News

Plaid Cymru MP Ben Lake urges mediation for 1950s women’s pension campaign

Published

4 months ago

August 5, 2024

MEMBERS of the 1950s Women of Wales group met with their new MP, Ben Lake of Plaid Cymru, on Friday at the Town Hall in Fishguard to discuss their ongoing struggle for state pension justice. The meeting took place in front of the Jemima Nicolas plaque, adding a historic resonance to their campaign for equality.

The boundary changes have now placed Ben Lake as their representative, a change welcomed by the group due to his longstanding support for their cause. Lake has been vocal about the state pension scandal, advocating for the affected women in the House of Commons and across political lines.

A significant point of discussion was the Statement of Opinion tabled by Delyth Jewell, Plaid Cymru Senedd Member, on 19th July. The statement, made before the Senedd’s summer recess and the appointment of new First Minister Eluned Morgan, called for:

Financial redress for 1950s-born women adversely affected by changes in the state pension age.
Mediation between all 1950s women’s groups and the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions.
Consideration of posthumous payments for women who have passed away before the issue was resolved.

The statement also highlighted the complexities arising from maladministration and noted that the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman’s investigation did not account for direct discrimination, effectively dismissing a decade of maladministration.

Following the productive meeting, Ben Lake agreed to write to the new DWP Minister, Liz Kendall, inviting her to mediate with leaders of all 1950s Women groups across the UK. He assured that the 1950s Women of Wales, the largest group in Wales, would be included in any future discussions with Westminster.

The group is also scheduled to meet with new Labour MP Henry Tufnell in the near future to further their cause.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

11 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.