9. Debate: The President of the Welsh Tribunals Annual Report 2021-22

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:02 pm on 21 March 2023.

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Photo of Heledd Fychan Heledd Fychan Plaid Cymru 5:02, 21 March 2023

(Translated)

Huw Irranca referred to the use of the Welsh language, and certainly that came through very strongly. It's only in relation to issues that relate to the Welsh language that the language is used at the moment, and I think normalising the use of the Welsh language and ensuring that everyone is aware that the Welsh language option is available is very important.

Another issue that became apparent during our discussion was on the issue of the budget moving forward. There was some uncertainty in terms of the decrease in the budget for the coming year, but also it is unclear at the moment what the costs will be in the future. Clearly, having been able to hold hearings virtually has reduced costs, but as things proceed, we don't know what the demand will be in that regard. He was very eager to emphasise with us that obviously we don't know either how many cases haven't been brought forward during COVID, and that we do need an assurance therefore that the budget will be sufficient for that work to proceed. So, I just wanted to reflect a little on that too.

Clearly, in terms of the White Paper, it's very important that we do see progress in this area.