The Llywydd of the National Assembly for Wales, Elin Jones AM, has issued the following statement in response to the UK Government formally triggering Article 50 to begin secession from the European Union.
She said:
“Today, the UK Government has formally triggered the process to take us out of the European Union.
“Leaving the EU brings complex challenges and opportunities for us in Wales and for the public policy areas for which the Assembly has responsibility.
“In last year’s Referendum, leaving the EU was the will of the majority of the people whom we serve in the Assembly.
“We have a critical role in ensuring that the voice of the Welsh people is properly heard in the negotiations ahead of us.
“Assembly Committees are already undertaking important work in setting out our expectations of the Welsh and UK Governments and addressing the questions that need to be answered.
“My priorities are to ensure that the Assembly plays a full part in overseeing these negotiations and scrutinises effectively the Great Repeal Bill and the huge volume of further legislation that will follow.
“We are entering a period when fundamental changes will be made to the constitutional arrangements of the UK, the place of the devolved nations within it, and the ability of the Assembly to deliver for the people of Wales.
“As that process unfolds, I am determined to demonstrate and secure the Assembly’s role as a strong, effective Parliament for Wales.