During Plaid Cymru’s annual conference in Cardiff on Friday, October 11, leader Rhun ap Iorwerth made a speech outlining the party’s key points on the economy, education, and health, as they gear up for the upcoming Senedd election in 2026. He emphasised the need for both immediate improvements and longer-term change, stating that Wales could not afford another 25 years of Labour governance. While the speech discussed various areas, there was notably little mention of Welsh independence.
The conference followed a successful period for Plaid Cymru, with significant gains in the 2024 General Election, making them the second-largest party in Wales. Ap Iorwerth received a warm reception at the conference, highlighting the party’s unity and determination for the future. The focus of his speech centred on revitalising the NHS, which included increased spending on preventative health measures, tackling emergency maintenance backlogs, and reforming cancer care and governance within the healthcare system.
In the realm of education, the Plaid leader pledged to bring education “back to basics” and drew inspiration from Northern Ireland’s educational strategy to address literacy issues among Welsh students. The speech also touched on housing policies, with a promise to enshrine a right to an adequate home in law, emphasizing the need for affordable and sustainable housing solutions across Wales.
Furthermore, ap Iorwerth criticised both UK and Welsh Labour administrations, particularly highlighting issues such as reduced Winter Fuel Payments and questionable gifts received by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Plaid leader’s speech underscored a commitment to prioritising Wales’ best interests and challenging the status quo.
As preparations for the Senedd election ramp up, Rhun ap Iorwerth’s speech at the Plaid Cymru conference set out a vision for a government that aims to break the cycle of short-term thinking and bring about positive change in key sectors affecting the lives of people in Wales.