3. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:40 pm on 2 April 2019.

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Photo of David Lloyd David Lloyd Plaid Cymru 2:40, 2 April 2019

Trefnydd, last week, I raised with the Minister for environment what the latest position was in terms of the Swansea bay tidal lagoon. Now, it seems a long time ago since the Hendry review reported that the lagoon was a no-regrets option—in fact, a 'no-brainer', as I recall him saying at the time. Now, clearly, the UK Government's refusal to contribute funding has meant that alternative models are being looked at, as you know. But, unfortunately, I am also sensing that Welsh Government enthusiasm for the project is also faltering. Gone are the public announcements around the commitment to invest and we have heard next to nothing from the Welsh Government in terms of what practical actions they are taking to help deliver the scheme. Last October, the then Cabinet Secretary for Finance, now First Minister, told the Ocean Energy Europe conference, and I quote, some moving words:

'We are striving to make Wales a leading player in the marine energy field with energy generated from waves and the tide playing an important role in our ambitions for a low-carbon economy.'

End of quote. I would argue that the Swansea bay tidal lagoon is vital in terms of delivering that ambition. Therefore, will the Government commit to bringing forward a debate in Government time on the Swansea bay tidal lagoon and provide clarity as to the level and type of commitment towards that scheme? Plaid has always argued that the people of Wales should benefit from any wealth generated from our natural resources, and I would be interested to hear what action, if any, the Welsh Government is taking in this regard.