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News

Welsh Government rejects UK’s controversial Fire Service strike regulations

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THE WELSH GOVERNMENT’S rejection of the UK Government’s minimum service levels for the fire and rescue services has been met with strong support from the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), highlighting the depth of opposition to what is perceived as the most significant attack on the union’s ability to strike since its inception over a century ago.

In detailed communication, the FBU outlined the stringent regulations imposed by the UK Government’s Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act 2023, received with royal assent on 20 July 2023. These rules, aimed exclusively at England, compel fire and rescue services to maintain operations during strikes as if it were a normal working day. Specifically, the legislation mandates that a minimum of 73% of fire appliances be staffed, and control rooms function fully, regardless of ongoing strike actions.

During a strike in 2002, ‘Green Goddesses’ were operated by military personnel to tackle blazes

The FBU has condemned these regulations as a severe infringement on workers’ rights, designed to undermine the effectiveness of strikes. This sentiment is further echoed in the response of Hannah Blythyn, Welsh Deputy Minister for Social Partnership, who criticised the Act as an “unworkable intrusion” into devolved matters, affirming the Welsh Government’s refusal to implement such measures.

The backdrop to this controversy includes the FBU’s recent history of negotiation and industrial action.

Last year, amidst a wave of strikes in other services, the FBU managed to settle a national pay dispute without resorting to strikes, a result overwhelmingly supported by its members.

However, the new legislation threatens to severely restrict the union’s ability to conduct future strikes effectively.

Critically, the regulations introduce the concept of ‘work notices’, identifying specific workers required to maintain minimum service levels during a strike.

Failure to comply with these notices exposes workers to potential dismissal, while the FBU faces substantial fines. These measures have been denounced as draconian by union leaders and members alike.

The scope of the Act currently extends only to England, with the possibility of future regulations affecting other devolved administrations.

Yet, the explicit rejection of the legislation by the Welsh and Scottish governments has highlighted a significant devolution dynamic in the UK’s approach to industrial relations. The Northern Irish administration has also opted out of applying the legislation.

The imposition of these regulations has not gone unchallenged within England. The FBU points to the recent train drivers’ strikes, where no work notices were issued by any train operating company, as a precedent for resistance.

The union is urging fire and rescue authorities in England to commit not to issue work notices, drawing on solidarity and the potential for prolonged strike action to deter such measures.

The Conservative government bears the primary responsibility for these restrictions, with indications that some senior figures within the fire and rescue service have collaborated in designing the new measures.

This collaboration has been met with criticism from FBU members, questioning the mandate of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) in endorsing these laws.

Amid these developments, the Westminster government maintains that the regulations are necessary to ensure public safety during strikes.

This stance is contested by the FBU, which argues that the government’s genuine concern for public safety would be better demonstrated through sustained investment in the fire and rescue service rather than restricting workers’ rights.

As the debate continues, the FBU is mobilising opposition to the minimum service levels, calling on fire and rescue authorities, MPs, and candidates in the upcoming general election to oppose the legislation.

With Labour pledging to repeal the regulations if elected, the battle over minimum service levels and the right to strike in the fire and rescue service is set to intensify in the lead-up to the next general election.

This development underscores the broader tensions between the UK Government’s push for restrictions on industrial action and the resistance from unions, devolved governments, and workers.

Charity

Tenby Round Table donates £2,336 to Paul Sartori Foundation

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THE PAUL SARTORI FOUNDATION, Pembrokeshire’s hospice-at-home charity, has received a donation of £2,336 from Tenby Round Table, funding the purchase of two specialised Minuet 2 hospital-style beds to enhance patient comfort at home.

Representatives from the Tenby Round Table visited Paul Sartori House on Tuesday (Mar 4) to meet the team and see how their donation is making a difference. The charity’s Equipment Loan Team demonstrated the new beds, highlighting their benefits for end-of-life patients wishing to spend their final days at home.

Amanda Elmes, Equipment Assistant, and Mark Bunyan, Equipment Technician, explained how the beds provide essential support, with families expressing deep gratitude for their availability, even if used for just a short period.

Will Davies, Chairman of Tenby Round Table, said: “The decision to donate was unanimous because we all strongly believe in the invaluable service Paul Sartori provides to families in need.”

Joost Geertman, past president of Tenby Round Table, shared a personal connection, having recently accessed the charity’s services for a family member. He said: “It’s heartening to see how Paul Sartori supports people at the most critical times of their lives. I know firsthand the difference it makes to families locally.”

The Paul Sartori Equipment Loan Service plays a crucial role in supporting end-of-life patients across Pembrokeshire. In 2023/24, the team delivered over 1,700 items of equipment—an average of 32 per week—including beds, wheelchairs, commodes, chairs, and mattresses, all provided at no cost.

Pat Coombs, Clinical Coordinator and Equipment Facilitator, emphasised the importance of donations in sustaining their work. She said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Tenby Round Table. We rely heavily on donations and grants to continue complementing statutory services. Beds are among the most important items we loan, offering comfort and support when it is most needed.”

The Paul Sartori Foundation provides a range of services beyond equipment loans, including home nursing care, complementary therapy, bereavement and counselling support, physiotherapy, advance care planning, and training. The charity also operates a 24-hour advice line, available seven days a week, with a standby service for those not yet requiring hands-on care.

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Entertainment

Welsh Motorsport & Supercar Festival returns to Pembrey

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THE WELSH Motorsport & Supercar Festival is set to return to Pembrey Circuit on Sunday, September 21, 2025, with backing from The Trade Centre Wales and Iconic Auctioneers.

The Trade Centre Wales, the country’s largest used car supermarket, operates from sites in Abercynon and Neath, offering thousands of vehicles. Iconic Auctioneers, a globally recognised auction house, specialises in classic and modern supercars, competition vehicles, and automobilia.

Last year’s inaugural event drew 6,000 fans to the ‘Home of Welsh Motorsport,’ granting visitors unprecedented access to paddocks, supercar zones, motorsport displays, pit garages, and live-action demonstrations. The 2025 edition promises an even bigger spectacle, with more historic Formula 1 cars, rare motorsport machinery, and high-profile motorsport personalities. A headline theme will be announced soon.

Fan experience will be a priority, with improvements based on feedback from last year. Additional car parks within Pembrey will ease entry, a new food village will offer a wider selection, and more seating and improved signage will enhance the visitor experience.

Mark Bailey, founder of The Trade Centre Wales, said: “As a company founded in Wales, we are immensely proud to support the Welsh Motorsport & Supercar Festival at Pembrey Circuit. This event allows us to give back to the local community and connect with passionate motorsport fans.”

Iconic Auctioneers classic car specialist Arwel Richards added: “Last year’s festival was a phenomenal success, proving that motorsport and supercar enthusiasts exist in their thousands beyond the M4. We’re excited to be involved.”

Pembrey Circuit Manager Phil Davies said: “Having The Trade Centre Wales and Iconic Auctioneers as partners strengthens the event, and they will be showcasing some never-before-seen cars. We aim to build on last year’s success to make this year’s festival even bigger and better.”

Welsh Motorsport & Supercar Festival
Pembrey Circuit, Sunday, September 21, 2025
Tickets: £22 in advance / Children 15 and under FREE
More information: pembreycircuit.co.uk/event/welsh-motorsport-supercar-festival
BARC (Pembrey) Ltd., Pembrey Circuit, Pembrey, Carmarthenshire, SA16 0HZ

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Community

Dog owner speaks out after attack in Pembroke Dock

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THE OWNER of an American Bulldog involved in a dog attack in Pembroke Dock has expressed his distress over the incident, calling it a “massive accident” and an “isolated incident.”

A video circulating on social media shows the dog, named Bobo, attacking another dog, a golden retriever named Bailey, on Dimond Street, Pembroke Dock, on Tuesday (Mar 12). The footage shows passers-by attempting to intervene, with some appearing to strike Bobo in an effort to separate the animals.

Bailey’s owner, Julie Jenkins, later confirmed that her pet had suffered wounds to his body, including an ear injury requiring staples.

‘A complete accident’

Mikey Newman, Bobo’s owner, said he was devastated by what had happened and had since reached out to Ms Jenkins to offer an apology and cover all vet bills.

“I feel absolutely distraught about the whole thing,” Mr Newman said. “I don’t blame anybody but myself.”

He explained that Bobo, a rescue dog still undergoing training, escaped after being startled by a falling broom while waiting to be harnessed at the door of his home.

“He was sitting just inside my doorway, waiting patiently for me to secure his harness,” he said. “A brush I use to clean my yard fell forward and smacked into him, which made him bolt. He’s never allowed out on his own, and when walked, he’s always on his lead.”

Mr Newman chased after Bobo and arrived just as the fight broke out. He stated that he immediately intervened, pinning Bobo down in an attempt to stop the attack.

“The moment I jumped on him, he started to let go and calm down,” he explained. “But people reacted in fear, and both Bobo and I were hit in the process. I was kicked and punched in the ribs while trying to secure him.”

Ongoing training and backlash

Mr Newman emphasised that Bobo has never shown aggression towards people and described him as a “cuddle bug” who loves people and is extremely loyal to his family.

“Bobo is absolutely no danger to people or children,” he said. “There were lots of people around, and he didn’t attack any of them. He is still an adolescent and in training. He even saved my daughter’s life when an intruder broke into her house.”

Since the video was shared online, Mr Newman has faced significant backlash, with some people calling for Bobo to be put down. He expressed frustration that people were jumping to conclusions without understanding the full context of the incident.

“It’s alarming that so many people are vilifying Bobo,” he said. “They see a big dog, they hear the yelps, and they react without first trying to get the facts.”

Community protection notice issued

Mr Newman confirmed that he had contacted the police regarding the incident and that authorities had now issued a Community Protection Warning Notice. This means Bobo must be kept on a lead and muzzled at all times in public.

“This will not happen again,” he said. “I take full responsibility for what happened, but I will not hurt my dog or have him put down. This was not his fault, and I have already taken steps to ensure it never happens again.”

The police have not indicated that any further action will be taken against Mr Newman or Bobo.

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