News

Welsh Tory Leader accused of ‘race-baiting’ by Muslim group

Published

4 months ago

August 13, 2024

ANDREW RT DAVIES, the leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, faces accusations of engaging in “Islamophobic race-baiting” following comments made in an article for GB News. The Muslim Council of Wales has strongly condemned his remarks, calling them “ham-fisted attempts at dog-whistle racism.”

In the GB News article, Davies expressed concerns about children being “forced to eat halal school lunches” after a constituent claimed that non-halal meat was unavailable at her daughter’s school in Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan. However, the school has since clarified on social media that this claim is incorrect.

The Muslim Council of Wales responded to Davies’ article with a strongly worded statement, criticizing his comments as inflammatory and dangerous. “At a time when we need politicians to show moral leadership, Andrew RT Davies is engaging in Islamophobic race-baiting,” the Council said. “Such remarks may increase online engagement for Mr. Davies but have real consequences on our streets and in our mosques.”

The Council further emphasized the potential impact on Muslim children returning to school, many of whom already face bullying and discrimination. “Mr. Davies’ public and misleading campaign on halal meat will undoubtedly affect Muslim pupils,” they added.

Natasha Asghar, a South Wales East Senedd member and a Muslim within the Conservative group, addressed the controversy by asserting that the Conservative Party is not Islamophobic. She encouraged anyone with concerns to reach out to her or other members of the Senedd, stressing her commitment to fostering peace and community cohesion.

Andrew RT Davies’ Response

In response to the criticism, Andrew RT Davies defended his actions, stating that he had merely sought assurances from the local authority that a non-halal meat option would be available for students. “As an elected member, it is my responsibility to ask legitimate questions on behalf of my constituents,” Davies said. He dismissed attempts to link his concerns with recent public disorder as “irresponsible.”

Davies also highlighted his ongoing efforts to engage with various religious and community groups, including Sikh constituents who have specific dietary restrictions related to ritually slaughtered meat.

Leadership Stability Questioned

Amid the growing controversy, some within the Conservative Senedd group have privately expressed concerns about Davies’ leadership. One member mentioned that his recent social media posts are becoming increasingly “difficult to defend” and warned that his position could become “untenable” if this continues, potentially leading to a leadership challenge.

This follows a recent post by Davies questioning whether the Senedd should be abolished, which sparked disagreement among several senior party members. His predecessor, Paul Davies, and former group leader Lord Nick Bourne both publicly opposed the notion, stating that it has never been Conservative Party policy to abolish the Senedd.

Despite the internal unrest, it is not believed that a leadership challenge is imminent, as there is currently no clear candidate to replace Davies.

Community

Tractor run lights up Pembrokeshire and raises funds for charity

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

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.