March of protest over mast (From Western Telegraph)

March of protest over mast

SCHOOLCHILDREN, their parents and local residents are to march through the streets of Haverfordwest next month in protest at the Tetramast planned for Haverfordwest police headquarters.

The march will end with a demonstration at the police station. Assurances will be sought that the Tetramast plans have either been abandoned or are only temporary.

Over 70 people attended a meeting on Thursday to express their anger and frustration over the controversial mast, due to be activated in June.

Particularly concerned are parents of children who attend seven schools within close proximity of the mast.

County councillor Peter Stock told the meeting that the National Assembly had previously dismissed any objections on health grounds.

But it is claimed that children are thought to be at major risk as they are still growing and developing.

A major issue was the lack of consultation with the schools.

Parents, teachers and governors heard that Airwave O2 - the company installing the police communications network - is only legally required to consult with Haverfordwest VC School in Barn Street, as it will lie in the intensity beam of the mast.

Police had informed meeting organiser Alison Donovan that this had taken place.

But headteacher Michelle Thomas said: "I am positive we have not had any correspondence on the subject."

She asked that evidence of the consultation be produced.

Parents and pupils will take part in the march through the town centre after school on April 17th.

Information leaflets outlining residents' fears will be distributed, along with a standard letter to chief constable Terence Grange and local and national politicians.

Anger was also voiced over alleged delays within Pembrokeshire County Council that had prevented the authority from stopping the mast, by using Article 4 of the Local Government Act.

For details of the demonstration contact Alison Donovan on 01437 762089.