New historic female Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan
This week, the Senedd was recalled to confirm the new First Minister and leader of Welsh Labour Eluned Morgan, to become the first female leader of the Devolved Government since inception 25 years ago. CLA Cymru was in Cardiff Bay to keep up to date with the changes.
Historic New First Minister
On 6th August 2024, the Senedd was recalled from its summer recess to officially confirm Eluned Morgan as the new First Minister of Wales. This significant moment marks the beginning of a new chapter in Welsh politics, with Morgan taking the helm following her uncontested election as Welsh Labour leader. Alongside her, Huw Irranca-Davies steps into the role of Deputy First Minister, signalling a leadership duo ready to navigate Wales through its current challenges.
Eluned Morgan: A seasoned politician
Eluned Morgan brings to the role of First Minister a wealth of experience spanning several decades. Her political career began in 1994 when, at just 27 years old, she was elected as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for Mid and West Wales. Over the course of her 25-year tenure in the European Parliament, Morgan took on key roles in finance, energy, and environmental portfolios.
In 2011, in recognition of her significant contributions to public service, Morgan was elevated to the House of Lords, becoming Baroness Morgan of Ely. As a life peer, she continued her work in the political sphere, serving as a Labour Whip and holding positions such as the Shadow Minister for Wales and the Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs. Her elevation to the Lords underscored her influence and respect within the party and beyond.
Morgan returned to Welsh politics in 2016 when she was elected to the Senedd, representing the same Mid and West Wales region she had served as an MEP. Since then, she has held several prominent ministerial roles, including Minister for International Relations, Minister for Health and Social Services, and Minister for the Welsh Language and Lifelong Learning. Her tenure as Health Minister was particularly challenging, coming at a time when the Welsh NHS faced unprecedented pressures.
Morgan's appointment as First Minister comes at a critical time for Welsh Labour, which has faced internal divisions and external pressures. Her focus appears to be on uniting the party and steering Wales towards a stable and prosperous future.
As the first woman to lead the Senedd, Morgan's leadership is also a historic moment.
Deputy Minister: Huw Irranca-Davies
Huw Irranca-Davies, who has been appointed as Deputy First Minister, is a respected figure in Welsh politics, known for his work in climate change and rural affairs. He will retain the role of Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs alongside this new responsibility. This alleviates concern regarding his potential departure in the midst of a lengthy SFS review alongside forward momentum in a variety of spheres during his tenure.
Irranca-Davies' expertise in environmental issues and rural development will be crucial as the Welsh Government continues to prioritise sustainability and the well-being of rural communities.
His collaboration with Morgan on what has been described as a "joint unity ticket" seems to reflect a shared commitment to common goals within the Labour Party.
"We extend our best wishes to Eluned Morgan and Huw Irranca-Davies as they begin their journey in these significant roles. Their combined experience and dedication to public service are well-suited to the challenges ahead. CLA Cymru looks forward to engaging with them on key issues affecting rural Wales and ensuring that the needs of our diverse communities are heard and addressed."
We look forward to meeting with both Members this month and working with them in their new roles. Warmest congratulations to both!
For more information and to get involved, members are welcome to contact CLA Cymru at wales@cla.org.uk.
