Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, has given a New Year update acknowledging the extremely challenging financial situation the council is facing. Despite the financial difficulties, Davies highlighted several successful projects completed in the past year. These include the launch of entrepreneurship and economic development programs, the transfer of Hafan y Waun Care Home to the council's ownership, the construction of a new school in Dyffryn Aeron, and the renovation of Cardigan Market Hall. Additionally, Lampeter's Wellbeing Centre was opened, and free school meals were provided to all pupils in Year 6 and under.
Davies emphasized the economic challenges that lie ahead for Ceredigion in the next financial year and the need for difficult decisions. However, he also mentioned upcoming events such as the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show and a leg of the European Rally championship that will bring a financial boost to the local economy. Davies expressed gratitude to elected members and council staff and wished the people of Ceredigion a happy new year.
In an opinion piece for WalesOnline, Plaid leader Rhun ap Iorwerth discussed the challenges facing Wales. He highlighted the failure of Labour rule to fully realize the potential of devolution, the lack of critical thinking and rigorous debate in Welsh democracy, and the need for a change of focus and urgency to improve outcomes in education, healthcare, and the economy. Despite these challenges, ap Iorwerth believes that none of them are insurmountable and that Wales has the potential for a better future.
Angelos Hadjicharalambous, the Larnaca sewage board director, has been elected as Larnaca district governor in a landslide victory, winning almost two-thirds of the vote. He beat outgoing Aradippou mayor Evangelos Evangelides. Hadjicharalambous had described the governorship as 'a role that will play a pivotal role in upgrading services and the quality of life for residents in the Larnaca district by providing solutions to long-standing issues.' [1ff4ff24]