Cllr Ali Thomas, Leader of Neath Port Talbot council was named ‘Councillor of the Year’ at the Politician of the Year Awards held in Cardiff this week.
Congratulating him on his award, Cllr John Davies (Pembrokeshire), WLGA Leader said:
“The Association warmly congratulates Ali on his well deserved award. He is an excellent ambassador for local government in Wales and is greatly respected, both in terms of his contribution within the WLGA and for the work he carries out within his own local authority. Very sadly, in September, Neath Port Talbot was the focus of the world’s media as details emerged of the Gleision Colliery tragedy. Cllr Thomas represented his community during this incredibly difficult time, fronting the council’s efforts to support the emergency services and families involved.”
“These are exceptionally difficult times for Welsh local authorities. We are facing huge service pressures and subsequently are having to make difficult decisions around resource prioritisation. We are also hugely conscious of the ongoing struggle that people in our communities have to make ends meet in their everyday finances. During these tough times, the role of councillors is more important then ever and these awards are vital in recognising the significant role councillors play in providing effective leadership and support to the people who need it most as well as maintaining local service delivery to the highest possible standard, albeit under exceptionally difficult circumstances.”
