News

Adams: ‘We can move on from Bryn controversy’

Published

11 years ago

November 28, 2014

Tom Sinclair

Jamie Adams:
There is life
after Bryn

THE PEMBROKESHIRE HERALD met with Independent Group leader Jamie Adams on Thursday (Oct 30). In an extensive interview with Herald Assistant Editor Jon Coles, the council Leader spoke about the challenges and opportunities facing Pembrokeshire and its council. The recurrent theme of the interview was the limit on what could be done in a time of long term uncertainty over the council’s future and the constraints placed on the council’s budget. Beginning with how he proposed to move on from the events of October 16, when following an impassioned debate councillors approved a six-figure settlement to be paid to their Chief Executive Bryn Parry-Jones, Councillor Adams said: “There has been a very different feel at County Hall the last few weeks. There has been a storm outside the Council the last few weeks, but there is a sense in itself that the Council is healing from within.

I have had more constructive and positive conversations with members of the opposition. In light of that, I am confident that the council can move on from the controversy involving the Chief Executive.” Looking at the question of the vacancy within his own Cabinet, Jamie Adams told us: “I made it clear when I appointed Alison Lee to Cabinet that I saw it as an opportunity to engage with the wider membership. I have two or three credible options to fill the vacant Cabinet post from both within and outside the Independent group.

I am quite relaxed about where that person comes from but I am determined to get the best person for the role.” The Herald then raised the sore point of the council’s response to the South Wales and West Wales Shoreline Management Plans and the future of Pembrokeshire’s coastal communities: “We are mindful that there are ongoing budget requirements within the council supported by the Welsh Government, but I am afraid funding is not following through. We do not have the capacity to deliver some of the solutions to deliver some of the solutions to protect those communities in peril from rising tides.

Acknowledging the challenge to the main link between Haverfordwest and Saint Davids, deemed unsustainable in even the short term, Cllr Adams said: “The A487 is going to be quite a challenge. We intended to use some of the coastline mitigation funds the council received after last winter’s storms towards resolving the infrastructure issue. But it took a long time to get it through the Welsh Government that this was an urgent requirement. We are going to need a wider consultation on the transport links to the Saint Davids Peninsula, as the current alternative route is proving too difficult for HGV’s and buses.

I am confident the Trunk Road Agency can help us. We have variable message signs on the A40 at Redstone Cross and if we can direct some of the HGV traffic from that point via Letterston then it might help us manage that process. But it is not a great solution, as once we put HGV’s on that road we encounter difficulties.” The problem with local government reorganization was also discussed, The Herald’s question was answered with one from Jamie Adams: “Will services cost less or will they improve?

If we cannot answer either one or both of thus positively, I do not see how we can justify change. I think that it is only the Labour Government in Cardiff Bay that supports Council mergers, the other parties reject it and I am aware of Labour MP’s who are sceptical.” On defending Pembrokeshire, Jamie Adams confirmed that his preferred outcome was no change to Pembrokeshire’s autonomy: “Pembrokeshire is distinct. The brand is strong and synonymous with being a brand of quality. You cannot day the same of other counties.

Pembrokeshire has particular qualities and a defined status that other counties do not.” Jamie Adams revealed that the ongoing public consultations about future services had given members of the Cabinet an insight into the issues that concerned the Pembrokeshire public: “I have to confess that I took part in one on Thursday (Oct 16) (the evening of the vote on Bryn Parry-Jones’ settlement) which was particularly challenging. It has been interesting that the matters which councillors think are important to the public are not always those that people find important.

There are occasions that there have been more robust exchanges between two members of the public with opposing views than there have been between my Cabinet colleagues and the same members of the public. “By and large what has come across clearly are concerns about senior officers’ pay and councillors’ remuneration. There is a commitment to look at the whole cost of senior management. “In terms of where we go, the opportunities to trim around the edges is no longer there, we are going to have to look more dispassionately at the services we provide and what communities can provide” The full interview can be seen online at pembrokeshireherald.com

Crime

Emergency bags rolled out to support domestic abuse victims across Dyfed-Powys

Published

31 minutes ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Thirty packs provide immediate help for families fleeing dangerous situations

A NEW initiative aimed at supporting victims of domestic abuse has seen thirty emergency bags distributed for use across the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

The bags, which contain essential items including toiletries, non-perishable snacks and emergency supplies, are designed to offer immediate practical support to individuals and families forced to flee abusive situations, often with little or nothing.

The scheme forms part of the Police and Crime Commissioner’s wider commitment to improving outcomes for victims and is being delivered in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police and Dal i Godi, the commissioned Independent Domestic Violence Adviser (IDVA) service.

Dal i Godi provides specialist support to victims at high risk of serious harm, including safety planning and advocacy through the criminal justice process.

Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said the initiative was already proving its value.

“This is an incredible initiative that I’m proud to support,” he said. “It provides meaningful help to those experiencing trauma and reflects our ongoing work to put victims first.

“Within just a few days of the bags being distributed to the Dal i Godi service, one was given to a victim fleeing a domestic abuse situation, along with a children’s pack to support their young family. That shows just how essential this support can be and how quickly it can make a difference.”

Detective Chief Inspector Llyr Williams, from the Dyfed-Powys Police Vulnerability Hub, said the emergency bags could provide a vital lifeline at critical moments.

“These emergency bags offer support at some of the most difficult moments in a person’s life,” he said.

“The contents provide immediate comfort, dignity and practical help for those leaving their homes in crisis. While simple, they represent an important first step towards safety and recovery.

“We are proud to be working with partners across the Dyfed-Powys area to ensure this support reaches people when they need it most.”

Anyone experiencing domestic abuse, or concerned about someone else, is encouraged to seek help. In an emergency, call 999.

Domestic abuse can also be reported online via Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support services available include Victim Support Dyfed-Powys, which offers free and confidential help to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported, and Dal i Godi, which provides specialist IDVA support for high-risk victims.

The Live Fear Free Helpline offers 24-hour support for those experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence across Wales.

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse, please consider reporting it. If you are in danger or need support right away, please call 999.

You can report domestic abuse through the online crime reporting service here: Report domestic abuse | Dyfed-Powys Police.

Support is also available via the below support services:

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Free, independent support for anyone affected by crime in the Dyfed-Powys area, whether or not it has been reported to the police.

0300 123 2996

Victim Support Dyfed-Powys

Dal i Godi (IDVA Service)

Specialist support for victims of domestic abuse at high risk, offering safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy with agencies such as police and courts.

01267 221194

Dal i Godi

Live Fear Free Helpline

24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic abuse or sexual violence.

0808 80 10 800 | Text 07860 077333

[email protected]

News

Welsh-language school praised for ‘happy, proud and friendly community’

Published

1 hour ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Estyn highlights strong leadership, positive attitudes and a clear curriculum vision at Ysgol Bro Preseli

A WELSH-medium all-age school in Crymych has been praised by inspectors for fostering a “happy, proud and friendly community,” according to a recent Estyn report.

Inspectors said pupils at Ysgol Bro Preseli show pride in their local area, thrive both academically and socially, and are well prepared for the next stages of their learning.

The school currently has 932 pupils on roll, including 118 in the sixth form, and has operated as an all-age school since 2022.

Estyn found that most pupils demonstrate extremely positive attitudes to learning, treat staff with respect, and listen carefully to the contributions of their peers.

The report also notes that, in almost all cases, teachers show strong subject knowledge. Inspectors highlighted the close and supportive relationships staff build with pupils, alongside the creation of a safe learning environment where pupils are not afraid to make mistakes.

It states: “As a result of a clear strategic direction and detailed planning, teachers provide beneficial practical activities that allow pupils to develop purposeful oracy, reading and writing skills in language sessions and across the other areas of learning and experience.”

Inspectors also praised the school’s clear curriculum vision, rooted in its motto Gwreiddiau a Gorwelion (Roots and Horizons).

“Leaders and teachers provide a coherent curriculum and learning experiences that bridge the primary and secondary sectors effectively,” the report said. “Staff plan stimulating activities and experiences for pupils to learn and deepen their understanding within the areas of learning and experience. This contributes positively to the sense of belonging that permeates the whole curriculum of Ysgol Bro Preseli.”

Headteacher Rhonwen Morris said the report was a reflection of the collective effort across the school community.

“As a successful all-age Welsh-medium school, we are delighted that the report recognises our commitment to excellence and the unique identity that makes Ysgol Bro Preseli so special,” she said.

“Since becoming an all-age school in 2022, our cohesive leadership team and governing body have focused on building a strong foundation based on our values of Welsh ethos, kindness, community and responsibility.

“The report highlights the excellent strategic work of staff at all levels, which is a testament to the shared dedication and vision that drives our school forward.

“It is gratifying that the report reflects what we continuously aim to achieve day in and day out. This achievement belongs to our entire community — staff, pupils, parents and governors — and together we will continue to build on this success and provide the very best education for every pupil.”

Charity

Welsh opticians raise £1,600 for people experiencing homelessness

Published

1 hour ago

December 19, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SPECSAVERS Pembroke Dock has helped raise £1,600 to support people experiencing homelessness this winter, with all funds going to The Wallich’s winter appeal.

Thirteen stores from North, South and West Wales donated £1 for every customer feedback form completed during November to help The Wallich, Wales’ largest homelessness and rough sleeping charity, continue its vital work.

Supporting more than 8,000 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness across the nation each year, The Wallich runs around 100 diverse projects across 20 local authorities to provide hope, support and solutions to end homelessness.

Funds raised by Specsavers will go directly to the Wallich’s Flexible Assistance Fund, which provides small but vital emergency grants. The grants support people at crucial turning points, helping cover essential costs such as phone credit, rent or food shops.

This initiative is a continuation of Specsavers’ wider homelessness programme, which sees over a hundred Specsavers stores and Home Visits services hold out-of-hours or pop-up clinics and invite people affected by forms of homelessness to use their services for free.

Specsavers’ North Wales regional relationship manager, Martin Lawrence, who helped organise the fundraiser, says: ‘We’re really proud to be supporting The Wallich’s winter appeal at a time when support is needed most.

‘Homelessness affects people in every community and as locally owned and run businesses, Specsavers stores are committed to raising awareness of the issue and supporting people through their toughest moments.

‘We’re excited to build on the success of this fundraiser and strengthen our partnership with The Wallich in the new year.’

Louisa Turner, head of fundraising at The Wallich, adds: ‘Winter can be an incredibly difficult time for people experiencing homelessness and this support from Specsavers will make a real difference.

‘The funds raised will help provide emergency grants at critical moments – whether that’s putting food on the table, helping someone stay connected with their loved ones or preventing someone from losing a safe place to live.

‘This kind of support creates vital turning points and helps people move towards a safer, more secure future.’

Specsavers works year-round with homelessness charities including Crisis, Vision Care and The Big Issue, to improve access to healthcare and advocate for policy change – ensuring people experiencing homelessness can receive free eye tests, glasses and hearing checks.

To find out more about Specsavers or to book an appointment at your local store, visit: https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores.