News

Eluned Morgan voted in as Wales’ first female First Minister

Published

2 years ago

August 6, 2024

Eluned Morgan has been voted in as Wales’ first female First Minister, taking the reins at a critical juncture for the country. With the official confirmation occurring today, Ms Morgan becomes the sixth person to hold the role. Eluned Morgan was elected Welsh Labour leader on 24 July after Vaughan Gething triggered the second leadership contest of the year for the party by standing down. The process, expected to stretch into autumn, was expedited as Mrs Morgan was the sole candidate and thus elected unopposed.

In her inaugural speech as First Minister, Mrs Morgan expressed that it was the “greatest honour of my life” to be Wales’ first female MS, a statement met with applause. Reflecting on her upbringing in Ely, Cardiff, she shared how her early experiences of inequality shaped her commitment to listening and addressing the concerns of all communities.

Mrs Morgan reiterated her vision for a “fairer, greener and more prosperous” Wales, highlighting her dedication to public service spanning 30 years, from the European Parliament to Westminster, and the Senedd. She pledged to be a “listening First Minister, not just to those who shout the loudest” and to lead a government driven by “a sense of service and respect for the people I serve.”

Addressing the internal challenges within the Labour group, she emphasised her focus on issues that genuinely impact communities. She spoke of creating opportunities for everyone to contribute to Wales’ shared success, regardless of background, and stressed the importance of restoring public trust in politics. “Our differences can be a source of strength, not division,” she remarked, underscoring her commitment to inclusivity.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth congratulated Mrs Morgan, noting the historic significance of her appointment. He reiterated his party’s call for an early election, citing Labour’s internal conflicts and the need for a mandate under the new leadership. He questioned how Mrs Morgan would reset the relationship between the Welsh and UK governments and address the pressing challenges Wales faces.

Conservative group leader Andrew RT Davies also extended his congratulations, acknowledging the “significant moment” and the new dynamic a female First Minister brings. He raised concerns about the challenges ahead and the need for engagement with Parliament during the recess. Mr Davies asked about the energy Mrs Morgan would bring to her new role and sought clarification on the functioning of the deputy First Minister.

Mrs Morgan concluded her speech with a commitment to lead a government that is proactive and responsive to the needs of the Welsh people. She highlighted her dedication to fighting poverty through economic growth, improving the NHS and education system, and addressing the climate and nature emergencies.

As Wales’ new First Minister, Eluned Morgan steps into her role with numerous challenges but also significant opportunities to shape the future of the nation. Her historic appointment marks a new chapter in Welsh politics, bringing a fresh perspective and a commitment to inclusivity and progress.

Today’s Senedd vote, required to formally appoint her as First Minister, was conducted via a roll call, with members allowed to vote remotely due to the summer break. The final tally saw Eluned Morgan securing 28 votes, with Andrew RT Davies obtaining 15 votes, and Rhun ap Iorwerth receiving 12 votes. There was one abstention out of the 56 votes cast in total. Here is a detailed breakdown of the votes:

Rhys ab Owen MS (Ind): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Mick Antoniw MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Mabon ap Gwynfor MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Rhun ap Iorwerth MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Natasha Asghar MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Hannah Blythyn MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Dawn Bowden MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Jayne Bryant MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Cefin Campbell MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Hefin David MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Alun Davies MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Andrew RT Davies MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Gareth Davies MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Paul Davies MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Jane Dodds MS (Lib Dem): Abstain
Mark Drakeford MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
James Evans MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Rebecca Evans MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Janet Finch-Saunders MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Luke Fletcher MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Peter Fox MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Heledd Fychan MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Russell George MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Vaughan Gething MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Tom Giffard MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
John Griffiths MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Lesley Griffiths MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Llyr Gruffydd MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Siân Gwenllian MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Mike Hedges MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Vikki Howells MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Altaf Hussain MS (Conservatives): Not voting
Jane Hutt MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Huw Irranca-Davies MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Mark Isherwood MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Joel James MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Julie James MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Delyth Jewell MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Elin Jones MS (Plaid Cymru): No vote as presiding officer
Laura Anne Jones MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Samuel Kurtz MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Jeremy Miles MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Darren Millar MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Eluned Morgan MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Julie Morgan MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Sarah Murphy MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Lynne Neagle MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Peredur Owen Griffiths MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Rhianon Passmore MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Adam Price MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Jenny Rathbone MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
David Rees MS (Labour): No vote as deputy presiding officer
Sam Rowlands MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Jack Sargeant MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Ken Skates MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Carolyn Thomas MS (Labour): No vote
Lee Waters MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Joyce Watson (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Buffy Williams (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Sioned Williams (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth

Alasdair McDiarmid, Assistant General Secretary for steelworkers’ union Community, said: “We congratulate Eluned Morgan on becoming Wales’ new First Minister, and the first woman to hold the role. This represents a significant moment for the labour movement in Wales and the UK. Eluned’s long record of public service and her strong commitment to social justice make her an ideal fit for the role.

“As the leading union representing workers at Tata Steel, we are working closely with Welsh Government to support our members at Port Talbot, Llanwern and Trostre, and all downstream sites during this uncertain and challenging time.

“Indeed, our workplace reps and officials from Port Talbot held a productive meeting with the incoming First Minister and Deputy First Minister last week. During that meeting, they were assured that the new leadership team recognises the critical importance of the steel industry to the Welsh economy and to communities across South Wales, and that the Welsh Labour Government – working with the UK Labour Government – will be doing everything in its power to stand with our steelworkers and safeguard the future of the sector. We welcome that strong commitment, and look forward to working closely with First Minister Eluned Morgan and her team to deliver for our members.”

Community is the steelworkers’ union. More steelworkers are members of Community than any other union, and the union represents the vast majority of workers impacted by Tata’s decarbonisation plans in South Wales.

Crime

Boxer and MMA fighter killed in Blaenavon attack as man admits murder

Published

1 hour ago

February 6, 2026

Court Reporter

A MAN has admitted murdering a well-known boxer and mixed martial arts fighter who was found seriously injured at a Blaenavon address.

Duane Keen, aged 47, was discovered with catastrophic injuries at a property on Riverside Drive in Blaenavon during the early hours of Thursday, October 17 last year. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kai Pennell, aged 35, appeared before Cardiff Crown Court on Friday (Feb 6), where he pleaded guilty to murder.

He also admitted criminal damage relating to the destruction of a white Suzuki Swift belonging to Rebecca Phillips. A further allegation of making threats to kill will not proceed to trial.

Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke told the court that only a life sentence can be imposed for murder, with the minimum term to be decided at a later hearing. Pennell, of Riverside Drive, was remanded in custody and will return to court for sentencing on February 24.

Police were called to the address shortly after 2:00am. Witnesses reported armed officers, paramedics and an air ambulance attending, while the street was sealed off as forensic teams began their investigation.

In a statement, Gwent Police previously confirmed a major emergency response had been launched following reports of serious violence.

Family members paid tribute to Mr Keen, describing him as a dedicated sportsman and a loyal friend.

They said: “Duane was a talented boxer and MMA all-rounder with lots of belts to his name. He would help anyone who needed it and was always at the end of a phone.

“He loved being with his dogs and out walking with them. Duane will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. There are no words to express what we as a family are going through.

“Duane, you were a champ in the ring, but you were the biggest champ to us.”

The court heard that sentencing will take place later this month, when the judge will determine how long Pennell must serve before he can be considered for release.

Further details of the circumstances surrounding the killing are expected to be outlined at that hearing.

Crime

Teenager dies as five arrested in Abertridwr murder probe

Published

1 hour ago

February 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

FIVE people have been arrested after a teenage boy died following an incident at a property in Abertridwr.

Officers from Gwent Police were called to Lower Francis Street at around 5:45pm on Thursday (Feb 5) following reports that a 17-year-old had suffered a serious injury.

Despite the efforts of emergency services, the teenager, who was from Abertridwr, was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family has been informed and is being supported by specialist officers.

Three men — aged 26 from London, 24 from Abertridwr and 18 from Cardiff — have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

Two women — aged 28 from Hereford and 24 from Senghenydd — were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

All five remain in police custody while enquiries continue.

Detective Chief Inspector Jitka Tomkova-Griffiths said officers would maintain an increased presence in the area.

She said: “We understand that reports of this nature are concerning, and residents will see more officers locally while we continue our investigation.

“It is important that people do not speculate about the identities of those involved, as this could hinder our enquiries.

“If anyone has information, please speak to officers or contact us in the usual way.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log reference 2600038325, contact police via social media or the force website, or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Health

£2m hospital upgrade to ease A&E pressure at Carmarthen site

Published

3 hours ago

February 6, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MAJOR refurbishment work has begun at Hywel Dda University Health Board’s Glangwili Hospital after more than £2 million in funding was secured from the Welsh Government.

The £2.096m investment will be used to overhaul the hospital’s Same Day Emergency Care (SDEC) unit, creating extra consultation rooms, a redesigned reception, and a more comfortable environment for both patients and staff.

Health chiefs say the expanded unit will help reduce pressure on the hospital’s busy Emergency Department by allowing more people to be treated quickly without needing an overnight stay.

The project forms part of wider efforts to improve urgent and emergency care across the health board’s sites, including the Minor Injury Unit at Prince Philip Hospital.

Keith Jones, Director of Operational Planning and Performance for the health board, said the funding would increase capacity and speed up patient flow.

He said: “This investment will help us reduce pressure on the Emergency Department and provide a smoother, swifter experience for patients. We’re grateful to Welsh Government for the support.”

Services temporarily relocated

While the work takes place, several services have moved elsewhere on the hospital site.

The SDEC unit, Discharge Lounge and Medical Day Unit have relocated to Y Lolfa, formerly Padarn Ward.

The Cancer Information and Support Service and Cancer Psychological Support Service have also moved, although contact details remain unchanged.

Some clinics, including podiatry, neuro-rehabilitation and occupational therapy, will stay at the Priory Day Hospital, but patients may need to use different access routes.

Patients are being notified through appointment letters, and extra signage will be in place around the hospital. Staff are urging visitors to check their letters carefully or contact departments directly if unsure where to attend.

Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Jeremy Miles said the upgrade would help tackle overcrowding and delays.

He said: “This investment will reduce waits, ease handover pressures and improve the overall experience for patients and staff when they need urgent or emergency care.”

Work is expected to continue over the coming months.