Welsh Nation - September 2011

Summer 2011

INSIDE ►Labour gimmick exposed ►Chief Executive writes ►Summer School success ►Conference preview ►Tryweryn rallypreview proposed Conference ►Tribute to Dafydd Huws ►Leadership Plaid’s newelection latest ►Meet Plaid’s new AMs President

INSIDE

WALES WOULD BE WEALTHIER AS AN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY Wales would be a wealthier country had it become an independent nation within the EU in 1990, according to recent research.

Had an independent Wales performed on a par with other small nations, people in Wales could be an average of nearly 40 per cent richer today and our Gross Domestic Product per head of population would be greater than that of the UK as a whole.

Launching the report, Jill Evans said: “Plaid has a vision for a wealthier, more prosperous Wales.

“Plaid’s work in government has already shown that the party can take bold steps to ensure our nation has the right economic conditions to succeed in the coming years.

“This work will go on as we make the case for greater economic responsibility for our nation to make our people richer.

"The increasing progress towards independence of many small nations in the European Union, such as Catalonia, Flanders and Scotland, has put this issue firmly on the political agenda.

"The report shows quite clearly that the size of a state is no barrier to economic success and sets out the potential of an independent Wales. It provides further evidence that we have

Chief Executive

Greening theand Valleys Former broadcaster Special Adviser Rhuanedd Richards has been appointed as Plaid Cymru’s Tax-raising powers new Chief Executive.

Rhuanedd played a key role as a backed

Special Adviser, providing policy and communications advice to the Plaid Ministers the Welsh SNP bookinreview Government.

She was previously a reporter,

This is one of the key conclusions from a report produced by Harvard University researchers Adam Price and Ben Levinger and commissioned by Plaid President, Jill Evans MEP. The report, The Flotilla Effect Europe's small economies through the eye of the storm, looks at what has been achieved by small independent EU nations and what an independent Wales could have achieved.

Shouting Wales Plaid’s for new

producer and presenter, Councillors seek broadcasting in English and more Welsh forpowers BBC Wales, S4C and Radio Cymru.

nothing to fear from independence.

independence have performed poorly.

“Rather than being a hindrance to success, independence can be its catalyst.”

"This report shows quite clearly that a small nation like Wales could benefit greatly from independence as many other small nations have done over the past decades.

Adam Price, research fellow at the Centre for International Development at Harvard and former Plaid MP for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, said: “We have looked in detail at what has been achieved by small independent EU nations and what an independent Wales could achieve.

You can see a video clip of Adam discussing some of the report’s key findings online at: plaidcymru.org/flotilla

"People in Wales could be about 39 per cent richer and the Welsh economy could have grown by 2.5 per cent a year had Wales achieved independence about the time of the fall of the Berlin Wall and followed a similar pattern to other similar small nations.

“In contrast, regions or countries which have rejected

“We discovered there is a considerable 'small country bonus' among many of the countries we studied, with smaller countries growing at a faster pace and recovering quicker from recession.

Aged 37, Rhuanedd was brought up in the Cynon Valley and now lives in Pontypridd with her husband and two young children.

She was a pupil at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydfelen before gaining a scholarship to study at Aberystwyth University. She studied for a postgraduate diploma in Broadcast Journalism at Cardiff University and later joined BBC Wales, working as an Assistant News Editor, presenter, reporter and producer of television and radio news.

She takes over from Gwenllian Lansdown who got married recently and who has moved to Montgomeryshire.

"Opponents of independence and further devolution have often misused the current economic problems to suggest that small countries would struggle for survival in tough economic times.

Many conclusions of this report blow these assumptions out of the water.

Rhuanedd said: "It's a huge privilege for me to have been given this opportunity. Plaid's contribution to Wales, particularly since devolution, has been tremendous both in terms of bringing about a law-making Assembly and in working tirelessly for the people of this country.

“Far from hampering a country's prosperity, being small can actually lead to greater economic success and greater prosperity.

When it comes to charting the best economic course, small countries are the most adept and that is reflected in their wealth and well-being."

"I have joined Plaid as Chief Executive at a time of great opportunity as we seek to renew the party and articulate a clear vision and direction for the party and for Wales for the years ahead.

View the full report at www.plaidcymru.org/flotilla

<<< Scan this QR code with your smartphone to download the report!

For more info about QR codes visit www.plaidcymru.org/QR

"My immediate priorities will be to support the party during this process and work with elected members and grassroots supporters alike to further broaden our appeal in all parts of Wales."

You can follow @rhuanedd on Twitter

LET’S MAKE THE MOST OF OUR ‘CRITICAL JUNCTURE’ writes Chief Executive Rhuanedd Richards It was with a wry smile on my face that on the 18th of June this year I listened to the journalist’s first question as I undertook my first broadcast interview since leaving the BBC newsroom four years ago.

“How do you feel about taking over as Chief Executive of Plaid Cymru at this time of crisis for the party?” Had I been slightly more composed and less apprehensive when faced with this incongruent experience of being in front of the camera rather than behind it, I would have responded by relaying the words of my former lecturer at the Cardiff School of Journalism, the late Bob Atkins.

and deeply frustrating time for all patience, discipline, clarity of Plaid members and supporters. thought and unity of purpose to grab this opportunity and to get it The loss of four incredibly hardright. (It would be amiss not to working Assembly Members and mention that your donations our failure to build on the results could help enormously in funding in 2007 have been a bitter blow to this process too!) our party and to our progress as a nation in the immediate future.

Without doubt, it has led us to what the aforementioned journalist should have described as a ‘critical juncture’ where I believe we will make the choice to expend our energy through defining, with greater clarity, the mission ahead and, through planning and improving, how it will be accomplished.

The recent debates at National Council and Ysgol Haf, and the countless discussions that have already taken place in the wake of May’s result have proved beyond doubt that Plaid has the energy, determination and backbone to make tough decisions with regard to the way we campaign in future and build support for the party.

opportunities for us to increase the support for the party, to build our membership and to reenergise our activists. I can assure you that we, the staff in HQ, will focus all our energy on doing everything we can to support the party in making the most of those opportunities and to see Plaid providing strong leadership in our communities and for the nation as a whole.

Over the next few months, it is my intention to travel across the country to meet as many activists, local party officials and staff as possible – old and new friends alike. In the meantime, if there are any specific issues you would like to raise with me, please contact Rhuanedd@plaidcymru.org.

If we succeed in doing so, and, to paraphrase a saying associated with the previously mentioned overused word, not waste ‘a good critical juncture’, I firmly believe we are facing an exciting 2012.

I am so proud to have this opportunity to serve this party as its Chief Executive and, despite being acutely aware of the challenge we face in reaching our goals, it’s time we prepare to put the rhetoric into action and get on Dr Eurfyl ap Gwilym and his team Preparations in Tŷ Gwynfor are already under way to facilitate the with it. are already working hard to produce their recommendations election of a new Plaid Cymru Leader and across the country by the end of 2011 to “Renew our party is preparing for the My attempts to adhere to that Plaid.” What we, the staff, You can follow rule in no way detract from what members and volunteers need to local government elections. Both @rhuanedd on Twitter has been since May a tumultuous bring to this process now are the events will be important He taught me that use of words such as ‘crisis’ or ‘catastrophe’ should be limited to describe situations such as wars and natural and man-made disasters where lives have been lost or threatened and should not be scattered in a lax manner across pieces of copy.

“Constituents of mine have already spoken to me about how disappointed they are that Labour has failed to live up to its would put an end to Westminster election promises, which have cuts. Now they are saying that now been exposed as nothing they can’t and won’t live up to more than an election gimmick,” that pledge. People across Wales said Mr Thomas. “Clearly Labour will be wondering why they voted can’t and won’t protect Wales.”

Labour when they have been so Mr Thomas also criticised quick to give up on trying to Labour’s attitude to UK protect them.”

Government plans to close courts Referring to cuts in police in Wales. funding, which will mean the loss of an estimated 1,300 police jobs “I have serious concerns about the future of local justice as a in Wales, Mr Thomas said the result of court closures in Wales, move would place huge strains on forces throughout Wales and but Labour’s response appears to would put crime prevention and be that the closures are being made by Westminster so there is detection under threat. nothing they will do to stand up Mr Jones had given a personal against them,” he said. “That commitment to protect Wales attitude simply is not good from all Westminster cuts, but enough for a party that said was now accepting 1,300 police something completely different job cuts, he said. during the election.”

LABOUR’S ELECTION GIMMICK EXPOSED Labour’s election promise that they would fight Tory cuts has been described by Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM as a gimmick which misled the Welsh public.

First Minister Carwyn Jones, he said, promised the Welsh electorate that Labour would act as a shield to protect people in Wales from all Westminster cuts.

Wales and that we would ensure that we are in a position to do that. However, we cannot do that every time.”

Mr Thomas, AM for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr and Plaid’s Communities spokesman, said the statement by Mr Jones that he couldn’t stand up for the people of Wales when cuts were imposed by Westminster was a complete contrast to promises he made during the election.

However, after being challenged on this pledge by Mr Thomas, following UK Government cuts in legal aid, Mr Jones said Labour “It is pretty appalling that Labour couldn’t deliver on its promise. told people on the campaign trail that they would be a shield from In response to a question at the all Westminster cuts and yet they Assembly, Mr Jones said: “The are now washing their hands of cuts are being made by their responsibilities,” he said.

Westminster and not by us. We said in our manifesto that we “Labour made it clear in the would stand up for the people of election that voting for them

Don’t forget to Like Plaid’s official page to keep up to date with the latest news and help us spread the word! facebook.com/plaidcymruwales Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P2

CONFERENCE 2011

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AND SEA AIR TOO...

Plaid Cymru members will be visiting Venue Cymru in Llandudno for our annual conference, which takes place from Thursday to Saturday, September 8 to 10.

Annual Conference is the perfect opportunity for YOU to have your say – and entrance is free.

policy discussions during the various On Friday, the conference dinner will get-togethers arranged for the have guest speakers and a threeevenings.

Thursday will be taken up with course meal at Venue Cymru. discussion sessions, presentations, Where there’s an entrance fee, tickets training, and events, such as the will be on sale from Tŷ Gwynfor and Last but not least, the annual Revue Gwynfor Memorial Lecture. will take place on Saturday evening. at the reception desk during the With only eight months between the conference itself - although it’s never It remains to be seen whether newlyOn Friday and Saturday, there’ll be a good idea to leave these things until elected Assembly Member Lindsay onstage debates with speeches from Annual Conference and the council Whittle will leave the risqué comedy many of our elected members. There elections in May, the conference will the last minute. at home now he’s an AM! should also be some key discussions provide a good chance to meet The social calendar will begin on councillors and candidates. on the future development of Plaid.

Thursday night with a CymruX gig in Please contact Vici Jones There’ll also be plenty of social a local venue, headlined by Dafydd events.

Members will have much they want (vicijones@plaidcymru.org) for more Iwan and followed by a game of to contribute following our recent information and to book your tickets. successes and disappointments. The You’ll be able to relax or continue the Bingo with plenty of prizes.

Several members are standing for election to Plaid’s National Executive Committee. This year, members will be voting for who will chair Plaid Cymru and who will be the Director of Organisation.

SUMMER SCHOOL SUCCESS AUGURS WELL FOR CHALLENGES AHEAD

We need to renew and revitalise to There was an exciting session with take on the new challenges we face.

Alyn Smith, MEP, and his SNP col- Those in Glan Llyn can truly boast "I was there". leagues on how the SNP won and "liberated their parliament"!

The party has also launched a review chaired by Eurfyl ap Gwilym, I won't forget seeing their map of Scottish constituencies covered in Moving Forward: Renewing Plaid SNP yellow and dreaming of a map for Wales, which will report by the end of the year. Thank you to eveof Wales covered in Plaid green! ryone who attended the six meetings I held in July and who have It was the best attended for many This year was the first time we met A constant theme of our discussent in ideas. sions was how we have to be preyears, with members coming from with a real parliament in Wales, pared for the emerging debate on thanks to Plaid Cymru. 2011 will all parts of the country - and beThere is a lot of work to do but I be a huge landmark in the history Scottish independence to ensure yond - and it was good to see so know from your comments that we that we move Wales forward. of the party and while in Bala we many young people there.

An essential part of that is having have the energy and enthusiasm to remembered another - Tryweryn. honest analysis, real research and do it. This is an exciting time to be It was an inspiring weekend, full of open discussion to strengthen our involved in Plaid Cymru and I urge The 50th anniversary of the ideas and debates to get us all all of you to join in the debate case. drowning of Capel Celyn and the thinking of the future of Wales in and join in the fun! opening of the reservoir is in 2015. the world.

The presentations I have mentioned, as well as the many others Dr Alan Sandry presented his book It is a reminder of the need for You can follow at the Summer School, leave me in control over our valuable natural on the philosophy of Plaid Cymru; @jillevansmep on Twitter no doubt that this party is brimassets which are so vital to our there was a debate on Libya; we ming with ideas and talent. economy. heard from John Osmond about the effect of three referendums on writes Plaid Welsh politics; and Adam Price President Jill Evans MEP and Ben Levinger demonstrated how much better off Wales would Congratulations be if we had become independent in 1990. to Geraint Day and the Tŷ The first Summer School was held Gwynfor team for organising this 85 years ago in Owain Glyndwr's year's highly successful Summer Parliament in Machynlleth.

School in Bala.

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PLAID SHOULD LAUNCH WATER AND ENERGY POLICY WITH TRYWERYN RALLY

Around these new initiatives, and taking strength from Scotland’s example, Plaid can generate a resurgent sense of purpose, a new sprit among members and a message that will spread to every writes Geoff Ifans corner of Wales, with, as a background to this, the everIsles in the coming months like an increasing pressure as Scotland legislative powers proved a draws ever nearer to its ultimate oncoming political tsunami. significant step forward in our The Pembrey and Burry Port The SNP victory will undoubtedly destination. branch of Plaid Cymru convened a nation’s history, and we must It is also imperative that Plaid inspire nationalists throughout special meeting recently to discuss thank Plaid’s initiative to enter Cymru makes every effort to Wales and embolden future the Assembly election and express into coalition with Labour and attract Adam Price back into active campaigns for independence. ensure that the referendum their opinions on the direction politics and in a leadership role.

Plaid Cymru now needs to take a Plaid should now take to maximise became part of the four-year It is members with his vision and step back from coalition politics, its support in the future and realise agreement. charisma that Plaid needs to steer At last we can now make laws – for allowing the London parties to its long-term goal of national stumble ahead in their lamentable us forward and get our message the first time since our last independence. across successfully. efforts to run Cardiff Bay and As the dust settles in the aftermath legislative Parliament in the first We also need to attract back the Westminster. of the May 5th election results, the decade of the 15th century. likes of Dyfan Jones, another Plaid needs to take its time to time has come to analyse fully the For Plaid Cymru, though, it now gifted, charismatic individual who future political direction, both for releases the party to move forward assess the new political reality. has so much to contribute.

It needs to formulate a new and Plaid Cymru and Wales generally. and begin formulating exciting Helen Mary Jones and Dafydd radical approach during the next new policies for the journey Plaid Cymru suffered a reversal.

There’s no question of that, but the towards its final objective of Welsh couple of years, culminating in the Wigley should also have a major part to play. independence, the long-term goal launch of a comprehensive damage is not irreparable and, They are all persuasive and strategy for the journey to according to the results in the four that inspired so many of our articulate, and it’s figures like independence. seats we lost, could be assessed as veteran members back in those It needs, for instance, to introduce these and other talented members eventful days of the 1960s and superficial. exciting initiatives, such as an all- that we must look to if Plaid is to Had we won a comparatively small 1970s. truly seize the initiative and propel Here, at last, we have reached the encompassing policy for energy number of extra votes, we would Wales forward to a new dawn! and water production within position where we can begin that have retained our seats.

Welsh borders and the ownership The alternative, God help us, is final assault on our objective, the However, results aside, our and financial control of all energy complacency, ignorance of events re-emergence of Cymru as a campaign in general was and the significance of Scotland’s supplies. sovereign and equal partner lacklustre. revolution, blindly scrambling into Such a major policy could be There seemed no hwyl or sense of among the free nations of the coalition with Labour at the launched on the shores of purpose or direction. We seemed world and the termination of earliest opportunity, following the Tryweryn with a well-organised centuries of humiliation, as a to have become bogged down in rally of members and supporters, humdrum politics of the status quo colony. the humdrum politics of an and then, at the next election, with further policy launches The spring of 2011, however, has Assembly, purposely designed to following at intervals, galvanising promising to run Wales a little contain Wales’ aspirations within a unleashed an unexpected better than the other parties. support Wales-wide. revolution that, as political restricted colonial system, No vision, no message to inspire, commentators have accurately put Such a radical new direction manipulated from London. would, I believe, attract thousands no ambition – a recipe for terminal The advent of 2011 has changed all it, Britain has not experienced in decline for Plaid and further of new members to Plaid and that, but it may take some time for 300 years. frustration for its members. attract the return of countless the events of this spring to impact The resounding victory of our Wales faces the most exciting others who, over the years, have fully on people’s awareness of the sister party, the SNP, in Scotland period politically in decades. We lost the inspiration to remain in has transformed politics north of political reality that now faces have to be up for this challenge. the party or help the struggle the border overnight and will them.

Seize the day! generally. affect other parts of the British Winning the referendum on

COUNCILLORS URGED TO PUBLICISE SUCCESSES Plaid Cymru councillors have been urged to spell out the good work they are doing in their communities.

Assembly Local Government spokesperson Rhodri Glyn Thomas and Sian Thomas, who chairs the Plaid Councillors’ Association, said it was essential voters knew of Plaid successes in the run-up to next year’s council elections.

They made their comments following a meeting between Association officers and Mr

Rhodri Glyn Thomas, AM, Chris Franks, secretary, Sian Thomas, chair, John Taylor, treasurer, and Phil Bevan vice-chair.

Thomas.

Sian Thomas said: “We need to acknowledge examples of good practice from our council groups, showing how Plaid has made a

Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P4

difference – in control, in a ruling coalition and when scrutinising council business.

“We have a major role in a number of councils and should

show clearly that Plaid has made a positive difference to the community.

“All too often we are so busy working for the community that we forget to let people know about our efforts.”

Mr Thomas said: “I’m keen to visit our council groups and celebrate our successes.

“We need to publicise our achievements.

“There are opportunities in the Assembly to question Ministers about issues of concern to councillors and I will bring up any issues that our councillors want me to.”

You can follow @rhodriglynplaid on Twitter

DAFYDD HUWS: LEADING PSYCHIATRIST WHO BECAME PLAID’S FIRST CARDIFF COUNCILLOR opposition, mainly from incomers to the area. That involved a running battle over the red tape surrounding He became Chairman of Plaid the supply of power through the Cymru in the wake of the failed 1979 National Grid, which made local His natural gift for communication referendum and the loss of Gwynfor control well nigh impossible.

Evans’ seat at Carmarthen. Plaid meant he was soon in demand by Whatever the challenges that Cymru owes him a huge debt of the media, making frequent confronted him in his appearances on radio and television professional and on medical issues and current affairs political life, there is no in both Welsh and English. doubting the enormous His second career, in agriculture, happiness he found in provided a welcome relief from the his family. Meeting strains of medical life. Soon after I Rhian brought to an end got to know him, he took the major his career as one of gamble of acquiring part ownership Wales’ most eligible of Mynydd Gorddu, an upland farm bachelors. It opened up in the Pontgoch area near his life as a husband and Aberystwyth, close to his childhood father of three home. daughters and two sons, Dafydd Huws, who has died aged 75, But most people will remember him who were a source of was a leading member of Plaid great happiness to him. for his involvement with politics as a Cymru who helped hold the party lifelong member of Plaid Cymru.

To his family and together at a crucial phase in its friends, Dafydd will remain the In the heady days that followed the gratitude for holding the party history. source of many fond memories. To 1966 Carmarthen by-election, together at a difficult time in its He combined three careers – as a all of us, his life is an inspiration to Dafydd took on the task of history. psychiatrist, farmer and politician – contesting the Plasmawr ward in make Wales the free, self-respecting bringing to each a capacity for An innovator by instinct, he saw that nation that he sought for future Cardiff West, an area that included innovation and for speaking his developing wind energy could help generations.

Fairwater and part of Ely. mind. provide rural communities with a Dafydd Williams was General In 1969 his charisma and much needed economic input, Later in life he turned to the Secretary of Plaid Cymru, 1971enthusiasm carried the day, winning providing that control was in the promotion of renewable energy as a Plaid Cymru’s first ever seat on hands of local people. He succeeded 1993 way of bringing new life to rural Cardiff City Council with a in developing a wind farm at communities in West Wales. razzmatazz campaign that included Mynydd Gorddu in the face of

writes Dafydd Williams

Dr Huws worked as a leading psychiatrist and became Clinical Director of South Glamorgan psychiatry service.

motorcades and yellow dayglo posters galore.

LEADERSHIP CONTEST IN THE NEW YEAR and dedication to the party over the years. Wales has come a long way under his leadership and so has All Plaid members will be invited to Plaid Cymru. a series of leadership hustings in locations across the nation during “I wish him and his wife Eirian all the best in the future. I know that the election period. when a new leader is in place, Paying tribute to Ieuan Wyn Jones Ieuan will continue to champion as Plaid Leader, Westminster the needs of Ynys Mon and make a Group Leader Elfyn Llwyd, MP, substantial contribution to Welsh said that under Mr Jones’ leadership, the political landscape politics.” of Wales had changed for the better, with the party achieving with the proven talent we have in Plaid Cymru members will elect historic landmarks. our team of AMs. It is clear the their new Leader early next year, You can keep up to date with the future of the party will lie in good following Ieuan Wyn Jones’ “Ieuan led Plaid Cymru into very latest leadership election hands. decision to step down.

Government for the very first time news online at: "Under my leadership, Plaid Cymru in our history, always putting the Nominations will open in early interests of Wales first and January and the new Leader will be has emerged from a successful crucially securing the referendum period in government and has announced in time for the party's which now means Wales has its continued to push the agenda Spring Conference in March. own, proper Parliament,” he said. forward since the May elections.

Mr Jones signalled his intention to @plaid_cymru “He played a crucial role in the last stand down as party leader in May “We have operated as a constructive and robust opposition Welsh Assembly Government and following the 2011 Welsh General Election, but agreed to stay in post to the new Labour Government proved himself an effective /plaidcymruwales while a the party’s consultation on since the election and highlighted Minister for Transport and the their lack of ambition for Wales. the future, Renewing Plaid for Economy with widespread support Wales, is conducted.

“We have also set out the from the business community. alternative vision we have as a He said: "I look forward to an “He has shown great commitment important contest for Plaid Cymru party and we will continue to do that under my leadership until it is time for me to hand over the reins to a new leader."

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FOR YOUR BOOKCASE Three books of interest to Plaid members have been published recently.

The Welsh in an Australian Gold Town, Ballarat, Victoria, 18501900

by Robert Llewellyn Tyler Focuses on the Welsh immigrant community in the Ballarat/ Sebastopol gold mining district of Victoria, Australia, and looks at the changes the Welsh community there underwent during the second half of the 19th century.

Newport-born Dr Tyler is a Plaid member, Welsh Nation sub-editor, author and historian, who has had work published in several journals and is presently researching the Welsh in 19th century Pittsburgh.

How Many Aircraft Carriers Would an Independent Wales Have?

by Siôn T. Jobbins This is a collection of articles, dealing with Welsh cultural, historical, political and linguistic issues, most of which have appeared over the last seven years in Cambria magazine.

Siôn Jobbins was a Plaid Cymru town councillor in Aberystwyth and Mayor of Aberystwyth, 1999-2000. He is a past Assembly and Westminster Election candidate and writes for Cambria.

Plaid Cymru—An Ideological Analysis

by Alan Sandry In this study of Plaid Cymru’s political philosophy, Dr Sandry challenges the conventional assumption that Plaid Cymru conforms to the traditional model of a nationalist party, noting that Plaid’s ideology is diverse and complex and shares certain political convictions with other political philosophies.

Dr Sandry is a lecturer in Social and Political Theory at Cardiff University and is joint author of Devolution in the UK.

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PLAID MUST STRIVE FOR WELSH INDEPENDENCE Former leader of the New Democratic Party of Nova Scotia, Jeremy Akerman writes to the Nation

On certain levels, the achievements of Plaid Cymru over the past half century have been impressive.

The party has long since ceased to be regarded as a group of eccentric dreamers and its legislators have convincingly demonstrated that they are not dangerous, incompetent lunatics.

The degree of autonomy the Welsh now exercise is at an all-time high, if far from what many would like to see.

So, if success is judged by the fruits of incrementalism and by the creation of careers for professional politicians and their staff, the verdict has to be positive. However, judged by other criteria, the verdict must be that Plaid Cymru has lost its way and compromised the goal for which it came into being.

By placing its left-wing ideology before nationalism, Plaid Cymru has confused voters and has paid the price in the last election.

Voters concluded that there is no point in having two Labour parties in Wales (one is bad enough!), and most voters chose the one which actually bears that name.

As long as Plaid Cymru shared the Labour bed, talked about Westminster politics and parroted left-wing shibboleths, it allowed the people to lose sight of the one thing that makes us different from other parties. We alone believe in a free, independent Wales.

So now is the time for us to return to the goal for which were created.

As often as possible, Plaid Cymru must place itself on one side with all other parties on the other.

On all issues, Plaid Cymru must position itself so it is seen to be standing alone— and above all else—for Wales.

The question cannot be what is left-wing or right-wing, but only what will advance the day when Wales becomes an independent nation.

A declaration of independence which would be considered legitimate by other nations would have to be preceded by a referendum in which a convincing majority of the residents of Wales answered Yes to an unambiguous question.

It is virtually axiomatic that a successful referendum could only be concluded if it followed the accession of a majority Plaid Cymru government in a National (Welsh) Election.

It seems likely Plaid will achieve that objective only if it concentrates its efforts, sets out to end confusion amongst the voters and seeks support from all - regardless of ideology - who have nationalistic leanings.

This would require the cessation of three activities in which Plaid and/or significant numbers of its supporters currently engage.

The effort to secure representation in the English parliament is, I suggest, wellintentioned folly. This tortuous and often disappointing and unrewarding attempt to be

a Welsh voice in the English wilderness not only depletes and divides resources which would be more profitably directed towards Welsh national elections, but inadvertently lends legitimacy to English interference in Welsh affairs.

The involvement of Plaid in a coalition may have reassured the electorate that we are not wild characters who would run amok if given responsibility, but that participation sent all the wrong messages. It told voters we were not fundamentally different and did not stand alone for Wales. Also, it gave strength to the Labour Party and reinforced the notion that it is a legitimate force in Wales, rather than an alien transplant. There must be a clear determination that Plaid will never again enter a coalition, at least until Wales is free. Labour are not our brothers or kissing cousins. As long as Labour remains strong in the country, Plaid’s ultimate goals will be frustrated. In Labour’s failures will lie Plaid’s opportunities.

There needs to be a positive effort to attract the support of incomers to Wales into the party. We need to look at how we target their votes. A successful Yes result will require many of their votes too. Similarly, snarling vituperatively at conservatively minded people because of real or imagined historic injustices is unlikely to persuade many of them, who may be nationalists in their own way, to lend their support when it counts most. Should we really care how they vote in English elections if we could get their support in Welsh national elections and on the crucial day?

Ultimately success will depend upon how many residents of Wales, regardless of their origins, feel Welsh when the clarion is sounded.

To achieve that, education will be essential and, to the extent it is feasible, Plaid Cymru should back free courses in Welsh history, culture and language and later, when we get the power to do so, should offer financial help to those who successfully undertake such courses.

Certainly honey will achieve more than vinegar. And the Welsh have often been good at seduction.

Plaid Cymru must be a nationalist party which stands first, last and always for Welsh independence.

That is the raison d’être of our party and any attempt to subordinate that must be condemned.

Jeremy Akerman grew up in Sir Fynwy and is a former leader of the New Democratic Party of Nova Scotia, Member of the Legislature for Cape Breton East and head of Constitutional and Intergovernmental Affairs for the Government of Nova Scotia.

MEET THE NEW BOYS at the Senedd Lindsay Whittle

Simon Thomas

regional member for North Wales

regional member for South Wales East

regional member for Mid and West Wales

Could you give a brief summary of your life to date?

After serving as President of UMCA students’ union in Aberystwyth, I joined Menter Cwm Gwendraeth and helped pioneer the model of language initiatives which is now replicated across Wales. I then became Director of CWVYS, the body representing voluntary youth organisations in Wales.

In 1999 I worked for Plaid, co-ordinating Dafydd Wigley’s campaign as party leader in the run-up to the first Assembly election and co-ordinating the European election campaign, when Plaid very nearly overtook Labour as the main party in Wales.

I subsequently worked for Plaid MEPs Jill Evans and Eurig Wyn before moving to north Wales to work for the economic development company, Menter a Busnes, helping people set up new businesses. I later became the North East Wales Consultancy Manager for Wales’ largest conservation charity, the National Trust.

I have been a local councillor and stood in four national elections, increasing Plaid’s vote every time until this May, when I was elected.

Could you give a brief summary of your life to date?

I have been a member of Plaid Cymru since 1968 and have served in every post at branch and constituency level.

First elected as a councillor in 1976, I have held continuous office since then and have served at community, borough and county level.

I was Leader of Caerffili Council from 1999 to 2004 and from 2008 to 2011.

I have stood in parliamentary elections seven times between 1983 and 2010 and in every Assembly election.

A member of the National Council and National Executive, I worked as a housing manager for 25 years in south Wales.

I am a proud Caerffili person who is passionate about my town and country and its people.

Could you give a brief summary of your life to date?

Up and down.

What is your favourite book?

Any of the books I read with my children.

Your favourite TV programme ?

Gavin & Stacey

Your favourite film?

Planet of the Apes (the original version)

Your favourite song?

Beatles: Long and Winding Road

Your favourite TV programme ?

C’mon Midffild

Your favourite singer or group?

Split between Ryan Davies and Shirley Bassey.

Llŷr Huws Gruffydd

Your favourite song?

Ysbryd Solfa by Meic Stevens Your favourite singer or group?

Stone Roses Your favourite quotation?

If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you always got!

What are your hobbies and interests?

Days out with my young family and football.

Even better if they’re both combined!

Who or what inspired you to join Plaid Cymru?

My parents. Their passion and commitment for the national cause is in my DNA! What are your aims and ambitions as an AM? To walk the walk, not just talk the talk.

What would you say to someone considering joining Plaid?

Don’t just complain from afar. Get involved and change things for the better.

What is your favourite book?

One from my childhood, Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain.

Your favourite film?

Zulu.

Your favourite quotation?

Just do it.

What are your hobbies and interests?

My hobbies include gardening, antiques and, of course, rugby.

Who or what inspired you to join Plaid Cymru?

I was inspired to join by Gwynfor Evans.

What are your aims and ambitions as an AM? To serve all the people to the very best of my ability. I will not be a Yes man and will always challenge the system.

What would you say to someone considering joining Plaid?

What is your favourite book?

Novel – Un Nos Ola Leuad or To Kill a Mockingbird. Non-fiction – anything by Tony Judt or Byron Rogers. Cookbook Elizabeths Davies and Luard Your favourite film?

I saw a film called Redemption by Tengiz Abduladze, a satire on Stalin made on the cusp of perestroika. I have never forgotten it, but I can watch Witness, Alien and Gladiator time and time again.

Your favourite TV programme ?

It’s Scandinavian and it has jumpers, or else American and has cigarettes, alcohol and sexism.

Your favourite song?

No More Heroes by the Stranglers: should be compulsory listening at every Plaid meeting.

Your favourite singer or group?

Richard Thompson has been an influence on my life. He introduced me to the excitement – yes you read that right – of English folk music and through that to my own hidden culture.

Your favourite quotation?

I’m an annoying perfectionist, so it’s Voltaire Le mieux est l'ennemi du bien. The better (perfect) is the enemy of the good. Even searching out the original French shows how bad I am.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Being dragged out into the open air by my wife Gwen.

Who or what inspired you to join Plaid Cymru?

Thatcher.

What are your aims and ambitions as an AM? To show the world we can run our own affairs.

What would you say to someone considering joining Plaid?

Do you still ask your parents’ permission to run your own life?

If anyone is considering joining Plaid Cymru, they will need to be dedicated to a cause that is greater than any. We can achieve our goals by inspiring the people of Wales and you can be part of it, so just do it.

Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P7

CALLING PLAID WOMEN Come and help the Women’s Section Do you know that all women members of Plaid Cymru are also members of the Women’s Section (Adran y Menywod)?

Perhaps you are interested but think it is not performing a role, or perhaps you did not know it existed.

section - would you like to take part in the discussions and arguments now under way about its future role?

Should the section campaign on issues which particularly affect women and children – trafficking of women and children, abortion, childcare Whatever you think, there are lots of other women thinking the provision, carers, pensions, for example, or should the section same thing. engage in more general political The section has been around for action? most of the party’s existence.

In its early days, it raised money Should the main activity be training and mentoring women for the party. Later, in the to become candidates, increasing 1980s, it became intensely political, largely getting involved confidence to take on highly competitive roles at council, in issues of fairness and Assembly or Westminster level? campaigning in the peace movement, for workers’ rights and for recognition of women in If you want to become involved, we need to know who you are the party. and how to contact you.

Women started to win elections As some members register using for posts within the party and as their initials and last name only, councillors and also temporarily the national party does not know won positive action for positions the gender of many members and is unable to help us to on regional lists for the contact you.

Assembly.

There were times of high drama and times of partying with some very funny moments as well.

Inevitably it came under considerable attack and, with many disillusioned with the party, became a small, fairly inactive group.

However, it continued to exist as an official section within the party, paying its levy and always holding a meeting during the annual conference.

If you are a woman - and therefore a member of the

We hope, therefore, that you will contact us instead. Our e-mail address is polisi@plaidcymru.org - and if you are not on e-mail you can write to Janet Davies, 33, Heol Belgrave, Abergavenny, Gwent, NP7 7AH.

NEW WEBSITE RECALLS PLAID CYMRU HISTORY www.hanesplaidcymru.org A new website has been unveiled to commemorate the ups and downs in the history of Plaid Cymru.

The website is sponsored by the Plaid Cymru History Society and among items being revealed for the first time are the recollections of former Plaid General Secretary Emrys Roberts, who fought the Merthyr Tydfil by-election in 1972, following the death of S. O. Davies.

A Bee or Two in my Bonnet – Notes of a Nationalist and Socialist will be published in five bilingual episodes.

In the first episode, Mr Roberts recalls his upbringing in Leamington Spa and his family’s move to Cardiff during the early years of the Second World War. He also describes how he improved his Welsh language skills – and occasions when he made use of them in his clashes with authority.

“Years later, Margaret and I had to go to court for refusing to pay Thatcher’s Poll Tax,” he said.

“The Magistrate went wild when he realised - when our comments were translated – that we had been making political speeches, but it was too late to stop us then!”

The aims of the Society are to promote discussion, knowledge and research about the history of Plaid Cymru. Its website can be accessed at: www.hanesplaidcymru.org.

The section’s activists are not frightening intellectuals and hardline feminists.

We are just women who think campaigning for Wales and for women in Wales is not just important, but crucial for our future.

500 CLUB Why Join?

The 500 Club was set up to raise funds for Plaid Cymru’s National Assembly and Parliamentary campaigns.

Over half of the money raised is returned to club members as prizes.

Each member is allocated a club number, which is entered in a monthly prize draw.

And remember…The more members there are, the larger the prizes. Once there are 500 members, the annual prizes will total £ 15,500!

Join today by visiting www.plaidcymru.org or contact Caryl Wyn Jones at Ty Gwynfor on 029 20 472272

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