News
Unions call for devolution of probation and youth justice services in Wales
LEADING unions have today called for the probation and youth justice services to be devolved to the Welsh government. This move comes amid the ongoing debate over the future leadership of Wales following Mark Drakeford’s tenure as First Minister.
Representatives from five major unions – GMB, Napo, PCS, UNISON, and UCU – have publicly urged Vaughan Gething and Jeremy Miles, the candidates vying to succeed Drakeford, to endorse the devolution of these key services. This push aligns with recommendations from a 2022 report by former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, suggesting that an incoming Labour government should prioritise the devolution of youth justice and probation services.
Simon Dunn, UNISON Cymru Wales’ head of police and justice, emphasized the importance of local governance. “Wales should take charge of its own probation and youth justice services. Our politicians in Cardiff have a deeper understanding of the challenges and needs of essential services in Wales than those in Westminster,” he stated.
The unions argue that managing these services from London, some 150 miles away, is inefficient and out of touch with Welsh needs. They insist that devolution to Wales is crucial for the effectiveness of these services.
Ian Lawrence, Napo’s general secretary, highlighted the urgency of the matter. “The probation service in Wales and England is facing a crisis. It’s crucial to detach it from the Westminster civil service and the prison service to avoid irreversible damage,” he commented. Lawrence also referred to the “botched reforms” under Chris Grayling, calling for a Labour government to rectify these past mistakes.
The public and political circles are keenly watching how Gething and Miles respond to this call, which could significantly shape the future of justice services in Wales.
Business
Pure West Radio brings festive cheer with ‘Pure X-Mas’ on DAB
PEMBROKESHIRE residents can now enjoy the perfect festive soundtrack as Pure West Radio launches its dedicated Christmas station, “Pure X-Mas,” on DAB radio. Running from Saturday (Nov 30) to New Year’s Eve, the station promises nonstop Christmas music and holiday cheer for all listeners.
“Pure X-Mas” offers an exciting mix of timeless classics and modern holiday hits, creating a joyful atmosphere for decorating trees, wrapping presents, or simply enjoying the season.
Station Manager Toby Ellis said:
“This Christmas, we’re making it easier than ever for Pembrokeshire and beyond to tune into the magic of the season. Pure X-Mas on DAB is our gift to the community – a station entirely dedicated to spreading festive joy and creating lasting memories.”
Exclusively available on DAB, “Pure X-Mas” guarantees crystal-clear sound and easy access for listeners across North and South Pembrokeshire. Simply tune your DAB radio to Pure West Radio’s dedicated Christmas station and immerse yourself in the spirit of the season.
Community
Brave special guardians to share their stories at Torch Theatre
THE TORCH THEATRE is set to host a poignant event on Thursday, December 12, celebrating the experiences of Special Guardians. Running from 1:00pm to 2:30pm, the event will feature eight courageous Special Guardians sharing their stories, alongside Sophie Pierce, the visionary behind this groundbreaking project.
The showcase will blend professionally produced films with heartfelt personal storytelling, offering a unique insight into the lives and contributions of Special Guardians. This event aims to shine a spotlight on their vital, often unrecognized roles, amplifying their voices and calling attention to their experiences in an unprecedented way.
Organisers hope the presentation will resonate with audiences both locally and nationally, sparking greater awareness and inspiring changes in policies to better support these dedicated individuals.
Angela Moore, a project worker with Pembrokeshire County Council’s Family and Friends Team, shared her aspirations for the event: “We want to get these films seen, and their words heard, nationally to increase awareness and recognition of the vital role Special Guardians play and to support policy improvement.”
Tickets for this inspiring event are free, but attendees are encouraged to reserve their seats in advance by emailing Angela Moore at [email protected].
Don’t miss this chance to honour the remarkable contributions of Special Guardians and experience their powerful stories brought to life.
News
Crash closes Pembroke road for over two hours
EMERGENCY SERVICES were called to St Daniel’s Hill, Pembroke, this morning (Thursday, December 5) following a two-vehicle collision that left one person injured.
The crash occurred on the B4319 at around 7:30am, leading to the road being closed while both vehicles were recovered. The route was reopened at approximately 9:30am.
A Dyfed-Powys Police spokesperson confirmed: “Officers received a report of a two-vehicle road traffic collision on the B4319 at about 7.30am. The road was closed while both vehicles were recovered and reopened shortly after 9.30am. The ambulance service attended to assist one person who was reported to have sustained injuries.”
An ambulance also attended.
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