News
Animal welfare boost as CCTV becomes mandatory in Welsh abattoirs
ALL abattoirs in Wales will be required to install Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems by May 1, pending approval from the Senedd. This regulation follows a successful campaign spearheaded by RSPCA Cymru and is poised to ensure the humane treatment of animals at the time of slaughter.
The Welsh Government’s decision to develop these regulations came after a consultation process initiated last May, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving animal welfare standards. This step was propelled forward by an extensive campaign from RSPCA Cymru, reflecting the organization’s long-standing advocacy for mandatory CCTV in slaughterhouses to safeguard animal welfare.
For the regulations to take effect, they must first gain approval from Senedd Members. Once enacted, abattoir operators will be obligated to maintain recorded footage for a minimum of ninety days and ensure its availability to authorized personnel. This requirement is scheduled to be enforced starting in November, contingent upon legislative approval.
The push for CCTV installation in slaughterhouses has garnered substantial public support, as evidenced by the overwhelming response during the 12-week consultation period. A total of 15,943 submissions were received, voicing strong backing for the measure, out of 16,014 responses overall to the consultation.
Billie-Jade Thomas, RSPCA Cymru’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, expressed the organization’s satisfaction with the progress, emphasizing the critical role of CCTV in protecting animal welfare and reinforcing public confidence in food safety and animal husbandry practices. Thomas also extended gratitude to the thousands who supported the RSPCA’s campaign, underscoring the public’s vested interest in animal welfare.
This regulatory milestone in Wales reflects a growing recognition of the importance of animal welfare in the agriculture industry. It aligns with the RSPCA’s farm animal welfare standards, which already mandate CCTV in slaughterhouses under the RSPCA Assured certification scheme. England has observed similar regulations since November 2018, illustrating a broader trend towards enhanced animal welfare practices in the UK.
In conjunction with its 200th anniversary, RSPCA is keen on inspiring a million people to join their movement aimed at improving the lives of animals. This regulation marks a significant step towards that goal, illustrating the power of advocacy and public support in effecting meaningful change.
For further details on the consultation results and to learn how to join RSPCA’s mission for better animal welfare, visit the official government and RSPCA websites respectively.
Ends – Diwedd
Community
Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity
THE PEMBROKESHIRE ILLUMINATED TRACTOR RUN took place today (Dec 21), raising funds for two vital charities: the Catrin Vaughan Foundation and Wales Air Ambulance.
Starting at Clarbeston Road AFC at 6:00pm, the brightly lit convoy of nearly 200 tractors made its way through Withybush Hospital and Haverfordwest High Street before finishing at the Pembrokeshire County Showground.
The annual event has become a highlight of the festive calendar, drawing large crowds to witness the spectacle of tractors adorned with colourful lights and decorations.
Funds raised from the event will support the Catrin Vaughan Foundation, which provides crucial assistance to families facing hardship, and the Wales Air Ambulance, delivering life-saving emergency medical care across the region.
Organisers praised the dedication of local farmers and volunteers, whose commitment ensures the event’s continued success year after year.
(Image: Nia Marshall/Facebook)
Business
Ferry Terminal ‘extremely busy’ due to ongoing Holyhead closure
PEMBROKE DOCK Ferry Terminal has been experiencing significant congestion today as ferry services remain under immense pressure following the closure of Holyhead Port earlier this month.
The disruption, caused by storm damage, has rerouted ferry traffic through Pembrokeshire, leading to long queues and crowded facilities at the terminal.
The Herald can confirm that it has been very busy today with cars, lorries, and foot passengers queuing in large numbers. Staff are working tirelessly to manage the influx, directing vehicles and assisting passengers as they prepare to board the heavily booked ferries.
A spokesperson for the Port of Milford Haven said: “We are working closely with ferry operators and local authorities to ensure traffic flows as smoothly as possible, but the sheer volume of vehicles is causing unavoidable delays.”
Travelers are being urged to arrive early for their sailings and to remain patient as the terminal operates at full capacity.
Both Stena Line and Irish Ferries have increased capacity on their Pembrokeshire routes, deploying larger vessels, including the Stena Adventurer and the MV James Joyce, to handle the surge in demand.
From our position at the terminal, our photographer has captured photos showing long lines of vehicles, groups of foot passengers carrying luggage, and port staff coordinating efforts to ease congestion.
Authorities are advising non-essential travelers to consider rescheduling their journeys where possible and to monitor updates from ferry operators closely.
(Photos: Martin Cavaney/Herald)
Community
Festive celebrations at St Davids Cathedral this weekend
ST DAVIDS Cathedral is set to host two special events on Sunday (Dec 22), offering a blend of joyful participation and traditional carol singing to mark the Christmas season.
In the morning, families are invited to the Scratch Nativity at 11:00am. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as wise men, angels, sheep, or shepherds and take part in an unrehearsed retelling of the Christmas story. Canon Leigh described the event as: “Complete, wonderful chaos for an hour… but with some poignant, thought-provoking moments to centre ourselves on the real meaning of Christmas.”
Later in the evening, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols by Candlelight will take place at 7:00pm, featuring the Cathedral Choir. The event, steeped in tradition, will see the cathedral bathed in candlelight as carols and scripture readings fill the historic space.
Doors will open at 5:45pm for those seeking unreserved seating, and a large turnout is expected for this beloved Christmas celebration.
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