4. 90-second Statements

– in the Senedd at 3:02 pm on 8 May 2019.

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Photo of Elin Jones Elin Jones Plaid Cymru 3:02, 8 May 2019

(Translated)

And therefore, the next item is 90-second statements. Siân Gwenllian.

Photo of Siân Gwenllian Siân Gwenllian Plaid Cymru

(Translated)

Thank you, Llywydd. Last week, the funeral of Llywelyn Williams from Llanrug in my constituency was held. He was a bright, intelligent, young man. His loss is a loss to Wales, to Arfon and his community, but mainly, of course, to his family. He attended Ysgol Gynradd Llanrug and then Ysgol Uwchradd Brynrefail, before studying a degree course in Aberystwyth in politics and history. He was awarded a musical scholarship to attend university and, there, he was a loyal member of its orchestra. Whilst at Aberystwyth University, he was an enthusiastic member of the Welsh societies and was one of the founders of Yr Heriwr student newspaper. He was a diligent worker with the college branch of Plaid Cymru, working closely with the local Plaid Cymru branch in Aberystwyth. According to Llew's family, one of the highlights of his politics course was the opportunity to go on work experience to Parliament in London with MPs Elfyn Llwyd and Hywel Williams. There, he developed the enthusiasm and confidence to seek a career in politics and to serve his local community.

After his time in Aber, he moved back to Llanrug to work with Anglesey council, but, unfortunately, within just a few months, he was taken ill and required surgery at Walton hospital in Liverpool. Over the last three and a half years, he continued to be positive and enthusiastic, rekindling his musical interests with local brass bands and Dyffryn Peris choir. He worked diligently within his community as a community councillor and through Plaid committees and as a school governor at Ysgol Gynradd Llanrug. He was positive and strong, fighting till the end, despite his illness. We will remember Llew as a gentle and decent person. He was enthusiastic to see the success of others and a Welshman to the core. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and friends at this sad and difficult time.

Photo of Jayne Bryant Jayne Bryant Labour 3:05, 8 May 2019

The Tredegar House Folk Festival is among the highlights in Newport's cultural calendar. This weekend, the three-day festival is celebrating its thirtieth anniversary. During that time, hundreds of musicians, singers and dancers have gathered in Newport from all over the world. More than ever, this year's event will be a real celebration of the power of music to bring people together. There's something special about combining Welsh cultural heritage with the traditions and histories of countries from all corners of the globe. As well as visiting groups, recent winners of the BBC Radio Wales folk awards are among the line-up. There will be ceilidhs, workshops, dance and music sessions. It's wonderful to see people of all ages embracing such a variety of performances and styles. There's always something new and different to enjoy. I'm proud to have been asked to take up the role of president of the folk festival, succeeding Paul Flynn, who was an unwavering and avid supporter. Stephen Lyons and the annual organisers have again planned a fantastic programme. As ever, their commitment and hard work has created a real showcase of our rich culture. Together with many volunteer stewards, their dedication ensures that visitors keep coming back year after year. Excitement is building for this special anniversary year, and I look forward to seeing how the festival will continue to grow over the next 30 years.