Rhun ap Iorwerth has unveiled his new Welsh Government Cabinet, promising a “new era of leadership” with a “relentless focus on doing what’s best for Wales”.
The new First Minister announced his ministerial team on Tuesday, saying the Cabinet would bring “new energy, new ideas and a new direction” to the leadership of the country following Plaid Cymru’s historic rise to power.
In a statement, Mr ap Iorwerth said: “United and filled with talent and experience ready to serve, my government will believe in the art of the possible, working as one team every day to improve the lives of the people of Wales.
“Our principles will be our guide as we seek practical solutions to the issues faced by communities the length and breadth of our country – and we will pursue our missions with the energy and urgency they demand.
“Our pledge is simple – to repay people’s trust in us as quickly as we can, bringing the nation together. A new era of leadership starts today.”
Among the most high-profile appointments is Sioned Williams, who becomes Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality.
She said she was “humbled” to take on the role and pledged immediate action on childcare and child poverty.
Ms Williams said: “This Government for all is committed to turning promise into immediate action for the people of Wales, with a clear focus on tackling the challenges facing every community.
“I am determined to take action on our priorities from day one, particularly rolling out our childcare offer and urgently tackling child poverty so that every child has the security and opportunity they deserve.”
The Cabinet combines experienced Senedd figures with senior Plaid Cymru politicians who will now oversee major public services and policy areas including health, education, transport, housing and the economy.
Former Plaid leader Adam Price takes on the role of Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, while Elin Jones becomes Cabinet Minister for Finance.
North Wales Senedd member Llyr Gruffydd has been appointed Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability, a role likely to place agriculture, environmental policy and rural communities high on the government agenda.
The full Cabinet is:
First Minister – Rhun ap Iorwerth
Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality – Sioned Williams
Cabinet Minister for Finance – Elin Jones
Trefnydd, Chief Whip and Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport – Heledd Fychan
Cabinet Minister for Government Effectiveness and the Constitution – Dafydd Trystan Davies
Cabinet Minister for Health and Care – Mabon ap Gwynfor
Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy – Adam Price
Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language – Anna Brychan
Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability – Llyr Gruffydd
Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning – Siân Gwenllian
Deputy ministers include Nerys Evans, Delyth Jewell, Mark Hooper and Cefin Campbell.
Veteran politician Elfyn Llwyd has been named Counsel General Designate.
The appointments mark a significant political moment for Wales, with Plaid Cymru now leading the Welsh Government and setting out its priorities for the years ahead.
Key issues expected to dominate the new administration include NHS waiting times, transport infrastructure, housing pressures, the cost of living, rural affairs and the future of the Welsh language.
The new government has also signalled a strong focus on social justice, childcare provision and tackling poverty as it begins its first days in office.