News
One of Pembrokeshire’s ferry ports could close because of reduced freight traffic
THE HEAD of Rosslare Europort has claimed that one of Pembrokeshire’s Irish Sea ports could close because of reduced trade traffic between Ireland and the UK.
The volume of freight traffic between Wales’ three Irish Sea ports has significantly fallen since the New Year.
While the Prime Minister has dismissed the issue as one of Brexit’s ‘teething problems, Glenn Carr, the General Manager at Rosslare Europort, said: “A lot of the major retailers in Ireland are bringing their products for their shelves directly in from mainland Europe now, We’re seeing big customers, the likes of Amazon, now bringing in a lot of freight on a daily basis.”
Rosslare Europort has aggressively targeted the increase of direct sailings between the Irish port and mainland Europe.
Most trade between Ireland and the EU takes place via the UK ‘land-bridge’. However, although that remains the case, trade volumes to mainland Europe from Rosslare has increased over 450% since the end of the EU transition period.
Mr Carr claims that only one port in Pembrokeshire is needed to meet the demand for freight traffic and that increased sailings to and from that single port would make more commercial sense for Irish businesses and hauliers.
The changes needed, he claims, must be made on the Welsh side of the Irish Sea.
While customs delays in the UK have been blamed for a fall in traffic, delays also affect trade entering and leaving Ireland due to IT and customs problems at Irish ports.
January is a quieter time for ferry services but commercial freight sustains vital trading connections all year round.
Stena, which operates Fishguard, reports a sharp decline in Irish Sea traffic in the first fortnight of January when traffic fell by 78% year-on-year. Since then, freight numbers have recovered but remain at little more than 50% of normal levels.
Daily ferry services have operated between Fishguard and Rosslare for the last 115 years. Pembrokeshire’s ports support a significant number of jobs, not only at the ports but also indirectly in the wider local economy. The routes are operated by separate companies and the ports of Pembroke Dock and Fishguard are under separate ownership.
Speaking on ITV Wales’ The Sharp End on February 2, Stephen Crabb MP said: “The ports of Holyhead, Fishguard and Pembroke Dock are key assets for the Welsh economy and it is essential they remain competitive.
“I hope that some of the initial problems we have seen over the last few weeks will get ironed out as companies get used to the new processes. But there is more work to be done to ensure the long term health of our ports.”
News
Tigers second division Cup Champions
In a thrilling Pembrokeshire Division Two Cup final under the floodlights of Bridge Meadow Stadium, fans witnessed an epic battle between Monkton Swifts reserves and Johnston. Despite Monkton Swifts reserves being touted as favorites, Johnston proved their mettle from the outset.
The game kicked off with a burst of energy as Johnston’s center half, Craig Bendall, seized an early opportunity to put his team ahead just ten minutes into the match. However, Monkton Swifts’ prolific Scotsman, Davis, swiftly responded with an equalizer, showcasing the resilience of the favourites.
The momentum shifted again when the dynamic duo of Alfie and Scott Crawford of Johnston orchestrated a beautifully executed goal, putting Johnston back in the lead at 2-1.
As the game progressed, Monkton Swifts brought in reinforcements, including Ben Steele, to regain control. Their efforts paid off when Jordan Kilby leveled the score at 2-2 with just under 20 minutes remaining.
But the Crawfords had other plans. Combining once more, Scott provided the assist for Alfie, who coolly finished to put Johnston ahead once again.
With time running out, Monkton Swifts launched a relentless onslaught in search of an equalizer. However, Johnston’s defense held firm, defying the odds to clinch the Division Two Cup title in a memorable victory.
The match showcased the passion and determination of both teams, with Johnston emerging as deserving champions in a fiercely contested final at Bridge Meadow Stadium.
Crime
Police investigating attempted burglary at Haverfordwest shop
POLICE in Pembrokeshire are investigating an attempted burglary at No.37 Food and Wine shop on High Street, Haverfordwest, at about 3am on Wednesday, April 3.
A window was smashed and the door handle broken.
Police said: “If you have any information that could help enquiries, please get in touch with PC 195 Tayler, either by: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.
“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555111, or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.”
News
Don’t forget to vote on Thursday, May 2
THURSDAY, May 2 is your chance to vote for the Dyfed-Powys Police and Crime Commissioner.
Don’t forget to use your vote and head to your local polling station between 7am and 10pm.
They are elected by the public to hold Chief Constables and the police force to account on their behalf.
A Police and Crime Commissioner’s job is to set the police budget and make sure it is spent effectively, appoint the local police forces Chief Constables, set police and crime plans in collaboration with residents and work closely with the local council and other organisations on these plans.
This is the first election in Wales where you will need photographic ID to vote.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport or drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Or you may have applied for a Voter Authority Certificate which is also accepted.
If you plan on taking your Postal Vote to a polling station or County Hall main reception remember to fill in a vote return form. Without the completed form those postal vote(s) will be rejected.
You can only hand in your own postal vote, and postal votes for up to five other people.
You can find out more about the Police and Crime Commissioner Elections online (opens in new window).
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