News

Disgraced politicians could face ejection from Senedd

Published

3 months ago

August 29, 2024

THE Welsh public may soon have the power to oust misbehaving politicians from the Senedd, according to new proposals under consideration. This comes in the wake of recent controversies that have exposed a gap in the Senedd’s ability to hold its members accountable for breaches of conduct, unlike the recall system in place for MPs at Westminster.

Currently, Senedd members do not face automatic removal if they are found guilty of misconduct, a situation highlighted earlier this year when a member was suspended for six weeks. In a similar situation in Westminster, the suspension would have triggered a recall petition, potentially leading to a by-election.

The Senedd’s Standards of Conduct Committee is now exploring whether a recall system could be introduced when the Senedd expands from 60 to 96 members in the 2026 elections. However, unlike Westminster MPs who must fight by-elections if recalled, the new Senedd voting system set for 2026 will not allow for such by-elections.

Since 2016, Westminster MPs suspended for ten days or more are subject to a recall petition in their constituency. If 10% of local voters sign the petition, a by-election is triggered, offering the MP a chance to defend their seat. MPs can also face recall if sentenced to less than 12 months in prison. In contrast, a sentence of 12 months or more results in automatic disqualification, a rule that also applies in the Senedd.

The recall debate gained momentum earlier this year when Plaid Cymru MP Ben Lake suggested that his former party colleague in the Senedd, Rhys ab Owen, should have faced a by-election after a 42-day suspension for inappropriate behaviour. Ab Owen, who later apologised and was expelled from Plaid Cymru, continues to represent South Wales Central in the Senedd.

The recall system has garnered cross-party support within the Senedd, yet it was omitted from the Welsh Government’s recent legislation to expand the institution. The primary challenge lies in the new proportional electoral system, which elects members from party lists. By-elections are incompatible with this system, leading the committee to consider alternatives that would see a recalled member replaced by the next candidate on the party list, maintaining the proportionality of the original election results.

Two main options are being considered: one where the public can petition for a member’s removal, and another where the public can choose to support the member, effectively turning the petition into a vote of confidence. However, this petition approach has raised concerns. Cathy Owens, a director at public affairs agency Deryn, highlighted the potential for such processes to exacerbate situations involving sensitive issues like sexual harassment, where public involvement could lead to unfair outcomes without full access to evidence.

The committee is also seeking input on the petition threshold and is exploring additional measures, such as the potential disqualification of members found guilty of lying, in line with the government’s commitment to enforce higher standards of conduct.

The committee’s consultation is open until 27 September, inviting comments from the public and interested stakeholders on these significant proposals that could reshape the accountability mechanisms within the Senedd.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

7 hours 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

7 hours 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.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!