Carmarthen East and Dinefwr AM, Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM, was delighted to have secured unanimous backing for such an important debate on the Israeli interception of the Free Gaza flotilla at the Assembly (Wednesday June 23rd). The debate was given cross party support having been backed by Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM (Plaid Cymru), Alun Davies AM (Labour), Jenny Randerson AM (Lib Dem) and David Melding AM (Conservative).
Rhodri Glyn Thomas AM added:
“I know that some people will argue that with no responsibility of Foreign Affairs these issues should not be debated at the Assembly. However, I do strongly believe that there is a role for Assembly Members to reflect public opinion in Wales. I have been contacted by a great number of constituents over the years concerned with the troubles in the Middle East and I have spoken to a number of people throughout Wales that have been deeply upset of this particular incident.
I visited Gaza in November 2008 and the experience had a profound impact on me. Having seen the suffering, hunger, disease and air of general despair in the region, I think it is only right that the people of Wales were allowed to make their views clear through the Senedd.
I was pleased that members from all parties accepted the view that from time to time the Assembly should speak out on world affairs, and was equally pleased that there was such a positive contribution from all corners of Wales.”
