Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth Launches Bold 100-Day Governance Plan
Rhun ap Iorwerth, the leader of Plaid Cymru, has addressed delegates at the party's spring conference in Newport, Wales, with a compelling vision for the future. He introduced a detailed 60-page "roadmap" outlining the party's plans for its first 100 days in government, should it secure victory in the upcoming Senedd elections this May.
A Daunting Yet Positive Challenge
Ap Iorwerth described the prospect of leading the next Welsh government as "a heck of a task", acknowledging the weight of decades of missed opportunities. However, he expressed a positive sense of readiness, emphasising that this move is not about complacency but about demonstrating seriousness and preparedness to voters. "We want to persuade people of the seriousness with which we're approaching the business of preparing for government," he stated, highlighting the need to repay public trust immediately if elected.
Key Focus Areas in the Roadmap
The roadmap centres on five critical topics designed to address pressing issues in Wales:
- Reducing hospital waiting lists to improve healthcare access.
- Tackling the cost of living crisis to support households.
- Boosting the economy to foster growth and stability.
- Improving standards in schools for better education outcomes.
- Easing child poverty to enhance social welfare.
While independence is not explicitly highlighted, ap Iorwerth suggested it underpins the party's goals, framing it as "redesigning Britain" and empowering Wales to take control of its own destiny. He noted that voters are increasingly driven by Welsh identity, making this a pivotal moment for the nation.
Electoral Context and Cooperation
With Plaid Cymru leading in recent polls, followed by Reform UK and Labour, the new electoral system makes a majority unlikely. Ap Iorwerth clarified that while he prefers leading a minority government, he is open to cooperation with other parties to find common ground. "I'm making it explicitly clear that whilst my preferred option would be to lead a minority government ourselves, it would be a government that would be seeking out people who are willing to share common ground," he explained, reflecting a pragmatic approach to governance.
Distinguishing Welsh Politics
Addressing concerns about a Green surge seen in English byelections, ap Iorwerth asserted that Wales is distinct. "We need one party to be leading the charge. We need one party to be bigger than Reform. It is only Plaid Cymru who can be that party," he declared, underscoring the party's unique position in Welsh politics and its readiness to lead.
Conference Atmosphere and Promises
The conference, shared with a cheerleading competition, had a homely yet energetic feel, with volunteers fundraising and attendees buzzing with excitement. Veteran member Lindsay Whittle, 73, noted the mix of old and new faces, emphasising a forward-looking vision. "This is a new Wales and it's going to happen. We're not looking at the past, we're looking to the future," he said, highlighting the party's appeal to younger generations.
Among Plaid's specific pledges are restricting smartphone use in schools for under-16s, launching an express coach service linking north and south Wales, and creating a national agency for crime prevention. These initiatives aim to address modern challenges while fostering connectivity and safety.
Growing International Recognition
Liz Saville Roberts, Plaid's Westminster leader, reported that diplomats from the EU and several European nations attended the conference, signalling rising global interest in Welsh politics. She remarked that Westminster no longer views Plaid as a "quaint, regional quirk" but as a significant threat, reflecting the party's growing influence.
In a video address, Scotland's First Minister John Swinney called for collaboration between the SNP and Plaid to advocate for greater devolved powers, highlighting shared goals across the UK's nations.
As the Senedd elections approach, Plaid Cymru positions itself as a ready and capable force, aiming to reshape Wales's future through a blend of practical policies and a strong sense of national identity.
