Thanks for both those replies to my ancient post. I did eventually get in touch with Etihad via the normal routes and the issues I had at the time were dealt with rapidly and effieciently once that contact had been made.
Since then I have had a couple of mileage queries resolved quickly and satisfactorily and redeeming points proved painless when I flew here in May.
I realise from watching another forum that there seem to be some current issues but none that have affected me.
Etihad remains my favourite ME carrier and I am saving hard to fund a trip in their Diamond suites this year.