News

Pay boost announced for 2,600 workers in Pembrokeshire, as Budget unfolds

Published

2 months ago

October 30, 2024

ACCORDING for the UK Government, 2,600 workers in Pembrokeshire are set to benefit from a 6.7% increase to the National Living Wage, which the government announced yesterday as part of its pre-Budget plans. The increase will add an estimated £1,400 a year to the income of a full-time worker on this rate, offering a notable boost to eligible employees.

The announcement also raises the National Minimum Wage for 18 to 20-year-olds, from £8.60 to £10.00 an hour — the largest increase in the rate to date. This change could mean an annual increase of £2,500 for full-time workers in this age group, and it signals the government’s intent to gradually align the National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage, working towards a single adult rate.

As the Budget takes place today, Pembrokeshire and communities across the country await further details on support for essential services, including the NHS and other sectors under pressure. The government has suggested that the Budget will focus on economic rebuilding and service funding without introducing higher taxes for working people.

“This Government promised a genuine living wage for working people,” said Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves. “This pay boost for millions of workers is a significant step towards delivering on that promise.”

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds emphasized that the pay rise benefits both workers and businesses, stating, “Good work and fair wages are in the interest of British business as much as British workers.”

Locally, Henry Tufnell, MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, highlighted the impact of the increase, saying, “This pay increase is especially meaningful for communities like mine in Pembrokeshire, where it will help thousands of struggling households. The rise reflects the Government’s focus on ensuring that hard-working people receive an income that helps them manage daily expenses, and it will also help to strengthen local economies.”

The wage increases build upon the government’s ongoing Plan to Make Work Pay, which includes the Employment Rights Bill and is projected to further enhance pay by up to £600 annually for the lowest-paid workers. As Pembrokeshire residents look to see what today’s Budget brings, this initial announcement marks one step in the government’s broader economic plan.

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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

1 day 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.