Local Government

Pension fund divestment debate set for March 5

Published

5 months ago

February 4, 2026

Gaza-linked petition to be discussed by councillors with no officer report planned

A PETITION calling for Pembrokeshire’s public sector pension fund to divest from companies linked to Israel will be debated by councillors next month.

The proposal has been scheduled for discussion at a meeting of Pembrokeshire County Council’s Full Council on Wednesday (Mar 5).

More than 500 people signed the e-petition, triggering a formal debate under the council’s petitions scheme.

Campaigners are asking the authority to press the Dyfed Pension Fund to withdraw investments from firms alleged to be “complicit with Israel’s genocide of Gaza”, arguing that public money should not be invested in businesses connected to conflict or alleged human rights abuses.

However, critics say foreign policy matters fall outside local government’s remit and warn that divestment could reduce investment flexibility or affect long-term returns for pension holders.

Sharon Ross, a freelance writer who contacted The Herald ahead of the debate, said councils should prioritise local services.

She said: “Local issues where councillors can make a real difference – roads, schools and healthcare – risk being pushed aside for international politics.

“Excluding an entire country from investment portfolios could reduce diversification and potentially lower returns without achieving meaningful change overseas.”

Council pension schemes operate under fiduciary duties requiring investments to act in the best financial interests of members.

The council has confirmed the item will go directly to Full Council for debate and that no officer report will accompany the discussion.

Agendas are expected to be published on the council’s website in the week before the meeting.

Local Government

Armed Forces flag flies over County Hall

Published

5 hours ago

June 23, 2026

Tom Sinclair

THE ARMED FORCES flag is flying proudly at County Hall this week ahead of Armed Forces Day on Saturday, June 27.

Leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, Cllr Tessa Hodgson, and the Council’s Armed Forces Champion, Cllr Simon Hancock were among those who marked the flag raising on Monday morning (June 22).

Also present were the Chairman of Council, Cllr Delme Harries, the Chief Executive, Will Bramble and the Regional Armed Forces Covenant Liaison Officer, Hayley Edwards.

Cllr Hancock said: “It is always a very proud moment to see the Armed Forces Flag flying over County Hall.

“Armed Forces Day is a chance to show our deep appreciation for the men and women who serve, as well as the families and communities who support them.

“Our county has a rich history of connection with the Armed Forces, and we are proud to uphold and strengthen that bond.

“As a Council we are committed to ensuring that members of the Armed Forces community in Pembrokeshire receive the recognition and support they truly deserve and we are proud to be a Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award holder.”

Local Government

Mayor to hold drop-in session for Haverfordwest residents

Published

2 days ago

June 22, 2026

Tom Sinclair

HAVERFORDWEST residents will have the chance to raise ideas, concerns and local issues directly with the town’s mayor this week.

Cllr Randell Izaiah Thomas-Turner will hold a Talk to Your Mayor session on Thursday, from 12:00pm until 2:00pm.

The initiative is aimed at giving residents an opportunity to speak directly with the mayor about matters affecting the town and wider community.

Cllr Thomas-Turner said communication and engagement were “vital”, adding that the session was about listening to local people, working together, and ensuring every voice had the opportunity to be heard.

Anyone wishing to book an appointment is asked to contact the Haverfordwest Town Council town clerk.

The mayor said: “Together, we can continue building a stronger and more connected community. Together we can make Haverfordwest the best in the west.”

Local Government

Milford Haven civic service marks start of mayoral year

Published

3 days ago

June 21, 2026

Tom Sinclair

Mayor’s charities named as civic leaders gather at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church

THE CIVIC SERVICE of the Mayor of Milford Haven, Cllr Mark Woodward, took place at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church on Saturday (June 20).

The service marked Cllr Woodward’s election as Mayor and First Citizen of Milford Haven.

It was conducted by Rev Dr Adrian Furse and Canon John Cecil, with music from church organist Richard Stephens, Gelliswick Community Choir and Milford Haven Town Band.

Guides and Brownies, Milford Haven Sea Cadets and Royal Marines Cadets were also among those taking part, with councillors Colin Sharp and Yvonne Southwell acting as ushers.

Refreshments followed at Milford Haven Bowling Club.

Local MS Paul Davies was among those attending the service and wished the new mayor all the best for his term in office.

Cllr Woodward’s chosen charities for the year are Patch Charity and Greenacres Rescue.

Photo caption:

Civic guests attended the Mayor of Milford Haven’s service at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church on Saturday (Pic: Supplied)