An interesting meeting was held last Saturday morning at St. Teilo's Church Hall, Tenby. It was specially marked on the local Labour branch calendar as an open discussion. The chairman, Tony Wales, had requested questions from members. Members were pleased to welcome their newly-elected regional AM, Alun Davies, to the meeting. Tony gave a resume of constituency events since the last meeting in May and advertised the summer BBQ lunch which will take place at 1 pm on Sunday, July 1, at Skrinkle Community Centre, Manorbier. He invited all members, supporters and friends to bring their families. To reserve your place, please contact the events secretary, Marjorie, on (01834) 842604, before Friday, June 29. Alun Davies told the meeting that it was his priority to deliver services to the people of this area, and although his region covered eight constituencies, it was his intention to keep in close touch with the electorate. Joyce Watson AM and Alun would be sharing a Carmarthen office. He planned to hold a fortnightly surgery there as soon as it was in operation. He recognised the great service Christine Gwyther had given to the constituency of South Pembs and Carmarthen West. Her very personal contribution to health provision in this area was there for everyone to see. He noted with pride that three Labour Party members had held important roles on the Cottage Hospital Implementation Committee, and that others had campaigned at the many demonstrations and meetings. Local health issues should continue to be a priority and they should carry on with the good work already done. He outlined important questions which he would be putting to the Welsh Assembly this week, including the crucial issue of affordable housing in this area and the cessation of toll charges on the Cleddau Bridge. There were members' questions to Alun Davies about Labour's present 26 seats in the Welsh Assembly (four seats had been lost on May 3) and what compromise would still enable the elected First Minister and his cabinet to carry out the Labour manifesto that so many had voted for. There was an interesting discussion. The chairman thanked Alun Davies for his participation in the meeting. Tony Wales also wished Dot Ridley (membership secretary) a speedy recovery. John Bevan and Sara Spence won the raffle prizes. A table-top sale followed, organised by Marjorie and Olive. Members of the public joined in and made it a successful fund-raising event. Footnote: Carmarthen West Branch of the Labour Party will host a quiz night at the Quins HQ in Carmarthen at 7.30 pm on July 11. Everyone welcome.
