News

Miller’s motion to be debated

Published

11 years ago

February 20, 2014

COUNCIL IN CRISIS

ON THE AGENDA at Friday’s meeting is a motion filed by Labour Group leader, Paul Miller calling for the Full Council to act as an investigatory panel into all allegations arising from the meeting of the Senior Staff Committee in Bryn Parry Jones’ office on September 28, 2011. The motion also calls for the immediate withdrawal of the pension tax avoidance scheme, described by the WAO as a “pay supplement” and the suspension of Bryn Parry Jones while the investigation takes place.

Councillor Miller has pointed out that at the same time as the Council was slashing staff numbers, cutting hours and freezing the pay of lowest paid workers in the name of balancing its books it gave the Head of Paid Services, Bryn Parry Jones, an effective pay rise of 5% on top of his already hefty pay packet.

Councillor Paul Miller told The Pembrokeshire Herald: “I’ve been clear from the start – Based on all the information I have seen to date, these pensions arrangements / pay supplements require a full and independent investigation. I’m pleased that, following meetings with the Crown Prosecution Service, the authorities have now decided that there will be a formal criminal investigation led by Gloucester Police.

“Clearly I will listen carefully to the debate tomorrow and will be interested to hear the case put forward by Mr Timothy Kerr QC. That said however, nothing I have seen to date has done anything to change my view; that the only way to move forward here is by commissioning a truly independent investigation and suspending Mr Parry-Jones while that investigation is undertaken.

“The people of Pembrokeshire are right to expect the highest standards of decision making and integrity from their elected members and chief officers. It would appear that there may have been instances where the authority has fallen short of that mark. If that is the case, council needs to act decisively and without delay. I and the whole Labour Group intend to do whatever is necessary to ensure that public faith is restored in our authority”

Crime

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

Published

17 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.

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