News

Council commits to becoming more diverse

Published

3 years ago

December 9, 2021

James Hemingray

PEMBROKESHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL has committed to becoming a more diverse council.

Welsh councils are being encouraged to become more diverse by the Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA).

They state that this had been a problem across the country for a number of years and the Council has been asked to consider what it could do to reduce barriers to people who may want to become a councillor.

It is hoped that this will encourage future candidates from diverse backgrounds to come forward for election.

The matter was discussed by the Council earlier in the year when they asked for the Democratic Services Committee to look at the matter further and to clarify a point in relation to consultation with people with protected characteristics.

Cllr Beynon said he had been left ‘disappointed’ by the debate in July, adding that they were the only council in Wales not to vote for something.

Cllr Jacob disagreed, stating they had asked for more work to be done, and suggested that he could think of many other things, like the conduct of members, which would reflect badly on the council.

Also during the debate, Cllr Reg Owens said: “Before Pembrokeshire County Council welcomes more people into its ranks, we should ensure that all working areas are fully accessible. It is no good encouraging people into our ranks if the facilities and accommodation isn’t suitable.”

Cllr Phil Baker said he wholeheartedly supported the paper, adding he was fully in support of anything they could do to promote diversity.

There were 49 votes in favour of the recommendation while only Cllr Elwyn Morse abstained from voting.

Crime

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

Published

9 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

22 hours 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

23 hours 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!