Eisteddfod sessions aim to excite debate on the Blaenau Gwent Maes
27 July 2010
A week-long series of discussion events is set to ignite political and cultural debate at this year’s National Eisteddfod in Ebbw Vale.
For the first time the National Assembly for Wales has organised a series of discussion events on the Maes to encourage debate about the hot topics affecting the people of Wales.
The sessions, which will be hosted in the Societies Tent, include examination of issues ranging from human rights to heroes of Wales and the Welsh language.
A discussion of the current challenges facing public services will be led by Elan Closs Stephens, the former chair of S4C and current Chair of the Anglesey Council Recovery Board, appointed by the Welsh Government.
And political commentator Richard Wyn Jones will talk about the forthcoming Referendum on law-making powers for the National Assembly.
Presiding Officer Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas will also head up a session on the constitution and its future impact on Wales on Wednesday (4 August).
“The National Assembly for Wales is committed to encouraging more participation in the political process in Wales,” said the Presiding Officer.
“Central to that is getting people to talk about the big issues of the day such as the future powers of the Assembly and the pressures on our public services as a result of the squeeze on public spending.
“This is part of an ongoing process where the Assembly strives to excite and encourage engagement in the wider democratic process and in devolution by focusing on subjects of relevance to the people of Wales.”
The full programme of the Eisteddfod Sessions is:
31 July - 12.00 Societies Pavilion1
“Hate, equality and justice: Three words to encapsulate the 21st century?”
Fflur Jones looks at the importance of the Human Rights Act.
2 August - 12.00 Societies Pavillion 2
“Wales, oh Wales! A crisis in the public services in Wales.”
Elan Closs Stephens looks at the future of public services in Wales.
3 August – 13.15 Societies Pavilion 1
“Swallowing the myths: the Welsh and their heroes.”
Hywel Williams casts a satirical look at Wales’ heroes and asks whether we trust our heroes too much.
4 August – 11.00 Societies Pavilion 1
“The future of the constitution.”
Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas AM looks at the direction of Wales’ constitution.
5 August – 16.00 Societies Pavilion 2
Richard Wyn Jones discusses the outlook for the referendum
6 August – 13.00 Societies Pavilion 1
“Measuring the Welsh Language Measure.”
Emyr Lewis and Chair of the Welsh Language Board Meri Huws will be casting an eye over the Welsh Language Measure in the context of steps to develop the use of the language.