Plaid Cymru's first conference in power opened in Llandudno with a buoyant mood, but lobbyists and members stress much remains to be done. Scotland's Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth teased the faithful from the stage, saying "finally" to laughter, as Plaid now leads the Senedd for the first time since devolution in 1999. She noted it had been the SNP's fifth "emphatic" election win at the Scottish Parliament this year, adding: "Well done, Plaid Cymru. You've done it - finally - after 27 years of Labour domination."
Fundraising appeal and light-hearted moments
Becca Martin, Plaid's director of fundraising and MS for Clwyd, appealed for people to bequeath a legacy to the party. Peering at senior stalwarts in the audience, she quipped: "I can see a couple of you who might want to get a move on!"
Before the speeches, members wandered between stalls in Venue Cymru's cavernous rooms. Representatives of Tenovus, RWE windfarm developers and the Farmers' Union of Wales were among the stallholders. A half-empty tub of Quality Street tempted visitors to the latter's table.
Farmers cautiously optimistic
Ian Rickman, Farmers' Union of Wales President, stressed they are "apolitical" but admitted to being "cautiously optimistic" about Plaid help for farmers. He said: "The Welsh Government are making the right noises. We've seen some things we're pleased to see but there's always more to do."
There are concerns about the Sustainable Farming Scheme. "It's up and running. Can we improve it? Yes, hopefully and make it more farmer friendly." The union also hopes to see progress on TB and welcomes planned legislation to allow farmers to spread slurry for longer this year.
Self-caterers seek better deal
Nicky Williamson, of The Professional Association of Self-Caterers, said the Plaid government are reviewing the rule stating properties must be occupied for 182 days to qualify for Business Rates, or pay the more expensive Council Tax. "We are saying 105 days (would be better). We are very pleased they are offering a review," she said.
"There's a perception we are all rich people with two houses." Yet she said a cottage sleeping four people can make £20,000 to £25,000 but that drops to £3,000 after costs are paid.
Leader's speech inspires but patience urged
Gwynedd County Cllr Arwyn Herald Roberts, of Tryfan Ward in Caernarfon, enthused after Rhun ap Iorwerth's speech: "It was a fantastic, inspirational speech." But he cautioned: "Don't think it's going to happen in a few months. It will take time and people need to realise that."
