Pisa performance at lowest-ever level
By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter Wales’ performance in internationally recognised reading, maths and science tests has fallen to its lowest-ever level. Schools in Wales lag behind the rest of the UK in the latest Programme for International Student Assessment…
Leaky roof at National Museum puts staff on standby to move priceless works of art
By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter Staff are on standby to move priceless works of art due to the risk of rain damage from a leaky roof at the National Museum Cardiff, a committee heard. Jane Richardson, chief executive of…
MSs scrutinise representatives of the Arts Council of Wales about funding cuts
By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter MSs scrutinised representatives of the Arts Council of Wales about funding cuts which put the future of National Theatre Wales at risk. Delyth Jewell, who chairs the Senedd’s culture committee, asked about the Arts…
Wales and Ireland at crucial juncture in countries’ shared history, Senedd hears
WALES and Ireland should strive for greater ties at a crucial juncture in the countries’ shared history, the Senedd heard. Delyth Jewell led a debate on a report following an inquiry into Wales-Ireland relations. The international affairs committee chair stressed…
Delays to Welsh Government scheme could plunge thousands into fuel poverty this winter
THOUSANDS of households could be plunged into fuel poverty this winter after a Welsh Government scheme was plagued by delays, the Senedd heard. Delyth Jewell, Plaid Cymru’s shadow climate minister, raised concerns about the new Warm Homes programme potentially being…
A new “master plan” for the Welsh economy described as wafer-thin on detail
A new “master plan” for the Welsh economy has been described as wafer-thin on detail, with nothing new announced. Vaughan Gething, Wales’ economy minister, gave a statement to the Senedd on his priorities for a stronger economy. He outlined four…
Work to address fire safety in Wales’ high-rise buildings continues more than six years after the Grenfell Tower disaster
Work to address fire safety in Wales’ high-rise buildings continues more than six years after 72 people died during the Grenfell Tower disaster. Julie James provided an update to the Senedd about the Welsh Government’s progress on addressing building safety…
New rules and regulations on clean air, workplace recycling, and single-use plastics passed by Welsh Parliament
New rules and regulations on clean air, workplace recycling, and single-use plastics have been passed by the Welsh Parliament. MSs backed the Environment (Air Quality and Soundscapes) bill which aims to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution. The bill…
Disabled children contemplating suicide because of lack of support in schools
By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter Disabled children and young people are thinking about and attempting suicide due to a lack of support in Wales’ schools, an inquiry heard. The Senedd children’s committee has been taking evidence on the extent…
Plans to remove legal obligation for councils to publish Public Notices in local papers raises concerns for NUJ
Concerns have been raised about plans to remove a legal requirement for councils to publish public notices in local newspapers across Wales. The changes were proposed earlier this week as the Welsh Government published its Local Government Finance bill. Clause…