News

Tanker on way back to Milford despite opposition from locals and politicians

Published

3 years ago

March 2, 2022

IT’S the oil tanker which kept switching course, first it was heading to Milford Haven, then it was Antwerp, then it was Belfast, but now it is Milford Haven again. An attempt to confuse the public, moaning politicans? Or is the unfolding situation in Ukraine confusing the owners themselves? Its a question of many people’s lips.

Local councillor Stephen Joseph, who represents Milford Haven Central at Pembrokeshire County Council, has called for people to protest; “We can not let this oil be unloaded here” he said.

This tanker laiden with upto 20,000 tonnes of Russian oil, and hundreds of residents from Milford Haven have said that given the crisis in the Ukraine it is not welcome in Wales.

The First Minister Mark Drakeford and Plaid Leader Adam Price have been the latest politicians to say they dont want to see Russian oil landed here.

It comes as Adam Price has called for no Russian oil to enter Welsh ports while “innocent blood is being shed in Ukraine”.

Mark Drakeford backed the call made by the Plaid Cymru leader during First Minister’s Questions on Tuesday.

Cargo of controversy: Oil Tanker Louie is heading for Milford Haven once more

That was echoed by local MS Sam Kurtz.

He said: “Given the horrific images of invasion and war led by Putin’s forces in Ukraine, Grant Shapps has my full support in refusing Russian entry to UK Ports.

“The maritime sector is a fundamental part of international trade; this ban will hit hard on Russia’s economic interests and prohibit their ability to profit from our economic output.

“It is not appropriate, nor welcome, to continue granting Russian vessels access to our country. I welcome this move and I stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine.”

PORT HAS NO POWERS

But the Port of Milford Haven said it has no power to stop vessels with cargo from Russia except under specific circumstances.

In a letter to stakeholders dated March 1, Andy Jones CEO of the Port of Miford Haven said: “The Department of Transport have today confirmed that the UK sanctions DO NOT APPLY (our emphasis) to cargo or vessels purely because they are coming from Russia. Therefore, as we do not haev the power to unilaterally apply santions to a vessel bound for our Port, we are legally obliged to service them.”

Mr Jones added: “The DfT will be supporting us and other UK ports to identify vessels, on a case-by-case basis, which they believe should not be serviced. All of this will be done in collaboration with our terminal customers.”

In the letter Mr Jones also said: “Whilst the headlines being reported suggest that all UK ports are to refuse entry to Russian-connected vessels, this is not as straightforward as that, as this sanction is directed at ownership and control [and not Russian cargo].”

Andy Jones: Outgoing CEO of the Port of Milford Haven says he cant stop all vessels with Russian cargo

LOCAL MP’s CONCERNS

Commenting on the ‘Louie’ which is destined for Puma Energy, Preseli Pembrokeshire MP, Stephen Crabb said: “There is understandably a significant amount of community concern about the impending arrival of the Louie at the Port of Milford Haven.

“I have been seeking clarity about the situation from both the UK Transport Minister and the Port of Milford Haven.

“Whilst I understand that the vessel is not Russian owned, and is not included in the Government legislation, the cargo has been loaded at a Russian Port. Many people in the community feel strongly that even accepting cargo that has come from Russia is just simply not acceptable given the appalling situation in Ukraine.”

Community is concerned: Stephen Crabb MP

“I fully support the work that has been done by the UK Government to ban any ships that are Russian flagged, registered or controlled from entering British ports as this strong action is exactly what is needed to impose tough economic penalties on Russia in response to their invasion of Ukraine.

“But I do believe that it needs to go further still, and that the source of the cargo needs to be included in the Government’s sanctions.

“Today, I have written to the Transport Minister, Grant Shapps, asking for more action to extend the legislation to take the cargo into consideration.

“I understand that the Port and the Department for Transport are continuing to work closely to identify ships that meet the UK sanctions, and prevent them from entering while Russia continues to invade Ukraine.

“Being home to one of the UK’s busiest ports, local residents will want to see that absolutely everything is being done to ensure that a firm stand is taken against Russia and the war being raged against Ukraine.”

The Herald is awaiting for a comment from Puma Energy.

(Cover image: Milford Haven Port Authority)

Russian oil is heading to Puma Energy’s terminal in Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire

News

Four shouts in busy period for Angle RNLI

Published

2 hours ago

November 16, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AT 10:32am on Friday, November 15, Angle RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat was launched following a Pan Pan call from an 18ft vessel experiencing machinery issues near Pennar Point.
The lifeboat quickly located the vessel at anchor in shallow water. After a brief conversation with the skipper, the lifeboat crew established a tow and safely guided the vessel to Neyland Marina. The casualty vessel was secured alongside the fuel pontoon, and the lifeboat returned to its station by 12:30pm.

SEARCH FOR MISSING FEMALE
Two days earlier, on Wednesday, November 13, the crew were conducting an afloat exercise when they were diverted to assist in a search for a missing woman near West Angle.
The lifeboat made best speed to the area and began a search operation. However, the woman was later found safe and making her way back to the car park. St Govan’s and Tenby Coastguard Rescue Teams were also involved in the search.

MISSING FISHERMAN LOCATED
On Monday, October 28, at 10:59pm, the crew joined a large-scale search for a missing fisherman at St Brides Haven. Working with St David’s all-weather lifeboat, Little Haven inshore lifeboat, coastguard rescue teams from Dale and Broad Haven, and Dyfed-Powys Police, the crew searched from West Dale to Jack Sound.
While passing Marloes, the lifeboat crew spotted lights on the shore. The discovery was relayed to the cliff-top teams, who confirmed the lights belonged to the missing fisherman. The man was found safe and escorted off the beach, allowing all search teams to stand down. The lifeboat returned to station by 12:30am.

POLICE INCIDENT RESOLVED
The day before, on Sunday, October 27, at 10:24pm, the crew were paged to assist with a police incident on the Cleddau Bridge. However, the launch was cancelled as the situation was resolved by police before the lifeboat deployed.

Angle RNLI remains on standby 24/7, ready to respond to emergencies along the Pembrokeshire coast.

Health

Eluned Morgan on NHS: ‘I’ve listened, I’ve heard, I’m making it happen’

Published

15 hours ago

November 15, 2024

Tom Sinclair

FIRST Minister Eluned Morgan is set to announce an additional £22 million to tackle NHS waiting lists, bringing the total funding commitment to £50 million in a bid to address the longest delays in NHS Wales.

The announcement will form a key part of her speech at the Welsh Labour Conference on Saturday in Llandudno, marking her first as Welsh Labour Leader. Morgan will emphasise the strength of partnership between the Welsh and UK Labour Governments, showcasing their shared commitment to delivering for the people of Wales.

The funding pledge comes two weeks after Rachel Reeves unveiled a historic £21 billion funding settlement for the Welsh Government—the largest since devolution. Drawing on her summer listening tour, where she engaged with thousands across Wales, Morgan will declare: “I’ve listened, I’ve heard, I’m making it happen.”

Focus on NHS and Green Growth

During her tour, the First Minister heard the pride people feel for the Welsh NHS and its workforce, as well as the importance of safeguarding its future. Today’s funding boost underscores Welsh Labour’s commitment to addressing key issues, distinguishing it as the only party serious about governance and delivery.

In addition to NHS investment, Morgan will highlight her administration’s ambitions for green jobs and growth. Five new renewable energy projects are set to be unveiled, alongside plans to streamline infrastructure planning by 12 weeks—a move aimed at accelerating progress in Wales. These initiatives are expected to create hundreds of skilled jobs, reinforcing Labour’s commitment to a greener, more prosperous future.

Conservative Perspective on NHS Wales

The Welsh Conservatives have expressed concerns regarding the current state of NHS Wales. They have highlighted issues such as prolonged waiting lists and underfunding, attributing these challenges to longstanding Labour governance. In a recent statement, the Welsh Conservatives emphasized the need for increased investment and support for NHS staff, proposing the establishment of an NHS Covenant to guarantee such commitments.

Additionally, the Welsh Conservatives have criticized the Labour Government for not allocating the full Barnett consequential funding to the Welsh NHS, arguing that this shortfall has exacerbated existing challenges within the health service.

Delivering for Wales

The Conference will celebrate the achievements of the Welsh Labour Government while setting out its future priorities. From tackling NHS challenges to driving renewable energy development, the event will demonstrate Morgan’s focus on the issues that matter most to the people of Wales.

Eluned Morgan’s speech is expected to reaffirm Welsh Labour’s ambition to lead with purpose, listening to the public and working closely with the UK Labour Government to deliver tangible results.

News

Young Changemakers Drive Wales Toward a Net Zero Future

Published

17 hours ago

November 15, 2024

Tom Sinclair

AS world leaders gathered at COP29 to address global climate challenges, young people in Wales were making their own mark on the path to a greener future. The Tomorrow’s Changemakers Hackathon, held last Friday, showcased the ingenuity, passion, and practical solutions of 26 young finalists from across Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire.

This flagship event, hosted by Pembrokeshire-based education enterprise Cymbrogi Futures, is part of a year-long programme empowering young learners with the skills and confidence to tackle climate challenges head-on.

THE WINNING IDEA: FAIR FASHION

The team from Queen Elizabeth High School, Carmarthenshire, stole the show with their innovative project addressing fast fashion waste. Their idea? Personalised soft toys crafted from discarded fabric destined for landfill. By engaging with local businesses and charity shops, the team not only demonstrated creativity but also gained practical insights into the environmental impact of textile waste.

Nia John, lead teacher for the team, shared: “This project allowed us to incorporate real-world learning into the classroom. Pupils were thrilled to interact with industry experts, growing their ideas through meaningful collaboration.”

Ariana, the team leader, reflected: “I enjoyed learning skills like collaboration and creativity, which will help me in the future. This experience has inspired me to start our school’s Climate Action group.”

OTHER FINALISTS: CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

Equally impressive was Milford Haven School’s ‘Cafe Cleddau’, a visionary concept featuring a solar-powered boat to connect communities along the Haven waterway. With sustainable snacks, a soft-play area, and hydro-powered backup systems, the idea aimed to revolutionise tourism and nightlife in the region.

All finalist teams received vouchers for the ethical online store Social Supermarket, while the winning team took home a £300 cash prize to fund biodiversity projects at their school.

BUILDING A NET ZERO FUTURE

Cymbrogi’s founder, Liza Lort-Phillips, underlined the importance of initiatives like Tomorrow’s Changemakers:
“Today’s learners will face far greater challenges in a climate-changed world than any of us. By sparking their imaginations now, we can equip them to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.”

The programme was supported by major partners, including the Port of Milford Haven and Cwm Environmental, who provided real-world insights into the challenges and opportunities in Wales’ green economy.

Anna Malloy, Communications and Marketing Director at the Port of Milford Haven, remarked: “This initiative is vital. Empowering the next generation with green skills and confidence ensures they are ready to lead the charge toward a net-zero future.”

A COMMUNITY-ROOTED CHALLENGE

The hackathon is the culmination of a three-stage learning journey inspired by the Well-being of Future Generations Act and the UN Global Goals. The programme began with an online course introducing topics such as the circular economy and systems thinking, followed by mini-challenges rooted in real-world scenarios in Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire.

Learners explored diverse challenges, including:

Sustainable Tourism: Imagining a car-free holiday in Milford Haven.
Energy: Exploring renewable solutions for rural Wales.
Fashion: Tackling fast fashion waste.

The finalists worked with industry experts, visiting sites such as the Port of Milford Haven and Cwm Environmental to gain hands-on experience.

A CALL TO ACTION

Samuel Kurtz, MS for South Pembrokeshire and Carmarthenshire, praised the event:
“The curiosity and ingenuity of these students are truly inspiring. Their ambition shows they are ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead. Initiatives like this are essential for building a resilient and sustainable future.”

Cymbrogi Futures hopes to expand the programme to schools across Wales, with plans to reach Wrexham and Neath Port Talbot in 2025.

As Wales leads the charge toward a net-zero future, the Tomorrow’s Changemakers programme reminds us that the solutions of tomorrow lie in the hands of today’s young minds.

Pictured above: Young innovators: Queen Elizabeth High students celebrate their Fair Fashion project victory (Pic: MHPA).