answer is simple - if you (The BRS) wish to represent us all (Ex-Pats) then include us all!

PoshinDevon · Post by **PoshinDevon** » Thu 29 May 2014 8:36 am

waddo - Good suggestion IMO.

It is clear that the credibility of the BRS has been dealt a severe blow after recent events. They now need to walk the long hard road in building back up their credibility, encouraging members old and new to contribute more and get the organisation back onto a sound footing.

Openness and honesty is required and providing the BRS publish results of any polls etc this will go some way to repair the damage. More people would be inclined to look at the website and maybe even encouraged to join the BRS.

From comments on this forum, not sure this will happen. Understand the reasons/reluctance of the BRS committee not to post on public forums and it may well be that for legal reasons they must for the moment remain silent, however if the organisation is to survive they will have to at some stage enter into dialogue with those who have been disaffected.

Ragged Robin · Post by **Ragged Robin** » Thu 29 May 2014 5:30 pm

Karmels: Sorry I missed something out in my earlier post. I meant to say "the BRS was founded in l975 "(per their Website). I have heard there was a similar Society previously but that represented expats in the whole Island, and obviously after l974 a separate society was needed to look after the interests of the intrepid and loyal few who chose to stay in the North.

I wasnt here in l983, but was visiting and in the hut in the early 90s when then members of the BRS were discussing some change to the law and quoted the reaction of the High Commission to representations as "it is your fault for living here"

You are right that changes occurred both in the population and in the membership and objectives of the BRS with the post 2004 building boom and influx of British . particularly those buying holiday homes, who had no knowledge or care for local customs. It was then that the Cypriots ((already worried that the influence of Turkish Mainlanders) and many Brits became concerned about the influence of an even more alien culture that was demanding (and often got!) life like it was in little Britain and moaning about the country they had chosen to live in was swamping the culture etc. of the indigenous Turkish Cypriots, and the Gvt. withdrew the chance for full time long term residents to take out Permanent Residence or even citizenship.

It is possible to get laws and rgulations changed, even here, but it takes perseverance and must be done the right way. Constant moaning and carping will only alienate the establishment, and arguments within the ranks , not only of the BRS but in the expat population as a whole will not make them take notice of genuine problems.

Ragged Robin · Post by **Ragged Robin** » Thu 29 May 2014 5:36 pm

Waldo: You make good points. The objection the BRS would make is that even with volunteers it costs money to run such an organisation and they cannot afford to help those who do not contribute. Personally I object to having to spend time and money joining an organisation (and this does not only apply to the BRS) before I can find if I am in accord with its objectives.

However the BRS has the potential (although they seem to have dmaged it) of influencing the lives of many people they do not represent and I think you idea of a Poll is excellent. It could also be used to establish the changing nature of the population and their requirements.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Fri 30 May 2014 6:31 am

Ragged Robin, The only minor fault I found with the BRS website was the scrolling banner of Credit West - if the BRS can provide support for them on their web site there must be a supportive reason why??? There web site is already in place, the addition of a few simple things would not take their webmaster long to implement - and in my close association with web masters, they just love to try something new!! I can not see where the money would come into it but perhaps they also have sponsers (scolling banner) that would like a poll of their own products taken - at cost. Its not rocket science, its goya!

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Fri 30 May 2014 7:31 am

A coup[le olf things, if I may.

Firstly Credit West are great sponsors of the BRS and there are some '[perks' to members through them, so it is only right and proper that they are given free advertising on the web page, . Of course another argument is that lal the companies that give discounts should, but CreditWest are extremely generous sponsors.

The second point, and I hope I am not shot for this. I feel it is important that people know EXACTLY what was said by the BNRS to its members. I appreciate it was sent to me as a member, but as BRS feel they speak for all ex pat,s it is perhaps only fair that I give you exactly what was said in this note to members. Maybe I should have consulted with BRS but as they DO claim to speak for all(they state 'ex pat community'), and as it is obviously a matter of concern, and as no committee member seems to want to clarify the situation, here I go (if I get shot at dawn, I hope I will have some sympathisers. So:

The BRS met with the Interior Minister on Friday 23rd May. The main discussion point was the proposed introduction of the "White" Residency Card.

We emphasised that this matter was of such importance to the ex-pat community that we should be involved in the consultation process before any draft law was presented to Parliament.

The Minister agreed and has arranged for his legal advisor to let us have a copy of the draft proposal in the next week.

Following receipt we have been invited to submit our comments and any suggested improvements/amendments.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Fri 30 May 2014 7:41 am

Marions, I will come stand in front of you when the squad try's to aim its weapons. The note you received and have published above is very much what the BRS web site has published in any case, so I do not think they will be after you!!!!

My comment on Credit West was meant to imply (in a round about way) that the BRS do indeed have sponsorship and that therefore funding a small "Poll" on their existing web site would not be a drain on their finances! I am not complaining about the advertisment itself only that it detracts from the use of the web site drop down menus by blocking out some of the options whilst it scrolls! Minor thing but having a lifetime in IT - it is annoying to me - lol.

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Fri 30 May 2014 7:55 am

Valid point Waddo. I have not looked at the site (naughty Marion - black mark to start the day).

The main reason I placed the wording on here is because there are possibly non members who would not have received this, but who are nevertheless included in the 'ex pat community' and are being represented at Government level by the BRS.

Of colurse, if everyone approved and wanted, we can conduct a poll on here! Easily done. In fact, Soner and I have already discussed it - if, and only if, it would be of help!

KibKom Times will have (hopefully) an article next week updating on info re the AGM, updates, and other matters just to try to get some kind of straight record in it all. No opinions just the facts and thoughts of others who are concerned.

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Fri 30 May 2014 8:29 am

Marions, I would suggest that this forum possibly has more members than the BRS??? I would not know as BRS membership is a closely guarded secret - lol. However, I think your idea has much merit in that a simple "Poll" (one man, one vote style - forgive the politically incorrect use of the word man) on here would give every forum member and forum visitor a feel for what the expat communitiy really wants and how they wish to be represented/or not to their country of residence!

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Fri 30 May 2014 8:33 am

Thanks Waddo. I will get Soner to set it up. He is the IT whizz kid - I am just the (sometimes-lousy) typist!). However, I think that we can boast treble the membership of the BRS and if every member did vote on here, then perhaps a more truly represaentative figure could be obtained Of course, one respects that many people ar e not intereste d in the BRS and that many of its members find it serves them well as it is without dabbling in the politics. However, this has become a major concern to some people who feel they want some sense of 'closure' . So thanks for acting as a spur.

PoshinDevon · Post by **PoshinDevon** » Fri 30 May 2014 10:00 am

Let's say at sometime in the future should either there be some settlement between the RoC and the TRNC or should Turkey ever get admitted as an EU member presume the freedom of movement, working, residency, etc etc will come under the auspices of the EU?

Just asking the question.

May well be completely wrong of course!

Ragged Robin · Post by **Ragged Robin** » Fri 30 May 2014 2:42 pm

Posh: Its a good question. But what I want to know is if ANYONE, BRS, High Commission, British Foreign office? are representing the interests of the British full time expats in the talks about Cyprus. But total silence appears to reign.

Marion: Thanks for the info and I also support you in giving it.

The poll I would like to see here, would be if we knew what the Gvt. proposals where, and could vote whether or not we supported them, and ideally give opinions. Because I am sure the Gvt. gets someone to keep on eye on what is said on these sites.

tomsteel · Post by **tomsteel** » Fri 30 May 2014 3:38 pm

Ref msg 44/44 above. Ragged Robin raises very important points. Is anybody in authority representing expat UK citizens here in the TRNC? The danger of many polls is the tenor of, and, the questions being asked for views upon. Pollsters must know all of the facts before being asked to vote on issues - 'the devil is always in the detail.' Further are the questions: what if, what next?

Marions · Post by **Marions** » Fri 30 May 2014 8:13 pm

What facts do you want Tom? Also is Ragged Robin asking what the proposals are about residency. I can find it and print in full, but I think it should be on the BRS web site! Fundamentally, they are producing a White Card, which means you od not have to renew residency, but you have no voting rights. There are certain criteria, and I believe (WITHOUT LOOKING IT UP) THA TYOU MUST HAVE HAD A tEMP rESIDENCY FOR 5 YEARS MINIMUM. However I believe there is some discussion about medical issues. I also believe it means that anyone over 60 who has not taken out residency visas, would not be eligible, but would have to start to build up the 5 years. The other option they are talking of bringing back is Citizenship, after someone has been here for 10 years and fulfills criteria , such as not being out of the country too much over the previous years etc. Citizenship is quite different to White Card, and does of ocurse give voting rights etc and the right to pay taxes!

The white caqrd is in effect pretty much the same as the former Permanent Residency .

However, there are more details than this. As I say, this is from memory, or it may be on the BRS site

As to who represents the ex pats - anyone in authority? In what sense. Who has authority./ The only authority is the Government, and I think they are tyring to find a way through to satisfying the hopes of people hwo have bene here for quite a while.

tomsteel · Post by **tomsteel** » Sat 31 May 2014 5:33 am

Marion, I have seen the current white card proposal, but it is just that - the proposal! Further, residency is but one of the issues expats face here; property scams, judicial inertia, Kibtec deposits on connection for expats, only 3 years driving licences, extortinate charges for muhtars' letters et al. Our representation is not the responsibility of the TRNC, albeit it should be accountable for its decisions affecting expats and locals alike. Who is charged with our care - BHC?

waddo · Post by **waddo** » Sat 31 May 2014 6:16 am

With respect to all, can we go back to the title of this thread? The original - starting point - of the thread was a question on who gave the BRS the right to represent all expats? May I say that you can have many "Polls" on many subjects but unless you have the first one produced in a very simple manner, such as:

Do you want the BRS to be your representative to the TRNC Government? Yes No

then we are just complicating matters and will never have a foundation upon which to base any future "Polls". The results of different "Polls" can be kept as a "Sticky" at the top of the forum so that all current and new members, along with other interested party's, can use it as reference

Perhaps when the votes were counted a new thread dedicated to just "Residency" could be started in an attempt to judge public feelings. Such a poll can be derived from comments made about current residency regulations and future "Wish's" but only if it is only "Residency" comment that is within that thread.

Just a thought to try to keep things in a simple order!!!

terry2366 · Post by **terry2366** » Sat 31 May 2014 6:58 am

Sounds a sensible idea.

tomsteel · Post by **tomsteel** » Sat 31 May 2014 7:26 am

waddo, I really do respect and agree with your view on representation of expats to the TRNC Government, the BRS assuming it has the right to do and the need for simplicity. You are prepared to go it alone and look after yourself with the various governmental departments. However, others are not so confident and want a body to do it for them. Posing the question, 'Do you want the BRS---------' then begs the question, "if no, do you want anybody to do so and if you do, who should it be - MNCBP?" As you say, 'keep it simple", but it is not a simple issue because there are just so many threads evolving from expat treatment in the TRNC, residency being just one, what happens if the CYPROB is resolved and we are then under EU regulations. For all that, here is home - warts 'n all and healthy debate should continue.

Kibkom North Cyprus Forum

Join us