News

Carmarthenshire Council criticised for ‘devastating’ budget cuts

Published

2 years ago

February 12, 2024

CARMARTHENSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL faces intense scrutiny over its latest round of budget cuts, with trade unions and local communities urging the adoption of a no-cuts, needs-led budget to safeguard vital services. This plea comes in light of what critics describe as a “sham” public consultation by the Plaid Cymru-led council, accused of concealing the harsh impacts of its financial decisions.

Since 2010, the council has seen a reduction of approximately £120 million in funding, a situation exacerbated this year by increased demand, inflation, and insufficient budget allocations. Critics argue this shortfall places essential services at risk, attributing part of the blame to the Labour Welsh Government for not resisting the austerity measures imposed by the Conservative government in Westminster.

Amid growing concerns over the sustainability of local services, UNISON has spearheaded calls for the council to resist further cuts. The union advocates for a budget that prioritises community and staff needs, suggesting the use of reserves and borrowing as temporary measures to maintain and improve services. This approach, they argue, could provide the necessary breathing room to mobilise a broader campaign against the cuts, involving both trade unions and the wider community.

The backdrop to these local tensions is a broader national crisis in council funding, with several councils in England reaching technical bankruptcy and others in Wales, including Carmarthenshire, considering similar drastic measures. The implications of these cuts are severe, with rising staff sickness levels due to stress, recruitment challenges, and a reduction in non-statutory services, underscoring the urgent need for a strategic response.

Critics of the council’s current strategy warn of the dire consequences of continued austerity, pointing to the strain on public services and the workforce. They call for a decisive shift towards a needs-led budgeting approach that could stave off the worst impacts of financial cuts while rallying for governmental support.

As part of the pushback against these cuts, a lobby outside the County Hall in Carmarthen is scheduled for the 28th of February, aiming to pressure the council into re-evaluating its financial strategy. This move reflects a growing sentiment that, with a concerted effort, the tide of council budget cuts can be turned, securing the future of local services and the well-being of the community and council employees alike.

For more information or to join the campaign, interested parties are encouraged to contact UNISON at 01267 852013 or via email at [email protected].

Crime

Haverfordwest man denies historic rape charges involving underage girl

Published

20 minutes ago

December 17, 2025

Luke Sinclair

Trial listed at Cardiff Crown Court for 2027

A HAVERFORDWEST man has denied a series of historic sexual offences against an underage girl and is due to stand trial at Cardiff Crown Court in 2027.

Lee Mahagan, aged 52, of High Street, Haverfordwest, has pleaded not guilty to four counts of rape and two counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child.

The charges relate to allegations involving a girl aged between 13 and 15, which are said to have occurred in Cardiff between 2009 and 2010.

The court was told that the case is expected to take around five days when it goes before a jury. A trial date has been set for January 25, 2027.

Mahagan was granted conditional bail by Judge Hywel James following a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court.

The defendant is represented by David Pinnell, while Daniel Jones is appearing for the prosecution.

Crime

Teenager charged following rape allegation at Saundersfoot nightclub

Published

2 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Staff Writer

Incident reported at Sands Nightclub in early hours of Sunday

DYFED-POWYS POLICE is investigating an allegation of rape following an incident reported at Sands Nightclub in Saundersfoot in the early hours of Sunday (Dec 14).

An 18-year-old man was arrested after officers were called to the venue, which is a popular late-night spot in the seaside village. The allegation relates to events said to have taken place during the early hours of the morning.

Joshua Probert, aged 18, has since been charged with one count of rape. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Swansea Crown Court on Thursday (Dec 18).

The complainant is entitled to lifelong anonymity under law, and no further details about the allegation can be reported at this stage.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed that enquiries are ongoing. Officers are understood to have carried out initial investigative work shortly after the report was made, including speaking to witnesses.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact Dyfed-Powys Police.

Anyone affected by sexual assault or rape can contact the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line, run by Rape Crisis England & Wales, on 0808 500 2222. Calls are free and confidential.

Local Government

Mayor visits Milford Haven Library Christmas event

Published

4 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

THE MAYOR of Milford Haven, Cllr William Elliott, paid a visit to Milford Haven Library on Tuesday morning to attend its festive Mince Pie and a Cuppa event.

The event brought together library staff and local residents, with the Mayor thanking staff for their work supporting the community throughout the year. During the visit, Cllr Elliott also spent time speaking with residents who had come along to the event or were visiting the library to borrow books.

Milford Haven Library is part of the Pembrokeshire Libraries service, which provides access to books, information, and community activities across the county.

The Mayor wished residents a Merry Christmas at the close of his visit.