THE debate surrounding the Argoed hotel murder reached the Senedd in Cardiff Bay yesterday amid calls for further investigations into the way the tragedy was handled.
Cerys Yemm was horrifically killed by a recently released prisoner at The Sirhowy Arms last November, and her mother has now called for the building to be demolished.
Heartbroken mum Paula Yemm, 49, wants The Sirhowy Arms pulled down after her daughter Cerys, 22, was discovered dead inside.
Tragic shop worker Cerys went back to the room of Matthew Williams, 34, after meeting him on a night out. But she was attacked and killed by the ex-prisoner.
Mandy Miles, the owner of The Sirhowy Arms, defended her operation and said she was sent offenders in good faith and was never told what they had been convicted of.
Week In Week Out, which aired last night, discovered Caerphilly Council admitted it referred 10 sexual and violent offenders who were homeless to the hotel.
The local authority refused to be interviewed for the programme but says it considers risk assessments from police and the Probation Service before sending ex-offenders to stay in temporary accommodation.
William Graham, the Conservative AM for South East Wales, believes the council should have shared more information with Ms Miles and is backing calls for an investigation into its handling of the case.
During a debate in the Senedd yesterday, Mr Graham said “significant failings” could have led to the tragic event.
He said: “The catalyst for the tragic events in Argoed last November was probably ineffective prison service and mental health services liaison.”
Edwina Hart, the minister for economy, science and transport, said: “I am aware of the member’s question – the tragic case of a killing.
“It’s important we recognise the opportunities we have to support 16-17-year-olds, and that we look at this in terms of the whole picture and indeed the role of local authorities.”
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