News

AM’s concern over medicine misuse

Published

11 years ago

October 8, 2013

FOLLOWING the publication of shocking statistics on the use of prescription and over the counter medicines, Rebecca Evans, AM for Mid and West Wales, has called on the Welsh Government to issue a statement on how it is promoting the safe use of easily accessed medicines, and issue details of what support is in place for people who are abusing or who are addicted to prescription or over the counter medication.
New figures have revealed that more people in Britain are now killed by prescription and over-the-counter drugs than are killed by heroin and cocaine.
The figures published show that last year 807 people died in the UK as a result of taking anti-depressants and painkillers, compared with 718 deaths linked to cocaine and heroin.
In another study, a survey of 5,000 young people found that 33% admitted to taking painkillers every day.
Speaking in the Welsh Assembly’s weekly business statement, Mrs Evans raised the shocking figures with the Minister for Government Business, Lesley Griffiths, asking for “a statement from the Government on how you are promoting the safe use of easily accessed medicines, and details of what support is in place for people who are abusing or who are addicted to prescription or over the counter medication.”
In response, Lesley Griffiths confirmed that the Minister for Health and Social Services has raised this issue with the new chair of the advisory panel of substance misuse which is currently undertaking a review into the misuse of prescription medicines. She went on to say “that the Minister has made it very clear that Wales need to be able to pick up on the advice that emerges from that review.”
Mrs Evans commented further: “Over-the-counter medication can be very addictive. Indeed, the misuse and abuse of any medication can pose a variety of serious risks. Just because some medicines are easily available doesn’t mean that they can be used carelessly, or that they are not strong enough to have a significant impact on a person’s health.
“Abusing any drug is a serious matter, and it is important that people are informed about the risks involved. It is also important that there are services and support in place to help people who find themselves in a situation where they are addicted to or misusing medication.”
People who think they are addicted to medication or who are misusing medication can seek further advice and information from their GP.

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

12 hours 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

20 hours 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

20 hours 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.