Hannah Blythyn MS for Delyn shares summer recess plans
The Senedd is now on recess for the summer, meaning I have more time to get out and about here at home.
Over the coming weeks, I'm planning on kicking off my next round of street surgeries in locations across the constituency.
The so-called street surgeries see my team and I speaking to people without them having to leave home and it is a chance for constituents to raise a range of things or simply say hello!
The summer in Wales brings with it a packed calendar of events that celebrate the very best of our communities and few are bigger or better than the Royal Welsh Show in Builth Wells.
A true highlight of our cultural calendar, the show brings together people, produce and pride from every corner of the country, showcasing the strength of our agricultural and rural life.
This year, I joined a stakeholder event hosted by ITV Wales as part of the Senedd Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee's enquiry into food processing and the food sector.
It was also a great opportunity to catch up with a range of organisations, including Unite the Union, who were there supporting rural workers and promoting the Agricultural Advisory Panel, something I was proud to campaign for over a decade ago.
I'm already looking forward to our very own Denbigh and Flint Show next month!
The weekend then saw the second Wrexham Pride, which brought a real sense of celebration and solidarity to the streets of the city.
Hot of the heals of the first Prestatyn Pride, I was proud to lend my support and take part in the Wrexham event.
Once again, it was fabulous to see people come together and so many take part in the parade around the city centre.
It is worth recognising that events like this are only possible thanks to the hard work of a team of volunteers, so a huge thank you should go to them.
Pride is an important part in both bringing communities together and making people feel part of the community.
Regular Leader readers will know that prior to being elected I spent the best part of my working life advocating for a better deal at work, something that still drives me today.
I was elected a trade unionist and I will always be a trade unionist.
That's why, I recently spoke out in a Senedd debate in support of a motion that would ensure a part of the UK Government's Employment Rights Bill – Fair Pay Agreements in the Social Care Sector – would cover workers in Wales.
The motion is a way for Wales to agree to parts of UK law that affect devolved areas like social care.
Without it, workers in Wales risk falling behind.
With it, we can help ensure better pay, decent terms and dignity at work for those who often look after our dearest and nearest.
Finally, I want to address the ongoing conflict in Palestine.
For weeks, the people of Gaza – including countless children – have been denied access to lifesaving food, water, medicine, and fuel.
The humanitarian situation is appalling and horrific, with hospitals running out of power and supplies, and families forced to queue for hours simply to survive.
Just before the recess I joined the First Minister and Senedd colleagues from all parties in calling for an immediate end to the aid blockade.
Denying essentials to an entire population is a clear breach of international humanitarian law.
I continue to support a two-state solution and the right of both Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace, safety, and dignity.
The people of Gaza must no longer be punished – aid must be allowed to flow now and there needs to be a permanent ceasefire.
As always, if you would like advice and/or support, please don't hesitate to get in touch on any of the following contact details – 52 High Street, Mold, Flintshire, on 01352 753464 or by email hannah.blythyn@senedd.wales.
You can also keep up to date via my Facebook page – http://www.facebook.com/HannahBlythyn.
Constituents are, of course, welcome to contact my office to arrange an appointment to see me, you don't need to wait for an advice surgery.
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