In a statement to the Senedd this afternoon, at the start of the
autumn session, the First Minister committed to driving forward
progress across four key areas:
- ‘Iechyd da' - A Healthier Wales – cutting NHS waiting times,
including for mental health; improving access to social care and
services for women's health;
- Green jobs and growth – creating green jobs that tackle the
climate crisis and restore nature, while making families better
off; accelerating planning decisions to grow the Welsh economy;
- Opportunity for every family – boosting standards in schools
and colleges and providing more homes for social rent, ensuring
every family has the chance to succeed;
- Connecting communities – transforming our railways and
delivering a better bus network; fixing our roads and empowering
local communities to make choices on 20mph.
The First Minister said:
“Over the summer, I've spoken with hundreds of people in every
corner of Wales. I want to thank everyone who took the time to
share their hopes, concerns and opinions with me and with my
colleagues, whether online or in person.
“Health and social care, particularly addressing those long
waiting times for treatment, are the top priorities. There's also
a strong desire for us to make faster progress on improving
education standards, and in creating jobs and growing the economy
over the next 18 months. There is also still real concern around
the roll-out of the 20mph speed limits and a desire to see
changes on specific roads.
“Delivery, accountability and improved productivity will be the
watchwords of my government. Making things happen on the
people's priorities, including more transparency and visibility
for the public, so taxpayers know where things are going well and
where there is room for improvement.
“By focusing on the priorities of the people of Wales, we will
build a nation where everybody feels valued, respected and heard.
“We have listened, we have learned and we will deliver.”
