News
Pilot boat crews set to strike over benefits for future employees
THE PORT OF MILFORD HAVEN has confirmed that it has received official notification from Unite the Union that it’s pilot boat members working on the Milford Haven waterway are to go on continuous strike from February 19.
The pilots, launch crews and port control workers are currently implementing a ban on overtime, which started on January 28.
The workers are striking over proposed changes to pension provision and sick pay for future new employees joining the Port. There are no changes planned to benefits for current staff.
Andy Jones, Interim Chief Executive at the Port of Milford Haven told The Pembrokeshire Herald: “Joint meetings have been taking place since October and these meetings are continuing.
“We are disappointed that action has commenced whilst discussions are on-going and making every effort to find a solution to this dispute through continuing dialogue.
“We are working closely with our customers and wider stakeholders and making contingency plans in the event this action goes ahead.
“The safety of our staff, customers and the wider port community remains our number one priority.”
In August 2014, the Port of Milford Haven cut the number of pilot boats on duty to a single crewed vessel.
At the time, The Herald was been contacted by a number of crew who have said that they have been offered voluntary redundancy in order to go.
The Port had said it is looking to cut costs as the amount of cargo coming into Milford Haven has been decreasing.
Speaking at the time, two members of the pilot boat crews told the Herald: “I don’t think that the Port has considered the safety implications of only having one manned crew. Safety should come before money.”
In April last year, The Herald investigated the ports purchase of £3.6m worth of new pilot boat vessels. Incidents which took place in 2017 led to two of the three new vessels being tied up in Milford Haven Docks in an ‘operational pause’ whist the Port kept some of its remaining ageing vessels in operation. At the time the boats were deemed ‘unfit for purpose’ by some crew members.
News
Tigers second division Cup Champions
In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.
The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.
The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.
As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.
But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.
With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.
The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.
Crime
Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop
POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.
A window was smashed and the door handle broken.
Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.
“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”
News
Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2
THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.
Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.
They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.
A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.
This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.
If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.
You can only hand in your own postal vote, and postal votes for up to five other people.
You can find out more about the Police and Crime Commissioner Elections online (opens in new window).
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