During a time of unprecedented political developments, now is the perfect opportunity to “consider the future of Wales and its democracy”, says National Assembly of Wales Llywydd, Elin Jones AM, on the opening day of GWLAD: Future Wales Festival.
Part of a schedule of events to mark 20 years of devolution, the festival is held in Cardiff Bay on 25 - 29 September, and is a mixture of entertainment, talks and discussions, aimed at sparking a wider debate about the kind of Wales we want to live in. From culture, sport, politics, equality and democracy the festival features a varied and diverse schedule of topics and speakers.
The National Assembly for Wales is also evolving. Reforms to the Assembly’s make up and electoral system, including lowering the voting age to 16 and name change, are currently making their way through the Assembly’s legislative system. Plans for further reform, to expand the size of the Assembly and how Members are elected, are also being discussed.
“Push the boundaries of the imagination”
On the first day of GWLAD, Elin Jones AM, Llywydd of the National Assembly for Wales said:
“In such a time of political uncertainty, GWLAD is an opportunity to reflect on the last twenty years of devolution and to push the boundaries of the imagination as we consider the future of Wales and its democracy.
“We are excited to have attracted well-known names such as Charlotte Church and Rhys Ifans, as well as a range of other partners such as the Hay Festival, the Wales Governance Centre and the Future Generations Commissioner.
“The aim of this festival is to break new ground and give diverse audiences the opportunity to take part in a discussion on how best to develop modern Wales.
“I am sure that we will experience a weekend of interesting conversations that challenge, inspire and stimulate the mind, and I wish all involved well."
Some of the speakers who will be appearing at GWLAD are actor Rhys Ifans, journalist Carole Cadwalladr, and sports stars Colin Charvis and Tanni Grey-Thompson. The weekend of activity at Cardiff Bay will lead to further three one-day GWLAD events in Carmarthen, Caernarfon and Wrexham in November, with more details to be announced soon.
The festival is held in conjunction with a wide range of creative and influential partners, and a full schedule of events is available online at www.devolution20.wales/gwlad where free tickets are also available.