New microphones and fully automated webcasting system will be installed at County Hall at a cost of more than £60,000.

Replacing the “outdated” current system – which has received complaints due to poor sound or when it has broken down completely – was agreed at full council on December 19.

Clr. Jacob Williams, who had chaired the working group set up to discuss replacing the system as well as recording votes electronically, as proposed by Clr. Joshua Beynon, said “the system has far outlived its useful life.”

The webcasting allows members of the public to view all meetings of Pembrokeshire County Council not held in private session.

Clr. Beynon said he would bring an amended motion regarding recording votes in May 2020, following the introduction of the new system which would have the capabilities in place.

He added: “I was surprised to hear that the equipment was from 1996, maybe I should have put in a motion saying equipment shouldn’t be older than members.”

An estimate replacement cost from Public-i, the current suppliers, is £61,605 and includes buying back the old equipment.

Clr. Williams said it was considerably less than a previous estimate a few years ago of more than £100,000.

“It is an expensive system but I think it’s a necessary cost. The system needs upgrading, it’s cheaper than a previous estimate and does allow greater ability,” he added.

The new system will link the web camera with the microphone and automatically move to the speaking councillor, and can record votes if required in future.