‘It’s time to rebuild as an independent nation’ – Rhun ap Iorwerth

Plaid Cymru Shadow Economy Minister addresses ‘positive step’ of Welsh Independence in Brexit debate

The shameful episodes taking place in Westminster with UK Government determined to press for an October 31st Brexit ‘do or die’ are a ‘constitutional outrage’, according to a motion jointly tabled by Plaid Cymru and Welsh Government for debate in the National Assembly for Wales today.

Plaid Cymru Assembly Member for Ynys Môn Rhun ap Iorwerth AM argued this point, stating that the UK Government’s recent actions serve as a stark reminder of the significant dangers of a ‘No Deal’ Brexit, citing clear evidence of the ‘particular and acute harm’ dropping out of the EU would cause.

Mr ap Iorwerth said:

“Today we are pleased to present a motion that declares the recent actions of the British Government a constitutional outrage, and also serves as a reminder of the grave dangers of leaving the European Union without agreement.

“There are warnings about the threat to jobs. Warnings of chaos from the Federation of Small Businesses. Warnings from recruitment companies – that Brexit is already causing shortage of workers in some sectors, and many, many more warnings of the like.

“Whilst I’ve always opposed any Brexit, the evidence is clear about the particular and acute harm of a no deal Brexit … but it’s not just us in Plaid Cymru saying that.”

The Plaid Cymru Shadow Minister for Economy and Finance also made an impassioned pitch for Welsh Independence as part of his contribution to the debate, adding that the matter must now be on the national agenda to offer opportunity and freshness to the country.

Adding his belief that it is time for Wales to rebuild as an independent nation, Mr ap Iorwerth said:

“There is a positive step open to us as a small nation – and it must be on the agenda. It’s long been on our agenda of course, I’ve always supported independence, not as an end in itself, but as a means to forge a new future to set a new direction for Wales.

“Independence is an emotive word. It can be misused and twisted, but we know what it means for Wales, and to me it conjures up opportunity, freshness. Challenge? Yes, but also real hope.

“Brexit is isolation. The birth of a Welsh state is internationalism and partnership – within a British and European context. Brexit is exclusive. Welsh independence is inclusive. My dream is for Wales to build its future as an equal to others. No better. Just equal.

“Brexit builds walls. Building a new Wales is about building bridges. I could develop a real pride in being of these British Isles if Wales were an independent country. Our neighbours in these islands are our friends.

“What we have witnessed over these Brexit years: the lies, the intolerance, and this latest shameful episode of undermining democracy, does make me ashamed to be a part of this rotten British state. It’s time to rebuild.”