As 2024 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to wish everyone in Pembrokeshire a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. December has been a particularly busy month, filled with festive events, community meetings, and important work across the constituency.
Meeting with Local Healthcare Providers
Back in the constituency, I met with GPs from South Pembrokeshire at Narberth Surgery to hear directly about the pressures they are facing. From staffing shortages to increasing patient demand, it’s clear that our healthcare system is under strain, and I am committed to pressing for support from the health board so that our GPs have what they need to deliver excellent care. I also met with local dentists to understand the ongoing difficulties in accessing NHS dental care. I know from so many constituents how hard it can be to register for an NHS dentist and book GP appointments, which has inspired my New Year’s Resolution: In 2025 I am going to ramp up my campaign to highlight the managerial incompetence of the Hywel Dda health board. Every day I receive harrowing examples of the bungling deficiencies in healthcare provision, from procurement to healthcare access. It’s time for change – the people of Pembrokeshire deserve more.
Tenby’s Santa Run
I had the pleasure of kicking off the festive season by taking part in Tenby’s Santa Run – a fantastic event full of Christmas cheer and community spirit. It was wonderful to see so many local families, schools, and groups turning out in Santa hats and festive costumes to raise money for local charities. The energy was infectious, and events like this remind us of the strong community spirit that makes Pembrokeshire such a special place.
Bell Ringing at St David’s Cathedral
I also had the unique experience of bell ringing at St David’s Cathedral. I was welcomed warmly by the dedicated and skillful bell ringers, who shared their knowledge of the history and art of bell ringing. The sound of the bells echoing through the city was a poignant reminder of the traditions that tie us together, especially at this time of year. It was humbling to take part in something that has been a fixture in our communities for centuries, and I am looking forward to working with the Pembroke Bell Restoration group in Pembroke so the bells can ring across our county in 2025.
Work in Parliament and the EFRA Committee
Work in Parliament continued at pace this month. I joined the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Select Committee for an away day to Animal and Plant Health Agency HQw here we discussed some of the key challenges and opportunities facing rural areas, including agricultural funding post-Brexit, the sustainability of farming practices, and the need for long-term environmental protections. The discussions were detailed and productive, and I will continue to ensure that Pembrokeshire’s agricultural voice is heard loud and clear on these vital issues.
Supporting Constituents
This month, I have been proud to help constituents with a wide range of important issues. Whether it was assisting with social care applications, resolving housing disputes, or tackling delays in benefits payments, my team and I have worked tirelessly to ensure that residents across Mid and South Pembrokeshire get the support they deserve. A number of constituents have also been in touch about rising energy bills as the winter months set in. I have provided advice on accessing grants and support schemes and will keep advocating for measures to ease the burden of living costs.
Since the beginning of December, I have received over 550 pieces of casework, covering a wide range of topics, from housing and healthcare to education and energy support. I want to thank everyone who has reached out – helping resolve your concerns remains my top priority.
Floating Offshore Wind and Environmental Discussions
I was pleased to attend a debate on the opportunities presented by floating offshore wind technology this month. Pembrokeshire is at the forefront of renewable energy innovation, and this sector has the potential to create jobs, attract investment, and reduce our carbon emissions.
Friends of the Earth Pembrokeshire
I also met with Friends of the Earth Pembrokeshire to discuss how we can safeguard our natural environment while supporting clean energy projects. Protecting our coastline and countryside is a priority for me, and I will continue to support initiatives that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Carol Service and Christmas Celebrations
One of the highlights of the month was attending a beautiful carol service in Milford Haven. The voices of the choir, combined with the warmth of the community gathering, made it a truly special occasion and a reminder of the joy of the season.
Team Christmas party
To round off the month, I hosted my team’s Christmas party to thank them for their hard work throughout the year. It’s been a demanding but rewarding year, and I am grateful to have such a dedicated team working alongside me to support Pembrokeshire.
Looking Ahead
It has been a privilege to serve the people of Mid and South Pembrokeshire since July 2024, and I am looking forward to continuing to work hard for you in the year ahead. As we move into 2025, I will remain focused on the issues that matter most to our community, from improving healthcare access to supporting our rural economy and protecting our environment.
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Best wishes,
Henry