Politics
King Charles III addresses Senedd to mark 25th anniversary of Welsh devolution
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KING CHARLES III addressed the Welsh Parliament on a visit to celebrate 25 years since the then-National Assembly for Wales was established in 1999.
His Majesty said: “I’m so delighted to join you today as we mark this significant milestone in our history – the 25th anniversary of Welsh devolution.
“It is a milestone on a journey which it has been my privilege, all my life, to share with you during times that have seen great change, profound sorrow and tremendous achievement.
“Through it all my respect and affection for the people of this ancient land have deepened with every passing year.”
Speaking in Welsh, which he learned at Aberystwyth University ahead of his investiture as Prince of Wales, he said: “It is a privilege to share your love for this very special nation.”
![King Charles III greeting Welsh children outside the Senedd](https://caerphilly.observer/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/King_Charles_visit_Senedd_Cymru_3.jpg)
The King said it has given him great pleasure to see the bond continue, with the Prince returning to Ynys Mon this week – “a place which I know means so much to him”.
He told the debating chamber or Siambr: “It is with countless special memories and particular pride that I join you as we reflect on the past quarter century of the history we have shared, which you in your work in this Senedd have the great responsibility of making.
“In 1999, when the National Assembly was established, we could not know what lay ahead but we trusted that the common desire for the welfare of the people of Wales would be the surest guide for those who would create, shape and develop this new national institution.
“Looking back … I hope you can feel a real sense of pride in the respect that has been earned and in the contribution that has been made to the lives of so many.
“Welsh minds have indeed been directed to Welsh matters and the distinct voice of Wales is heard with clarity and purpose.
“We look back at the journey so far and we look forward to the journey yet to come.”
Looking to the Plaid Cymru benches in the Siambr, the Kind said: “Now, of course, a parliament would not be worthy of the name were there not differences of opinion.
“But it is a tribute to that spirit of community – so evident to all who love Wales, as we do – that this has been managed with an inclusivity the very shape of this chamber symbolises.”
His Majesty described Wales as a “unique mosaic of places, landscapes and cultures”.
Turning back to Welsh, he said: “It is wonderful to see that the Senedd uses the Welsh language so often – not just as a symbolic act but as its foundation.
“The greatest honour is its use.”
The 25th anniversary coincides with the passing of a law which will see the Senedd expanded from 60 to 96 members elected under a new voting system from 2026.
King Charles said the Senedd has become more than a symbol over the past 25 years: “It has become essential to the life of Wales.
“And as we look back … I offer you heartfelt congratulations on all you have achieved.
“We now look forward to the tasks that we face in the next quarter century – not least the challenge we all share as inhabitants of this threatened planet.
“A challenge which I know you are seeking to meet with energy and determination.
“A great milestone has been reached: there are many more ahead: but you do not travel alone. The strength, resilience and aspiration of the Welsh people will help to sustain you.
“You take with you the goodwill and support of all who have the interests of Wales at heart – they will be equal to any task.
“With those interests in mind, I pray that in the years to come you will achieve even more – overcome even more challenges and find even more causes for celebration.
![King Charles III meeting First Minister Vaughan Gething](https://caerphilly.observer/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/King_Charles_visit_Senedd_Cymru_2.jpg)
Elin Jones, the Senedd’s speaker or Llywydd, is one of a few remaining members of “class of ‘99” who have served for the full 25 years since the then-National Assembly was set up.
Ms Jones said: “We’d come to build Wales and change the world but, as with life, we were soon deflated by the mundane and sometimes bizarre – nothing more so than our annual scrutiny of the potatoes originating in Egypt regulations.
“Those early years demonstrated the inadequacy of our powers and the aspiration to do more. The people of Wales in 2011, by referendum, supported granting primary law-making powers to the Senedd.
“And we have been pioneering and ambitious in the use of those powers…. we’ve been innovative in how we do our politics, with coalitions, co-operation and joint working.”
The speaker quoted Steffan Lewis – her Plaid Cymru colleague who died in 2019 – who urged Senedd members to “always say what you believe and believe what you say”.
In closing, Ms Jones said. “The class of ’99 and the class of today will come and go.
“In our time of service we are merely custodians, as this Senedd is in the permanent and precious ownership of the people of Wales.”
Vaughan Gething told the Senedd 1999 feels like a lifetime ago and he was still a student about to graduate from Aberystwyth University.
Wales’ first minister said: “While I was sitting my final exams, another former student of that great Welsh university – another former resident of Pantycelyn hall of residence – was addressing the first National Assembly.
“Your majesty told members: in the Assembly the voice of Wales will have its authentic and vigorous expression, in ways not possible before Welsh minds will be directed to Welsh matters. Indeed, this was the very aim of devolution then as it is now.”
Mr Gething said devolution has evolved into an established part of the constitutional fabric of the UK over the past quarter of a century.
The first minister said Queen Elizabeth told the Senedd in 2003 that it is vital to the health – both of the UK and Wales – that democratic institutions flourish and adapt.
“And adapt we have,” said Mr Gething, pointing to the move to law-making powers and the introduction of the first Welsh taxes in 800 years as examples.
Looking to the future, he said: “Yma o hyd [still here] is not enough. Beth nesa and what is next must always be our mission.”
Europe’s first black leader told the Siambr part of the challenge is to ensure institutions reflect and represent all the communities of Wales.
He said: “As a black person and leader of my country, I know the responsibility I have to open doors for people who look like me to have the same opportunity to serve.”
In closing, the former lawyer said: “As we move to the next chapter in the history of devolution, I hope those of us here today will continue … to discharge our responsibility to improve the lives that it is our privilege to serve.
Andrew RT Davies, leader of Conservative opposition, said the Senedd has grown into a mature and developed parliament that the people of Wales are proud of.
Mr Davies told the chamber: “Ultimately, this institution over the past 25 years, has endeared itself to the fabric and make-up of Wales.”
He said: “It is a huge privilege for me to stand here as leader of the Conservative group.
“25 years ago I was milking cows – 27 years ago when the referendum took place, I did not vote for the establishment of this place because I was not interested in politics at that time.
“But I fully agree that this institution, this parliament is now where the beating heart of Welsh democracy lies … let’s develop a democracy here in Wales we can all be proud of.”
Rhun ap Iorwerth echoed the King’s words on the opening of the National Assembly in 1999: “This body is the modern expression of the spirit of Wales which has flourished through the centuries like a grand and sturdy tree.”
The Plaid Cymru leader, who was a political journalist at the time, described the the spirit of hope and sense of confidence in 1999 as electrifying
Mr ap Iorwerth said: “We must always sow new ideas and harvest change that makes a positive difference and genuine difference to the lives of our citizens.”
“In two years’ time this will become an even stronger, fairer parliament – more representative and more able to meet our citizens’ aspirations for the future.
“As we look ahead to the next 25 years and beyond, I hope we can all resolve to pursue those aspirations and continue to nurture our Senedd – our democracy – in a way that is truly worthy of the people of Wales.”
News
Eluned Morgan unveils new cabinet as Mark Drakeford takes on finance role
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WALES’ First Minister, Eluned Morgan, has revealed her newly appointed cabinet just days after her predecessor, Vaughan Gething, announced he would step down from the Senedd.
Baroness Morgan, who had already formed an interim cabinet over the summer, made a notable choice in bringing former First Minister Mark Drakeford back into government as health secretary for the past month. On Wednesday, it was confirmed that Mr Drakeford will remain in government, but in a new capacity as finance and Welsh language secretary.
Mr Gething, who took over as First Minister in March, officially stepped down from his role last month following a series of ministerial resignations that called for his departure. His short tenure ended after just four months, a period marred by internal discord within the Welsh Labour government.
Two former ministers, who were part of those resignations, have now returned to government under Baroness Morgan’s leadership. Among them is Jeremy Miles, Mr Gething’s former leadership rival, who will now serve as health secretary. Julie James, another familiar face, has returned as counsel general – the government’s top legal post – and minister for delivery.
Mr Gething has announced his intention to leave the Welsh parliament entirely at the next election, scheduled for 2026. In a statement, he confirmed he would not seek a role in the current administration, but would continue to support the government from the backbenches.
Baroness Morgan praised her new team, stating it represents “all of Wales” and would offer “stability, draw on experience, and bring our collective talents together”. However, the Welsh Conservatives, the largest opposition party in the Senedd, were quick to criticise the reshuffle, claiming it was “still the same old Labour” and accusing the party of focusing on “pointless pet projects”.
In the reshuffle, Huw Irranca-Davies, who ran alongside Baroness Morgan during the Welsh Labour leadership contest, retains his position as deputy first minister and secretary for climate change and rural affairs. Ken Skates continues to oversee transport and North Wales, while Rebecca Evans takes on the economy brief. Lynne Neagle and Jayne Bryant remain education and housing secretaries, respectively, while Jane Hutt stays on as social justice secretary, as well as the government’s chief whip and Trefnydd (leader of the house).
The only newcomer to the cabinet is Vikki Howells, who has been appointed as minister for further and higher education. Sarah Murphy and Dawn Bowden remain as ministers for mental health and social care, respectively, while Jack Sergeant continues as minister for social partnership, with culture and skills added to his responsibilities.
Baroness Morgan will face her first round of First Minister’s Questions in the Senedd next week.
Responding to the First Minister’s new Cabinet, Andrew RT Davies MS, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, said: “While there may be a new First Minister, it’s still the same old Labour.
“We know that this Labour Welsh Government will continue to fail in the key areas that matter to Wales while they focus time and energy on pointless pet projects.
“The Welsh Conservatives are the true alternative to Labour’s politics of distractions, and only with a Welsh Conservative Government will things finally change for the better.”
MORE ON THIS STORY ON HERALD.WALES, CLICK HERE
News
Local MS raises concerns over viability of mine water heat projects
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SAMUEL Kurtz MS, Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Economy and Energy, has expressed reservations about the feasibility of using mine water heat schemes as a solution to the rising cost of energy in Wales.
Speaking on the potential for these low carbon initiatives, which involve harnessing water from abandoned Welsh coal mines, Kurtz, from Pembrokeshire, said: “While I would never criticise ambition, projects such as this should not be pursued at the expense of more viable options previously explored by the former UK Conservative Government.
“To secure our energy future, it is crucial that Labour commits to nuclear energy, an area they have been hesitant to explore in the past. Additionally, there must be significant investment in developing floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea.
“Ultimately, any initiative aimed at reducing energy bills is welcome, but it must offer clear value for money for the taxpayer.”
The comments from Kurtz come in response to news that energy bills could be significantly reduced through the use of low carbon heat schemes which extract heat from water in abandoned coal mines across Wales. According to the Coal Authority, about one in five properties in Wales is located above areas with the potential for such a scheme.
The temperature of mine water ranges between 10°C and 20°C, depending on the depth, making it a viable source of heat. The Welsh Government is currently investing in several low carbon heat projects, aiming to meet future energy demand while contributing to the decarbonisation of heating systems across the country. However, critics have raised questions about the cost-effectiveness and practicality of these schemes.
Work is already under way to explore mine water heat projects in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphilly, and North East Wales. Research has indicated that approximately two trillion litres of warm water sit in old mine shafts across the UK, which could be tapped to support the transition away from natural gas, currently the primary source for heating.
Gareth Farr, leader of the Coal Authority’s mine water heat project in Wales, highlighted the potential for replicating the success seen in Gateshead, where the UK’s first large-scale mine water heat scheme is already operational. “From mine water heat in the North East of England, it has shown to be delivering heat at 5% below the gas heat price to customers, so that is really important especially during a cost of living crisis,” Farr said.
Ffynnon Taf primary school in Taff’s Well, Rhondda Cynon Taf, has already benefitted from a small-scale project, using the village’s natural thermal spring to heat the school and a pavilion. However, not all such schemes have been successful. A project in Caerau, Bridgend, was scrapped after a feasibility study revealed costs were too high, although the local authority has promised to explore other options in the future.
The Welsh Government remains optimistic about the role mine water heat could play in the country’s decarbonisation efforts. Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Transport, and North Wales, stated: “With heating accounting for 50% of energy use in Wales, mine water heat could improve the sustainability of the places where we live and work.”
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding such innovative solutions, Kurtz and other critics are urging caution. They stress the importance of ensuring that public money is spent on schemes that provide tangible results, especially during a time of economic uncertainty. While the Welsh Government is pushing forward with renewable energy initiatives, including mine water heating, Kurtz believes the focus should remain on tried and tested methods, such as nuclear energy and offshore wind development, to secure a stable and sustainable energy future for Wales.
Community
Crymych Arms pub saved by the community is to expand
![](https://pembrokeshire-herald.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Crymych-Arms-modern.jpg)
A PEMBROKESHIRE village pub which reopened its doors last year after being bought by the community has now been given permission for a restaurant extension and outdoor seating area.
Last December, the Tafarn Crymych Arms reopened after being closed in September 2021 when its current owners retired and put the pub up for sale.
Crymych Football Club coordinated the community purchase of the historic pub in the heart of the village, with volunteers raising more than £200,000 to buy the pub. They also secured a significant Community Ownership windfall from the UK Government.
A dedicated team had helped with repainting, wiring, moving the furniture and pool table, and sorting all issues ready for reopening.
Speaking at the time, former county councillor Cris Tomos who had helped with the purchase process “It is hard to believe that it was just one year ago from now, on December 13, 2022 that the first public meeting took place at the Crymych Market Hall to see if there was any interest within the community to take on the challenge of raising the funds and organising the process of purchasing and reopening the Tafarn Crymych Arms.
“The tremendous support over the following months soon demonstrated that people have missed having the traditional pub at the heart of the village.”
Since that successful reopening, Tafarn Cymunedol Crymych, through agent Harries Planning Design Management, has applied to Pembrokeshire planners for a dining room extension and external seating area.
The scheme was supported by Crymych Community Council which said: “We are pleased to see an application to develop a community resource.”
An officer report for the application said: “The proposed development is to erect a flat roof extension to the front of the building to create a dining room extension and lobby entrance area.
“A formal enclosed seating area which is partially raised would also be created to the front of the public house. The retention of pavement to allow pedestrians to walk across the front of the development, outside of the seating area is to be included within the scheme.”
The application was conditionally approved by Pembrokeshire County Council planners.
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