Job Discussion Forums

[eflnoil]

Ladies and Gents

I realize it's a long shot but would anyome have recent info about the general security situation in Basrah, Iraq.

I have been asked to spend 2 months there setting up a training program and would like some independent views before I go or if I go. I'd be travelling 40k daily to and from a training centre so travel security is my main concern.

Lots of conflicting reports over the web but if anyone is actually there who could give me the low-down, that would be great.

Thanks beforehand for input.

eflnoil

[MacW]

The oil companies ferry their employees around in armoured personnel carriers.

There are other security companies which provide varying levels of security.

Although the violence in Basra is much reduced compared to Baghdad the security is there for a reason and it would be naive to think that you, as a foreigner, would not be a potential target.

Who are you setting up the training centre for?

[eflnoil]

Quote:

it would be naive to think that you, as a foreigner, would not be a potential target.

Exactly my thoughts. Were I arab-looking in any way, my anxiety might be much reduced but standing out, as I would, would be 'sticking my neck out'.

Thanks for those comments.

Quote:

Who are you setting up the training centre for?

The training centre is already there. It's the program that needs to be put in place.

It's early days and I still haven't been told who it's for and, I suppose, for good reason. It appears to be some deal based on the fact that they want to replicate the set-up and program we have here in Kazakhstan. They are / were obviously impressed when they came here and saw it functioning.

Once I know, I shall spill the beans.

eflnoil

[ntropy]

Been looking for beans all over the floor, but none spilled yet. Care to share?

[scot47]

I just listened to a BBC Radio programme about the 300+ Iraqis who were unwise enough to collaborate with the occupiers when the British were there.

Many were evacuated when the British State withdrew. Most are now living on benefits and living in Glasgow.

I just had a visitor who was teaching on a US-run programme there until August. He spent 10 months in Iraq. He had NOTHJING positive to report - other than the US$100,000 thathe squirreled away..

[Middle East Beast]