News

Enterprise zones success examined

Published

10 years ago

January 5, 2015

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has failed in a bid to prevent scrutiny of the success of the seven enterprise zones it has set up in Wales. The Information Commissioner has given the Welsh Government a 35 day deadline to provide a breakdown of jobs created and retained in each of its enterprise zones. The Commissioner launched an investigation after Plaid Cymru appealed when the Welsh Government refused to disclose information on the seven enterprise zones it established nearly three years ago.

He found that the Welsh Government had ‘incorrectly withheld’ the requested information. Rhun ap Lorwerth AM, Plaid Cymru Shadow Minister for the Economy & Enterprise, said: “The Welsh Government has attempted to avoid scrutiny so this decision by the Information Commissioner is a victory for openness and transparency. But it should never have got to the situation where we had to complain to the Information Commissioner. “Plaid supports the enterprise zones and we want them to be a success.

It is nearly three years after they were launched and the public deserve to be told how many jobs have been created in each of them and how much investment has been made.” In a nine-page ruling, the Information Commissioner’s Office said: “The Commissioner is generally reluctant to accept arguments for withholding information based on the contention that disclosure might result in information being misunderstood, misinterpreted or that the media might seek to misrepresent the information in order to provide sensationalised news stories.

“The Commissioner’s view is that it is generally possible to offset the potential for this to happen by issuing an accompanying statement placing the information in context.” On November 28, Edwina Hart, the Welsh Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science, announced the appointment of Stanley McIlvenny OBE to the post of head of the Haven Waterway Enterprise Zone Board. Mr McIlvenny has had a long career in Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic, most recently as Chief Executive of the Port of Waterford.

Business

Pure West Radio brings festive cheer with ‘Pure X-Mas’ on DAB

Published

2 hours ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

PEMBROKESHIRE residents can now enjoy the perfect festive soundtrack as Pure West Radio launches its dedicated Christmas station, “Pure X-Mas,” on DAB radio. Running from Saturday (Nov 30) to New Year’s Eve, the station promises nonstop Christmas music and holiday cheer for all listeners.

“Pure X-Mas” offers an exciting mix of timeless classics and modern holiday hits, creating a joyful atmosphere for decorating trees, wrapping presents, or simply enjoying the season.

Station Manager Toby Ellis said:
“This Christmas, we’re making it easier than ever for Pembrokeshire and beyond to tune into the magic of the season. Pure X-Mas on DAB is our gift to the community – a station entirely dedicated to spreading festive joy and creating lasting memories.”

Exclusively available on DAB, “Pure X-Mas” guarantees crystal-clear sound and easy access for listeners across North and South Pembrokeshire. Simply tune your DAB radio to Pure West Radio’s dedicated Christmas station and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.

Community

Brave special guardians to share their stories at Torch Theatre

Published

3 hours ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

THE TORCH THEATRE is set to host a poignant event on Thursday, December 12, celebrating the experiences of Special Guardians. Running from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, the event will feature eight courageous Special Guardians sharing their stories, alongside Sophie Pierce, the visionary behind this groundbreaking project.

The showcase will blend professionally produced films with heartfelt personal storytelling, offering a unique insight into the lives and contributions of Special Guardians. This event aims to shine a spotlight on their vital, often unrecognized roles, amplifying their voices and calling attention to their experiences in an unprecedented way.

Organisers hope the presentation will resonate with audiences both locally and nationally, sparking greater awareness and inspiring changes in policies to better support these dedicated individuals.

Angela Moore, a project worker with Pembrokeshire County Council’s Family and Friends Team, shared her aspirations for the event: “We want to get these films seen, and their words heard, nationally to increase awareness and recognition of the vital role Special Guardians play and to support policy improvement.”

Tickets for this inspiring event are free, but attendees are encouraged to reserve their seats in advance by emailing Angela Moore at [email protected].

Don’t miss this chance to honour the remarkable contributions of Special Guardians and experience their powerful stories brought to life.

News

Crash closes Pembroke road for over two hours

Published

4 hours ago

December 5, 2024

Tom Sinclair

EMERGENCY SERVICES were called to St Daniel’s Hill, Pembroke, this morning (Thursday, December 5) following a two-vehicle collision that left one person injured.

The crash occurred on the B4319 at around 7:30am, leading to the road being closed while both vehicles were recovered. The route was reopened at approximately 9:30am.

A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson confirmed: “Officers received a report of a two-vehicle road traffic collision on the B4319 at about 7.30am. The road was closed while both vehicles were recovered and reopened shortly after 9.30am. The ambulance service attended to assist one person who was reported to have sustained injuries.”

An ambulance also attended.