Diolch, Llywydd. Many of us had the privilege last week of welcoming 18 young women to the Senedd to take part in a leadership event arranged by Chwarae Teg—a day of activities to provide an insight into how the Assembly works and the role of Assembly Members. Now, each participant was partnered with an AM for the morning, participated in a question and answer session and took part in a mock debate to mark International Women's Day. The day proved to be a huge success and particularly positive, recognising that International Women's Day offers an important opportunity to reflect on progress that has been made around the world to achieve gender equality, but that we need to be bold in addressing the barriers that continue to prevent women from playing as full a role as men in the economic, political, social and cultural life of Wales. During the debate, there were some powerful messages put forward. One participant stated, 'We have just as much chance as boys of attending university, but the glass ceiling holding us back from high-level positions is still bolted into place. You can only punch at that glass ceiling alone so many times. You can only handle so much blood on your knuckles. International Women's Day is an opportunity for everyone doing this work to stand together'. And another stated, 'International Women's Day demonstrates and celebrates solidarity and respect for women, not only by women but also by educated men. This day shows the world that we will not settle for anything less than we are worth. This is why International Women's Day is still important in 2018.'

Long may this National Assembly show leadership and solidarity in bringing about equality. Diolch yn fawr.