Extract from Welsh Parliament: Business Statement and Announcement - Sep 21

Jenny Rathbone MS: I just wanted to raise the very serious issue that occurred in Bute park about 10 days ago, where there was a premeditated attack on over 50 trees and other infrastructure in the park. This is one of our most iconic parks across Europe, and I'm very disturbed that somebody could've done such a thing, given that it was obviously well organised in advance. It appears to be an attention-seeking effort by somebody who wants to destroy society in the context of the climate emergency and the need to plant a million trees. So, I just wondered what conversations, if any, the Welsh Government have had on this very serious issue, as, to date, nobody has yet been apprehended. I am extremely concerned about what might happen next.

Lesley Griffiths MS (Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd): Thank you. It certainly appeared to be a very senseless act of vandalism and I think it's really shocked and saddened many of the local communities in the area. As you say, in response to the climate emergency, we need to be planting more trees. The Welsh Government is working with Cardiff Council and South Wales Police partners; they've added their voice to urge anyone who has any information about this to come forward or to contact Crimestoppers.