5. 90-second Statements

– in the Senedd at 3:17 pm on 4 May 2022.

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Photo of David Rees David Rees Labour 3:17, 4 May 2022

(Translated)

So, we move on to item 5, the 90-second statements. Once again, we have one 90-second statement this week, and I call on Mabon ap Gwynfor.

Photo of Mabon ap Gwynfor Mabon ap Gwynfor Plaid Cymru

(Translated)

Thank you once again, Deputy Llwydd. Today, I want to draw the Senedd's attention to Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid-Bala Lake Railway, which travels from Llanuwchllyn to Bala and which, this week, celebrates its fiftieth anniversary since the first tracks were laid for the current railway. The original railway was part of a network that travelled from Ruabon to Barmouth, but like so many other railways in Wales, it suffered under Beeching's axe, back in 1965. But with the vision of George Barnes and the support of Councillor Tom Jones at that time a new company was established, the Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid company, the first company registered through the medium of Welsh, by the way. It started to operate 50 years ago in 1972, changing the track from a standard gauge to a narrow gauge and operating as a visitor attraction.

Very many people have given untold hours to secure the success of the railway, and we need to thank every one of the volunteers. Now the railway is looking to extend its tracks further into Bala and to develop a new station in the town that will attract thousands more visitors to the area. I look forward, therefore, to seeing this exciting new development in order to ensure another successful 50 years for this glorious railway in the lovely Meirionnydd area.