News

‘Appropriate’ action taken against AM

Published

11 years ago

February 6, 2014

KIRSTY Williams has said the Welsh Lib Dems took appropriate action after allegations about one of their AMs.

The Welsh Lib Dem leader was speaking at a Cardiff Bay news briefing this week. It emerged at the weekend that Mid and West Wales AM William Powell was given a formal written warning about his behaviour towards a young activist.

The woman alleged that he gave her and two other women the strong alcoholic drink Absinthe, touched her leg and put his hands round their waists in 2011 .

Ms Williams said she was assured that the victim had been told by a local party chairman that Mr Powell had been warned and had apologised.

She told journalists: “There has been a formal process. There is a balancing act to be had because, at the same time as wanting to be open and transparent, there are issues around confidentiality and women coming forward”

She added: “He has been issued with a written warning and he has apologised for his behaviour. As far as we are concerned that matter has now been dealt with.”

Ms Williams said the party’s disciplinary procedure had to “strike a balance” between protecting confidentiality and being transparent. She said she wanted a culture where complainants “can come forward in a confidential manner”.

“We felt that it was appropriate to take forward the (disciplinary) process, as we have outlined in the statement (released by the party on Saturday) and to issue that warning. There is a balancing act to be had because, at the same time as wanting to be open and transparent, there are issues around confidentiality and women coming forward and not wanting to have their concerns splashed all over the media.”

Mr Powell made an unreserved apology to a female activist, now 21, after the incident and he was given a formal written warning last year. A party statement on Saturday said Mr Powell was told that any future misdemeanour could result in more serious sanctions being imposed.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

20 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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.