Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:17 pm on 22 June 2022.
Thank you, Llywydd. I know that there are some time restrictions, so I will not respond to all comments, but I would like to thank the Minister for her contribution.
It's good to hear that the review will be completed by the end of the calendar year. The frustration for us is that if the process had started earlier, we would reach the finish line more quickly and we would then see positive outcomes in terms of the work of NRW.
You are right that any additional funding would need to be justified, because I and others would be the first to complain if that weren't the case. Therefore, one recognises that. And there is this question of income, too, as you touched upon at the very end there, from the forestry estate and from any renewable energy projects. That has been something that has been on the table for many, many years and I do now think that we must have a clear decision—either that that is reinvested in the work of NRW, or it's not, once and for all.
Now, 'gusto is coming'—I often quote this. I think that the Deputy Minister said that to the committee; I think that he was talking about public transport. Well, it feels like that for many things at the moment. Gusto is coming; well, it's about time it came, I do feel.
Just to conclude, I also want to echo the thanks to NRW staff for the exceptional work that they do and the exceptional responsibilities that they shoulder. Whatever you think of the organisation, or of the regulations that they have to implement, nobody doubts the motivation and commitment of the individuals in NRW, who do work day and night to help deliver the Wales we all want to see. But, what's crucial, of course—and hopefully what this debate and our report will contribute towards—is that the Government also plays its part and keeps its part of the deal to ensure that NRW has the resources and capacity needed to do their work effectively. Thank you.