Thursday is polling day and what do the major political parties say are the priorities for the new council to focus on?

Bob Kilmister was the council’s only Liberal Democrat and he is joined by three other candidates across the county for the May 2022 election.

He said that the four main priorities are shared by the candidates.

“Housing is my number on priority. We currently have a housing crisis in Pembrokeshire. Some of this has been caused by second homes and holiday rentals plus airbnb which has reduced the number of properties for long term rental.

“The increased second home premium may help but the solution is building more affordable homes to rent or buy.

“The County Council is starting to build council houses again now the right to buy has been removed, which i s great but the programme needs to be ramped up.

“Having decent good quality housing for all should be the basic requirement in a civilised society.

“Education is the single biggest element of the County Council’s budget at £100 million. We need to ensure that our schools provide the very best opportunities for our children. They are the future and they need to have the best educational opportunities to succeed.

“It needs adequate funding and a relentless resolve to achieve the highest standards. We have some marvellous teachers and support staff but they need the support of councillors who must not accept second best because our children deserve the best.

“Pembrokeshire has a huge opportunity to be part of the green revolution which has to take place because of the climate emergency. We need to make sure Pembrokeshire is the new green renewable energy hub for the country.

“There are already exciting projects involving Pembroke Dock Marine which involves offshore wind and tidal energy. There is also the very real possibility of hydrogen production. If we do not invest then there is a real threat to our economy.

“It will be no good if we have educated our children and then have not jobs for them. We must create a green economy with well paid employment.

“Pembrokeshire council is responsible for adult and children’s social care and we need to make big changes. Carers are underpaid and undervalued.

“We need to offer a proper career path, not just a minimum wage job. Health services are controlled by the Welsh Government in Cardiff Bay. Councillors should use whatever influence they can to ensure our local health services are protected and improved, especially Withybush Hospital and the A&E provision.

“ If a new hospital is to be built then A&E must remain open at Withybush until that happens. The Government should integrate health and social care, so they operate efficiently, improving outcomes for patients.”

All major political parties were contacted about their priorities, there was no response from the Green Party. There are also 54 independent candidates across the county.