Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies is encouraging people to speak up against the merger of our Community Health Council (CHC) before it's too late.

The Welsh Assembly Government plans to merge Ceredigion, Carmarthen and Pembrokeshire CHCs into one body. There will then be an area committee for each former CHC on the new super CHC.

"I am strongly against this idea as I think it will weaken the voice of Pembrokeshire patients," said Mr Davies. "Our CHC is an important watchdog which stands up for patients' rights. This will only add another layer of bureaucracy between patients and those at the top."

The consultation period on the proposed merger closes on April 24.

"I would urge anyone who cares about Pembrokeshire CHC retaining a strong voice to make a submission to the Assembly Government," added Mr Davies.

Ashley Warlow, Chief Officer of Pembrokeshire CHC, said: "The clock is ticking and we need to encourage as many people as possible to make a submission."

He's also encouraging people to attend a Welsh Assembly presentation on the merger which is taking place at the Nant y Ffin motel in Llandissilio between 9am and noon on April 7.

"They will be making a presentation on the consultation document; why it's written as it is and will listen to any stories and views form the public," added Mr Warlow.

"We would hope that people will take the opportunity to make their feelings known."

*The easiest way to make a submission to the consultation is via a response form which can be supplied by Pembrokeshire CHC on 01646 697610 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">pembrokeshire@chcwales.org.uk.