4. 90-second Statements

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:32 pm on 2 December 2020.

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Photo of Ann Jones Ann Jones Labour 3:32, 2 December 2020

Diolch, Llywydd. Tomorrow, we celebrate International Day of People with Disabilities, and the theme this year is 'Not all disabilities are visual'. And this theme, especially in this unprecedented year, should alert us all to be more aware of the many hidden disabilities there are, and how we should be more open to helping everyone through these most difficult times. So, as a politician with a disability, I have sought to speak out on issues that affect many, but for whom a simple solution could be adopted—it doesn't always need legislation. For example—and it's my classic example—handrails on both sides of a flight of stairs or ramps can make such a difference to a person with a mobility issue, to allow them to become more independent.

I've recently been elected as one of the nine regional champions to help lead the work of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, and I will do my best to highlight the work that we have done here within our Senedd. There is still much more to do on this front, of course. And so, as we celebrate this important day, we need to redouble our efforts to see a far more equal society. And this is the plug—I'm chairing the Senedd's virtual panel discussion tomorrow evening on the theme of 'A vision for a more equal Wales'. So, I hope you will all join me in this very exciting event. Diolch yn fawr iawn.