Foundations laid for exemplar 21st Century law-making body – National Assembly publishes annual report
17 July 2012
It has been an important year for the National Assembly since the “Yes” vote in last year’s referendum on enhanced law-making powers, and the elections in May 2011.
In its Annual Report the Assembly Commission outlines how it has been establishing services that meet the new challenges of the fourth Assembly and provide an exemplar parliamentary service.
In her foreword to the report, Presiding Officer, Rosemary Butler AM highlights how encouraging the people of Wales to get more involved in the political process, has formed an integral part of that work.
“Understanding the needs of communities across Wales, and increasing participation in the work that we do in holding the Welsh Government to account and making new Welsh laws, are two of my core strategic objectives as Presiding Officer,” said Rosemary Butler AM, Presiding Officer.
“It is essential that we gain the trust and enthusiasm of the Welsh people for devolution. That’s why I have been visiting different communities, projects, schools and agricultural shows around Wales to hear what you have to say.
“I have also made significant changes to the way we do business in the Senedd. This has led to more backbench legislation and debate that better reflects the desires of various communities and interest groups across Wales.
“So far, we have had four pieces of suggested legislation coming from Assembly Members, three of which will now go forward to Bill stage, which is already as many as the number of Measures passed in the whole of the Third Assembly.
“We have also passed our first Bill since we received our enhanced law-making powers and continue to provide the necessary tools for Members to continue to scrutinise Welsh Government Legislation.”
The Annual Report outlines how the Assembly Commission has adapted the way it delivers facilities and services in order to meet the challenges of the new constitutional settlement.
At the core of these changes is a drive to ensure that Assembly Members have all the right tools in order to undertake their duties of holding the Welsh Government to account, scrutinising legislation and representing their constituents.
“This first year of the Fourth Assembly has been another year of change and transition at the National Assembly for Wales, with a new Presiding Officer and Deputy, 23 new Assembly Members and of course enhanced law-making powers.” said Chief Executive and Clerk of the Assembly Claire Clancy.
“With these enhanced powers, the institution has become even more of a focal point of Welsh civic and public life, and with that comes the responsibility and pressure of providing an outstanding parliamentary service that provides all 60 Members with the tools to perform their roles to a standard that will make people in Wales proud of the National Assembly.
“I believe that we are well on our way to achieving that goal, thanks to the contribution made by all the staff who work here at the Assembly, and I look forward to working with them to achieve the Commission’s ambitions during the remainder of the Fourth Assembly.”
The National Assembly For Wales Commission Annual Report 2011-12