It's a pleasure to participate in this important debate on the Thurley review. As Suzy had mentioned, this builds on previous reviews, and the rather troubled history of the institution over the past two years.

Now, we are very proud of Amgueddfa Genedlaethol Cymru. It was established by royal charter back in 1907. It was to promote public education—that was the purpose of the charter—and it's true to say that the museum has delivered that laudably over the years. Educating the world about Wales and educating the Welsh about the nation—that was one of the key aims back from 1912. Educating the world about Wales and educating the people of Wales about their own country. People are still discovering things about their own nation—people who have lived here through their lives say, 'Well, jiw, I never knew that.' That's the importance of visiting the various sites of the national museum. There are historical facts that continue to surprise you about this nation.

In those dark days pre devolution, the national museum was a pillar of inspiration and was firm in its Welsh identity. It cast a shining light, representing Wales when similar structures didn't exist to express our national identity, our history and our traditions, giving backbone to every nationalist and patriot. That's the importance of the independence of Amgueddfa Cymru: to tell the story of Wales without it being negatively influenced by external influences, and being entirely independent of any Government. As we've heard, we've had the discussions on Historic Wales, with the original intention of the Cabinet Secretary of attempting to merge our heritage and large organisations. It's a wonderful thing that that absurd idea has been cast aside. But confirmation that there is no intention to merge our national arts institutions would be another clear signal that the Welsh Government takes the independence of the sector seriously.

Turning to another element, funding is crucially important. Since 2012, there have been substantial cuts in the funding of Amgueddfa Cymru, cuts of around 11 per cent. This led to arguments between the museum and the unions—we have heard about it repeatedly—about terms, conditions, wages, and there were strikes. They were difficult times; they were dark times, indeed. We don't want to go back to those days, but that was partly because of cuts in funding. We've also heard about the commercial successes that have been achieved recently by the museum, and we should also recognise the agreement between this Government and Plaid Cymru. As a result, the museum will receive a financial boost for the next two years. It would be good to hear assurances from the Minister this afternoon about financial security for the future, following that period, for Amgueddfa Cymru.

The Thurley report strikes a very positive note, as Suzy has mentioned, with praise for the quality of Amgueddfa Cymru and the quality and commitment of the staff. But, of course, there's also room for improvement, as has been noted, and it's included in the report. The report recognises that Amgueddfa Cymru is one of the major museums of the UK. It's not simply a narrow, Welsh issue, because, and quote from the report,

'In its collections, the expertise and knowledge of its staff, its support of social and community development and its contribution to a knowledge of Welsh history and culture its achievements have been outstanding.'

'Hear, hear' I say to that. Amgueddfa Cymru continues to inspire patriots of today, and stands firm for Wales. Thank you very much.