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Rhun ap Iorwerth has introduced his ministerial lineup, marking the inauguration of Wales’ first government composed entirely of Plaid Cymru members. This milestone follows the party’s historic election victory, which ended Labour’s 27-year tenure in Welsh governance. Ap Iorwerth was officially appointed First Minister on Tuesday, presenting his cabinet at the government headquarters in Cardiff, where he emphasized that the new administration represents not just a shift in leadership but a comprehensive change in approach. He pledged that the government would serve all people across Wales with renewed energy and unity.
The new cabinet brings in notable figures across various portfolios. Sioned Williams has been appointed deputy first minister, while Elin Jones, a former presiding officer, takes on the role of finance minister. In health and care, Mabon ap Gwynfor assumes the ministerial position, and education and Welsh language affairs will be overseen by Anna Brychan, who is also a new Member of the Senedd. Culture and sport will be handled by Heledd Fychan, who additionally serves as the government’s chief whip, responsible for organizing business in the Senedd. Adam Price, who previously led Plaid Cymru, steps into the role of cabinet minister for enterprise, connectivity, and energy.
Other key appointments include Llŷr Gruffydd as minister for rural resilience, focusing on farming, and Siân Gwenllian, who will manage local government, housing, and planning. Elfyn Llwyd, formerly a Plaid MP at Westminster, has been named counsel general, acting as the government’s chief legal adviser, subject to Senedd approval. Additional ministers cover a range of responsibilities: Dafydd Trystan Davies on government effectiveness and the constitution, Nerys Evans on public and preventive health, Delyth Jewell focusing on social care, mental health, and women’s health, Mark Hooper on transport, and Cefin Campbell overseeing skills and tertiary education.
Following the cabinet announcement, First Minister ap Iorwerth issued a statement underlining the government’s commitment: “Our pledge is simple – to repay people’s trust in us as quickly as we can, bringing the nation together. A new era of leadership starts today.” The new administration faces considerable expectations, with opposition voices expressing cautious optimism. Dan Thomas, leader of Reform UK in Wales, acknowledged the urgent need for improvements in health services, education, and the economy, stating: “While I may disagree with Plaid, we all need them to succeed.” Meanwhile, Welsh Conservative Senedd leader Darren Millar remarked on the significant challenges ahead, noting the necessity for fresh ideas and governance distinct from the past decades’ politics
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