News
New pay offer means teachers’ strikes have been called off in Wales

TWO days of planned strike action by teachers in Wales next week have been called off with a new pay offer set to be put to members. Members of the National Education Union (NEU) in Wales were set to walk out on March 15 and 16 in a move that was set to cause widespread disruption.
On Friday (Mar 10) the NEU said planned action in Wales for those days would now not take place as “constructive talks” with the Welsh Government had resulted in a revised pay offer.
David Evans, the NEU’s Wales Secretary, told Herald.Wales in a statement: “We have had lengthy negotiations with the Welsh Government and sought clarity which we did not have a few weeks ago. That this is a fully-funded offer will be a relief to our membership. We remain disappointed that the minister was unable to make a cash offer for support staff but at least he is now acknowledging the workload challenges there.”
Dr Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney, joint general secretaries of the National Education Union, added: “We thank the Welsh Government for the constructive manner in which they have pursued a solution to the current dispute over pay. It is vital that we do all we can, together, to combat the recruitment and retention crisis and ensure that more people join the profession and stay in the profession. The Welsh Government recognises this and has also understood the importance of the pay offer being fully funded. In addition they have committed to working with us on tackling workload.
“This is in stark contrast to the behaviour of Gillian Keegan who is preventing talks in England. This week she refused even to talks at Acas. The NEU has said time and again we will enter negotiations. The talks can go ahead at any time – it is government who are declining and setting the preconditions, not the NEU.”
Responding to Mr Miles’ statement on the proposed pay and workload package for teachers in Wales Dr Patrick Roach, general secretary of the NASUWT, said: “Teachers will be concerned that the offer to pay additional money to teachers now must be honoured without strings attached. Teachers have seen the value of their pay plummet and are struggling with a cost of living crisis that is not of their making. The minister’s offer to deliver an award to teachers on a without prejudice basis before the end of the financial year should mean that teachers will benefit from additional money today rather than empty promises of jam tomorrow.”
Neil Butler, NASUWT national official for Wales, added: “The minister must not seek to play fast and loose with the negotiating machinery that exists in Wales and must ensure that the role of the independent pay review body is fully respected. The minister had already agreed to a remit to the review body (IWPRB). That must be honoured.”
The full holding offer from Welsh Government is as follows:
- 5% already awarded (fully-funded)
- An extra 1.5% fully consolidated
- 1.5% one-off cash payment
- This makes a total consolidated increase of 6.5% and an in-year boost for the current year of 8%
- The money would be paid in April and backdated to September provided NEU Cymru pauses next week’s industrial action
- For the next academic year 2023-24 unions can continue the dispute or accept a new 5% offer compared to the original 3.5% offer
The full text of the letter from education minister Jeremy Miles to unions, seen by Herald.Wales is as follows:
Dear all,
I would like to reiterate my thanks for the constructive talks we have had over recent weeks.
By working together, we have made good progress in a number of shared priority areas. During our meeting on Tuesday 7 th March, it was agreed I would write to you setting out the government’s position regarding the 2022-23 pay offer.
I hope that you would recognise that our talks over recent months have been productive and our negotiations conducted in good faith. However, we are fast approaching the end of the financial year and the 17th March deadline for practically delivering a payment in this year. I am concerned we have not yet agreed a deal for your members and that pupils risk missing out on more days of school.
The government has previously offered an additional 3% pay increase, of which 1.5% is consolidated and 1.5% is non-consolidated. This would mean members benefit from an 8% increase for 2022-23.
Despite this offer being rejected by both NEU and Nasuwt, I am willing, as a sign of good faith, to make this payment to teachers as soon as possible. As you know, the funds which we have managed to identify for this financial year would otherwise be used for other priorities, so I am keen to make sure that they don’t become unavailable for teachers’ pay due to the absence of overall agreement.
In return for the payment of the 3%, we would ask for full strike action, currently notified for 15th and 16th March to be paused, so that negotiations can continue. It is imperative that whilst we work together to seek a full resolution, we should not place pupils, in particular those preparing for and sitting exams, under additional pressure of losing more school days.
In light of that, we would ask for a suspension until the end of the academic year or until meaningful discussions have ceased. For those teaching unions who did not reach the legal threshold, we would request the same in respect of not re-balloting members during that time.
This solution will allow teachers to receive a significant back payment during this cost of living crisis, but it is also in the clear interests of Wales’s pupils, especially as the exam period approaches.
I believe making a payment without reaching an agreement and a significant pause of strike action while we continue discussions would be a strong signal of good faith from all parties and one which crucially benefits pupils and teachers whilst we seek a resolution.
I would like to be absolutely clear that I recognise that, despite making this payment, we would remain in dispute with the relevant trade unions and that the payment would not imply acceptance of the offer.
Notwithstanding the above, I believe we have an opportunity to settle this dispute in order to deliver in the interests of learners and your members. I am therefore prepared to propose that the current recommended pay award for 2023 – 24 of 3.5% be increased to 5% with effect from 1 September 2023. This would be a decision made without the need to refer that award to the Independent Welsh Pay Review Body and I confirm that it would be fully funded. If this proposal is accepted, taken together with the commitments on workload, we would regard the dispute as settled.
I would like now for us also to start delivering on the workload offer we have worked on together. My previous letter set out what the package available is.
Some unions have sought further clarity on some aspects. I believe we can best address those points by engaging on the substantive workload issues set out in the letter rather than negotiating the wording of the letter itself. That will allow us to get on with making a reality of the proposals.
For the avoidance of doubt we confirm that we are progressing a variety of issues relating to the deployment of teaching assistants in accordance with the existing arrangements we have in place. On the ‘no detriment’ principle, I can confirm that should conversations in England result in an offer for teachers and leaders which is higher than any pay settlement in Wales, we would match the pay award.
Yours sincerely,
Jeremy Miles, MS, Minister for Education and Welsh Language
Charity
Shalom House adapts to community needs amid financial struggles

A HOSPICE in St Davids is finding new ways to support the community after financial challenges forced changes to its operations. Shalom House, a well-loved facility on Nun Street, has shifted its focus in recent years, balancing healthcare provision with its founding mission.
Established in 2007, Shalom House was originally designed as a five-bed hospice offering respite and palliative care. Its creation was made possible by the donation of the property from Elizabeth de Guise, a novelist with a deep connection to Pembrokeshire. However, rising costs and funding shortfalls have led to significant changes in how the hospice operates.
In late October, the closure of St Davids Surgery prompted Shalom House to repurpose two of its rooms for use by a branch surgery. The facility is now home to a service staffed by practice nurses under Hywel Dda Health Board, ensuring local residents continue to have access to healthcare.
Balancing priorities
While the move has been welcomed by many in the area, it has come at a cost. Shalom House now operates with three respite beds instead of five, a change that has sparked concern among some supporters.
“We had to make a difficult decision,” a spokesperson for the hospice said. “Our primary goal is to serve the community, and this arrangement allows us to do so in multiple ways. The branch surgery provides vital medical care while helping us generate income to keep Shalom House open.”
The hospice continues to offer day-care services to several patients each week, with additional respite care provided as resources allow. Trustees are optimistic that full capacity can be restored in the future, depending on funding.
Community campaign brings hope
Despite the challenges, Shalom House has received overwhelming support from the Pembrokeshire community. A recent campaign, “Save Shalom,” has seen donations increase dramatically, offering a glimmer of hope for the hospice’s long-term future.
Local resident and campaign volunteer, Jenny Williams, said: “Shalom House means so much to so many people. It’s more than a building—it’s a lifeline for families across the county. We’re determined to do everything we can to keep it running.”
Looking ahead
The trustees are exploring new ways to raise funds and expand services, with plans to launch a series of community events next year. They have also expressed gratitude for the continued generosity of local residents, whose donations remain crucial.
“Shalom House has always been about Pembrokeshire’s people,” said the spokesperson. “Every penny donated helps us provide care and support to those who need it most. We’re confident that, with the community behind us, we can overcome these challenges.”
For more information about Shalom House or to make a donation, visit www.shalomstdavids.org.
Entertainment
A Christmas spectacular at St Davids Cathedral delights audience

A CHRISTMAS celebration of music and song enthralled audiences at St Davids Cathedral on Saturday (Dec 14), as the St Davids Cathedral Choir and Vox Angelica presented A Christmas Spectacular. The event, which began at 7:00pm, offered a festive evening of performances set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of one of Wales’ most iconic landmarks.
The concert featured the talented harpist Bethan Semmens, who captivated listeners with her intricate and emotive playing. A Cardiff native, Semmens studied at the Royal College of Music and has performed at prestigious events across the UK and internationally. Her contributions to the evening brought an enchanting touch to the programme.
The night was packed with beloved seasonal pieces, showcasing both choral and soloist performances. Highlights included the timeless Good King Wenceslas, Winter Wonderland, and festive classics such as The Twelve Days of Christmas. The Cathedral Choir delivered stirring renditions under the vaulted ceilings, with carols and arrangements that beautifully resonated throughout the space.
Special moments featured solos by Harriet Pearce and Sophie Cooke, who lent their voices to favourites like There Is No Rose and Balulalow. The audience was further treated to a moving arrangement of A Ceremony of Carols by Benjamin Britten, performed in harmony with Bethan Semmens’ harp accompaniment.
A medley of carols encouraged audience participation, culminating in a joyful and spirited atmosphere. Families, friends, and visitors joined their voices for classics that brought warmth and festivity to the wintry evening.
The performance concluded with an uplifting recessional, leaving attendees with a sense of seasonal cheer. The Cathedral, adorned with Christmas trees and lights, provided the perfect setting for what many described as an unforgettable musical experience.
The Herald understands that A Christmas Spectacular was a resounding success, with plans already underway for next year’s event.
News
Greyhound racing in Wales: Future hangs in balance as decision delayed until 2025

THE WELSH GOVERNMENT’S decision to postpone a ruling on the future of greyhound racing until 2025 has sparked mixed reactions, with animal welfare groups voicing disappointment and industry representatives welcoming the extended timeline for discussion.
Welfare groups demand urgent action
Animal welfare organisations, including Dogs Trust, RSPCA Cymru, Blue Cross, Greyhound Rescue Wales, and Hope Rescue, have expressed dismay at the delay. The coalition, known as Cut the Chase, has long advocated for an end to greyhound racing in Wales, calling the postponement a missed opportunity to prevent further harm.
Their concerns mirror recent developments in New Zealand, where greyhound racing will be banned by August 2026 due to concerns over injuries and fatalities. Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Dogs Trust, stated:
“The call to end greyhound racing in Wales has received overwhelming support from the animal welfare community, Members of the Senedd, and the public, with over 35,000 people signing a petition demanding change.
“It is unacceptable that so many dogs die or are seriously injured every year, all in the name of entertainment. Wales now stands alongside only a handful of countries, including England and Scotland, where this outdated and inhumane practice persists. The Welsh Government must take the only meaningful action to stop this cruelty: end greyhound racing once and for all.”
Public supports a phased ban
A consultation conducted by the Welsh Government revealed that 64.69% of respondents supported a phased ban on greyhound racing. Despite this, officials have opted to extend deliberations, with a final decision now expected in 2025.
Animal welfare groups highlighted troubling figures from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB), which reported 359 racing greyhound deaths and 4,238 injuries in 2023 – a 47% increase in fatalities compared to the previous year. Concerns extend to off-track welfare, including reports of poor living conditions, inadequate nutrition, and lack of enrichment for retired greyhounds.
Industry defends its welfare standards
The GBGB has countered criticism by emphasizing welfare improvements at licensed tracks such as Valley Stadium in Wales. Mark Bird, GBGB Chief Executive, said:
“Valley Stadium’s licensing has brought significant welfare improvements, overseen by expert veterinarians and our national network of professionals. Racing greyhounds receive more oversight and protection than many pet dogs across Wales.
“We remain committed to working with the Welsh Government to promote and protect greyhound welfare through effective and proportionate regulation.”
Broader calls for change
The debate in Wales reflects a growing movement to end greyhound racing across the UK and beyond. In Scotland, a Proposed Prohibition of Greyhound Racing Bill aims to outlaw the sport, while New Zealand has committed to a ban, citing ethical concerns.
Decision delayed but debate intensifies
The Welsh Government has emphasized the need for thorough consideration before making a final decision. However, the delay has intensified divisions, with animal welfare groups urging an outright ban and the industry advocating for improved regulation as a viable alternative.
A final verdict is not expected until 2025, leaving the future of the sport – and the welfare of thousands of greyhounds – uncertain.
-
Top News3 days ago
Pembrokeshire man jailed after repeatedly punching pregnant wife
-
Top News2 days ago
Police investigate dogs seen persistently chasing sheep on Pembrokeshire airfield
-
Entertainment6 days ago
Reef’s 30th Anniversary Tour hits Tenby in 2025
-
News6 days ago
Thai mother’s harrowing 999 call: “I felt like a robot, I felt twisted, I killed my son”
-
News4 days ago
Dyfed-Powys Police launches attempted murder investigation
-
Health7 days ago
As many as 100,000 people in Wales could have Long Covid
-
Crime7 days ago
Seventeen deaths at Parc Prison: Calls for action after MP inquiry
-
Community7 days ago
Man, 83, dies in property fire near Llanybydder