News

Rapist councillor told to quit or be booted off council

Published

6 years ago

June 19, 2018

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has said that if Cllr David ‘Dai’ Boswell, who has this week been found guilty of five child sex offences, including rape, does not resign from his roles as town and county councillors, his seat will be declared vacant.

Councillor Boswell has been found guilty of rape and indecent assault against children under the age of 13 at Swansea Crown Court this week.

He is due to be sentenced on July 13.

Pembrokeshire County Council came under scrutiny earlier this year when Cllr Boswell’s status as a councillor was questioned.

It was believed that Cllr Boswell had not been present at a meeting of the council since August 14, 2017 and the Council had been urged to declare his seat vacant.

However, the council took external advice from James Goudie QC, who believed that a meeting, held on November 22, 2017, which Cllr Boswell attended, did constitute a council meeting.

Members went along with the recommendation of the Monitoring Officer who stated that Section 86 of the Local Government Act could not lawfully be invoked, and his status as Councillor remained.

A spokesperson for Pembrokeshire County Council said: “Unless the Councillor chooses to resign from both roles with immediate effect, the process is now as follows: the County Council seat of Pembroke: St Mary North will be declared vacant as soon as the legislation permits.

“The Local Government Act 1972 states that a Member is disqualified from holding office if, since election, he has been convicted of an offence and has been sentenced to imprisonment for a period of not less than three months.

“Conviction is deemed to occur on expiry of the period allowed for making an appeal or application with respect to the conviction (the defence has 28 days in which to serve an appeal notice following conviction) or the date on which such appeal/application is finally disposed of.

“It is at that point that the vacancy is deemed to have occurred and the County Council may then immediately declare the office to be vacant and public notice of a vacancy can be issued.

“Throughout this period, the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults will remain of paramount importance for the Council.”

An NSPCC Cymru spokesman said following Boswell’s conviction: “Despite holding positions of responsibility in his community, Boswell carried out horrific attacks on children and it is right that he is now facing the consequences of his appalling actions.

“His victims should be commended for their bravery at speaking out and reporting Boswell’s depraved offending.

“Abuse ruins childhoods and its effects last into adulthood.

“The victims will need help and support to overcome the trauma they have gone through as they continue to rebuild their lives.

“But this case shows once again that abuse survivors can be confident to come forward and report what has happened to them, knowing that they will be listened to and that justice can be achieved no matter how much time has passed.”

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

5 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

5 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

5 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!