Appetite Grows for Devolution

The Welsh public have demonstrated a thirst for greater powers for Wales and Plaid must lead the way. That was the message from  Plaid Cymru’s Ieuan Wyn Jones during a panel discussion at the Plaid Cymru spring conference at Ffos Las, Trimsaran on the Future of the United Kingdom.

During the discussion, Mr Jones pointed out that recent polls show that the majority of people in Wales believe that the Welsh Government should have tax-raising powers. He said that the wheels had been set in motion on this with the Silk Commission’s inquiry
into the devolution of fiscal powers, and that Plaid Cymru is in a position to lead the debate on this.

Plaid Cymru’s Ieuan Wyn Jones AM said:

“We are currently in an interesting situation, where post-referendum on law making powers, the Welsh people have clearly indicated an appetite for more powers. They want Wales to have more responsibility and more accountability.

“Plaid Cymru now have an opportunity to move this debate forwards. We have submitted a detailed and thoughtful contribution to the Silk Commission which sets out which powers we think should be devolved to Wales, and we will continue to make the case for this. When Plaid Cymru is strong we can make our voices heard.

“At present, the electorate are ahead of the institutions on this matter, and we need to continue to push the agenda forwards.” 

Plaid Cymru bids the Welsh Six Nations squad good luck

As the 2012 Six Nations competition gets underway, Plaid Cymru AMs have wished the Welsh squad good luck.

The leader of Plaid Cymru Ieuan Wyn Jones has said:

"The squad did us proud out in New Zealand last autumn, and I’m looking forward to an equally impressive performance in this Six Nations. Their thorough preparations have made them a physically and mentally strong team that we are all extremely proud of.

"I’m sure that they will enjoy great success in this campaign, and I wish Warren Gatland and the squad the best of luck."

Plaid Cymru’s spokesperson on Sport Bethan Jenkins AM said:

"The professional attitudes, great team spirit and hard work and dedication of our national rugby team make them excellent role models for young people. I look forward to cheering them on every step of the way during this Six Nations tournament, and I wish them the best of luck!"

Plaid Leader unveils new team for 4th Assembly

Shadow cabinet to work for a better Wales

Plaid Cymru Leader Ieuan Wyn Jones AM has unveiled his new Shadow Cabinet.

Mr Jones pledged that the new team will work hard to hold government to account as well as promote Plaid’s policy agenda. The Plaid leader re-affirmed his party’s election promise to represent people from all parts of Wales.



Spokespersons in the new Plaid Cymru shadow cabinet:

Finance & the Constitution: Ieuan Wyn Jones AM

Planning, Business Manager & Chief Whip: Jocelyn Davies AM

Health: Elin Jones AM

Education, Higher Education & Skills: Simon Thomas AM

Business, Enterprise, Technology & Science: Alun Ffred Jones AM

Housing & Regeneration: Leanne Wood AM

Europe, Local Government, Communities & Transport: Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM

Environment & Energy: Dafydd Elis-Thomas AM

Heritage, Welsh Language & Sport: Bethan Jenkins AM

Social Services, Children & Equal Opportunities: Lindsay Whittle AM

Rural Affairs (inc. Agriculture, Animal Health & Welfare): Llyr Huws Gruffydd AM



Plaid Cymru Leader Ieuan Wyn Jones AM said:


“The pool of talent from which I have been able to choose this shadow cabinet is very strong. Not only does Plaid Cymru have a wealth of experience amongst our long established AMs, we have also gained new members who have a vast amount to contribute.

“Without a majority government in place at this time, the Plaid team’s responsibility is to ensure that any Welsh government plans that come before the National Assembly are fit to bring about real improvements for the people of Wales. Our focus will remain firmly fixed on ensuring that the voice of every part of Wales is heard loud and clear in the Senedd.”