INSIDE

Conference preview

Plaid’s new

President

Shouting for Wales

Greening the Valleys

Tax-raising powers

backed

SNP book review

Councillors seek

more powers

Had an independent Wales performed on a par with other small nations, people in Wales could be an average of nearly 40 per cent richer today and our Gross Domestic Product per head of population would be greater than that of the UK as a whole.

This is one of the key conclusions from a report produced by Harvard University researchers Adam Price and Ben Levinger and commissioned by Plaid President, Jill Evans MEP.

The report, The Flotilla Effect - Europe's small economies through the eye of the storm, looks at what has been achieved by small independent EU nations and what an independent Wales could have achieved.

Launching the report, Jill Evans said: “Plaid has a vision for a wealthier, more prosperous Wales.

“Plaid’s work in government has already shown that the party can take bold steps to ensure our nation has the right economic conditions to succeed in the coming years.

“This work will go on as we make the case for greater economic responsibility for our nation to make our people richer.

"The increasing progress towards independence of many small nations in the European Union, such as Catalonia, Flanders and Scotland, has put this issue firmly on the political agenda.

"The report shows quite clearly that the size of a state is no barrier to economic success and sets out the potential of an independent Wales. It provides further evidence that we have

nothing to fear from independence.

“Rather than being a hindrance to success, independence can be its catalyst.”

Adam Price, research fellow at the Centre for International Development at Harvard and former Plaid MP for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr, said: “We have looked in detail at what has been achieved by small independent EU nations and what an independent Wales could achieve.

"People in Wales could be about 39 per cent richer and the Welsh economy could have grown by 2.5 per cent a year had Wales achieved independence about the time of the fall of the Berlin Wall and followed a similar pattern to other similar small nations.

“In contrast, regions or countries which have rejected

independence have performed poorly.

"This report shows quite clearly that a small nation like Wales could benefit greatly from independence as many other small nations have done over the past decades.

“We discovered there is a considerable 'small country bonus' among many of the countries we studied, with smaller countries growing at a faster pace and recovering quicker from recession.

"Opponents of independence and further devolution have often misused the current economic problems to suggest that small countries would struggle for survival in tough economic times. Many conclusions of this report blow these assumptions out of the water.

“Far from hampering a country's prosperity, being small can actually lead to greater economic success and greater prosperity. When it comes to charting the best economic course, small countries are the most adept and that is reflected in their wealth and well-being."

WALES WOULD BE WEALTHIER AS AN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY

Wales would be a wealthier country had it become an independent nation within the EU in 1990, according to recent research. Plaid’s new

Chief Executive Former broadcaster and Special Adviser Rhuanedd Richards has been appointed as Plaid Cymru’s new Chief Executive.

Rhuanedd played a key role as a Special Adviser, providing policy and communications advice to the Plaid Ministers in the Welsh Government.

She was previously a reporter, producer and presenter, broadcasting in English and Welsh for BBC Wales, S4C and Radio Cymru.

Aged 37, Rhuanedd was brought up in the Cynon Valley and now lives in Pontypridd with her husband and two young children. She was a pupil at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydfelen before gaining a scholarship to study at Aberystwyth University. She studied for a postgraduate diploma in Broadcast Journalism at Cardiff University and later joined BBC Wales, working as an Assistant News Editor, presenter, reporter and producer of television and radio news.

She takes over from Gwenllian Lansdown who got married recently and who has moved to Montgomeryshire.

Rhuanedd said: "It's a huge privilege for me to have been given this opportunity. Plaid's contribution to Wales, particularly since devolution, has been tremendous both in terms of bringing about a law-making Assembly and in working tirelessly for the people of this country.

"I have joined Plaid as Chief Executive at a time of great opportunity as we seek to renew the party and articulate a clear vision and direction for the party and for Wales for the years ahead.

"My immediate priorities will be to support the party during this process and work with elected members and grassroots supporters alike to further broaden our appeal in all parts of Wales."

You can follow @rhuanedd on Twitter

You can see a video clip of Adam discussing some of the report’s key findings online at:

plaidcymru.org/flotilla

Summer 2011 INSIDE ►Labour gimmick exposed

►Chief Executive writes

►Summer School success

►Conference preview

►Tryweryn rally proposed

►Tribute to Dafydd Huws

►Leadership election latest

►Meet Plaid’s new AMs

View the full report at www.plaidcymru.org/flotilla

<<< Scan this QR code with your smartphone to download the report! For more info about QR codes visit www.plaidcymru.org/QR

Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P2

writes Chief Executive Rhuanedd Richards

It was with a wry smile on my face that on the 18th of June this year I listened to the journalist’s first question as I undertook my first broadcast interview since leaving the BBC newsroom four years ago.

“How do you feel about taking over as Chief Executive of Plaid Cymru at this time of crisis for the party?” Had I been slightly more composed and less apprehensive when faced with this incongruent experience of being in front of the camera rather than behind it, I would have responded by relaying the words of my former lecturer at the Cardiff School of Journalism, the late Bob Atkins.

He taught me that use of words such as ‘crisis’ or ‘catastrophe’ should be limited to describe situations such as wars and natural and man-made disasters where lives have been lost or threatened and should not be scattered in a lax manner across pieces of copy.

My attempts to adhere to that rule in no way detract from what has been since May a tumultuous

and deeply frustrating time for all Plaid members and supporters.

The loss of four incredibly hard-working Assembly Members and our failure to build on the results in 2007 have been a bitter blow to our party and to our progress as a nation in the immediate future. Without doubt, it has led us to what the aforementioned journalist should have described as a ‘critical juncture’ where I believe we will make the choice to expend our energy through defining, with greater clarity, the mission ahead and, through planning and improving, how it will be accomplished.

The recent debates at National Council and Ysgol Haf, and the countless discussions that have already taken place in the wake of May’s result have proved beyond doubt that Plaid has the energy, determination and backbone to make tough decisions with regard to the way we campaign in future and build support for the party.

Dr Eurfyl ap Gwilym and his team are already working hard to produce their recommendations by the end of 2011 to “Renew Plaid.” What we, the staff, members and volunteers need to bring to this process now are the

patience, discipline, clarity of thought and unity of purpose to grab this opportunity and to get it right. (It would be amiss not to mention that your donations could help enormously in funding this process too!)

If we succeed in doing so, and, to paraphrase a saying associated with the previously mentioned overused word, not waste ‘a good critical juncture’, I firmly believe we are facing an exciting 2012.

Preparations in Tŷ Gwynfor are already under way to facilitate the election of a new Plaid Cymru Leader and across the country our party is preparing for the local government elections. Both events will be important

opportunities for us to increase the support for the party, to build our membership and to re-energise our activists. I can assure you that we, the staff in HQ, will focus all our energy on doing everything we can to support the party in making the most of those opportunities and to see Plaid providing strong leadership in our communities and for the nation as a whole.

Over the next few months, it is my intention to travel across the country to meet as many activists, local party officials and staff as possible – old and new friends alike. In the meantime, if there are any specific issues you would like to raise with me, please contact Rhuanedd@plaidcymru.org.

I am so proud to have this opportunity to serve this party as its Chief Executive and, despite being acutely aware of the challenge we face in reaching our goals, it’s time we prepare to put the rhetoric into action and get on with it.

LET’S MAKE THE MOST OF OUR ‘CRITICAL JUNCTURE’

Labour’s election promise that they would fight Tory cuts has been described by Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM as a gimmick which misled the Welsh public.

First Minister Carwyn Jones, he said, promised the Welsh electorate that Labour would act as a shield to protect people in Wales from all Westminster cuts.

However, after being challenged on this pledge by Mr Thomas, following UK Government cuts in legal aid, Mr Jones said Labour couldn’t deliver on its promise.

In response to a question at the Assembly, Mr Jones said: “The cuts are being made by Westminster and not by us. We said in our manifesto that we would stand up for the people of

Wales and that we would ensure that we are in a position to do that. However, we cannot do that every time.”

Mr Thomas, AM for Carmarthen East and Dinefwr and Plaid’s Communities spokesman, said the statement by Mr Jones that he couldn’t stand up for the people of Wales when cuts were imposed by Westminster was a complete contrast to promises he made during the election.

“It is pretty appalling that Labour told people on the campaign trail that they would be a shield from all Westminster cuts and yet they are now washing their hands of their responsibilities,” he said.

“Labour made it clear in the election that voting for them

would put an end to Westminster cuts. Now they are saying that they can’t and won’t live up to that pledge. People across Wales will be wondering why they voted Labour when they have been so quick to give up on trying to protect them.”

Referring to cuts in police funding, which will mean the loss of an estimated 1,300 police jobs in Wales, Mr Thomas said the move would place huge strains on forces throughout Wales and would put crime prevention and detection under threat.

Mr Jones had given a personal commitment to protect Wales from all Westminster cuts, but was now accepting 1,300 police job cuts, he said.

“Constituents of mine have already spoken to me about how disappointed they are that Labour has failed to live up to its election promises, which have now been exposed as nothing more than an election gimmick,” said Mr Thomas. “Clearly Labour can’t and won’t protect Wales.”

Mr Thomas also criticised Labour’s attitude to UK Government plans to close courts in Wales.

“I have serious concerns about the future of local justice as a result of court closures in Wales, but Labour’s response appears to be that the closures are being made by Westminster so there is nothing they will do to stand up against them,” he said. “That attitude simply is not good enough for a party that said something completely different during the election.”

LABOUR’S ELECTION GIMMICK EXPOSED

You can follow @rhuanedd on Twitter

Don’t forget to Like Plaid’s official page to keep up to date with the latest news and help us spread the word!

facebook.com/plaidcymruwales

writes Plaid President Jill Evans MEP Congratulations to Geraint Day and the Tŷ

Gwynfor team for organising this year's highly successful Summer School in Bala. It was the best attended for many years, with members coming from all parts of the country - and be-yond - and it was good to see so many young people there. It was an inspiring weekend, full of ideas and debates to get us all thinking of the future of Wales in the world. Dr Alan Sandry presented his book on the philosophy of Plaid Cymru; there was a debate on Libya; we heard from John Osmond about

the effect of three referendums on Welsh politics; and Adam Price and Ben Levinger demonstrated how much better off Wales would be if we had become independent in 1990. The first Summer School was held 85 years ago in Owain Glyndwr's Parliament in Machynlleth. This year was the first time we met with a real parliament in Wales, thanks to Plaid Cymru. 2011 will be a huge landmark in the history of the party and while in Bala we remembered another - Tryweryn. The 50th anniversary of the drowning of Capel Celyn and the opening of the reservoir is in 2015. It is a reminder of the need for control over our valuable natural assets which are so vital to our economy.

There was an exciting session with Alyn Smith, MEP, and his SNP col-leagues on how the SNP won and "liberated their parliament"! I won't forget seeing their map of Scottish constituencies covered in SNP yellow and dreaming of a map of Wales covered in Plaid green! A constant theme of our discus-sions was how we have to be pre-pared for the emerging debate on Scottish independence to ensure that we move Wales forward. An essential part of that is having honest analysis, real research and open discussion to strengthen our case. The presentations I have men-tioned, as well as the many others at the Summer School, leave me in no doubt that this party is brim-ming with ideas and talent.

We need to renew and revitalise to take on the new challenges we face. Those in Glan Llyn can truly boast "I was there". The party has also launched a re-view chaired by Eurfyl ap Gwilym, Moving Forward: Renewing Plaid for Wales, which will report by the end of the year. Thank you to eve-ryone who attended the six meet-ings I held in July and who have sent in ideas. There is a lot of work to do but I know from your comments that we have the energy and enthusiasm to do it. This is an exciting time to be involved in Plaid Cymru and I urge all of you to join in the debate - and join in the fun!

SUMMER SCHOOL SUCCESS AUGURS WELL FOR CHALLENGES AHEAD

Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P3

You can follow @jillevansmep on Twitter

Plaid Cymru members will be visiting Venue Cymru in Llandudno for our annual conference, which takes place from Thursday to Saturday, September 8 to 10. Thursday will be taken up with discussion sessions, presentations, training, and events, such as the Gwynfor Memorial Lecture. On Friday and Saturday, there’ll be onstage debates with speeches from many of our elected members. There should also be some key discussions on the future development of Plaid. Members will have much they want to contribute following our recent successes and disappointments. The

Annual Conference is the perfect opportunity for YOU to have your say – and entrance is free. Several members are standing for election to Plaid’s National Executive Committee. This year, members will be voting for who will chair Plaid Cymru and who will be the Director of Organisation. With only eight months between the Annual Conference and the council elections in May, the conference will provide a good chance to meet councillors and candidates. There’ll also be plenty of social events. You’ll be able to relax or continue the

policy discussions during the various get-togethers arranged for the evenings. Where there’s an entrance fee, tickets will be on sale from Tŷ Gwynfor and at the reception desk during the conference itself - although it’s never a good idea to leave these things until the last minute. The social calendar will begin on Thursday night with a CymruX gig in a local venue, headlined by Dafydd Iwan and followed by a game of Bingo with plenty of prizes.

On Friday, the conference dinner will have guest speakers and a three-course meal at Venue Cymru. Last but not least, the annual Revue will take place on Saturday evening. It remains to be seen whether newly-elected Assembly Member Lindsay Whittle will leave the risqué comedy at home now he’s an AM! Please contact Vici Jones (vicijones@plaidcymru.org) for more information and to book your tickets.

CONFERENCE 2011 SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE AND SEA AIR TOO...

Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P4

The Pembrey and Burry Port branch of Plaid Cymru convened a special meeting recently to discuss the Assembly election and express their opinions on the direction Plaid should now take to maximise its support in the future and realise its long-term goal of national independence. As the dust settles in the aftermath of the May 5th election results, the time has come to analyse fully the future political direction, both for Plaid Cymru and Wales generally. Plaid Cymru suffered a reversal. There’s no question of that, but the damage is not irreparable and, according to the results in the four seats we lost, could be assessed as superficial. Had we won a comparatively small number of extra votes, we would have retained our seats. However, results aside, our campaign in general was lacklustre. There seemed no hwyl or sense of purpose or direction. We seemed to have become bogged down in the humdrum politics of an Assembly, purposely designed to contain Wales’ aspirations within a restricted colonial system, manipulated from London. The advent of 2011 has changed all that, but it may take some time for the events of this spring to impact fully on people’s awareness of the political reality that now faces them. Winning the referendum on

legislative powers proved a significant step forward in our nation’s history, and we must thank Plaid’s initiative to enter into coalition with Labour and ensure that the referendum became part of the four-year agreement. At last we can now make laws – for the first time since our last legislative Parliament in the first decade of the 15th century. For Plaid Cymru, though, it now releases the party to move forward and begin formulating exciting new policies for the journey towards its final objective of Welsh independence, the long-term goal that inspired so many of our veteran members back in those eventful days of the 1960s and 1970s. Here, at last, we have reached the position where we can begin that final assault on our objective, the re-emergence of Cymru as a sovereign and equal partner among the free nations of the world and the termination of centuries of humiliation, as a colony. The spring of 2011, however, has unleashed an unexpected revolution that, as political commentators have accurately put it, Britain has not experienced in 300 years. The resounding victory of our sister party, the SNP, in Scotland has transformed politics north of the border overnight and will affect other parts of the British

Isles in the coming months like an oncoming political tsunami. The SNP victory will undoubtedly inspire nationalists throughout Wales and embolden future campaigns for independence. Plaid Cymru now needs to take a step back from coalition politics, allowing the London parties to stumble ahead in their lamentable efforts to run Cardiff Bay and Westminster. Plaid needs to take its time to assess the new political reality. It needs to formulate a new and radical approach during the next couple of years, culminating in the launch of a comprehensive strategy for the journey to independence. It needs, for instance, to introduce exciting initiatives, such as an all-encompassing policy for energy and water production within Welsh borders and the ownership and financial control of all energy supplies. Such a major policy could be launched on the shores of Tryweryn with a well-organised rally of members and supporters, with further policy launches following at intervals, galvanising support Wales-wide. Such a radical new direction would, I believe, attract thousands of new members to Plaid and attract the return of countless others who, over the years, have lost the inspiration to remain in the party or help the struggle generally.

Around these new initiatives, and taking strength from Scotland’s example, Plaid can generate a resurgent sense of purpose, a new sprit among members and a message that will spread to every corner of Wales, with, as a background to this, the ever-increasing pressure as Scotland draws ever nearer to its ultimate destination. It is also imperative that Plaid Cymru makes every effort to attract Adam Price back into active politics and in a leadership role. It is members with his vision and charisma that Plaid needs to steer us forward and get our message across successfully. We also need to attract back the likes of Dyfan Jones, another gifted, charismatic individual who has so much to contribute. Helen Mary Jones and Dafydd Wigley should also have a major part to play. They are all persuasive and articulate, and it’s figures like these and other talented members that we must look to if Plaid is to truly seize the initiative and propel Wales forward to a new dawn! The alternative, God help us, is complacency, ignorance of events and the significance of Scotland’s revolution, blindly scrambling into coalition with Labour at the earliest opportunity, following the humdrum politics of the status quo and then, at the next election, promising to run Wales a little better than the other parties. No vision, no message to inspire, no ambition – a recipe for terminal decline for Plaid and further frustration for its members. Wales faces the most exciting period politically in decades. We have to be up for this challenge. Seize the day!

PLAID SHOULD LAUNCH WATER AND ENERGY POLICY WITH TRYWERYN RALLY writes Geoff Ifans

COUNCILLORS URGED TO PUBLICISE SUCCESSES Plaid Cymru councillors have been urged to spell out the good work they are doing in their communities. Assembly Local Government spokesperson Rhodri Glyn Thomas and Sian Thomas, who chairs the Plaid Councillors’ Association, said it was essential voters knew of Plaid successes in the run-up to next year’s council elections. They made their comments following a meeting between Association officers and Mr

Thomas. Sian Thomas said: “We need to acknowledge examples of good practice from our council groups, showing how Plaid has made a

difference – in control, in a ruling coalition and when scrutinising council business. “We have a major role in a number of councils and should

show clearly that Plaid has made a positive difference to the community. “All too often we are so busy working for the community that we forget to let people know about our efforts.” Mr Thomas said: “I’m keen to visit our council groups and celebrate our successes. “We need to publicise our achievements. “There are opportunities in the Assembly to question Ministers about issues of concern to councillors and I will bring up any issues that our councillors want me to.”

Rhodri Glyn Thomas, AM, Chris Franks, secretary, Sian Thomas, chair, John Taylor, treasurer, and Phil Bevan vice-chair.

You can follow @rhodriglynplaid on Twitter

You can keep up to date with the very latest leadership election news online at:

Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P5

Plaid Cymru members will elect their new Leader early next year, following Ieuan Wyn Jones’ decision to step down.

Nominations will open in early January and the new Leader will be announced in time for the party's Spring Conference in March.

Mr Jones signalled his intention to stand down as party leader in May following the 2011 Welsh General Election, but agreed to stay in post while a the party’s consultation on the future, Renewing Plaid for Wales, is conducted.

He said: "I look forward to an important contest for Plaid Cymru

with the proven talent we have in our team of AMs. It is clear the future of the party will lie in good hands.

"Under my leadership, Plaid Cymru has emerged from a successful period in government and has continued to push the agenda forward since the May elections.

“We have operated as a constructive and robust opposition to the new Labour Government since the election and highlighted their lack of ambition for Wales.

“We have also set out the alternative vision we have as a party and we will continue to do

that under my leadership until it is time for me to hand over the reins to a new leader."

All Plaid members will be invited to a series of leadership hustings in locations across the nation during the election period.

Paying tribute to Ieuan Wyn Jones as Plaid Leader, Westminster Group Leader Elfyn Llwyd, MP, said that under Mr Jones’ leadership, the political landscape of Wales had changed for the better, with the party achieving historic landmarks.

“Ieuan led Plaid Cymru into Government for the very first time in our history, always putting the interests of Wales first and crucially securing the referendum which now means Wales has its own, proper Parliament,” he said.

“He played a crucial role in the last Welsh Assembly Government and proved himself an effective Minister for Transport and the Economy with widespread support from the business community.

“He has shown great commitment

and dedication to the party over the years. Wales has come a long way under his leadership and so has Plaid Cymru.

“I wish him and his wife Eirian all the best in the future. I know that when a new leader is in place, Ieuan will continue to champion the needs of Ynys Mon and make a substantial contribution to Welsh politics.”

LEADERSHIP CONTEST IN THE NEW YEAR

@plaid_cymru

/plaidcymruwales

writes Dafydd Williams

Dafydd Huws, who has died aged 75, was a leading member of Plaid Cymru who helped hold the party together at a crucial phase in its history.

He combined three careers – as a psychiatrist, farmer and politician – bringing to each a capacity for innovation and for speaking his mind.

Later in life he turned to the promotion of renewable energy as a way of bringing new life to rural communities in West Wales.

Dr Huws worked as a leading psychiatrist and became Clinical Director of South Glamorgan psychiatry service.

His natural gift for communication meant he was soon in demand by the media, making frequent appearances on radio and television on medical issues and current affairs in both Welsh and English.

His second career, in agriculture, provided a welcome relief from the strains of medical life. Soon after I got to know him, he took the major gamble of acquiring part ownership of Mynydd Gorddu, an upland farm in the Pontgoch area near Aberystwyth, close to his childhood home.

But most people will remember him for his involvement with politics as a lifelong member of Plaid Cymru.

In the heady days that followed the 1966 Carmarthen by-election, Dafydd took on the task of contesting the Plasmawr ward in Cardiff West, an area that included Fairwater and part of Ely.

In 1969 his charisma and enthusiasm carried the day, winning Plaid Cymru’s first ever seat on Cardiff City Council with a razzmatazz campaign that included

motorcades and yellow dayglo posters galore.

He became Chairman of Plaid Cymru in the wake of the failed 1979 referendum and the loss of Gwynfor Evans’ seat at Carmarthen. Plaid Cymru owes him a huge debt of

gratitude for holding the party together at a difficult time in its history.

An innovator by instinct, he saw that developing wind energy could help provide rural communities with a much needed economic input, providing that control was in the hands of local people. He succeeded in developing a wind farm at Mynydd Gorddu in the face of

opposition, mainly from incomers to the area. That involved a running battle over the red tape surrounding the supply of power through the National Grid, which made local control well nigh impossible.

Whatever the challenges that confronted him in his professional and political life, there is no doubting the enormous happiness he found in his family. Meeting Rhian brought to an end his career as one of Wales’ most eligible bachelors. It opened up his life as a husband and father of three daughters and two sons, who were a source of great happiness to him.

To his family and friends, Dafydd will remain the source of many fond memories. To all of us, his life is an inspiration to make Wales the free, self-respecting nation that he sought for future generations.

Dafydd Williams was General Secretary of Plaid Cymru, 1971-1993

DAFYDD HUWS: LEADING PSYCHIATRIST WHO BECAME PLAID’S FIRST CARDIFF COUNCILLOR

Welsh Nation Summer 2011 P6

FOR YOUR BOOKCASE Three books of interest to Plaid members have been published recently.

The Welsh in an Australian Gold Town, Ballarat, Victoria, 1850-1900

by Robert Llewellyn Tyler

Focuses on the Welsh immigrant community in the Ballarat/Sebastopol gold mining district of

Victoria, Australia, and looks at the changes the Welsh community there underwent during the second half of the 19th century.

Newport-born Dr Tyler is a Plaid member, Welsh Nation sub-editor, author and historian, who has had work published in several journals and is presently researching the Welsh in 19th century Pittsburgh.

How Many Aircraft Carriers Would an Independent Wales

Have?

by Siôn T. Jobbins

This is a collection of articles, dealing with Welsh cultural, historical, political and linguistic issues,

most of which have appeared over the last seven years in Cambria magazine.

Siôn Jobbins was a Plaid Cymru town councillor in Aberystwyth and Mayor of Aberystwyth, 1999-2000. He is a past Assembly and Westminster Election candidate and writes for Cambria.

Plaid Cymru—An Ideological Analysis

by Alan Sandry

In this study of Plaid Cymru’s political philosophy, Dr Sandry challenges the conventional assumption that Plaid

Cymru conforms to the traditional model of a nationalist party, noting that Plaid’s ideology is diverse and complex and shares certain political convictions with other political philosophies.

Dr Sandry is a lecturer in Social and Political Theory at Cardiff University and is joint author of Devolution in the UK.

On certain levels, the achievements of Plaid Cymru over the past half century have been impressive. The party has long since ceased to be regarded as a group of eccentric dreamers and its legislators have convincingly demonstrated that they are not dangerous, incompetent lunatics. The degree of autonomy the Welsh now exercise is at an all-time high, if far from what many would like to see. So, if success is judged by the fruits of incrementalism and by the creation of careers for professional politicians and their staff, the verdict has to be positive. However, judged by other criteria, the verdict must be that Plaid Cymru has lost its way and compromised the goal for which it came into being. By placing its left-wing ideology before nationalism, Plaid Cymru has confused voters and has paid the price in the last election. Voters concluded that there is no point in having two Labour parties in Wales (one is bad enough!), and most voters chose the one which actually bears that name. As long as Plaid Cymru shared the Labour bed, talked about Westminster politics and parroted left-wing shibboleths, it allowed the people to lose sight of the one thing that makes us different from other parties. We alone believe in a free, independent Wales. So now is the time for us to return to the goal for which were created. As often as possible, Plaid Cymru must place itself on one side with all other parties on the other. On all issues, Plaid Cymru must position itself so it is seen to be standing alone— and above all else—for Wales. The question cannot be what is left-wing or right-wing, but only what will advance the day when Wales becomes an independent nation. A declaration of independence which would be considered legitimate by other nations would have to be preceded by a referendum in which a convincing majority of the residents of Wales answered Yes to an unambiguous question. It is virtually axiomatic that a successful referendum could only be concluded if it followed the accession of a majority Plaid Cymru government in a National (Welsh) Election. It seems likely Plaid will achieve that objective only if it concentrates its efforts, sets out to end confusion amongst the voters and seeks support from all - regardless of ideology - who have nationalistic leanings. This would require the cessation of three activities in which Plaid and/or significant numbers of its supporters currently engage. The effort to secure representation in the English parliament is, I suggest, well-intentioned folly. This tortuous and often disappointing and unrewarding attempt to be

a Welsh voice in the English wilderness not only depletes and divides resources which would be more profitably directed towards Welsh national elections, but inadvertently lends legitimacy to English interference in Welsh affairs. The involvement of Plaid in a coalition may have reassured the electorate that we are not wild characters who would run amok if given responsibility, but that participation sent all the wrong messages. It told voters we were not fundamentally different and did not stand alone for Wales. Also, it gave strength to the Labour Party and reinforced the notion that it is a legitimate force in Wales, rather than an alien transplant. There must be a clear determination that Plaid will never again enter a coalition, at least until Wales is free. Labour are not our brothers or kissing cousins. As long as Labour remains strong in the country, Plaid’s ultimate goals will be frustrated. In Labour’s failures will lie Plaid’s opportunities. There needs to be a positive effort to attract the support of incomers to Wales into the party. We need to look at how we target their votes. A successful Yes result will require many of their votes too. Similarly, snarling vituperatively at conservatively minded people because of real or imagined historic injustices is unlikely to persuade many of them, who may be nationalists in their own way, to lend their support when it counts most. Should we really care how they vote in English elections if we could get their support in Welsh national elections and on the crucial day? Ultimately success will depend upon how many residents of Wales, regardless of their origins, feel Welsh when the clarion is sounded. To achieve that, education will be essential and, to the extent it is feasible, Plaid Cymru should back free courses in Welsh history, culture and language and later, when we get the power to do so, should offer financial help to those who successfully undertake such courses. Certainly honey will achieve more than vinegar. And the Welsh have often been good at seduction. Plaid Cymru must be a nationalist party which stands first, last and always for Welsh independence. That is the raison d’être of our party and any attempt to subordinate that must be condemned. Jeremy Akerman grew up in Sir Fynwy and is a former leader of the New Democratic Party of Nova Scotia, Member of the Legislature for Cape Breton East and head of Constitutional and Intergovernmental Affairs for the Government of Nova Scotia.

PLAID MUST STRIVE FOR WELSH INDEPENDENCE Former leader of the New Democratic Party of Nova Scotia, Jeremy Akerman writes to the Nation

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Llŷr Huws Gruffydd regional member for North Wales Could you give a brief summary of your life to date? After serving as President of UMCA students’ union in Aberystwyth, I joined Menter Cwm Gwendraeth and helped pioneer the model of language initiatives which is now replicated across Wales. I then became Director of CWVYS, the body representing voluntary youth organisations in Wales. In 1999 I worked for Plaid, co-ordinating Dafydd Wigley’s campaign as party leader in the run-up to the first Assembly election and co-ordinating the European election cam-paign, when Plaid very nearly overtook La-bour as the main party in Wales. I subsequently worked for Plaid MEPs Jill Evans and Eurig Wyn before moving to north Wales to work for the economic devel-opment company, Menter a Busnes, helping people set up new businesses. I later became the North East Wales Consultancy Manager for Wales’ largest conservation charity, the National Trust. I have been a local councillor and stood in four national elections, increasing Plaid’s vote every time until this May, when I was elected. What is your favourite book? Any of the books I read with my children. Your favourite film? Planet of the Apes (the original version) Your favourite TV programme ? C’mon Midffild Your favourite song? Ysbryd Solfa by Meic Stevens Your favourite singer or group? Stone Roses Your favourite quotation? If you always do what you’ve always done, you’ll always get what you always got! What are your hobbies and interests? Days out with my young family and football. Even better if they’re both combined! Who or what inspired you to join Plaid Cymru? My parents. Their passion and commitment for the national cause is in my DNA! What are your aims and ambitions as an AM? To walk the walk, not just talk the talk. What would you say to someone con-sidering joining Plaid? Don’t just complain from afar. Get involved and change things for the better.

Lindsay Whittle regional member for South Wales East Could you give a brief summary of your life to date? I have been a member of Plaid Cymru since 1968 and have served in every post at branch and constituency level. First elected as a councillor in 1976, I have held continuous office since then and have served at community, borough and county level. I was Leader of Caerffili Council from 1999 to 2004 and from 2008 to 2011. I have stood in parliamentary elections seven times between 1983 and 2010 and in every Assembly election. A member of the National Council and Na-tional Executive, I worked as a housing man-ager for 25 years in south Wales. I am a proud Caerffili person who is passion-ate about my town and country and its peo-ple. What is your favourite book? One from my childhood, Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain. Your favourite film? Zulu. Your favourite TV programme ? Gavin & Stacey Your favourite song? Beatles: Long and Winding Road Your favourite singer or group? Split between Ryan Davies and Shirley Bassey. Your favourite quotation? Just do it. What are your hobbies and interests? My hobbies include gardening, antiques and, of course, rugby. Who or what inspired you to join Plaid Cymru? I was inspired to join by Gwynfor Evans. What are your aims and ambitions as an AM? To serve all the people to the very best of my ability. I will not be a Yes man and will al-ways challenge the system. What would you say to someone con-sidering joining Plaid? If anyone is considering joining Plaid Cymru, they will need to be dedicated to a cause that is greater than any. We can achieve our goals by inspiring the people of Wales and you can be part of it, so just do it.

Simon Thomas regional member for Mid and West Wales Could you give a brief summary of your life to date? Up and down. What is your favourite book? Novel – Un Nos Ola Leuad or To Kill a Mockingbird. Non-fiction – anything by Tony Judt or Byron Rogers. Cookbook - Elizabeths Davies and Luard Your favourite film? I saw a film called Redemption by Tengiz Abduladze, a satire on Stalin made on the cusp of perestroika. I have never forgotten it, but I can watch Witness, Alien and Gladiator time and time again. Your favourite TV programme ? It’s Scandinavian and it has jumpers, or else American and has cigarettes, alcohol and sexism. Your favourite song? No More Heroes by the Stranglers: should be compulsory listening at every Plaid meeting. Your favourite singer or group? Richard Thompson has been an influence on my life. He introduced me to the excitement – yes you read that right – of English folk music and through that to my own hidden culture. Your favourite quotation? I’m an annoying perfectionist, so it’s Voltaire Le mieux est l'ennemi du bien. The better (perfect) is the enemy of the good. Even searching out the original French shows how bad I am. What are your hobbies and interests? Being dragged out into the open air by my wife Gwen. Who or what inspired you to join Plaid Cymru? Thatcher. What are your aims and ambitions as an AM? To show the world we can run our own af-fairs. What would you say to someone con-sidering joining Plaid? Do you still ask your parents’ permission to run your own life?

MEET THE NEW BOYS at the Senedd

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Do you know that all women members of Plaid Cymru are also members of the Women’s Section (Adran y Menywod)? Perhaps you are interested but think it is not performing a role, or perhaps you did not know it existed. Whatever you think, there are lots of other women thinking the same thing. The section has been around for most of the party’s existence. In its early days, it raised money for the party. Later, in the 1980s, it became intensely political, largely getting involved in issues of fairness and campaigning in the peace movement, for workers’ rights and for recognition of women in the party. Women started to win elections for posts within the party and as councillors and also temporarily won positive action for positions on regional lists for the Assembly. There were times of high drama and times of partying with some very funny moments as well. Inevitably it came under considerable attack and, with many disillusioned with the party, became a small, fairly inactive group. However, it continued to exist as an official section within the party, paying its levy and always holding a meeting during the annual conference. If you are a woman - and therefore a member of the

section - would you like to take part in the discussions and arguments now under way about its future role? Should the section campaign on issues which particularly affect women and children – trafficking of women and children, abortion, childcare provision, carers, pensions, for example, or should the section engage in more general political action? Should the main activity be training and mentoring women to become candidates, increasing confidence to take on highly competitive roles at council, Assembly or Westminster level? If you want to become involved, we need to know who you are and how to contact you. As some members register using their initials and last name only, the national party does not know the gender of many members and is unable to help us to contact you. We hope, therefore, that you will contact us instead. Our e-mail address is polisi@plaidcymru.org - and if you are not on e-mail you can write to Janet Davies, 33, Heol Belgrave, Abergavenny, Gwent, NP7 7AH. The section’s activists are not frightening intellectuals and hardline feminists. We are just women who think campaigning for Wales and for women in Wales is not just important, but crucial for our future.

CALLING PLAID WOMEN Come and help the Women’s Section

NEW WEBSITE RECALLS PLAID CYMRU HISTORY

www.hanesplaidcymru.org A new website has been unveiled to commemorate the ups and downs in the history of Plaid Cymru. The website is sponsored by the Plaid Cymru History Society and among items being revealed for the first time are the recollections of former Plaid General Secretary Emrys Roberts, who fought the Merthyr Tydfil by-election in 1972, following the death of S. O. Davies. A Bee or Two in my Bonnet – Notes of a Nationalist and Socialist will be published in five bilingual episodes. In the first episode, Mr Roberts recalls his upbringing in Leamington Spa and his family’s move to Cardiff during the early years of the Second World War. He also describes how he improved his Welsh language skills – and occasions when he made use of them in his clashes with authority. “Years later, Margaret and I had to go to court for refusing to pay Thatcher’s Poll Tax,” he said. “The Magistrate went wild when he realised - when our comments were translated – that we had been making political speeches, but it was too late to stop us then!” The aims of the Society are to promote discussion, knowledge and research about the history of Plaid Cymru. Its website can be accessed at: www.hanesplaidcymru.org.

500 CLUB Why Join? The 500 Club was set up to raise funds for Plaid Cymru’s Na-tional Assembly and Parliamentary campaigns. Over half of the money raised is returned to club members as prizes. Each member is allocated a club number, which is entered in a monthly prize draw. And remember…The more members there are, the larger the prizes. Once there are 500 members, the annual prizes will total £ 15,500!

Join today by visiting www.plaidcymru.org or contact Caryl Wyn Jones

at Ty Gwynfor on 029 20 472272