The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has spoken of her delight at the well-attended official opening of the Senedd, which was led by Her Majesty The Queen, as well as Their Royal Highnesses The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall.
The Queen officially opened the first National Assembly for Wales in 1999 and has opened every session following an election in Wales since then. During the official opening ceremony in the Siambr (the Senedd’s debating chamber), the ceremonial mace was placed in its sconce to signify the official opening of the sixth Senedd.
Commenting after the event, Janet said:
“It was a tremendous honour to attend the official opening of the sixth Senedd. It was delightful to have received Her Majesty The Queen at the Welsh Parliament in Cardiff Bay, alongside His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales and Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Cornwall.
“Inside the Siambr, it was incredibly touching to hear Her Majesty The Queen address Wales and listen to both the harp being played so beautifully, and the impactful resuscitating of ‘Your Voice.’
“Importantly, this event also provided the Royal Family with an opportunity to meet a number of Covid Champions, who have selflessly supported our communities throughout the pandemic.
“I was delighted that all Members of the Senedd were invited to be present in person, and that the significant majority were present. It is now not unreasonable to suggest that all Members of the Senedd should be present in Plenary sessions, in person, going forward.”
ENDS
Photo: Janet with her husband, Gareth Saunders.