News

One of Pembrokeshire’s ferry ports could close because of reduced freight traffic

Published

4 years ago

February 10, 2021

THE HEAD of Rosslare Europort has claimed that one of Pembrokeshire’s Irish Sea ports could close because of reduced trade traffic between Ireland and the UK.

The volume of freight traffic between Wales’ three Irish Sea ports has significantly fallen since the New Year.

While the Prime Minister has dismissed the issue as one of Brexit’s ‘teething problems, Glenn Carr, the General Manager at Rosslare Europort, said: “A lot of the major retailers in Ireland are bringing their products for their shelves directly in from mainland Europe now, We’re seeing big customers, the likes of Amazon, now bringing in a lot of freight on a daily basis.”

Rosslare Europort has aggressively targeted the increase of direct sailings between the Irish port and mainland Europe.

Most trade between Ireland and the EU takes place via the UK ‘land-bridge’. However, although that remains the case, trade volumes to mainland Europe from Rosslare has increased over 450% since the end of the EU transition period.

Mr Carr claims that only one port in Pembrokeshire is needed to meet the demand for freight traffic and that increased sailings to and from that single port would make more commercial sense for Irish businesses and hauliers.

The changes needed, he claims, must be made on the Welsh side of the Irish Sea.

While customs delays in the UK have been blamed for a fall in traffic, delays also affect trade entering and leaving Ireland due to IT and customs problems at Irish ports.

January is a quieter time for ferry services but commercial freight sustains vital trading connections all year round.

On-board Isle of Inishmore: The bridge

Stena, which operates Fishguard, reports a sharp decline in Irish Sea traffic in the first fortnight of January when traffic fell by 78% year-on-year. Since then, freight numbers have recovered but remain at little more than 50% of normal levels.

Daily ferry services have operated between Fishguard and Rosslare for the last 115 years. Pembrokeshire’s ports support a significant number of jobs, not only at the ports but also indirectly in the wider local economy. The routes are operated by separate companies and the ports of Pembroke Dock and Fishguard are under separate ownership.

Speaking on ITV Wales’ The Sharp End on February 2, Stephen Crabb MP said: “The ports of Holyhead, Fishguard and Pembroke Dock are key assets for the Welsh economy and it is essential they remain competitive.

“I hope that some of the initial problems we have seen over the last few weeks will get ironed out as companies get used to the new processes. But there is more work to be done to ensure the long term health of our ports.”

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

10 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

23 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

23 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!