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Conservative leader accuses Labour of a removal of Democracy

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Conservative Leader: Questions Labour Democracy

Conservative Leader: Questions Labour Democracy

AS PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL sails from the turbulent waters of the Bryn Parry Jones saga to what many will hope is a more steady course, The Herald spoke exclusively with Conservative group leader, David Howlett. Speaking about his group’s performance, and the future of the Council, he said: “We are only 3 of 60, so our influence can’t be huge, but I was pleased I was able to make sure all councillors spending over £500 is now published online. I believe in transparency.

We have made a difference; in the filming of meetings for example, a proposal I made. Over the last couple of years Pembrokeshire has been in headlines for all the wrong reasons. It’s been the Independent group at the helm and questions need to be asked. The Independent group backed the Chief Executive and then all of a sudden did an about turn. We (Conservatives) don’t just go for headlines, we are a constructive opposition. We need a culture change and I’m pleased we are starting to see that.

The people at the top set the way the Council operates and we need strong political leadership; questionably done with a group of independents. The process for choosing a new Chief Executive is important and that the right person is chosen. There are huge advantages for a County Council to have a united voice, and the organisation is far better when it is a proper political party, because though you don’t get told how to vote, you have teamwork, especially when you have MPs, AMs and an MEP.

That means there are people at all levels for guidance who are working together. With a proper political party you can stand shoulder to shoulder.” He went on to comment on the effectiveness of Labour group leader, Paul Miller: “I went to a questions and answer session at St Mary’s Church last Friday, in Haverfordwest, with Jamie Adams, Paul Davies, Mike Stoddart and Cllr. Miller. Jamie Adams suggested Cllr. Miller was wanting the saga of Bryn Parry Jones to continue, in order to keep him in the paper; I think there is an element of truth in that.”

Mr Howlett was also keen to discuss the potential mergers of Councils that the Welsh Labour Government are proposing: “If anyone thinks bigger is better I would point to the Hywel Dda Health Board and ask has that been good for Pembrokeshire? And have they saved any money since they have gone into this huge organisation that seems to be constantly taking services away from Pembrokeshire?

Leighton Andrews is even talking about as few as 6 councils in Wales. We are against this. We think we could cut the cost of politics by having fewer county councillors so we put forward a proposal to the Boundary Commission that would have seen a cut from 61 to 40-44 councillors; their idea was for a cut of just one. I believe in localism and local democracy. The Welsh Labour Government will take democracy away from the people, which isn’t Conservative Leader: Questions acceptable.”

 

1 Comment

1 Comment

  1. Flashbang

    December 12, 2014 at 2:20 am

    “because though you don’t get told how to vote, you have teamwork, especially when you have MPs, AMs and an MEP.”
    The IPPG by another name. Absolutely no difference whatsoever.

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Education

Sam Kurtz quizzed by primary school pupils about how was is governed

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PUPILS at St Oswald’s VA Primary School welcomed a visit from local Senedd member Samuel Kurtz on Monday (Feb 2), as children put questions to him about how Wales is governed.

Years five and six pupils took part in an interactive session where the Senedd Cymru member explained the role of the Welsh Parliament, how laws are made, and how elected representatives support local residents.

He outlined what a Member of the Senedd does day-to-day, how decisions affecting communities are taken, and why taking part in democracy is important.

The pupils were then given the chance to quiz him directly, raising questions about politics, local issues and how young people can make their voices heard. Staff said the children showed strong interest and came well prepared.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Kurtz said: “It was a real pleasure to visit St Oswald’s and see such enthusiasm and curiosity from the pupils.

“Understanding how democracy works and how decisions are made is important, and it is encouraging to see young people taking an interest in how their community and country are run.

“I was particularly impressed by the quality of the questions, which showed they had clearly done their research.”

Teachers described the visit as a valuable opportunity to bring lessons about citizenship and Welsh democracy to life.

The school visit forms part of Mr Kurtz’s ongoing programme of meeting with schools, community groups and residents across Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire.

 

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Crime

Police confirm teacher was stabbed at school as teenager appears in court

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15-year-old charged with Section 18 GBH with intent and possession of a bladed article on education premises

POLICE have confirmed that the teacher injured during Thursday’s lockdown at Milford Haven Comprehensive School suffered stab wounds, as a 15-year-old boy appears in court today (Saturday, Feb 7).

Dyfed-Powys Police said the teenager has been charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of a bladed article on education premises. He has been remanded in custody and is due before Swansea Magistrates’ Court this morning.

Emergency services were called to the school at around 3:20pm on Thursday (Feb 5) following reports that a member of staff had been assaulted by a pupil. The school was placed into immediate lockdown and police said all learners later returned home unharmed.

The injured teacher has since been discharged from hospital and is recovering with support.

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Briggs said: “We are continuing to support the victim whilst they recover from this traumatic event. Following detailed enquiries by specialist officers, injuries initially assessed and described as non-stab injuries have now been confirmed as stab wounds.

“A statement at an early stage of the investigation was based on preliminary information available at the time.

“There will continue to be a higher than usual police presence in the area over the coming days to provide further reassurance. Officers will be working closely with local secondary schools to offer support over the coming week.”

In a joint update issued by the local authority and the school, deputy headteacher Daryl John thanked staff and the small number of pupils who remained on site, saying they acted “with professionalism” and were “calm throughout”. He added that the school community was grateful for the “rapid and effective response” of the emergency services and sent best wishes to the injured colleague for a “full and speedy recovery”.

Pembrokeshire County Council leader Cllr Jon Harvey confirmed the school will reopen on Monday, with additional support available for pupils and staff affected by the incident. He said lockdown procedures are routinely rehearsed so that, in rare cases where they are needed, everyone knows what to do.

The school was closed to pupils on Friday, with the town noticeably quieter than usual as children stayed home.

Police enquiries are continuing and further updates are expected following the court hearing.

 

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News

Local rugby talent Osian Williams selected for Wales Under-20 clash with England

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A FORMER Haverfordwest Blues junior has earned international honours after being selected to represent Wales Under-20 rugby union team in their fixture against England.

Osian Williams, who began his rugby journey at Haverfordwest Rugby Football Club, will pull on the red jersey this evening in what marks a proud milestone for both the player and the Pembrokeshire club that helped develop his talent.

Club members said the call-up reflects years of hard work, commitment and steady progress through the ranks, with Williams recognised locally for his determination and performances on the pitch from a young age.

A spokesperson for Haverfordwest RFC said the whole club is “incredibly proud” to see one of their own step onto the international stage.

They added that it is always special to watch former junior players progress to represent their country, describing Williams’ selection as “fully deserved” and an inspiration to the next generation coming through the Blues’ youth setup.

The match against England provides a stern test for the young Welsh side, but for Williams and his family it is also a moment to savour after years of dedication to the sport.

Friends, coaches and former teammates are expected to be cheering him on from Pembrokeshire as he makes his mark in Welsh colours.

Photo caption:

Osian Williams has been selected to play for Wales Under-20s against England (Pic: Supplied).

 

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