News

UK’s new border target operating model welcomed by Welsh Government

Published

3 years ago

August 29, 2023

IN A RECENT statement issued by Vaughan Gething MS, Minister for the Economy, the Welsh Government expressed its contentment over the publication of the new Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) by the UK Government.

The BTOM, which delineates the UK’s upcoming approach to safety, security controls for all imports, and notably the sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls for particular imports such as live animals, plants, and animal products, has garnered the support of the Welsh authorities.

This model has been formulated over several months and signifies a joint effort of the Welsh, Scottish, and UK Governments. “The framework has been developed over many months of collaboration between the Welsh, Scottish and UK Governments,” said Gething, who also added that a summary of expert advice is available with the statement.

A significant highlight of the BTOM is the emphasis on maintaining a coherent regime across Great Britain. This is not only vital for safeguarding our collective biosecurity but is crucial to avert unnecessary complications for traders. Minister Gething remarked, “As a result of our involvement, we have secured a model which works for Wales.”

Interestingly, while the draft BTOM slated the first of the SPS controls to commence in October 2023, the new controls are now scheduled to begin in January 2024. Addressing this shift, Gething stated, “We have reluctantly accepted this delay, but it is essential that there are no further delays.”

In addition to existing regulations, starting from January 2024, there will be a new requirement to pre-notify certain categories of SPS goods imported from the Republic of Ireland. This aligns with the norms that have been operational for similar EU imports elsewhere in GB since the start of 2022.

One of the most anticipated aspects of the BTOM was the timeline for the introduction of physical checks on imports for goods from Ireland. The latest update confirms that these checks will not commence any earlier than 31st October 2024. Gething reassured that he will provide a subsequent announcement about the exact date once all the governments arrive at a consensus.

A significant stress was laid on providing ample notice for businesses that would be impacted, ensuring that key agencies and local authorities, especially in the regions of Holyhead, Fishguard, and Pembroke Dock, have adequate time for planning and recruitment.

Minister Gething concluded his statement by acknowledging its release during recess and assured members that he would be available to offer further insights or address any queries when the Senedd reconvenes.

Crime

Police stop car in Pennar as three arrested in drugs investigation

Published

7 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Suspected drug driver report leads to major police response and multiple arrests

DRAMATIC scenes were reported in Pennar on Monday afternoon (Mar 23) after multiple police vehicles were deployed to stop a car.

The incident happened at around 5:00pm near Pennar Court, Pembroke Dock, where officers located a stationary vehicle following reports of a suspected drug driver in the area.

Police attended and pre-emptively stopped the vehicle, also blocking a second car nearby.

Officers carried out searches of both vehicles and discovered suspected controlled substances.

A 32-year-old woman and a 47-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of possessing class A and class B drugs with intent to supply. A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and possession of class A and class B drugs with intent to supply.

The 32-year-old woman has been released under investigation, while the 31-year-old man and 47-year-old woman have been released on unconditional bail.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed the incident followed reports of a man believed to be driving under the influence in the area earlier that afternoon.

Crime

Sex offender jailed for sending explicit messages to ’14-year-old’ girls

Published

7 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Sarah Jane Absalom

A MAN has been jailed after sending sexual messages on Snapchat to three girls he believed were aged 14.

Ciaran Carmody, aged 21, appeared before Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court via video link from HM Wrexham prison, where he admitted three offences of attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child under 16.

The court heard the messages were sent on three separate occasions to accounts posing as 14-year-old girls, which were in fact part of an undercover police operation.

Prosecutor Nia James said each of the girls made their age clear, but the messages sent by Carmody were sexual in nature.

The offences took place between April 25 and May 5, 2025.

Finance

Haverfordwest savers encouraged to seek clarity ahead of ISA tax year end

Published

7 hours ago

March 24, 2026

Tom Sinclair

TWO in three savers say a fixed interest rate would give them greater peace of mind when planning their finances, according to new research from Principality Building Society*, as people in Haverfordwest are encouraged to review their savings ahead of the ISA tax year deadline.

The research, conducted with more than 1,500 people, also found that while many savers feel comfortable managing their money independently, a significant number still value the reassurance of speaking to someone when making important financial decisions.

Meanwhile, around one in six people mistakenly believe they must open a new ISA every tax year, highlighting ongoing confusion around how ISAs work. In many cases, particularly for variable savings products, savers may be able to continue paying into an existing ISA.

With the tax year end approaching, Principality Building Society is inviting Members and local savers to speak with colleagues at its High Street branch in Haverfordwest to better understand their options and make informed choices about how to use their ISA allowance.

The research also highlights the appeal of certainty when it comes to savings. Two in three savers say a fixed rate would give them peace of mind, reflecting the reassurance that comes from knowing exactly what return they will receive over a set period. Fixed rate Cash ISAs can provide that certainty, making it easier for some savers to plan ahead.

Vicky Wales, Chief Savings and Lending Officer at Principality Building Society, said: “ISA season can often feel busy and confusing, particularly against the backdrop of changes in the wider financial environment. Many people value the opportunity to talk through their options and feel confident they’re making the right decision.

Every saver’s situation is unique, so having a conversation can help people better understand their choices and how these align with their longer-term plans. Understanding the differences between savings products – including fixed and variable rates – can help savers make the most of their ISA allowance, and ensure their money is working in a way that suits their individual goals.”

Principality Building Society is encouraging anyone in Haverfordwest who would like to review their savings ahead of the tax year end to visit their local branch for a supportive conversation about their options, and how they can make the most of their savings.

Source: Principality Building Society’s own online community, Member Pulse, survey on Cash ISAs, March 2026 (total respondents: 1,544)