Dyfed Edwards

I have been contacted by Plaid Cymru Councillor Dyfed Edwards who feels yesterdays reference to personalised comments in the Gwynedd schools debate (not involving me) is unfair. I am happy to point this out. The schools debate is complex enough and I look forward to reading Dyfed's continuing responses to Llais Gwynedd. My recollection was that some of the letters referred to individuals by name, rather than the issue itself. I am happy if that needs to be corrected.

It is unlikely that how I interpret the correspondence, and debate, between Plaid Cymru and Llais Gwynedd over schools is of such great consequence. It is a battle that needs no help from me.

Feeling the heat ?

Interesting to see Alun Ffred Jones on the BBC Politics Show putting on the national media one message he has previoulsy put in the Caernarfon Herald, and another argument the angle of which I find a little suprising.

The argument we have read in the Herald is Ffred's concern that the Gwynedd schools debate is being personalised and that is not helpful to rational decision. There may be some truth in this, but it also suggests to me Plaid Cymru leaders are feeling the heat. The vibes I detect are that Richard Parry Hughes (the council leader who succedded Ffred in Gwynedd, and Dafydd Iwan - Ffreds brother - are under the hammer in general comment about the future of schools). However Ffred should also advise his own side on this because some of the contributions made by Cllr Dyfed Edwards (who took on the schools portfolio during this crisis) have also been personalised in nature.

But the new angle that I found a little strange was people should not put their schools debate above the national project for Scottish style powers. I find this is a slightly strange pitch as it suggests to people that their local school is less important than Plaid's wish for increasing devolutionary powers. I am not convinced that this is an argument people will buy, especially as some of those fearing for a school will not share Plaid's political objectives. I can see it upsetting more people.

Refreshing Ideas

Welsh Labour's response to the election results of May 2007 continues. Ideas Wales picks up various comments in the blogspehere like here and here and even the Western Mail being on side.

As Labour has to face the dual challenge of governing, and refreshing policy in government, (as will Plaid Cymru now) the new think tank can hopefully provide some opportunituies for challenging debate, without the modern media obsession of turning every event in to a crisis.

Very welcome and I can think of a number of policy areas in which some "think tank" insights could usefully move debate forward, not the least of which I would put the language rights debate up for consideration as to how Welsh Labour could make more progressive steps.

A bit of a blur

Having joined work mates in Bangor for a social drink over the rugby, it became an extended social period as a celebration of the great turnaround. Very enjoyable, if a bit of a blur.

Croeso Carwyn

Roeddwn yn falch i croesawu Carwyn Jones AC i Arfon heddiw.

A busy day with Carwyn Jones AM in Arfon today. A visit to the Management Centre at Bangor University and a guest lecturing spot for carwyn on the powers of the Assembly and questions about the job of a 'Counsel General'. Touch base with the President of the Students Union, a visit to the public exhibition about redevelopment ideas for Hirael Bay, Bangor, interviews with BBC on line and Champion Radio before a whistle stop tour of new investment in Caernarfon, and meetings with Party members.

Unwinding over a curry at the award winning Sopna restaurant (Welsh curry house of the year 2007) and a chance to hear Carwyn's take on the progress of the One Wales government. Generally very positive with significant benefits from the extra stability acheived through the majority represented by the One Wales partners.

Diolch Carwyn.

Sensible

The Chief and his Deputy have taken the sensible decision to apologise to Ian Lucas MP. The episode filmed for tv (Derek and Clive as I called it) did their roles no good, and was a nonsense they can do without given some of the ways they choose to challenge us on other issues.

Day for dreams

Its the sort of day when football fans (well except for Everton, Spurs etc) allow their minds to think about May and a cup final. In the Baggies case dreams of promotion and cup final double !

But first of all Preston tomorrow night in the Championship, where everyone seems to have learnt how to beat everyone else, and the top of the league is looking very exciting for many teams.

Not a Lord !

The timing of political events sometimes throws up huge ironies. So on the day that Plaid Cymru met to nominate for the House of Lords , Tony Benn, who rejected his peerage, came to the Galeri Theatre in Caernarfon (about 3 miles from Dafydd Wigley's house) to give his view of world events. It is not necessary to agree with everything that Tony says. But, given the animosity he has suffered at times, he now occupies a strangely warm position in many people's hearts.

I told him that after marching with him for many a mile, in various protests around the country, (often several miles back in the march), it was nice to sit down for a cup of tea in Caernarfon !

With the years and the experiences, I now feel comes an element of vulnerability. Tony was in fine form - not surprisingly gave the government a kicking - and Cameron fared worse, he body swerved questions about his son in the Cabinet, but seemed to leave many satisfied customers in a sold out theatre. Well done to UNISON for sponsoring the event and enabling a high profile eventt o reach North West Wales.

Peter Hain

Well goodbye for now and hello to a familiar face. I feel sadness at Peter's resignation as he is someone who brought some vigour and energy to Welsh politics. A strong campaigner and while there was no need to always agree, there always something to have a debate about. I suspect devolution may have lost a friendly face - whatever Elfyn Llwyd feels!.

During last December's national policy forum I told a colleague from Wales that the problem was that the events were beyond the Party's control. Having introduced laws and regulations then breaches of our own policies would mean external forces coming in to play.

So what are my thoughts ?

Well I am still astonished that Peter managed, even felt it necessary, to spend such a huge sum on his deputy leadership campaign. As others have said such a position must not recur.

On the wider front we wait and see what is the fall out from this event. I don't think anyone wins from such situations. Many will just see it as part of political "sleaze", and that is what will hurt Peter most. (I am sure personally and politically).

I have never had reason to doubt Peter was an honest individual, with an out of the ordinary life history, and a deep instinct for politics.

I wish him and Elizabeth well and hope to see him having another chance in high politics.

Disapoitment for Blue Noses

As some regular readers will know I married a Blue Nose Evertonian and, whats more, I failed to win the children over to the Baggies cause. So on Sue's birthday we went to Goodison and in spite of the disappointing (but overall fair !) result spirits were lifted as pictures were grabbed with players. Here is son Gareth with the very impressive Mr Lescott. I suspect with the new England manager in the ground JL did himself no harm, although he needs to occasionally sort out his ball carrying from defence. (says a Championship fan !)

Forewarned ?

Gordon Brown's New Year message foretold of potential troubles during 2008. The Fed has taken an early decision to intervene and while a UK slow down is the most likely outcome the 24 hour media want to generate a crisis. We wait to see.

Gwilym wedi ei siomi ?

Mae Gwilym Owen yn defnyddio ei colom yn Y Cymro i datgan elfen o siom at gorymdaith Rhodri - "Disgwyl gwell gan Rhodri". Rwan mae yna elfennau o'r erthygl fedrai derbyn yn hawdd. Er enghraifft bod unrhyw plaid yn dibynnol ar ei weithgaredd lleol, ac yn absenoldeb hynny mae yna broblem hel ymgeiswyr, cynnal profil llwyddiannus ag ati.

Ond dwi yn anghytuno efo Gwilym ar prif pwrpas y gorymdaith. Os yw Llafur wedi colli tir yn ardaloedd o Cymru mae yn bwysig cydnabod hynny fel cam gyntaf tuag at cyweiro'r sefyllfa. Nid Rhodri ei hun fydd yn gwneud hynny (mae ymddeoliad yn rhy cynnar am hynny) ond mae ei datganiad yn symbol pwysig am rhan o gwaith Llafur dros y flynyddoedd nesaf.

Dwi yn edrych ymlaen at y gwaith yma ac mi fydd ambell i trafodaeth duddir dwi yn sicr, o fewn ein plaid, ac ar draws ambell ffin gwleidyddol.

Gwilym Owen uses his weekly column in the Cymro to express some disapointment at Rhodri's journey around Wales. The article makes some valid points (e.g. the need for vibrant local parties) but I think is misplaced in other respects. It was symbolically important that Rhodri set out to say Labour has lessons to learn, as it is the necessary first step to making change some issues.

Interesting fault lines

Watching the Sky News round up of the US primaries it is fascinating to see Barack Obama in Church, in prayer, as part of the campaign. Whereas in the UK Blair's faith journey was for some a matter of concern (to be kept out of politics) here is the Democrat making an open display of faith.

I feel it is one of those interesting fault lines between US and UK politics.

Scotland's first time buyers

I noticed this piece in the Observer reporting the latest attempt to offset some of the impacts of the UK property market. I am sure various schemes of this kind will help a little, but we still need to face the big supply side question - are we building enough homes of the right type ?

Honours even - goals galore

Well the Baggies had to split the spoils with Cardiff so honours even with Leighton Andrews AM. I had predicted 3 goals for the Baggies, but in this hugely entertaining season we are also giving our opponents goals, and occasional leads, which means the regulars must be hugely entertained. Long may it continue in the hope the country's top scorers get their reward at the end.

"The Black Cat" is Dead !

Tonight I will be Hughes Le Grandbutte Deputy Mayor of Casablanca ! Yes I am attending a murder mystery dinner and am acting the part of "a loyal bureaucratic servant of the Vichy administration. I will be the epitome of solid respctability".

The Black Cat mime artist has been murdered - who did it ?

More on this over the weekend - have a good one....

Points of view

Following Rhodri's visit and the protest by Cymdeithas yr Iaith I wrote to the local papers who have published the letter as follows :

Dear editor,

Last Friday I welcomed Rhodri Morgan to Caernarfon and provided the opportunity for representatives of the local business community to meet with him and explain what action is required to help make the town more succsessful. Our focus was on improving the local economy and sharing ideas on how best to bring togther the 'old' town and Victoria Dock in a successful future.

We then walked as a group around the town to view various projects and key sites.

Unfortunately the Welsh Language Society decided this was a chance to protest, and distract Rhodri Morgan from my main objective of focusing his thoughts on improving the local economy. I am of course a democrat and respect their right to protest. But I must ask exactly how did the protest help the future of the Welsh Langauge when it simply meant Mr Morgan was distracted from talking to business people and focussing on the future of the economy of the town ? Surely improving the economy, and seeking better paid jobs, is the way ahead for our communities and Welsh Language. I am working to develop a positive image for Arfon I think others have to reflect on what they acheived by such a protest ?

An interesting new blog

Lots could be read in to the launch of a blog by the Bontnewydd branch of Plaid Cymru - with Bros Wigley and Iwan on the patch we should expect a lot - but will it survive beyond May's elections ? (or perhaps develop a life as the alternative leadership voice if 'One Wales' hits rocky waters ?).

Anyway I have posted best wishes to Dafydd on his Lordship mission, and await more news over the coming weeks and months.

Hat tip to Miserable Old Fart

FA Cup

Hooray.

Now to focus on beating Leighton Andrews Cardiff at the weekend.

Politics has an unsurprising event !

Mnay of us are commenting on it and I suppoose the most surprising thing is that none of us are surprised !.

The supposed conditions are a hurdle set at a height a ruptured snail could jump over.

So Plaid's transition from voice of protest/opposition continues, principles out of the window and in to the murky world of Council, Assembly,Westminster (unelected) and Europe.

Anyway I wish him all the best should he get elected to the role by his colleagues.

Well I couldn't resist the top shot in which Rhodri and myself give a passable impression of the dance scene in the film Full Monty !

In the bottom shot we are pictured with Councillor Brian Jones of Gwynedd Council who sat in on the meeting with business representatives and heard a few views from the heart about issues relating to Plaid controlled Gwynedd Council.

Connecting North and Mid Wales

After Rhodri had safely moved on from Caernarfon I headed down to Llandrindod Wells to join Cymru Wales UNISON (APF) conference. As well as listening to the views and concerns of Unison activists about the nature of Gordon's 3 year pay announcement it was a chance to catch up with Alun Davies AM.

Alun is building a good reputatioon on the backbenches of the Assembly and, given the fears of the fragility in our vote in Mid Wales, could have many years ahead as our Regional list Member.

We continued the de-brief about May 2007 and discussed a few of the issues that could be of interest from the Dwyfor end of the former Caernarfon constituency.

Rhodri in Caernarfon

The Daily Post has posted a video of Rhodri's visit to Caernarfon. A pity (but inevitable) that it focusses on the Cymdeithas protest rather than the interesting discussion with local shop traders and business representatives. In the video Rhodri confimrs that a new language act forcing langauge measures on the private sector is not on the horizon.

Having been in Mid Wales since yesterday evening I will post more photos soon.

Rhodri listening

I warmly welcomed Rhodri to Caernarfon today and his first appointment was with representatives of the TGWU/Unite for an update on the former Ferodo site and the continuing campaign for justice for the dismissed workers.

The site may have a brightrer future on the horizon but Rhodri was keen to hear how the recent sale relates to the ongoing dispute. Anyway here are Gerald Parry, Tom Jones and Paddy McNaught in good early morning spirits with Rhodri.

Pictures of the walkabout, and our welcome from Cymdeithas Yr Iaith to follow. (they are on someone else's camera!)

Croeso Rhodri

I met the new slim line Rhodri Morgan on his "Taith Iaith" in Bangor this afternoon, before time in Caernarfon tomorrow.

Meanwhile - wow - but I think it is cock up not conspiracy.

This announcement - but what about the waste ?

and this (okay not as important but you know my interests).

Photos of Rhodri tomorrow as we meet local business reps and meet and greet the public.

Was it the tears ?

I was pleaed to see the high turnout and the initial two primaries give the prospect of exciting times ahead in the US. Was it Hilary's tears or the fact that Ian Dale (top Tory blogger) was on Sky News predicting an Obama win by 8 points (I think-but it was late).

High quality opportunity - but remember the workers

The site has a deep history in local communities but it seems a new high quality opportunity may be coming along. While it may never employ a 1,000+ people again let us hope that its superb location can help boost North West Wales.

However somewhere in this all some greater justice must be found for the former Friction Dynamics workers.

Encouraging

Whatever happens later this year it is at least encouraging to see the high level of interest in the US Presidential hustings. There is long way to go and alot of money to be spent but a good start.

"I do not wish to be a member of Plaid Cymru any more"

This was the opening sentence of a sensational letter from Dewi Thomas announcing in the Daily Post (letters page) that he had left Plaid Cymru. The final sentence of his letter reads "I have my first Plaid Cymru membership card dated December 1959 when I was a schoolboy full of ideals and dreams" (resigning after a membership one month less than I have been on planet in total !)

In between the letter states

"Following the decision by Gwynedd County Council to carry on with their plan to reorganise primary schools my conscience will not permit me to continue my association with Plaid.

I cannot remain a member when they intend to close Bronyfoel and Baladeulyn schools and destroy communities.

Here are some of the events that influenced my decision ; primarily the protest in Caernarfon on December 13 and the general feeling amongst the long-time Plaid members present that it was a sad day for Plaid.

It was so different to the many other protests I've been involved with over a long period of time, nationalists protesting against nationalists. If this is what being in power involves, then keep me out of it.

During the so called consultation period the views of the school governors was completely ignored,the opinions of those with experience in education was disregarded.

At a special meeting of the Plaid Constituency one of the leaders made shameful remarks about Seimon Glyn,Owen Williams and Alwyn Gruffydd, that they cared nothing for education, but only wanted to stab Plaid in the back. I respect the three's perspective as staunch nationalists over the years.

Dafydd iwan deliberately misrepresented what I said about area schools.

Rhydian James's view in his latest letter was the final nail in the coffin. It appears that I am not a true idealist or nationalist, I've been in the wilderness for the last 50 years if that is true. You've won Rhydian, you've got rid of an old dinosaur.The future's yours.

Are the other sad people I talked with`or saw during that rally also mistaken ?
Are they not true nationalists?

I have my first Plaid Cymru card dated December 1959,when I was a schoolboy full of ideals and dreams".


I know Dewi and there must be some personal pain in such a letter. There is also a lot of political trouble!

Champion of a cause

The appointment of a Commissioner for Older Persons is making news beyond Wales and is another small example of the Assembly Government setting a pattern for modern politics. I also suspect there will be enough activity in differential patterns of service, energy charges and care to keep the Commissioner busy.

(I did not blog yesterday as requested here).

New summit emerges

My parents passed me this photo as they had caught the emergence of the new summit building on Snowdon/Wyddfa on one of the finer mornings last week. I have expanded the relevant bit which shows the progress made. I might event have to walk up to inspect - but not toady !

The future of politics

"The future of politics will be determined by a burgeoning blogosphere"

is how Paul Flynn ends an over enthusiastic piece about his appearance on Welsh radio with Jane Davidson. I am not so sure about this. It is certainly a very welcome tool for politics and certainly provides some avenues beyond the main stream media to network news and views of interest to politicos. However we might also be in one of those technology phases where a still (relative) newness is giving an oxygen to use that will settle over time.

However I am also very concious that my own children probably spend as much/more time on line with youtube/myspace/bebo and facebook than they spend watching "ordinary" tv. So perhaps the times are a changin....

On line protest - of silence

I am not sure whether blogging should be silent or, perhaps more effectively, seek mass blogging on a single subject across the globe. Anyway I noted this request on the Guardian's blog section and will take note for tomorrow. Another simple example of how things we take for granted can be more difficult elsewhere in the world.

In the meantime it seems that Welsh blog land is reawakening after a Christmas break although some intemperate views on One Wales show us that we have an interesting year ahead as the Labour-Plaid Welsh Assembly Government face their first full year of decisions.

Meanwhile I am looking forward to welcoming Rhodri Morgan this week as part of his New Year 'Taith Iaith' . As stated in Y Cymro

"Barn Llafur erioed yw bod ffyniant yr economi a ffyniant yr economi a ffyniant yr iaith yn mynd law yn llaw" (economic and linguistic well being go hand in hand)

This is so true for Arfon and North West Wales as it is building a brighter economic future that will secure the socio-economic conditions to help foster the two languages, and bilingual character of our communities.

Sad news

I was saddened to hear of the death of Merfyn Williams. I worked with Merfyn in the Snowdonia National Park many years ago and had in more recent times shared time with him at various conferences and seminars. Always time for a chat and a good sense of humour. Rest in peace.

If I was Gordon Brown in 2008 I would .......

I am preparing for the first campaign meeting of 2008 to get Arfon's 'Team Labour' up and running for the year ahead. As I scribbled ideas and strategies it struck me that a good open ended question for the blog would be :

"If I was Gordon Brown then in 2008 I would ........." Insert Answer.

Yes moderation is enabled, but perhaps some New Year wit might help provide the big political idea for 2008 and beyond.

Over to you.

enough of football...

Anyway I felt you'd had enough of football so the less said the better.

City of Culture 08

Blwyddyn Newydd da a croeso i 2008.

Happy New Year and welcome to 2008.

Well Liverpools' not too far away and, for most North Walians, means we can choose to access a wide range of events (many free of charge) far easier than for example the Millennium centre or in the Bay. Anyway I may have missed the ringing of 'Great George' but this website will allow us to keep up with activities in the coming weeks and months.

Thoughts and reflections

It is that time of year when we seek to ignore the seasonal bugs causing ill health and mayhem and offer a few thoughts on the year passing and the prospect for 2008. Gordon Brown offers his thoughts and perhaps it is time to lock away the credit card for a few months !

Meanwhile some people seem just about ready to recognise the leadership change - about time - while others detect a Tory revival. I'm not as sure on this last point as I think the polls reflect the series of unfortunate events that beset Labour in the second half of 2007 rather than any great stride forward by the Tories. Do governments loose elections rather than opponents win ? Well history suggest they can if they don't get their act together.

Cameron has made one major change in reminding the Tories what the democratic contest is about (gaining power for your Party to implement policies) and it is for that reason that we in Labour need to put the last few months behind us and build a solid platform of progressive action during 2008.

In the year now passing a number of things stick with me. The honour of contesting the Assembly seat in Arfon and, in spite of the difficult climate, the pleasure of meeting people to make Labour's case. This new seat is a genuine Westminster marginal and with Plaid's internal wrangles over schools reorganisation it will make for some interesting times ahead.

Of course recent events also make me thankful that we can contest democratic elections where the most heated it can get is a "stunt" outside your political opponents conference . Of course weeks later (well make that a couple of months) and Ieaun passed a Tory test by signing up for coalition with Labour, not the Tories. I happen to think that was a wise decision as it gives Plaid some experience of government, the Assembly Government a reasonably stable base and changed the dynamics of any future post election negotiations. It was perhaps Rhodri's great achievement of the year to make that deal when it often seemed gloomy for Labour. We would have walked away from power at our peril.

In the year ahead it will be a time to steadily build another election campaign, to see if Hywel Williams wants to apologise (he hasn't yet) and welcome numerous visitors to help raise Labour's profile as we build for a victory in the Westminster election.

Ground three : 5-0 !

In spite of feeling far less than 100%, and after sampling the so called delights of the Premiership it was great to be at the Hawthorns to see the Baggies stuff Scunthorpe 5-0.

In truth much of the football was workmanlike but the goal strikes by Philips (2), Gera and Beattie were quite spectacular. Watch it Sunday morning (ITV) to see some of the best strikes of the day.

Anyway as it involved the Hawthorns here I am at the Astle gates. I am sure Tom Bodden of the Daily Post will recall Jeff Astle with joy (1968 and all that !)

Benn in Caernarfon

It will be interesting to ask how it feels to go from a hate figure for the "middle classes" to one of the nation's favourite uncles, or how it felt to be asked to resign by then Prime Minister Callaghan - as today's papers reveal. Anyway you can have the chance to ask Tony Benn questions at Y Galeri in Caernarfon on Saturday January 26th. UNISON is sponsoring the event and tickets are available from the Galeri box office.

Ground number 2

While the mighty Baggies ran in 4, Tom Bodden will be pleased to read that ground number 2 over the Christmas break was Goodison for Everton's 2-0 win over Bolton. To be fair Everton withstood 15 minutes physical football to then run out easy winners.

Ground 3 will hopefully be the home of fine football for the visit of Scunthorpe.

Nadolig Llawen

Not a great (night lens) shot but at 7.15 am today this was the full moon looking out from Anglesey over the Menai Strait and the village Christmas Tree.

Nadolig Llawen
Merry Christmas to you all.

First of three ?

An early start took me off with the son to the "Theatre of Dreams" where, to my son's disapointment, a late Man Utd penalty gave them a 2-1 win over Everton. As a neutral I thought Everton battled well but the score probably reflected the balance of the game. After a lively first 15 minutes I thought we might be in for some bad tempered red cards but the players then thought about playing the ball not the man.

Any way if all goes well I may see 3 football grounds over the Christmas Break so updates will follow as and when it happens.

Rhodri's Christmas message

And here is Rhodri's Christmas message.

Rhodri's thoughts

The BBC posted the following report on an interview with Rhodri Morgan who had a dramatic 2007 and is looking at the period till 2009 when he may step down as First Minister.

Roots.......

Someone recently asked me how I got in to town and country planning and it made me reflect on a number of issues. An awareness of the environment via fishing on the Afon Gwyrfai, and wandering Cefn Du. One specific event I recall was the saving of the Cromlech boulders in the Llanberis Pass. By the wonders of Google I found Harvey Lloyd's recollection of this event.

I know now it has little to do with town planning as such but it was one local event which sparked an awareness of the local environment and via various means I ended up on the Planning course at Birmingham Polytechnic (what them ?).

One little bit of Eryri's splendour and a career in planning - until that is the people have the good sense to overthrow their evil Plaid Cymru dictatorship for a caring face of Labour.....

Excitement mounts...

I don't know whether I can stand the excitement !

Remembering and being thankful

I noticed on the Oxfam web site a third year progress report on the Tsunami. So as we get stressed about whether a gift arrives, or the crush at the supermarket perhaps we should take a deep breath and be relatively thankful.

I also recall the distress caused to UK citizens from floods and associated events. They should also get our attention this Christmas.

Behind you !

Dave clearly forgot to check with his local treasurer before laying in to Labour for donations.

Yet in truth it seems everyone has problems (various) and I believe everyone would benefit from a burst of sunshine.

Better check what's been happening in my CLP in case a few millionaires have passed by unnoticed !

Christmas drinking games ......

I am sure there is a tv advert in which a drunken man believes he is superman and climbs the scaffolding on the outside of a building........... however assuming this latest stunt was not the reaction to a Friday afternoon "rant" or the Christmas Party I assume a high ranking official undertook the necessary risk assessments before breaking in to his building.

Rumour is he broke in and some cleaner said "oh its just the chief being daft again" !

On fire !

We are top of the league
We are top of the League

As I recover from the works Christmas Party the glorious Baggies run in 4 against Charlton. Good entertainment but interesting to see we still play football when others team would try and kill the game.

Heartland battle commences - Gwynedd schools

There has been much written and lots of words exchanged, a new political party/group has emerged and things are certainly not as they were. The genie is out of the bottle, the horse has bolted and some may have to put their fiddles in the roof (this will make sense to bilingual readers !)

Gwynedd Council has decided (they had little choice I suspect) to commence formal consultations about school restructuring.

The pattern of much political debate in many communities across Gwynedd, from now until next May, has been set. It is unclear where it will all lead but a number of prominent Plaid Cymru figures will be working hard to save their political skins. While "leaders" may speak for their troops from their high chairs and "portfolio" positions in the Chamber, I suspect it will be a harder sell for the troops as they canvas the doorsteps of many a village.

For my part I feel that "new" schools will generally prove to be attractive propositions (has the capital been secured?), but still I search for some evidence that the widespread federalisation proposed in this paper has a track record on which people can depend.

Please enlighten me if you know better.

ps for any student of politics I think this is a period of debate that is worth recording in detail as, alongside Plaid's entry in to the One Wales government, it is potentially a fault line of historic change in nationalism.

Schools Q&A

The Daily Post ran a q&a article with Gwynedd over the schools debate.

We await to see what happens on Thursday and what concessions Plaid offer themselves to keep Parry Hughes in his job as Leader.

Not good politics

I am unsure what the Police have done to see their pay withheld. Perhaps it is the trade unionist in me that sees the awarding of a pay rise as a simple matter, but the politician in me fails to see any good politics in this for Labour at present.

Unfinished business

While taking on the might of insurers is never easy I hope that Betty Williams MP can find a platform for seeking justice for those who suffered from the dust of our communities slate industry.

Its a windy day !

I hope we are geared up to take best advantage of this announcement, which in spite of voices of opposition that will follow, will help us to a more sustainable future. However such things are never an easy ride.

I'm sure it was the real thing !

Another shot of Centurions in action

Elvis, Roman Centurions and Father Christmas

No I haven't hit the Christmas sherry, but this morning I joined the trial for a land train service around Caernarfon. There are people with vision and ideas trying to create an artistic force for the continued regeneration of the town and the land train may be one small (if very visible) part of the jigsaw. See here for some idea of a vision.

Anyway a range of people turned out to take part in the trial and here is a cutting of the red tape, by Elvis and Sion Corn, guarded by Roman Centurions as the train enters Palace Street for the first time. (this could become my favourite bizzare photo of the year !)

Like many creative ideas it all needs the "establishment" to come in with support to help move matters forward. Today was a chance to show the Highway Authority the impact on traffic flows as two routes were trialled. Let us hope it can get through risk assessment and find an interesting and valuable addition to the town's tourist offer.

Christmas being serenaded by Elvis - show me that sherry quick !

In case you missed it...........

Wednesday's posting.

"Lord" Wigley speaks

It was just last Sunday after we heard Elfyn Llwyd's doubts on the schools reorganisation that I questioned how long it would take Dafydd Wigley to speak up for the fortress nation of Gwynedd ?.

Well on cue this week's letters page in the Herald contains a letter from Dafydd Wigley of Bontnewydd that states:

"May I commend the words of Cllr Richard Parry Hughes, leader of Gwynedd Council when he said that - in debating the future of our primary school network, only one thing counts - fulfilling the educational needs of the pupils. Not the convenience of parents; not the interest of teachers; not the demands of communities; not the electoral ambition of councillors, candidates or political parties".

Councillors, parents, teachers and ratepayers are asked to "step back and ponder"

I assume Dafydd means it is important to "ponder" until some time after next May when their happens to be council elections which look increasingly difficult for Plaid in their heartland.

Cymdeithas Cledwyn

Braf oedd gael croesawu Eluned Morgan ASE i Arfon neithiwr i cynnal be fuasai'n gael ei galw yn "grwp ffocws" ar rhan Cymdeithas Cledwyn fel rhan o arolygiad Llafur Cymri o materion sydd yn codi o etholiadau Mis Mai. Trafodaeth diddorol iawn ymysg aelodau Cymraeg ei iaith yma yn Arfon.

Great to welcome Eluned Morgan MEP to Arfon lst night to hold what I suppose would be called a "focus group" for Cymdeithas Cledwyn as part of Welsh Labour's review of issues arising from May's Assembly election. An interesting discussion amongst Welsh speaking Party members from Arfon.

Eluned looked well and was in good form.

Plaid MP threatened to sue me.

As we know, following investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner, the Committee on Privileges found that Hywel Williams broke the rules on the use of the Communications Allowance and promised to repay the public monies used to pay for the newspaper adverts. The adverts appeared shortly before May's Assembly elections. How convenient !

Hywel Williams was found to have breached more rules than Adam Price and Elfyn Llwyd as he included a survey within the advert and did not clear the final material with the relevant authorities. There were also doubts that taxpayers monies should be used to pay for large Plaid Cymru logos in the press.

At the time I claimed the adverts broke the rules.

What I can now share with any reader of this blog is that the claim, now upheld, about the misuse of public funds lead to Hywel Williams threatening to sue me !

You will find his letter sent from his home address to my home address on the 26th April above. In spite of his threatened legal action I have extended Hywel the courtesy of blanking out his home address (I'm in the phone book anyway).

What nonsense this proved to be. Indeed what a bully boy tactic that when an opponent claims the rules were broken the response is not debate, but a threat of legal action.

Anyway I feel it is time to share this information. The adverts broke the rules. The Parliamentary Commissioner investigated, and the Committee on Privileges reported.

What a happy way to start our respective campaigns for the next Westminster election - and yes I am writing asking for an apology from Hywel Williams as an unwarranted threat of legal action is not the news a family like to hear during a democratic campaign for an election. Please join me in writing for a public apology if you feel like it.

Gwynedd seems quiet this year ?

I have realised why I feel a bit disorientated before Christmas. At this time of year my weekly papers are usually full of Plaid Cymru councillors telling us all how awful the Labour Assembly is, and complaining till they are blue in the face about how little money the Assembly has given them.

It seems some councils are campaigning hard for a bigger slice of the cake.

Yet in Gwynedd it is relatively peaceful. So I wonder what has happened compared to previous years ?

Perhaps the constant ring of "not enough money" has to become more palatable when your own team - One Wales government - is helping to carve up the cake ?.

Others may not see it, but I believe here is another example of the tone of politics changing here in North West Wales following last May''s election results.

Bad week gets worse !

WBA2-4 Coventry

Iran and weapons programme

The front page of the Guardian, as updated by Guardian Online means strategy to Iran should be closely considered in the closing phase of the Bush admministration. It is difficult to see how an aggressive strategy could be sustained if our own analysts tell the west the situation is not as bad as feared.

It has hit a big fan !

BBC Newsnight reports on Gordon's meeting with the PLP (Parliamentary Party - MPs) but in an environment where I know "it" has clearly hit the fan BIG time !

Someone told me "I'm bored wuth all this", which is perhaps our best hope of some respite barring Becks and Spice seperating, or Pete Doherty running off to Gretna Green with some member of the Royal Family. Yet politics is about mood music and I admit we are currently out of tune.

It is such a massive irony that as the Party which introduced stricter rules for the funding of political parties/activity that we have fallen flat on our faces and need to get up and dust ourselves down quickly - but I know in politics that is the last thing that our opponents, including the right wing press, want. I just hope that as rules are reformed the activities of Tory front groups are exposed/regulated.

But what we did, in introducing the existing regulations, is a little irrelevant now as the clouds have gathered and we need, in Gordon's words, some sunshine to brighten 2008. Before then my only guess can be that there will be some changes. But I am not convinced it will be easy to quickly transform our historic relationship with the unions - I'm not sure what the unions did wrong !!

So whereas Glyn Davies posts a comment that I have been quiet on this issue, I can see a number of my reactions on the blog - but like other Party members I have been a bit stunned by what I read each day.

Onwards and upwards - soon. It is our only option.

Elfyn blinks !

Last weekend Dafydd El sepped forward to support school plans and Dafydd Iwan spoke (well wrote) about it this week. With suitable recognition to Ordovicus it seems that Elfyn Llwyd was not listening and may have blinked first. So Parry Hughes is known to have hinted about timetable changes and Elfyn questions whether the direction is right - what size of nationalist fudge will we see come Gwynedd Council's meeting on 13th December?

Happy to receive your suggestions.....

Then again after another round of phone calls and e-mails what will e hear next and from whom ? Perhaps it is even time for the great Wigley to step forward and speak for the fortress nation of Gwynedd ?

Media take

Thought I would catch up with some of the main media takes on the event I attended:

BBC reflects GBs view of reform and I hope the Tories have some answers ready on their third party funders (even if legal at present).

Sky hint more towards the Abrahams and Mendehlson spat which formed no part of the NPF but is part of the outfall that gives the situation an unknown element.

Man with a mission

A slight break in postings as I attended Labour's National Policy Forum in Heathrow (!), London.

as one of the new reps for Wales. Not quite back for all of match of the day so a few quick impressions.

Gordon seemed to address us openly about the funding problems revelaed this week. He admitted to his anger and fury at what he and Party members had learnt, and gave every impression of being a man with a mission to sort out our problems and also make all parties funding arrangements transparent. It is partly out of our hands of course and that may be part of the frustration we face in the coming weeks as the Police/Electoral Commission complete their week.

Anyway after an honest/private Q&A NPF representatives got on with a range of important seminars as we begin the vital task of shaping policy for our next manifesto.

Plaid's leaders try to find their front foot

No doubt numerous e-mails and phone calls have flown around and Plaid's leaders can clearly see a need to try and get on a front foot on the Gwynedd schools reorgansiation.

Dafydd El on tv telling the people of Meirion-Dwyfor about the benefits of the Gwynedd scheme and now Dafydd Iwan in Barn -see translation here -and in the Caernarfon Herald.

In the Herald letters page Dafydd gets star treatment - i.e. his letter is in a box and he says

"I look forward to a period of well-informed and creative debate as we work together....".

Horses and stable doors come to mind !

Meanwhile the Herald reports another defection from Plaid to Llais y Bobl, that being Alwyn Gruffydd of Porthmadog. (40 years Plaid membership). There is a common theme in many statements - people have not voted Plaid for these years for this outcome.

As I have said before it is the hypocrisy that is doing for Plaid in this debate- even Dafydd Iwan in the Barn piece has to cover his back on his contribution over Ysgol Bryncroes many years ago - see here. The only question is whether they bottle it in the full council, and then what ?

Meanwhile the Herald has created a treasure trove of resources on the issue at

http://www.caernarfonherald.co.uk/

so you can follow the evolving nationalist crisis.

(in honesty at least for some of us its a distraction from Labour's evolving funding crisis !)

Gathering the points

3 points away from home in the absence of Philips and Miller is very pleasing.

Baggies need to keep in the mix until Feb and then push on. I am feeling very hopeful - on the football front !

Call4cash

My posting about the recent letter asking me to call a phone line at £1.50 a minute to claim a prize has drawn a series of new readers and is an interesting aspect of blogging that helps to keep the "hobby" lively. It seems I am not alone in concerns at this activity and will continue to follow up with Ministers. I see a Trading Standards address has also been posted so I will drop them a note as well.

Thanks - keep any comments coming.

The Chief - the new Derek and Clive ! (reaction at 23.40)

Watched the 'The Chief' on BBC Wales which dragged me away from keeping a week ahead with Spooks.

David Williams captured some significant journalism and I am sure could not believe the whole biker issue that blew up during filming. All of that that is well known and in the public domain.

What I also found quite remarakable however was the agreement to allow filming of the Friday afternoon rant. After an initial smile at their apparent hurt, I found the ranting about elected representatives quite disturbing, even ranting about them being from England and parachuting in to Wales. I found such ranting by a Chief Constable quite extraordinary. (I also found his theory on Cymuned/Cymdeithas interesting)

I somehow feel the clearly political element of the programme may give Brunstrom more trouble as I am not all sure it is the role of the Chief and his Deputy to sit around, like Derek and Clive (aka Peter Cook and Dudley Moore) ranting in such a way. We wait to see. What does his code say about such matters ?

Vaughan's take over the rainbow

I read this report on the thoughts of Vaughan Roderick with interest - that Plaid lacked the guts to take the Rainbow option. Tactically it may suit them to see some Government action from a minority position.

With my team doing its best to inflict self harm who knows where it is all heading. Cameron must be feeling rather pleased at doing very little and gaining so much. However polls come and polls go.

It never rains - but pours !

Clearly the fates have decided that the Labour leadership should end 2007 being tested in many endless ways. There is no point my blog ducking these issues as we need to get out of this year and improve in 2008.

I was going to blog about the Lord/General who last week spoke out and then this week re appears fronting a Cameron task group - not clever. I'm not sure its worth it just now !

Joyful youth

Young people often take a lot of unfair criticism but today's annaul club competition at the Bangor Gym Club gave around a 100 young people the chance to display the gymnastic skills they have acquired whether as starter, intermediate or senior gymnast.

My own interest comes via daughters who have competed for several years, including a fractured wrist a few years ago.

A great tribute to the coaches and voluntary helpers and congratulations to everyone concerned..

Goal feast - lets hope Baggies catch the fever !

Being married to an Evertonian I share the occasional opportunity to accompany Sue to Goodison Park - I'm not sure whether a Baggie should admit this!.

However today was one of those days and what a good choice. 7-1.

The last time I saw a score like this (in professional football) was when WBA stuffed Coventry 7-1 at the Hawthorns back in 1980 (?).

Anyway today's game was enjoyable although the match was aided by Sunderland trying to play football and just shut the door - if not very well at times - and their inability to defend an occasional route one ball.

Arteta is a gem of a player and his touch and skill at times suggests Everton should fear a move from a big (Spanish) club at some point. However I'm told he doesn't make the Spanish team so his face must not fit with someone.

Enjoyable and Everton looked a solid team with good edge.

Anyway lets hope this good luck runs off on the Baggies tomorrow as we take on our old rivals Wolves.

A good use for the new Assembly powers

Today the post office delivered to me a letter stating "This is not circular" in which "Call4cash" invited me to contact them about a series of prizes. Apparently I may have won 15k or a car.

However as always the small print reveals the real prize for this company - "Calls cost £1.50 per minute from a BT landline. Max time 6 min 55secs, calls from other networks may vary".

So a simple suggestion for the use of new Assembly powers for any AM happening to pass by this blog - how about an Order to prevent such activities here in Wales. It is not unlawful at present and there may be so many it is difficult, but do we have to expose people to what, in my opinion, are scams.

At Westminster level I will be taking up the issue to see who is keeping an eye on such premium rate activity.

Sir Emyr v Don - a new punch and judy show

It gets a little bizzare all round. Thursday is action packed anyway for political anoraks with Wales packing in its politics with Question Time and Newnight etc for good measure.

On 'Dragon's Eye' Don continued his, calm, rant about sat navs and devolution. By the time of 'Waterfront' Sir Emyr is qouting his experience of Iraq resolutions in defence of his role in the Wales convention.

I think we all need to calm down !

Yes, in Labour there are a wide variety of views about devolution. As I have said before Labour probably reflects the people of Wales in that respect. Although I don't quite think we are at Iraq resolution levels !

Happy Christmas Wales !

My attention has been drawn to the perfect Christmas present for Dafydd Iwan and all my nationalist friends which - according to shopping online in China is a Wales flag foldable chair !

The teams not making Europe is one thing but surely this is a step too far .........

Sharing with a new generation

Work took me to Liverpool John Moore's University and a chance to consider the major regeneration work taking place along the waterfront and city centre. Clearly the well established Albert Dock is now only a small part of what the City of Culture 08 will have to offer. However in the best British traditions much of the work will not be completed for Jan o8 and lookis like it has some time to go.

The "lecture" to under graduate and post graduatre students gave a chance for reflection on changes taking place in town and country planning. Indeed I can hardly recall a time when issues central to much planning work : sustainable development, climate change, housing supply and affordable housing, energy and infrastucture were so high on the "political" and policy agendas.

A good chance for reflection and interesting times for those involved with this sector.

Time for Britain ?

Given the general failure of everyone to boost the sale of Brain's, McEwans, John Smith's (what do they drink in N Ireand ?) or Guiness in UK supermarkets next summer is it now time for a"British team" in these European, world and olympic affairs ?

ps its tongue in cheek !

Plaid breach - update

I thought I'd check out a few reactions to Hywel Williams, and his colleagues breach of the spending rules

Glyn Davies headlines the issue in a hard way,

Ordovicus is a little more factual, but little sympathy,

Peter Black thinks they were caught out- "Guilty as charged"

Paul Flynn lets fly !

Elfyn Llwyd meanwhile is as arrogant as a Lord - perhaps a sign of things to come ? However some clarification is required :

LABOUR today demanded that the parliamentary leader of Plaid Cymru immediately clarify his position over the use of public money to promote Plaid Cymru at the Assembly election. On last night's BBC Good Evening Wales radio programme, Elfyn Llwyd stated that the parliamentary authorities had seen the Plaid Cymru adverts in full before they were published.

But the official report published by the cross-party Committee on Standards and Privileges, the Commons' Director of Operations states that of the three nationalist MPs, only Adam Price submitted the full advert for inspection. Labour whip and MP for Caerphilly Wayne David, in a letter to Elfyn Llwyd this morning, demanded that Plaid Cymru clarified its position.

WAYNE DAVID said: "Plaid Cymru has shown a great deal of arrogance and contempt towards the electorate in its reaction to the report published yesterday by the respected Committee on Standards and Privileges. "Rather than doing the right thing, which was to apologise to the House of Commons and the people of Wales, you have chosen to react in an intemperate way towards anyone who has questioned your use of public money for the purposes of party political campaigning.

"Yesterday evening on BBC Wales' flagship radio programme Good Evening Wales, you stated that Plaid Cymru had submitted its complete adverts to the House of Commons authorities for approval. But yesterday's standards report states clearly that you did not. In fact it quotes the Director of Operations of the House of Commons as saying that you did not. "Moreover, the Report clearly states that you did not indicate to the fees office that the advertisement was going to be placed in a newspaper which circulates well beyond your constituency and that it was to be placed one week before the Assembly election.

"The people of your constituency and other areas of Wales, who will feel rightly aggrieved at your attempt to use their money to fund party political campaigning for Plaid Cymru, will demand to know the truth.

"Who is telling the truth on this matter?"

Records go AWOL

There will be much written about this incident in the coming days. As someone who works in a bureaucracy I often think about the human element of this - what the hell did this man feel when he was told/briefed about the loss of these disks ?

It is difficult to know how one might feel when your staff come to you to say you are managing "an unprecedented" breach of confidentiality, and it has happened (it is suspected) because people have not followed procedures.

If only there was a camera that followed the moments when the staff thought "its only a couple of disks, throw it in the post", and what was happening in the period leading up to that result. If you could bottle the lessons, there is big money to be made in the risk management business.

But the human bit aside, it is a big political issue and the Chancellor has to get on top of it quickly.

Political analysis shared

This posting on the deliberations of blogmenai about Plaid's schools reorganisation is very telling.

It seems that some want to narrow down the crisis to now naming a few people including the Party President !

An interesting strategy.

Political analysis shared

This posting on the deliberations of blogmenai about Plaid's schools reorganisation is very telling.

It seems that some want to narrow down the crisis to now naming a few people including the Party President !

An interesting strategy.

Apologise - don't dig a deeper hole

Perhaps it is typical of the Westminster process that a report on Plaid Cymru's political adverts that were actually published back in April has only just found the light of day. I am calling upon Hywel Williams who is reported as making the biggest transgressions to apologise.

Very few people had any doubt that the adverts were a breach of public spending rules and the months of twisting and turning did not help their cause.

What now happens to Plaid's election spending, as the adverts are a declarable cost, we will wait and see.

Arglwyddi / Lords

Its "Ie" / "Yes".

Well I fail to recall how many words I have heard my nationalist friends rant against this institution.

First One Wales, now this - no wonder Simon Glyn choked on his cornflakes.

Off to the Lords ?

With the "People" uprising across Dwyfor-Meirionnydd perhaps even Elfyn may find a seat in the Lords an attractive proposition at some point in the not too distant future ?

Gwynedd's Leader blinks - or did he ? Is it too late ?

Well the boxers were lined up chin to chin and eye to eye - who blinked first ?

Well the Caernarfon Herald reports firstly that Plaid councillors met in closed session last Monday and are sworn to secrecy.

However it then reports that Richard Parry Hughes blinked in a meeting with Porthmadog Town council on Tuesday when he suggested "big changes" would be made to the report on schools reorganisation.

But we then learn that the "big changes" may be an inaccurate description of the changes, and the emphasis perhaps lies in extending the timetable (guess what -beyond May 2008 !!).

However is it too late ?

People deserting Plaid's sinking ship and reactions in the Daily Post getting personal and bitter. The letters page of the Post and Herald are equally entertaining.

Meanwhile an absolute silence from Hywel Williams MP who seems to be strangely quiet about the crisis. Of course it is now very inconvenient that all this can't be blamed on Labour : did Plaid see this coming when they signed up to One Wales ?

Others suggest I am "dribbling" in my posts on this matter - perhaps as in football I am dribbling towards an open goal........

World in perspective

The tragic news about the loss of Sion Hardy, who shared my place of work when not at Liverpool University, puts other issues in perspective.

There was shock and gloom at work today at such a loss. Everyone's thoughts are with his family.

Plaid's "political suicide"

No, its not an OTT comment from myself but Councillor Simon Glyn's comments as he uses GOLWG to announce his resignation from Plaid Cymru. I have little doubt that much is being written in blog land about this nationalist crisis in Gwynedd. Here is my little angle.

Firstly I think the schools debate is simply the tipping point. The tension in Plaid has been running for some time and I firmly beleive the roots of this split go back to at least the rise of Cymuned and the debacle over Pwllheli marina. While some people's paths have seperated since Cymuned was formed, the cultural v moderniser divide was evident. Isaid so at thetime, although Plaid rushed to deny it.

Will Plaid be worried ?.

Firstly lets see what happens in Gwynedd council betwen now and Christmas. Final consultation reports are yet to be signed off, and this is a council with a track record of back tracking when the pressure is on. But could they really back down now ? My guess is no -unless of course another council leader is to resign. In addition the de selection, and resignation, of longstanding members like Richard "Moi" Jones was already shifting the sands

Then clearly the council elections of May 2008 are now a real battle ground. Even the prospect of elections in places that may have forgotten what it is like to have a choice of candidates in their county election !

As to any wider implications ? Well Labour knows better than most what happens once the internal concensus is broken, and a rebellion follows. All sorts of consequences can be felt by MPs, AMs and others.

This will keep running......

Happy days and stupid ideas

So Labour's 47 year old campaign has become a 48 year old campaigner. Happy days with the family, and the Baggies notching up 4 goals last night to mark the eve of the great event.

To be fair a rubbish first half but they got their heads together for the second half and ran out worthy winners.

In politics there was a stupid idea that caught my eye and it escapes me how this system would work in reality. Indeed how would people feel having voted against an increase only to see it happen for 12 months - is another ballot held for the following 12 months. I see recipe for chaos and administrative disaster. Stupid idea.

Remembrance Sunday

Remembrance Sunday in Y Felinheli where there is a good turnout each year and signs that the numbers attending are increasing. Perhaps this is partly a result of the country being involved with ongoing conflicts, but also some recognition that the final links to the generation of the Great War is being lost.

Anyway here is Y Felinheli's war memorial, recently restored by the community council, after this morning's event.

Referendums might only reinforce NIMBYs

A break in postings because I wandered off to Aberteifi and Cei Newydd. In spite of the November wind and storms the dolphins made an appearance of Cei Newydd. Excellent.

I return home and spot an interesting story about a community referendum on a housing scheme just down the coast. I don't want to comment on the specific scheme because there might be good reason both and/or against the development. But in the age when we are pressing hard for more homes and affordable homes I am not sure that a growth of referendums against development will help.

We seem to be in an age when we can mount campaigns to stop new homes being built but not many specific campaigns in favour of specific sites and projects. The climate is not easy and could make it difficult for the One Wales government to deliver their target for affordable homes.

About my overdraft

Dear Minister,

I sometimes find my overdraft gets in the way of my enjoying life. Can you fling a few quid in my direction so that the quality of my leisure experience here in the North is not impaired.

Many thanks

Martin

Bethan on board with budget

I've been checking contributions on the Assembly budget. Bethan is on board with the budget and its potential implications while Glyn, Davies, after his appearance on radio, detects that Alun Ffred is a little more reticent in his belief in his own government's new role:

"Rhodri Morgan to set out the Government's position - as expected. But then it was over to Alun Ffed Jones for what seemed like a response - which took the biggest chunk of the remaining time. For all the world as if he was representing the 'opposition'. Has the news that Plaid Cymru are now in Government reached the Bangor studio yet?"

Well Glyn knows that Ffred is tied in to the budget, and it will be interesting to hear how his colleagues in Gwynedd Council react over the next few weeks.

Here we go,here we go, here we go

So after a busy morning in Caernarfon the members of Arfon have now made their choice and my diary will as a result be busier with campaigning activity for the next Westminster election. Tecwyn Thomas the chair of the Wales Labour Party was present and offered his congratulations on my selection as the Prospective Parliamentary Candidate.

I always enjoy the campaigning and with a reasonable assumption this will be a long haul its time to buy several pairs of new shoes !

Dyma Tecwyn Thomas Cadeirydd Plaid Llafur Cymru yn fyn llongyfarch ar gael fyn dewis fel darpar Ymgeisydd Seneddol yn Arfon ar gyfer yr etholiad nesaf i San Steffan. Digon o ymgyrchu o'm flaen ac amser i prynnu sawl par o sgidiau newydd !

The calm before the storm

Well at some point tomorrow the Labour Party members in Arfon will make a decision that could shape my diary for the next few weeks, months or years - or on the other hand somebody else's diary. As with previous selection events it feels like the calm before the storm, and in the end what will be will be.

Anyway it promises to be an interesting few months. Hywel Williams seems to have gone to ground in spite of the schools debate his Party have generated in Gwynedd . On the political front does Hywel think Seimon Glyn should resign from the Plaid Cymru group on Gwynedd council but remain a Party member ? How exactly does that work if a political party is to have any cohesive credibility ?

What does Hywel think about Cymad and the issues around management of the company ? Again he seems very quiet ?

Anyway lets see what happens tomorrow.