An absence of mobile phone masts in the St Ishmaels area has been dubbed as dangerous by local Assembly Member Paul Davies. The lack of mobile signal in the area is a major inconvenience for the local community, who are devoid of any chance of a quick response to medical emergencies.

It is also likely to have repercussions for the local tourism industry, as visitors may be deterred by the lack of telephone communication in the area.

Paul Davies said, "This matter was brought to my attention by my constituents at a recent advice surgery that I held in St Ishmaels. It is very disappointing to think that it is 2010 and there are still some areas of the country that do not have mobile phone masts in the local vicinity.

In the event of a medical emergency, residents may have to travel some distance to contact the authorities, with resultant delays.

Although I accept that the use of mobile phones is not ideal in boats or on the River Cleddau waterway, I know that in times of crisis they have been used to alert the emergency authorities. These masts provide quick and efficient communication that can save people's lives.

I will continue to focus on this issue and I am now awaiting guidance from Ofcom for those that have been affected. I hope very much that this matter is addressed as soon as possible for all concerned."