News

Bryn could return on Monday, following pay-off shambles

Published

9 years ago

October 31, 2014

In Chaos: County Hall

LAURENCE HARDING, the County Council’s Monitoring Officer, has become embroiled in the row between the Wales Audit Office (WAO) and the Council regarding the £330K settlement agreement with controversial Chief Executive Bryn Parry-Jones.

In a letter sent to all councillors, Mr Harding has claimed that the appointed auditor, Anthony Barnett, has reneged on an agreement to withdraw the Notice served on the Council advising them that WAO regards the terms of the bonanza pay-out to be unlawful.

Mr Harding has told Councillors: “Yesterday, I became involved in the discussions, having been served with a copy of the Notice. I discussed the resolution reached the previous afternoon with Mr Barrett when he also informed me that he would be publishing the Advisory Notice and issuing a press statement. He confirmed that the withdrawal of the notice would be issued on Thursday (30 October). I subsequently formally confirmed the action that the Council would take, which complied with the Advisory Notice, and requested that he withdraw the Notice as he had previously stated. He then advised that, contrary to our previous understanding, he would not now be withdrawing the Notice.”

Shambles over pay-off: Bryn-Parry Jones

In the letter Mr Harding also claims that while the WAO had been informed of the proposed financial settlement before the Council meeting which approved the deal on October 16, Mr Barrett was not personally involved in those discussions until after the meeting took place.

He then goes on to state that, upon becoming involved in the process: “Mr Barrett identified concerns relating to pension elements that had been included in the calculation of the severance payment… The Council’s external legal advisors were of the opinion that Mr Barrett’s concerns were unfounded.”

While Mr Harding states that “negotiations are on-going with the Chief executive (with the WAO being kept informed)”, it appears as though the Council is potentially facing another battle with the auditors over the decision in 2011 to allow Bryn Parry-Jones avoid future tax liabilities on his £1.5m+ publicly-funded pension pot.

Advising Councillors on the way forward, Mr Harding appears to contemplate the Council becoming involved in a court case with the WAO, writing: “If the Council determines to proceed to implement its original decision in full, Mr Barrett has the opportunity to institute Judicial Review proceeding for a court to rule on whether the decision does relate to an unlawful decision.”

The WAO’s stance means that it is possible that Chief Executive Bryn Parry-Jones could return to work at County Hall on Monday.

Yesterday evening, The Herald was informed that in correspondence with Labour Group leader Paul Miller, Laurence Harding stated: “As a consequence of the Advisory Notice and the outcome of discussions with the WAO, an Extraordinary Meeting of Council is being arranged – probably on a day next week.”

This morning, however, a Council spokesperson is reported to have denied such a meeting is being scheduled.

A spokesperson for the WAO said: “The Appointed Auditor believes any new settlement ought to go before the council and has advised the council this.”

Community

Welsh National Scooter Rally gears up for a revival in Tenby

Published

9 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCOOTER enthusiasts from across the country are set to descend on Tenby for the eagerly anticipated return of the Welsh National Scooter Rally this May Bank Holiday weekend. This marks the event’s grand return to the popular seaside destination for the first time since 2022, promising a vibrant celebration of scooter culture.

Organised by the Scooter Collective South Wales, the rally is expected to draw hundreds to Pembrokeshire’s “jewel in the crown.” Attendees can look forward to a colourful array of scooters lining the historic Tenby High Street, adding a splash of retro charm to the town’s picturesque scenery.

The weekend’s schedule is packed with activities, starting with a scenic ‘ride-out’ from Tenby United RFC on Heywood Lane on Saturday afternoon. This event promises to be a visual spectacle, with a parade of beautifully maintained and creatively decorated scooters cruising through the local area.

Music lovers have plenty to get excited about as well. The Specials Limited, a renowned two-tone tribute band, will be performing at the De Valence Pavilion on Friday night, supported by DJ Steve Foster. Concurrently, the Ex-Servicemen’s Club and Tenby Rugby Club will host rooms dedicated to Northern Soul and Reggae soul, respectively, ensuring that there’s something to suit all musical tastes.

Saturday’s festivities will also feature a customs show and traders fair at the Rugby Ground. This event provides a perfect opportunity for enthusiasts to showcase their scooters and exchange tips and accessories with fellow aficionados.

As the rally winds down, the weekend will conclude with a grand end-of-rally party at the Rugby Club, where participants can celebrate their shared passion for scooters and music, reflecting on a weekend full of fun and camaraderie.

For those planning to attend, the Welsh National Scooter Rally not only offers a chance to revel in scooter culture but also to explore the enchanting town of Tenby.

With its rich history and stunning coastal views, Tenby provides the perfect backdrop for an event that celebrates classic style and community spirit.

Community

Barley Saturday makes a grand return to Cardigan

Published

9 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON SATURDAY (Apr 27), the historic town of Cardigan in West Wales is abuzz with excitement as it hosts its largest annual event, Barley Saturday. This significant day marks not just a local festival but a vital link to the agricultural roots of the region, attracting spectators from across the country to witness a spectacular parade of livestock and vintage vehicles.

At 2 PM, the main streets of Cardigan transformed into a vibrant parade route featuring the best of rural life—from the supreme stallion, admired by an enthusiastic crowd, to the meticulously prepared parade participants. This parade not only showcases the beauty and strength of these animals but also the care and tradition that continue to thrive in Cardigan.

The event kicked off early with an impressive lineup of agricultural workhorses displayed on the show field. The anticipation built up throughout the day as crowds gathered, lining the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the gleaming vintage vehicles and the majestic livestock. According to Tudor Harries, the show secretary, “Barley Saturday helps restore the lost link between our community and its agricultural heritage.”

With such a large turnout, local authorities implemented strategic road closures and diversions to manage the flow of traffic effectively. Between 1:30 PM and 4 PM, several main roads were closed, ensuring the parade route remains clear and safe for both participants and spectators. Traffic around the town was slow-moving, indicating the high volume of attendees this year.

Beyond the festivities, Barley Saturday is a day of community and giving. Volunteers play a crucial role in marshaling the event, and bucket collections are conducted throughout the day, with all proceeds going to local charities. This spirit of community service is a testament to the values that underpin Barley Saturday.

Barley Saturday is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Cardigan’s heritage and a vital part of its cultural calendar. It offers a day filled with joy, community spirit, and a deep appreciation for the rural traditions that are so often overlooked in modern times. As the town enjoys today’s festivities, it also renews its connection to the past, ensuring that these traditions will not be forgotten.

Charity

Peter’s walk for veterans suffering from mental health issues

Published

10 hours ago

April 27, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ON Saturday, March 30, Peter Kraus undertook a 15.6-mile walk from Front Street in Pembroke Dock to Carew Castle to support veterans struggling with mental health issues and PTSD.

Originally believing the route to be 10 miles, Kraus faced a greater challenge than anticipated. He organized the walk through the Combat Stress Site, aiming to raise £1000. “They look after us and keep us safe,” Kraus told The Herald, expressing his effort as a gesture of gratitude towards the veterans.