Buffy Williams: First Minister, I recently met with Transport for Wales to discuss the Treherbert line service. I know how difficult it's been for commuters and Transport for Wales staff with reduced services and the need to keep a social distance. I left the meeting feeling optimistic. There are plans to increase the number of carriages and services from September. So, last weekend, I was really...
Buffy Williams: I second Vikki Howells.
Buffy Williams: Yes, I second that.
Buffy Williams: I'm sure I'm not the only Member with four-legged friends. I have a Jack Russell named Poppy and a cat named Binx. I couldn't imagine my life without them. They're not just pets, they're part of the family. That isn't to say they always behave, and, as difficult as they can be at times, I would be horrified if they were ever harmed or stolen. In my Rhondda constituency, we've sadly seen a...
Buffy Williams: Thank you, Minister. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank local council workers for going above and beyond during the pandemic. Rhondda Cynon Taf's budget hasn't only been hit by the costs of COVID—we also have a bill of £12 million for the landslide remedial works in Tylorstown, and let's not forget millions to enhance culverts and drainage systems following the dreadful floods. Our...
Buffy Williams: 4. What assessment has the Minister made of the financial effect of COVID-19 on local authorities in Wales? OQ56630
Buffy Williams: 5. How will the Welsh Government improve animal health and welfare over this Senedd term? OQ56647
Buffy Williams: Minister, with an increase in the number of people walking, running and cycling closer to home throughout the pandemic, and with the difficulties for parents in keeping a social distance outside school gates, I was really pleased to see funding to introduce more 20 mph zones in my constituency, Rhondda, to keep residents safe. I think it's really important that we build on this work, as well...
Buffy Williams: Minister, I agree wholeheartedly with pupils receiving teacher-based assessments throughout this difficult time. But having met with teachers in Rhondda, the new system has put tremendous strain on the profession. How will the Minister support teachers through the next academic year? Also, what support will be made available for students who do not receive the grades they were expecting?
Buffy Williams: I'd also like to congratulate both Ministers on their new appointments. Minister, the NRW report following the floods of 2020 matters a great deal to the Rhondda residents, in particular, residents of Pentre, where 169 homes and 12 businesses flooded internally. The NRW duty manager at the time said, on record, and I quote: 'From the photographs and pictures available it is evident that...
Buffy Williams: Thank you, Minister. In my constituency, Rhondda, the majority of residents are attending their vaccine appointments, which is amazing news, but we have a higher than average number of no-shows, for a variety of reasons. I know Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board are working with residents across our communities to delve into these reasons, trying to find them solutions. So, working...
Buffy Williams: Diolch, Llywydd. I'd also like to congratulate the Minister on her new appointment.
Buffy Williams: 8. Will the Minister provide an update on COVID-19 vaccine uptake rates? OQ56542
Buffy Williams: How will the Welsh Government support businesses in the Rhondda post-COVID?
Buffy Williams: How will the Welsh Government support the social care system's recovery from COVID-19?
