Ukrainian Refugees

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Social Justice – in the Senedd at 2:21 pm on 1 March 2023.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Huw Irranca-Davies Huw Irranca-Davies Labour 2:21, 1 March 2023

Minister, I really welcome the support that has been given by Welsh Government and local authorities and local communities, indeed, and voluntary organisations to all of our Ukrainian friends. It's a gift that we receive in providing hospitality, not a burden that we assume. My own two lovely guests—indeed, our friend—who fled the conflict from eastern Ukraine and, in doing so, helped in taking many young children to safety in Poland now live with us and enjoy life here in Wales, whilst also working, paying tax and learning.

Minister, would you agree with me that we need to extend a welcome and sanctuary to all people who flee terror and persecution? Would you also agree with me that the language that we use is very important, recognising people as people, individuals and families, not 'them' and 'us', not 'migrants', and that compassion and tolerance are universal, not selective? This extends also to those in the Traveller community who have been historically persecuted and vilified. Our words are important, including in this Siambr, as are those of Pastor Martin Niemöller in his work that begins, 'First they came for'. We should remember them, including in this Siambr. Travellers' rights are not part of some 'woke agenda', Llywydd; they are not. They are not 'them' and 'us'; they are us. [Members of the Senedd: Hear, hear.]