Government adopts Plaid Cymru proposals to retain 22 local authorities

But plans need to integrate health and social care to create seamless service

Responding to the Welsh Government’s statement on Local Government reform, Plaid Cymru Shadow Cabinet Member for Local Government Sian Gwenllian said:

“Plaid Cymru always called for the retention of the 22 Local Authorities and I’m glad that the government has now supported this view.

“So far we have seen Labour’s characteristic dithering on this matter, but I’m pleased that today the Minister has confirmed that he will perform a U-turn by scrapping Labour’s plans to force unpopular mergers and to maintain the 22 authorities.

“Plaid Cymru wanted to see councils co-operate under a regional model, and to be charged with planning strategically for services, education, transport and the integration of health and social care. However, the government’s plans as announced today on integrating Health and Social Care are not clear. Plaid Cymru wants to see them developed further in order to deliver a seamless service for patients.

“The government also needs to outline where democratic accountability lies within the new system, and much consideration needs to be given to this as the plans progress.”