As we come to the end of 2013, I just wanted to take this opportunity to quickly review some of the key issues that I have been working on this year on your behalf.
Broadband Coverage: A priority for me this year as the lack of digital connectivity in Mid-Wales is a significant problem. I was conscious that rural areas like Montgomeryshire must not lose out on government infrastructure investment that is why last February, I established a Cross Party Group on Digital Communication in the National Assembly. One of the areas we have scrutinised in detail is the Welsh Government’s next generation broadband project. For me it is vitally important that rural areas with little or no broadband coverage are prioritised in this project by Welsh Ministers and BT.
Transport Issues: After years of campaigning, we are now seeing real movement on the Newtown Bypass project. Glyn Davies MP and I recently met with the contractors to talk about each phase of the project to ensure that the construction phase starts on time in 2015.
The need to resolve the current congestion problems in and around Newtown has also been a priority for me. I recently met with the Transport Minister to discuss some significant alteration work being planned for 2014. I have also proactively raised other transport issues affecting our area with the Government including securing the best, long-term solution for the Dyfi Bridge crossing; pressing for the urgent implementation of an hourly service on the Cambrian Line and urging the re-examination of plans for a bypass between Pant and Llanymynech.
Mid Wales Connection Project: While National Grid has laid down its plans for the Mid Wales Connection Project, the fight to protect our beautiful landscape continues. There has been a lot of campaign activity this year, particularly with the establishment of the umbrella campaign group, The Alliance. It has taken a proactive role in the Public Inquiry currently taking place and Glyn Davies and I have been working closely with them to put more pressure on the UK and Welsh Governments. The Inquiry still has a number of months yet to run and Glyn and I will be addressing the Inquiry in the spring.
Agriculture: Who can forget the dreadful weather conditions experienced earlier this year that had such an incredible impact on our farming communities in Montgomeryshire. I worked closely with farmers and the farming unions to ensure those affected received what they were entitled to.
The Welsh Government has recently announced its plans to implement the new Common Agriculture Policy in Wales. One of the most controversial aspects will be the transfer of funds from production support to rural development. Both areas are important and ensuring that the right balance is struck so that Welsh farmers remain competitive in Europe will be an important issue for me in 2014.
Local Services: I have been involved in a number of battles this year to protect our vital local services. Some have been successful like saving Llandinam and Carno schools, preventing the downgrading of services at Bronglais and most recently, saving Montgomery Fire Station from closure. However, other campaigns are still being fought like orthopaedic postponements at Bronglais and others are still to be fought, like the re-organisation of healthcare in Shropshire.
Of course I understand the need for austerity but in rural areas, service reduction has a greater impact than it does in urban areas. You can be assured that I will do everything I possibly can in 2014 to protect our critical local services from unnecessary change or cutbacks.
Looking Ahead in 2014: Next year is going to be an important fundraising year for 2015, when Montgomeryshire becomes the official host of the National Eisteddfod of Wales. A ‘Grand Raffle’ is being planned by the Montgomeryshire Event Committee, with a number of major prizes which will hopefully entice lots of people to enter. As well as donating a prize, I will also be hosting a coffee morning from 10.00am on Saturday 15th February at 13 Parkers Lane, Newtown, to celebrate the National Eisteddfod coming to the county. It will be an opportunity for people to understand what the Eisteddfod coming to Montgomeryshire means for our community and I hope you will be able to attend.
I wish you a happy and prosperous New Year!