News

First Minister refuses to back independent inquiry into children’s services in Wales

Published

2 years ago

June 11, 2022

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has been accused of ‘ducking from scrutiny’ after First Minister Mark Drakeford has once again refused to back in independent inquiry into children’s services in Wales.

His decision has prompted an angry response from Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats and former child protection social worker Jane Dodds.

In a statement the Lib Dems in Wales released a statement as follows: ‘This week, First Minister Mark Drakeford once again reiterated his opposition to an independent inquiry into children’s services in Wales.

Drakeford’s rejection of the proposal came in response to a question asked by Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader Jane Dodds in the Senedd chamber.

The Welsh Liberal Democrats Leader, who worked for over 25 years as a child protection social worker has called for an independent inquiry come in response to the tragic death of Logan Mwangi and similar inquiries taking place in Scotland and England.’

Commenting Jane Dodds MS told The Pembrokeshire Herald: “The Welsh Liberal Democrats are very clear, following a number of alarming incidents, the Welsh Government should announce a review of child protection across Wales.

“Social workers, their managers, family support workers and colleagues in the health and education systems are working hard to protect children. But, more is needed to help social workers to do their job and a Chief Social Worker for Children is needed – as they have in England.

“Both Scotland and England are carrying out independent inquiries into the state of children’s social services in their jurisdiction. There is no reason for Wales not do the same.

“There are more children in care in Wales than in England or Scotland and children in Wales are more likely to enter care than their counterparts in England or Scotland.

“Since 2012 there has been a 78% increase in the number of children who are looked after and the last available figures show that 2,820 children were subject to a child protection plan – and we know that the pandemic has made working with those children and families all the more difficult.

“It is extremely disappointing to hear from the First Minister that the Welsh Labour Government will once again be ducking from scrutiny and refusing to hold an independent inquiry.”

Logan Mwangi’s mother and partner found guilty of murdering five-year-old

After being requested to carry out an independent review following the tragic death of Logan Mwangi, Mr Drakeford said, “It’s never right to rush into something very general from what is a very specific state of circumstances.”

Crime

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

Published

23 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

2 days 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

2 days 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!