THE on-going dispute at Irish Ferries is affecting the Pembrokeshire economy, warn junior minister to the Wales Office, Nick Ainger, and Preseli Pembrokeshire MP, Stephen Crabb.

Both told the Western Telegraph they were concerned about the impact a prolonged strike would have on the county, but also said they supported the workers' action.

Hauliers say the dispute that has stopped vessels at Pembroke Dock is having a major effect on businesses.

Managing director of Pembrokeshire Freight and Mansell Davies, Stephen Davies, said: "This is a very serious problem for Pembrokeshire hauliers and will certainly be bad for the future of Irish Ferries.

"We normally despatch 300 shipments a week at this time of year but despite the fantastic efforts of Stena Line, we are still only operating on half capacity."

Businesses that rely on passengers have also been hit.

A chef at Bierspool lodge and diner, London Road, Pembroke Dock, said:

"We have lost around 50 to 60 customers a week. We are open 24 hours a day so the lack of nightworkers and passing trade has had a terrible effect."

Manager of The Inn Between, Pembroke Street, Pembroke Dock, Manuela Scharf, said: "If the strike continues it will definitely have a big impact on the restaurant's future."

The ferry has been berthed in Pembroke Dock for 19 days and missed 37 voyages.

The dispute started when some crew members barricaded themselves in the control room in protest against attempts to replace existing crew members with a cheaper European workforce.

Nick Ainger said the dispute needed to be settled as quickly as possible as it was affecting not only the local economy but also the future of Irish Ferries. There was a danger that hauliers, who were the bread and butter of Irish Ferries' customer base, might sign contracts with other ferry companies to use different routes he warned.

Picture: Local AM Christine Gwyther addressing a second demonstration by trade unionists at Pembroke Dock in support of the protest by Irish Ferries' crew. On Friday thousands of people in the Republic of Ireland added their support as they demonstrated in Dublin and eight other towns and cities. PICTURE: Martin Cavaney Photography