A FORMER Pembrokeshire councillor was found to have made racist comments in a recorded audio message, according to an investigation by the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales.

Andrew Edwards, who represented the Haverfordwest Prendergast ward on Pembrokeshire County Council, was identified in a 16-second audio clip in which a man is heard saying white men “should have a black man as a slave or black woman as a slave”. The recording also included a statement that black people were “lower class than us white people”.

Mr Edwards, a former Conservative Party member, stepped down from the council in December 2024 following the allegations. He referred himself to the ombudsman but denied making the comments, claiming the recording was a “deep fake” created using artificial intelligence to manipulate his voice.

However, Public Services Ombudsman Michelle Morris concluded that “on balance”, the voice in the recording was his and that the comments were “considered racist”. The investigation found that the audio message had been sent as a voice note via WhatsApp to his partner.

The ombudsman’s report also revealed that Mr Edwards had shared council business information with his partner through WhatsApp messages, which included disrespectful remarks about members of the public. He admitted to sending the messages, stating that he had been “venting” due to personal pressures at the time.

Ms Morris determined that his actions “could reasonably be considered as disreputable and were capable of seriously undermining public confidence in the council and the office of member”.

The case has been referred to the Adjudication Panel for Wales, which will determine whether Mr Edwards breached the local authority’s code of conduct and if further action should be taken.

THE SALVATION ARMY has called for greater cooperation between charities and agencies to combat homelessness in Wales, presenting expert evidence to Members of the Senedd.

The Local Government and Housing Committee met to hear from charities working in the sector. The Salvation Army provided testimony based on its experience supporting vulnerable people through homelessness prevention, outreach, and housing services across the country.

Emma Shaw, the Salvation Army’s Assistant Director of Strategic Operations and Development in Wales, stressed the need for better data sharing between the NHS, Criminal Justice System, local authorities, and charities. She said: “Information needs to be shared when we talk about health, the prison system, and those groups involved with hospital discharges and prison releases. We should be working closer together so that we’re not just responding to crises but looking ahead.”

She also highlighted the need for a stronger community focus to support those at risk of homelessness. “Otherwise, the pressures on families being made homeless will increase. The third sector and faith groups have stepped into the gaps for many years, but money and budgets are being stretched,” she added.

The Salvation Army also called for the Homelessness Prevention Grant to be ringfenced, stressing that prevention funding is crucial in reducing homelessness. Shaw pointed to mounting financial pressures on the sector, including rising Employer’s National Insurance contributions and the cost-of-living crisis, while acknowledging the vital role of frontline staff.

Homelessness in Wales has reached record levels, with Welsh Government figures showing 13,000 households categorised as homeless—an eight per cent increase.

MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL has announced that it will hold its next Full Council Meeting on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 7:00pm. The meeting will take place at Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets Unit, Unit A, Havens Head Business Park, SA73 3LD. Members of the public are invited to attend in person or remotely, with virtual access available upon request.

Key Issues on the agenda

The meeting’s agenda includes several important topics affecting the local community. One of the most anticipated segments is the Question and Answer Session with Members of the Public, scheduled as Agenda Item 3, allowing residents to raise concerns and seek clarification on council matters. Those wishing to submit questions in advance are encouraged to do so by contacting admin@milfordhaven-tc.gov.wales.

Additionally, the agenda will cover:

• News updates from the Mayor, Councillor W. Elliott
• The Mayor’s recent engagements and community activities
• Reports from councillors on their representation on outside bodies
• A review of Milford Haven Town Council’s Draft Grants Policy
• Discussion of the Milford Haven Town Council Risk Assessment

A report from the Public Events Sub-Committee, held on February 24, 2025, is also expected to be discussed, with recommendations and resolutions to be reviewed by the Full Council.

Public participation encouraged

The Town Council is keen to ensure public engagement and transparency in decision-making. Residents who wish to attend the meeting virtually are advised to request access via email. The council encourages public participation, particularly during the Q&A session, where councillors will directly address community concerns.

This meeting follows the previous Full Council Meeting held on March 10, 2025, where the council discussed key policies and community initiatives. Minutes from that session will be reviewed during the upcoming meeting.