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Rosslare ready to go it alone

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THE UK Government stands ready to revoke legislation governing the relationship between the ports of Fishguard and Rosslare.

The abolition of the current arrangements is a step closer according to Irish newspaper reports of a recent meeting between Transport Secretary Chris Grayling and Fianna Fáil’s transport spokesperson Robert Troy and Wexford TD James Browne.

According to the reports, Mr Grayling told the Irish politicians that the UK has ‘no strategic or economic’ interest in keeping the ports’ governance structure.

The Irish Government, meanwhile, regards Rosslare as a major part of its Brexit plans and has acquired further land to provide additional facilities there.

The ports are governed by a UK Act of Parliament from 1888, which created the Fishguard and Rosslare Railways and Harbour Company.

The Act continued to govern the relationship between the Ports, even after most of Ireland secured its independence from the – then – British empire.

However, the old legislation has – in the view of Irish TD James Browne – hindered the Irish Government’s ability to expand activities at Rosslare to the benefit of the local and Irish economies.

Stena Line: Looking at the long term development of both ports

Fishguard and Rosslare ports are part of the one company, namely the Fishguard and Rosslare Railway and Harbours Company set up by an Act of Parliament.

Mr Browne explained to The Herald: “In effect, ownership of the port lies with UK government. But in turn the ports are effectively run as private companies: Irish Rail control and operate the Rosslare end and Stena control and operate the Fishguard side and there is an agreement in place as to the division of profits of the company.

“In Ireland, this complex and archaic ownership model has regularly been cited as an inhibiting factor in the development of the port. In short, no one will invest in a port whose ownership is unclear.”

The opportunity is not, however, all on one side, says the Wexford TD: “The decoupling of the two ports, and the transfer of Rosslare to Irish state ownership would free up both ports from this complex ownership model and allow investment in the ports.”

Mr Browne also highlighted the potential for growth in economic activity in West Wales’ closest trading neighbour: “Dublin Port is so busy that it is turning away business. Rosslare Port is in an ideal geographical location to attract shipping business and to take the pressure off of Dublin. Port. It, in turn, would act as an economic driver for the entire South East of Ireland.”

Preseli Pembrokeshire MP Stephen Crabb told us: “The importance of the Fishguard – Rosslare ferry connection is unquestionable with 80% of all goods from Ireland passing through Welsh ports.

“However, the historic legal framework for the ports is outdated and does not give either side the freedom they need to develop and innovate. I can well understand why change is being sought at this time.

“I have met with the management on both sides of the Irish Sea to discuss Brexit planning and other aspects of the industry and will continue to do so.”

Ian Hampton, Chief People and Communications Officer, Stena Line said: “Stena Line hopes that by removing the historical legislation that governs the status of The Fishguard Rosslare Railways and Harbour Company it will enable Stena Line and the Irish Government to work closer together creating greater opportunity, such as the options for the long term development of both the respective ports.”

Community

Lord Nelson Hotel refunds lucky couple the full cost of their wedding day

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WHAT an amazing Christmas present!

In an extraordinary gesture of generosity, the Lord Nelson Hotel delighted one lucky couple by refunding the full cost of their 2024 wedding. Abby and Simon Hooper, who tied the knot at the historic venue on August 3, were thrilled to learn they were the winners of this year’s giveaway.

The initiative was part of a special promotion open to all couples who celebrated their weddings at the Lord Nelson in 2024. The winners were selected through a random draw using a fair generator system, with the Hoopers emerging as the fortunate recipients.

The hotel has announced plans to continue the tradition in 2025, offering next year’s couples the same opportunity to win their wedding costs back.

A spokesperson for the Lord Nelson Hotel said: “If you’re planning to get married in 2025, it’s not too late to book with us and secure your spot in next year’s draw.

“We are thrilled to celebrate love and create moments to cherish, and this is just one of the ways we give back to our incredible couples.”

Known for its elegant venue spaces and exceptional wedding team, the Lord Nelson Hotel remains a top choice for couples seeking a perfect wedding day. This annual giveaway further cements their commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences.

Abby and Simon Hooper shared their gratitude after their special day: “From start to finish, the team at the Lord Nelson Hotel was incredibly helpful, and nothing was too much to ask.

“The day went smoothly, the food was fantastic, and the staff were polite, hardworking, and attentive. Mia and Jenna, in particular, stood out for their thoughtfulness and attention to detail.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

What a pleasant surprise: The fantastic news is delivered (Pic: Lord Nelson Hotel)
The Lord Nelson Hotel in Milford Haven on carnival day
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Crime

Police hunt driver after dog walker killed in Carmarthenshire hit-and-run

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A PEDESTRIAN walking his dog has died after being struck in a hit-and-run collision on a Carmarthenshire road on Monday (December 23).

The incident occurred in Llanpumsaint, near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel, between 6:45pm and 7:45pm.

The road remains closed, and police are urgently appealing for information to locate the driver of a blue vehicle believed to have fled the scene.

A spokesperson for Dyfed-Powys Police said: “We are actively searching for the driver of a blue vehicle with noticeable damage, which was involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision in Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire. The driver left the scene, and locating them is now our top priority.

“We are appealing directly to the driver to do the right thing and come forward. Additionally, we urge anyone who may have seen the vehicle or has dashcam footage from the area during the relevant times to contact us immediately.

“This collision, which tragically resulted in the death of a pedestrian, happened near Caer Salem Baptist Chapel between 6:45pm and 7:45pm on Monday, December 23, as the man was walking his dog.

“Our investigation indicates the vehicle was travelling northbound through Llanpumsaint at the time of the incident.”

The road is expected to remain closed for some time while enquiries continue. Police stress that any piece of information, no matter how small, could be crucial in identifying and locating the driver. Anyone with information is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police immediately using the details provided in the comments.

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News

Pembrokeshire County Council invites public feedback on budget plans

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PEMBROKESHIRE County Council is calling on residents to share their views on the upcoming budget as it faces significant financial pressures.

The consultation, open until January 5, aims to identify which services are most valued by the community and where savings could be made.

An update on the provisional funding settlement from the Welsh Government was presented to the full council last week. Councillor Joshua Beynon, Cabinet Member for Finance and Efficiencies, noted that while the 3.6% increase—equating to an additional £8.1 million—was more favourable than expected, it still leaves a funding gap of approximately £28.1 million.

Councillor Beynon said: “Difficult decisions lie ahead despite the improved settlement. We need to prioritise services that matter most to our residents.”

Detailed reports on the settlement’s impact and the projected funding shortfall will be discussed by the cabinet and scrutiny committees early next year, before being presented to the full council in February.

Residents can have their say by completing an online response form available on the council’s website. A budget modelling tool is also provided for public use.

Paper copies of the response form can be requested by calling 01437 764551 or emailing [email protected].

All responses must be submitted by January 5.

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