Tue. May 14, 2013

Irish Government praise for Plaid Cymru AM

Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM has been praised by Brendan Howlin TD, Ireland’s Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, at a high level conference in Brussels.

Plaid Cymru’s Rhodri Glyn Thomas is a Welsh representative on the European Union’s Committee of the Regions, a consultative body which represents the voice of sub-state, regional and local governments in Europe.

The Carmarthen East and Dinefwr AM has secured several high-profile opportunities to carry out reports (officially called “Opinions”) for the Committee of the Regions, which have looked into how EU economic institutions can be made to work better for economic regions such as Wales. Mr. Thomas’ reports have focussed on the role of public-private partnerships and the European Investment Bank.

Speaking at the conference, Minister Howlin stated:

“The Opinion presented by Rhodri Glyn Thomas is an important contribution to the debate around the use of Public Private Partnerships and Financial Instruments and I would like to thank him for his work on it.

The Opinion highlights the challenges of stimulating economic recovery across the European Union and the key role of the EU in helping to restore confidence in the economy, as well as the contribution that Public Private Partnerships and Financial Instruments can make. It also acknowledges the important role of the European Investment Bank.

I too recognise the crucial role of the EIB as the EU’s long-term financing institution, and its expertise and knowledge in the development and implementation of a range of financial instruments, in co-operation with the European Commission.”

Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM commented:

“I welcomed today’s speech by the Irish Minister, and his warm comments towards the work I have undertaken on behalf of the Committee of the Regions. Getting recognition from Irish Governments is very important for Wales, as they are our close neighbours and are a fully engaged EU member-state.

“My work through the Committee of the Regions demonstrates the importance of Wales working from within the EU to improve it and reform its institutions. Raising Wales’ international and European profile is one of my major aims. We have to make sure everyone has heard of Wales and knows about the contribution we can make to the rest of Europe. Ahead of next year’s European elections, Plaid Cymru is using every possible platform to promote the Welsh national interest.”

ENDS