Key interests and achievements
Politically, Janet’s key focuses are ensuring more investment in
health and social services – particularly for the elderly and those suffering with
mental health illnesses; reducing regulation and red tape for farmers; ensuring
the full rollout of superfast broadband to rural areas; supporting small and
medium-sized businesses, and reducing waste in Government at all levels to
ensure value for taxpayers’ money.
Outside of politics, Janet is passionate about animals and marine
conservation, and plays an active role in the Llandudno community. She is a
keen sailor, and enjoys spending time with her family.
Personal history
Janet is married to Gareth Saunders. They live in Llandudno and have
two children together – Adam and Hannah.
Professional background
As a keen business woman and entrepreneur, Janet has founded a number
of successful local businesses. She is supportive of new start-ups and established
SMEs, and initiated the Cross-Party Group on Small Shops during the Fourth
Assembly.
Political history
Janet has served as the Welsh Conservative Assembly Member for
Aberconwy since 2011, and made history in 2016 as the first incumbent to hold
the seat in the Assembly. Having previously held the portfolio for Social
Services, Janet represented the Group as Shadow Minister for Local Government
from 2012 – 2016 during the Fourth Assembly, sitting on the Communities,
Equality and Local Government Committee. Janet retains this portfolio as Shadow
Spokesperson for Local Government into the Fifth Assembly.
Janet has previously represented the Craig-Y-Don ward on Llandudno
Town Council, and Conwy County Borough Council. Within the Local Authority, she
sat as the Cabinet Member with overall responsibility for Community Safety, and
held the roles of Chair of the Principal Scrutiny Committee and Leader of the
Welsh Conservative Group.
Janet is proud to be a former Mayor of Llandudno, a position held by
both her parents before her.
