FIRST Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, has expressed his willingness to consider legislation aimed at safeguarding seals during their vulnerable pupping season. This decision comes after Preseli Pembrokeshire Senedd Member, Paul Davies, raised concerns voiced by residents of Moylegrove in North Pembrokeshire. The residents had been urging the Welsh Government to align with other parts of the UK where similar protective measures are already in place.

Paul Davies, the advocate behind this initiative, announced on October 24 that he had secured a commitment from the First Minister to explore the possibility of enacting legislation to shield seals from disturbance during their crucial pupping season. Davies, who recently visited Ceibwr Bay with concerned residents, emphasized the necessity of such legislation, especially considering the absence of comparable laws in Wales, unlike Scotland and Northern Ireland.

“It’s a highly sensitive time for the species,” Davies explained, “and yet unlike Scotland and Northern Ireland, there is no legislation in Wales to protect seals from disturbance. It’s vital that the Welsh Government uses all the tools at its disposal to ensure that these animals are protected as much as possible.”

During a session at the Senedd in Cardiff, Davies voiced the worries of Moylegrove residents directly to the First Minister. He highlighted the distressing disturbance faced by seals during pupping season and called for immediate action to bring Wales in line with the rest of the UK, where effective legislation protects these marine mammals.

In response, First Minister Mark Drakeford acknowledged the beauty of seals along the Pembrokeshire Coast, attracting numerous visitors. He acknowledged the need to balance this tourism aspect with the essential protection of seals during their sensitive pupping season. “Making sure that seals are not disturbed during the pupping season is a genuine objective that is shared by the Welsh Government,” stated Mr. Drakeford. “I’m very happy to give a commitment that we will pursue the points the member has made.”

Paul Davies MS expressed his satisfaction with the First Minister’s willingness to consider legislation, highlighting the pivotal role played by Moylegrove residents in bringing this issue to the attention of the Welsh Parliament. He commended their efforts and stressed the importance of aligning Welsh practices with the effective legislation already established in other parts of the UK.

“I’m pleased that the First Minister has agreed to consider legislation on this serious animal welfare issue,” Davies remarked. “It’s thanks to the residents of Moylegrove that this is on the Senedd’s radar, and they should be commended for their efforts to bring this matter to the attention of the Welsh Parliament.”

Davies also reassured the public that he would continue to work closely with the concerned group to ensure that any legislation introduced would be appropriate and effective in its purpose – safeguarding seals from disturbance during their vulnerable pupping season.

This significant step towards protecting marine life reflects the growing awareness and commitment to animal welfare in Wales. As the Welsh Government explores the possibilities of enacting protective legislation, the future appears promising for the seals along the picturesque Pembrokeshire Coast.