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Labour-Plaid Cymru co-operation ends amid scandal in Welsh Government

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THE First Minister of Wales, Vaughan Gething, faces intensified scrutiny as Plaid Cymru abruptly terminates its cooperation agreement with the Labour Party. Rhun ap Iorwerth, the Plaid leader, expressed his pride in the achievements of the partnership but voiced significant concerns over a controversial £200,000 donation to Mr Gething’s leadership campaign. The donation originated from Dauson Environmental Group, a company led by a figure with two prior convictions for environmental violations.

This political rupture follows a week of upheaval in the Senedd, exacerbated by Mr Gething’s dismissal of Hannah Blythyn, his minister for social partnership, amid allegations of leaked communications. This incident caps off a string of challenges facing the First Minister since assuming office in March.

Plaid’s decision to withdraw their support could complicate Labour’s efforts to secure a majority for upcoming legislative challenges, notably passing the next budget. With the Welsh government holding exactly half the seats in the Senedd, alternative alliances, possibly with the Welsh Liberal Democrats, may become necessary.

Political analyst David Deans notes that the timing of Plaid’s withdrawal adds a layer of political jeopardy for Mr Gething, coinciding with murmurs of a potential no-confidence motion by the Conservatives aimed at unseating him. However, Mick Antoniw, a senior cabinet member, has asserted full support for the First Minister from within the party, stating a unified front in the face of any forthcoming challenges.

The initial cooperation agreement, crafted in December 2021 under the former First Minister Mark Drakeford, was not a formal coalition but a strategic alliance on 46 policy areas, facilitating key legislative successes. Its premature end heralds a significant shift in the political landscape, with Plaid now possibly free to support a no-confidence motion without conflict from prior commitments.

In an interview, Mr ap Iorwerth criticized Mr Gething’s judgement regarding the £200,000 donation and suggested that it reflected poorly on his integrity and governance, stating that “a change in attitude by the Welsh government” had also influenced Plaid’s decision.

Meanwhile, Mr Gething remains resolute in his position, defending his leadership and the accomplishments under the now-dissolved cooperation agreement. He highlighted ongoing commitments to Welsh-language education and fair housing, despite the current political strife.

As the Welsh political theatre continues to evolve, the ramifications of this dissolution on the governance and legislative progress in Wales remain to be fully seen.

Crime

‘Sheer luck’ that out-of-control car did not hit mother and baby

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IN MILFORD HAVEN a woman and her baby were on the way to the local shop on Saturday (Sept 28) when what was described at the scene as a “drunk driver” veered off the road, mounted the pavement, and struck the telegraph pole just next to them.

The pole, in Milton Crescent was damaged, causing heavy duty trunking to break off and hit the pram, damaging it, but narrowly missing the baby.

It seems Deanna Potter and her baby, Danny, were only saved by the fortunate position of the pole – which took a heavy impact – preventing the large black Audi from ploughing into them.

After the collision, the woman said, the driver “attempted to flee”, but her car was too damaged. She then exited her vehicle and walked away, “seemingly indifferent to the near-fatal accident” she had caused.

Police soon arrested the driver, and are investigating the incident.

Mother and baby are said to be doing fine, but are obviously shaken-up by the ordeal.

The police have been asked to comment. (Images: Facebook)

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Milford Haven honours fishermen with annual memorial service

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MILFORD HAVEN held its annual Fishermen’s Tribute Service on Saturday (Sept 28) at The Rath, in a heartfelt event that drew members of the community to honour its maritime legacy.

The Milford Haven Town Band played, adding to the solemnity of the occasion, attended by Mayor Councillor William Elliot, who laid a wreath on behalf of the town.

This year’s service, led by Reverend Samuel Patterson, focused on commemorating those connected to the fishing industry, reflecting on their contributions to the town’s prosperity. The event underscores the challenging conditions faced by fishermen and the pivotal role the fishing industry plays in Milford Haven’s economy and culture.

As part of the ceremony, attendees paid their respects at the memorial, which bears the inscription, “A Tribute to Our Fishermen,” affirming the community’s gratitude and remembrance of their efforts.

(Photos Lloyd Jones / Fiona Galliford)

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Narberth Food Festival: A feast of flavours and fun for all ages

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NARBERTH’S annual Food Festival has returned this weekend, bringing together a delicious mix of food, music, and educational activities that highlight the best of Welsh culture and cuisine. Held in the picturesque town of Narberth, the festival promises an exciting lineup of chefs, musicians, and local artisans, showcasing the rich diversity and culinary talent of Wales.

The festivities began with an Education Day, an enlightening experience for local school children from Narberth School and St Oswald’s VA School. The day was packed with engaging workshops hosted in a large marquee, including sausage making by Andrew Rees Butchers, seaweed discoveries with Câr y Môr, cake decorating skills by Ysgol Greenhill School, essential food preparation with Corinne Cariad, and delightful chocolate making with Wickedly Welsh Chocolate Co.

This educational initiative, heavily supported by local businesses and volunteers, is designed to teach the young attendees about the origins and production of food, a foundational knowledge that the festival organisers are keen to impart to the next generation.

As the festival opens to the public, attendees are invited to a culinary journey through the Food Theatre events on Saturday. Highlights include chef demonstrations from noted chefs like Dougie Balish of The Grove and engaging taste sessions with local food innovators such as Owen Rosser from Pembrokeshire Chilli Farm.

The Music Stage offers a melodic backdrop to the delicious fare, with a lineup that spans folk, rock, and acoustic performances. Saturday’s performances will see the likes of Abbie Jebbers and the dynamic duo BoxSet, while Sunday welcomes talents like Rosey Cale and the unique sounds of Ella Guru.

The festival is not only a platform for food and music but also a spotlight on the innovative local traders. Among them is James from Still Wild, who returns to share his foraging insights and his latest creation, Oystershell Vodka, already lauded with two Great Taste stars.

For the youngsters, the festival is packed with additional fun. Entry is free for under 16s, encouraging families to enjoy the face painting, circus skills workshops, and the antics of beloved street performers. These elements ensure that the Narberth Food Festival is a weekend where learning, fun, and gastronomy delightfully intersect.

Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or just in search of a vibrant community event, Narberth Food Festival offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to all tastes and ages. With its commitment to education, local entrepreneurship, and cultural celebration, the festival continues to be a standout event in Wales’s festival calendar.

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