News

Labour Government faces scrutiny over “Make Work Pay” plan

Published

2 months ago

October 10, 2024

THE Labour government’s ambitious “Make Work Pay” initiative, designed to enhance pay and productivity in the workforce, has come under critical review from various stakeholders as it gears up for a significant parliamentary introduction this Thursday. While the government touts the plan as a transformative step towards economic growth and worker empowerment, opposition from business leaders and internal party factions suggests a potentially rocky road ahead.

The plan, which includes ending zero-hour contracts, instituting day-one rights for bereavement, parental leave, and strengthening statutory sick pay, aims to revolutionize worker rights in what could be the most significant reform in decades. However, the Institute of Directors (IoD) has flagged concerns about the practical implications for businesses, particularly around the proposals to allow unfair dismissal claims from day one of employment. This change, they argue, could lead to an increase in employment tribunal claims, putting additional pressure on already stretched tribunal resources, and requiring businesses to adopt more rigorous dismissal processes.

Adding to the business community’s worries, Reed Smith LLP, a global law firm, highlighted the potential complications the proposed reforms could pose, especially regarding the increased management time required to adhere to new employment protection measures. They suggest that businesses should start reviewing their current recruitment and probationary practices in anticipation of these changes.

Criticism has not only come from the business sector but also from within Labour’s own ranks and affiliated unions. A significant point of contention has been the alleged dilution of earlier commitments such as sectoral collective bargaining and national fair pay agreements. Sharon Graham, general secretary of Unite, has openly criticized the government for what she perceives as a retreat from initial promises, describing it as a “betrayal” of workers. She warned that failing to deliver the reforms as originally promised could result in a loss of union support for the party.

The New Statesman also reports that there are concerns about the plan’s ability to address the needs of workers with health conditions effectively. Critics argue that the reforms lack the necessary active government interventions to support individuals struggling in the workplace due to health issues, which could leave a significant portion of the workforce unsupported in practical terms.

Despite these challenges, the Labour government remains steadfast in its commitment to pushing through with its reforms, viewing them as crucial to reshaping the UK’s economic landscape and enhancing the living standards of its workers. The coming weeks will be critical as the government seeks to navigate the complex landscape of political and economic interests to deliver on its promises.

As this pivotal legislation approaches its parliamentary debut, all eyes will be on how these debates will unfold and what compromises, if any, will be necessary to secure a path forward for this landmark reform effort.

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

7 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.

Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.

The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.

Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.

Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.

(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)

Business

Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure

Published

15 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.

The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.

The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.

A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”

Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.

Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.

From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.

Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.

(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)

Community

Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend

Published

15 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.

In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”

Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.

Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.