The Senedd met for the first time this week since the appointment of Eluned Morgan as First Minister and a new Welsh Government cabinet.

The new cabinet is committed to focusing on delivering positive change for the people of Wales on the issues that matter most to them.

Alongside my role as Member of the Senedd for Newport West, I very much look forward to working with Eluned and the rest of the government in my new position as Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government.

Last week the First Minister announced above-inflation pay awards for public sector pay workers in Wales. NHS staff, teachers and workers in other services will all receive pay rises of between 5% and 6%. Whilst public finances remain under strain, the pay award recognises the vital contribution of thousands of workers to provide the services we all rely on.

We are a couple of weeks into the new academic year and the roll-out of the Free School Meals programme has been completed in maintained primary schools across Wales.

Part of the Welsh Government’s commitment to tackling child poverty, all primary age pupils are now able to receive a free meal every school day.

The Anti-Racist Wales Culture, Heritage and Sport Fund 2024-2025 recently opened for applications. The funding will support organisations to deliver capital projects that provide a positive, sustainable change for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic people across Wales.

If you want more information on eligibility, including how to make an application, please contact my office or look on the Welsh Government’s website.

It is now less than a month until the Newport Food Festival returns to our city centre on Saturday October 12. Local chefs and food vendors will showcase their skills, offering everything from traditional Welsh dishes to contemporary fusion cuisine and live demonstrations.

This year there will be musical entertainment as well art and crafts workshops for children. There really will be something for everyone to enjoy and I look forward to seeing many of you there!

As your Member of the Senedd, I am here to help Newport West constituents with issues which are devolved in Wales, including health, education, climate change, transport, housing, social care, the environment, culture and sport.

If you have any concerns or issues related to the Senedd, please do not hesitate to reach out. You can contact me at Jayne.Bryant@Senedd.Wales or call 01633 376627.