Cymraeg

Cynulliad Cenedlaethol CymruNational Assembly for Wales · Cyfarfod llawnPlenary sitting

Dydd Iau 4 Gorffennaf 2002

Thursday 4 July 2002

DechreuoddMet 09:05 · Daeth i benRose 12:05

Gweld y Cofnod (PDF)View the Record (PDF)

Heb ei wirio â llaw etoNot yet checked by hand

CynnwysContents

  1. 3Cwestiynau i’r Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu EconomaiddQuestions to the Minister for Economic Development
    1. 3Grantiau Cyfalaf a RefeniwCapital and Revenue Grants
    2. 4Denu Buddsoddiad i’r CanolbarthAttracting Investment to Mid Wales
    3. 6Cyllid Strwythurol EwropeaiddEuropean Structural Funding
    4. 8Buddsoddi yng Ngogledd CymruInvestment in North Wales
    5. 11Adfywio Cymoedd y DeRegenerating the South WalesValleys
    6. 13Effeithiau GlobaleiddioEffects of Globalisation
  2. 15Cwestiynau ar Gyllid i’r Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a ChymunedauQuestions on Finance to the Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities
    1. 15Gwariant ar Wasanaethau Cyhoeddus yn Lloegr a ChymruFunding of Public Services in England and Wales
    2. 17Cynnyrch o GymruWelsh Produce
    3. 19Cynlluniau Menter Cyllid PreifatPublic Finance Initiative Schemes
    4. 20Grantiau Un-TroOne-Off Grants
    5. 21Adolygiad Cynhwysfawr o Wariant (Amgylchedd)Comprehensive Spending Review (Environment)
    6. 22Adolygiad o Leoliad Swyddfeydd y CynulliadThe Review of Assembly Office Locations
    7. 24Cyllideb Addysg 2003-04The 2003-04 Education Budget
  3. 25Datganiad gan y LlywyddStatement by the Presiding Officer
  4. 26Cymeradwyo Rheoliadau Ardrethu Annomestig (Newid Rhestri ac Apelau) (Diwygio) (Cymru) 2002Approval of the Non-Domestic Rating (Alteration of Lists Appeals) (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2002 2 o bleidleisiau2 votes
  5. 28Cymeradwyo Gorchymyn Digartrefedd (Cychwyn) (Cymru) 2002Approval of the Homelessness (Commencement) (Wales) Order 2002 2 o bleidleisiau2 votes
  6. 37Cynnig Cyfansawdd: Cymeradwyo Gorchmynion yn ymwneud â’r Sefydliad Cenedlaethol dros Ragoriaeth GlinigolComposite Motion: Approval of National Institute for Clinical Excellence Regulations 1 bleidlais1 vote
  7. 39Dirprwyo Swyddogaethau Deddf Cymunedau Ewrop 1972Delegation of Functions of the European Communities Act 1972 1 bleidlais1 vote
  8. 43Adroddiadau Blynyddol Cynllun Partneriaeth Llywodraeth LeolThe Annual Reports of the Local Government Partnership Scheme 4 o bleidleisiau4 votes
  9. 60Ymateb Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru i’r Adroddiad ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’The Welsh Assembly Government’s Response to the ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ Report 4 o bleidleisiau4 votes
  10. 85Pwynt o DrefnPoint of Order
  11. 85Dadl FerShort Debate
    1. 85Clefyd AlzheimerAlzheimer’s

PleidleisiauVotes

PleidlaisVoteO blaidForYmatalAbstainYn erbynAgainstCanlyniadResult
Cymeradwyo Rheoliadau Ardrethu Annomestig (Newid Rhestri ac Apelau) (Diwygio) (Cymru) 2002Approval of the Non-Domestic Rating (Alteration of Lists Appeals) (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2002
Cynnig NDM1102Motion NDM11024000DerbyniwydAdopted
Cynnig NDM1103Motion NDM11033900DerbyniwydAdopted
Cymeradwyo Gorchymyn Digartrefedd (Cychwyn) (Cymru) 2002Approval of the Homelessness (Commencement) (Wales) Order 2002
Cynnig NDM1104Motion NDM11044200DerbyniwydAdopted
Cynnig NDM1105Motion NDM11054100DerbyniwydAdopted
Cynnig Cyfansawdd: Cymeradwyo Gorchmynion yn ymwneud â’r Sefydliad Cenedlaethol dros Ragoriaeth GlinigolComposite Motion: Approval of National Institute for Clinical Excellence Regulations
Cynnig cyfansawdd NDM1106Composite motion NDM11064300DerbyniwydAdopted
Dirprwyo Swyddogaethau Deddf Cymunedau Ewrop 1972Delegation of Functions of the European Communities Act 1972
Cynnig NDM1107Motion NDM11074200DerbyniwydAdopted
Adroddiadau Blynyddol Cynllun Partneriaeth Llywodraeth LeolThe Annual Reports of the Local Government Partnership Scheme
Gwelliant 1Amendment 19035GwrthodwydRejected
Gwelliant 2Amendment 28035GwrthodwydRejected
Gwelliant 3Amendment 38036GwrthodwydRejected
Cynnig NDM1108Motion NDM11084400DerbyniwydAdopted
Ymateb Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru i’r Adroddiad ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’The Welsh Assembly Government’s Response to the ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ Report
Gwelliant 1Amendment 120027GwrthodwydRejected
Gwelliant 2Amendment 220027GwrthodwydRejected
Gwelliant 3Amendment 381227GwrthodwydRejected
Cynnig NDM1109Motion NDM11094700DerbyniwydAdopted

TrafodionProceedings

Cyfarfu’r Cynulliad am 9.05 a.m. gyda’r Llywydd yn y Gadair.

The Assembly met at 9.05 a.m. with the Presiding Officer in the Chair.

Cwestiynau i’r Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu Economaidd

Questions to the Minister for Economic Development

Grantiau Cyfalaf a Refeniw

Capital and Revenue Grants

Q1 Nick Bourne The Leader of the Welsh Conservatives spoken in English p. 3

C1 Nick Bourne Arweinydd Ceidwadwyr Cymru siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 3

Will the Minister make a statement on the options available to businesses in acquiring capital and revenue grants? (OAQ18728)

A wnaiff y Gweinidog ddatganiad ar y dewisiadau sydd ar gael i fusnesau o ran cael gafael ar grantiau cyfalaf a refeniw? (OAQ18728)

Andrew Davies The Minister for Economic Development spoken in English p. 3

Andrew Davies Y Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu Economaidd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 3

Team Wales offers a comprehensive menu of business support, including capital investment and job creation grants above £5,000, which are available from the Welsh Assembly Government through regional selective assistance and Assembly investment grant schemes. Smaller grants are generally available from local authorities, while loans and equity investment are available from Finance Wales.

Mae Tîm Cymru’n cynnig dewis cynhwysfawr o gymorth i fusnes, gan gynnwys buddsoddi cyfalaf a grantiau creu swyddi dros £5,000, sydd ar gael oddi wrth Lywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru drwy gymorth rhanbarthol dewisol a chynlluniau grant buddsoddi’r Cynulliad. Mae grantiau llai ar gael yn gyffredinol gan awdurdodau lleol, tra bo benthyciadau a buddsoddi ecwiti ar gael oddi wrth Cyllid Cymru.

Nick Bourne spoken in English p. 3

Nick Bourne siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 3

You will know of complaints throughout Wales that advice on capital grants is often diffuse and needs to be channelled through one agency. I frequently hear such complaints in surgeries in Brecon and Radnorshire. I know that you are concerned about it, but what is your timescale for having one agency accountable for this matter?

Fe wyddoch am y cwynion ledled Cymru bod y cyngor ar grantiau cyfalaf yn wasgarog yn aml a bod angen ei sianelu drwy un asiantaeth. Clywaf gwynion o’r fath yn aml mewn cyngorfeydd ym Mrycheiniog a Maesyfed. Gwn eich bod yn bryderus yn ei gylch, ond erbyn pa bryd y bwriadwch gael un asiantaeth i fod yn atebol am y mater hwn?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 3

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 3

There have been many complaints, as Members are aware, about the multiplicity of avenues of support. That is why we are revamping the business support system, through the Welsh Development Agency and the business gateway programme. That will be the major thrust of business advice, so that businesses have a one-stop shop to access information about grants, information technology, e-commerce, or general business advice. This issue is at the top of my agenda and I have regular contact with the WDA about progress. Local contracts for providing that advice are currently being allocated and I hope to be able to make an announcement on progress early in the autumn.

Fe fu llawer o gwynion, fel y gŵyr Aelodau, am fod cynifer o lwybrau cymorth. Dyna pam yr ydym yn ailwampio’r system cymorth busnes, drwy Awdurdod Datblygu Cymru a’r rhaglen porth busnes. Dyna fydd prif bwyslais y cyngor i fusnes, fel y bydd gan fusnesau siop un stop i gael gwybodaeth am grantiau, technoleg gwybodaeth, e-fusnes, neu gyngor busnes cyffredinol. Mae’r mater hwn ar frig fy agenda ac yr wyf mewn cysylltiad yn rheolaidd â’r WDA ynghylch y cynnydd a wneir arno. Mae’r contractau lleol i ddarparu’r cyngor hwnnw’n cael eu dyrannu ar hyn o bryd ac yr wyf yn gobeithio gallu gwneud cyhoeddiad ar y cynnydd yn gynnar yn yr hydref.

Elin Jones siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 4

Elin Jones spoken in Welsh p. 4

Mae cartrefi gofal i’r henoed yn faes twf yn economaidd ac yn gyflogwyr pwysig mewn sawl ardal. Er hynny, mae’r sector yn ei chael yn anodd i gael grantiau cyfalaf a refeniw i ddatblygu eu busnesau. A ydych yn cydnabod pwysigrwydd economaidd y sector hwn ac a ydych yn barod i ystyried y portffolio grantiau cyfalaf a refeniw sydd ar gael i gefnogi busnesau yng Nghymru ac, yn benodol a ellid gwella’r ddarpariaeth i’r sector hwn i gefnogi eu datblygiad?

Care homes for the elderly are an economic growth sector and they are major employers in many areas. However, the sector finds difficulty in getting capital and revenue grants to develop their businesses. Do you acknowledge the economic importance of this sector and are you prepared to consider the capital and review grant portfolio available to assist businesses in Wales and whether the provision could be improved to support their development?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 4

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 4

The service sector—which includes personal services, residential homes and care services—is increasingly important to the economy. I would be happy to consider this specific issue. It has not previously been brought to my attention; I thank you for bringing it to my attention now. I will take the matter up with officials, and return to you with a response.

Mae’r sector gwasanaeth—sy’n cynnwys gwasanaethau personol, cartrefi preswyl a gwasanaethau gofal—yn fwyfwy pwysig i’r economi. Byddwn yn falch o ystyried y mater penodol hwn. Nis tynnwyd i’m sylw cyn hyn; diolchaf ichi am ddod ag ef i’m sylw’n awr. Trafodaf y mater gyda swyddogion, a dof yn ôl atoch ag ymateb.

Denu Buddsoddiad i’r Canolbarth

Attracting Investment to Mid Wales

Q2 Mick Bates spoken in English p. 4

C2 Mick Bates siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 4

What is being done to attract investment to mid Wales? (OAQ18717) [R]

Beth sy’n cael ei wneud i ddenu buddsoddiad i’r Canolbarth? (OAQ18717) [R]

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 4

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 4

The Welsh Assembly Government and its Team Wales partners are working together to encourage investment and job creation in mid Wales. We constantly seek to improve the services available; for example, we have recently added the Assembly investment grant of between £5,000 and £50,000, which is available to all eligible small and medium-sized enterprises, including those in mid Wales.

Mae Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru a’i phartneriaid yn Nhîm Cymru’n gweithio gyda’i gilydd i hybu buddsoddiad a chreu swyddi yn y Canolbarth. Yr ydym yn ceisio gwella’r gwasanaethau sydd ar gael yn gyson; er enghraifft, yn ddiweddar bu inni ychwanegu grant buddsoddi’r Cynulliad o £5,000 i £50,000, sydd ar gael i’r holl fusnesau bach a chanolig eu maint, gan gynnwys y rhai yn y Canolbarth.

Mick Bates spoken in English p. 4

Mick Bates siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 4

Do you agree that good communications are an essential requirement in order to attract investment, and that an extended Welshpool airport would help mid Wales enormously?

A ydych yn cytuno bod cysylltiadau da’n hollbwysig er mwyn denu buddsoddiad, ac y byddai ehangu maes awyr y Trallwng yn gymorth mawr i’r Canolbarth?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 4

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 4

As we increasingly engage in the global economy, communications and air transport are important. That is why I was delighted yesterday to welcome the announcement that bmibaby, the low-cost, no-frills airline, is coming to Cardiff international airport. One of the problems with Cardiff airport in the past has been the lack of flights and few destinations. Air transport is important. In my constituency, the growth of Swansea airport is significant and helpful. I will consider how we can augment this provision in Wales—including the provision in mid Wales—and I would be happy to discuss that with you, and possibly to visit Welshpool airport to consider developments in that area.

Wrth inni ddod fwyfwy yn rhan o’r economi fyd-eang, mae cysylltiadau a thrafnidiaeth awyr yn bwysig. Dyna pam yr oeddwn wrth fy modd ddoe i groesawu’r cyhoeddiad bod bmibaby, y cwmni awyrennau cost isel, elfennol, yn dod i faes awyr rhyngwladol Caerdydd. Un o’r anawsterau ynghylch maes awyr Caerdydd yn y gorffennol oedd y prinder hediadau a chyrchfannau. Mae trafnidiaeth awyr yn bwysig. Yn fy etholaeth i, mae twf maes awyr Abertawe’n bwysig ac yn fuddiol. Gwnaf ystyried sut y gallwn ychwanegu at y ddarpariaeth hon yng Nghymru—gan gynnwys y ddarpariaeth yn y Canolbarth—a byddwn yn falch o drafod hynny gyda chi, ac ymweld â maes awyr y Trallwng o bosibl i ystyried datblygiadau yn yr ardal honno.

Cynog Dafis siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 5

Cynog Dafis spoken in Welsh p. 5

Yr wyf yn falch o’ch clywed yn cyfeirio at faes awyr y Trallwng. Y mae maes awyr yn Aber-porth, yng ngorllewin y Canolbarth, hefyd, lle ceir cyfle cyffrous a phwysig i ddatblygu parc technoleg a gweithgarwch cysylltiedig. Y mae hynny’n bwysig y dyddiau hyn, gan fod yr ardal yn wynebu problemau dyrys. Beth yr ydych yn ei wneud i sicrhau bod y prosiect i ddatblygu parc technoleg yn Aber-porth yn llwyddo? A ydych yn fodlon rhoi adnoddau ac amser i’r dasg honno?

I am pleased to hear you refer to Welshpool airport. There is also an airport in Aberporth, in the west of mid Wales, where there is an important and exciting opportunity to develop a technology park and associated activities. That is important in the current climate, as the area is facing serious problems. What are you doing to ensure the success of the project to develop a technology park in Aberporth? Are you willing to commit time and resources to the task?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 5

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 5

As you know, from a meeting earlier this week at which we discussed this issue, the development of Aberporth is crucial to the economy of mid Wales and Ceredigion. Aberporth is a strategic site, identified through the Objective 1 process. The Welsh Development Agency is investing a significant amount of money in the development of the site. I hope to visit the area in the near future to look at developments. We must maximise opportunities through our own investment, through the WDA or through Education and Learning Wales. When I visit the area, I will inform you and other Members.

Fel y gwyddoch, o gyfarfod yn gynharach yr wythnos hon lle y trafodwyd y mater hwn, mae datblygu Aber-porth yn hollbwysig i economi’r Canolbarth a Cheredigion. Mae Aber-porth yn safle strategol a ddynodwyd drwy broses Amcan 1. Mae Awdurdod Datblygu Cymru’n buddsoddi swm sylweddol o arian yn natblygiad y safle. Gobeithiaf ymweld â’r ardal yn y dyfodol agos i gael golwg ar y datblygiadau. Rhaid inni amlhau cyfleoedd drwy ein buddsoddi ein hunain, drwy’r WDA neu drwy Dysgu ac Addysgu Cymru. Pan ymwelaf â’r ardal, rhoddaf wybod i chi ac Aelodau eraill.

Glyn Davies siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 5

Glyn Davies spoken in Welsh p. 5

A ydych yn derbyn bod denu buddsoddiad i’r Canolbarth yn anodd tra bo’ch cyd-Aelod, y Gweinidog dros yr Amgylchedd, yn anwybyddu’r cwestiwn o fuddsoddi yn system ffyrdd yr ardal?

Do you accept that attracting investment to mid Wales is difficult while your colleague, the Minister for Environment, ignores the issue of investing in the area’s road infrastructure?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 5

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 5

We have been successful in Wales—especially in mid Wales—in attracting inward investment. Road transport is a key issue, but to date it has not been a barrier to any investment opportunities identified by the Assembly, the WDA or local authorities. When transport issues arise, I discuss them with my ministerial colleague. However, I am not aware of any instances where transport issues have been a problem.

Buom yn llwyddiannus yng Nghymru—yn enwedig yn y Canolbarth—wrth ddenu mewnfuddsoddiad. Mae trafnidiaeth ffyrdd yn fater allweddol, ond hyd yn hyn ni fu’n rhwystr i unrhyw gyfleoedd mewnfuddsoddi a ganfuwyd gan y Cynulliad, y WDA neu awdurdodau lleol. Pan fo materion trafnidiaeth yn codi, yr wyf yn eu trafod gyda’m cyd-Weinidog. Fodd bynnag, nid wyf yn ymwybodol o unrhyw achosion lle y bu materion yn ymwneud â thrafnidiaeth yn broblem.

Cyllid Strwythurol Ewropeaidd

European Structural Funding

Q3 Phil Williams spoken in English p. 6

C3 Phil Williams siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 6

Will the Minister make a commitment that no European structural funding for Wales will be decommitted this year? (OAQ18758)

A wnaiff y Gweinidog ymrwymiad na fydd unrhyw gyllid strwythurol Ewropeaidd ar gyfer Cymru yn cael ei ddadymrwymo eleni? (OAQ18758)

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 6

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 6

I cannot give a commitment to guarantee that no European structural funding for Wales will be decommitted this year. However, as you know from reports given to the Economic Development Committee, we are confident that the targets will be met.

Ni allaf roi ymrwymiad i warantu na chaiff unrhyw gyllid strwythurol Ewropeaidd i Gymru ei ddadymrwymo eleni. Fodd bynnag, fel y gwyddoch o’r adroddiadau a roddwyd i’r Pwyllgor Datblygu Economaidd, yr ydym yn ffyddiog y cyrhaeddir y targedau.

Phil Williams spoken in English p. 6

Phil Williams siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 6

I understand that £75 million of European grants under the former Objective 2 and Objective 5b programmes were unspent by the final date of 31 March. Although an extra six months has been granted for agricultural grants, as a result of foot and mouth disease, it is likely that a large part of that £75 million will be decommitted and returned to Brussels. Can you assure us that the Government will learn lessons from that fiasco and increase the present programme’s level of grant allocation? On 30 June it totalled only 71 per cent of what should have been allocated by that date.

Deallaf fod £75 miliwn o grantiau Ewropeaidd rhaglenni blaenorol Amcan 2 ac Amcan 5b heb eu gwario erbyn y dyddiad terfynol, sef 31 Mawrth. Er y rhoddwyd chwe mis ychwanegol ar gyfer grantiau amaethyddol, o ganlyniad i glwy’r traed a’r genau, mae’n debygol y caiff rhan helaeth o’r £75 miliwn hwnnw ei dadymrwymo a’i dychwelyd i Frwsel. A allwch chi roi sicrwydd i ni y gwnaiff y Llywodraeth ddysgu gwersi o’r llanast hwnnw a chynyddu’r dyraniad grant presennol i’r rhaglen? Ar 30 Mehefin nid oedd ond yn 71 y cant o’r hyn a ddylai fod wedi’i ddyrannu erbyn hynny.

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 6

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 6

I have a profound sense of déjà vu when we discuss this issue, Phil. We have discussed it endlessly in the Economic Development Committee. We are learning a great deal from the previous structural funds round. In my previous employment, I was indirectly involved in a structural funds programme and saw at first hand the problems encountered by project sponsors. We have learnt lessons from previous rounds. The inability to maximise the opportunity provided by structural funds rounds was a problem in Wales. As I said earlier, I am confident that we have learnt those lessons. A third of the Objective 1 programme money has been committed and we are confident that it will be spent.

Caf ymdeimlad dwfn o déjà vu pan drafodwn y mater hwn, Phil. Yr ydym wedi’i drafod yn ddiddiwedd yn y Pwyllgor Datblygu Economaidd. Yr ydym yn dysgu llawer iawn o gylch blaenorol y cronfeydd strwythurol. Yn fy ngwaith blaenorol, yr oedd gennyf gysylltiad anuniongyrchol ag un o raglenni’r cronfeydd strwythurol a gwelais â’m llygaid fy hun y problemau y mae noddwyr prosiectau’n eu hwynebu. Yr ydym wedi dysgu gwersi o’r cylchoedd blaenorol. Yr oedd yr anallu i amlhau’r cyfleoedd a gynigid gan gylchoedd y cronfeydd strwythurol yn broblem yng Nghymru. Fel y dywedais yn gynharach, yr wyf yn ffyddiog ein bod wedi dysgu’r gwersi hynny. Mae un rhan o dair o arian rhaglen Amcan 1 wedi’i hymrwymo ac yr ydym yn ffyddiog y caiff ei gwario.

Christine Chapman spoken in English p. 7

Christine Chapman siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 7

The successful use of European structural funds across Wales depends on a steady flow of ideas from all sectors. Do you agree that there are now excellent examples of private sector projects, such as OpportunitE Wales and the international trade development programme, which have been approved? Do you agree that private sector involvement must continue to be a priority in order to maximise the full potential of Objective 1 in Wales?

Er mwyn defnyddio’r cronfeydd strwythurol Ewropeaidd yn llwyddiannus ledled Cymru, rhaid cael llif cyson o syniadau o’r holl sectorau. A ydych yn cytuno bod enghreifftiau rhagorol bellach o brosiectau sector preifat, fel CyflE Cymru a’r rhaglen datblygu masnach ryngwladol, sydd wedi’u cymeradwyo? A ydych yn cytuno y bydd yn rhaid i gyfranogiad y sector preifat barhau’n flaenoriaeth er mwyn manteisio i’r eithaf ar botensial Amcan 1 yng Nghymru?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 7

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 7

I agree that it is vital that we engage the private sector. You mentioned two projects in which the private sector has been heavily involved. Finance Wales, in which Barclays Bank is a leading partner, is another. This week, as Members will know, I approved Stena Line’s application for a £12 million project, which includes £3.5 million of Objective 1 funding, to develop Holyhead port. Holyhead has one of Wales’s most deprived communities, with the highest levels of unemployment in the country. Also this week, Selonda announced its plans to develop the halibut fish farm in Penmon, which could provide the basis for a sustainable fish industry in Wales. There are exciting private sector projects in hand. We look to build on that success for the future.

Yr wyf yn cytuno ei bod yn hollbwysig inni gynnwys y sector preifat. Bu ichi sôn am ddau brosiect y bu gan y sector preifat gysylltiad agos iawn â hwy. Un arall yw Cyllid Cymru, y mae Banc Barclays yn bartner blaenllaw ynddo. Yr wythnos hon, fel y gŵyr Aelodau, cymeradwyais gais Stena Line am brosiect £12 miliwn, sy’n cynnwys £3.5 miliwn o gyllid Amcan 1, i ddatblygu porthladd Caergybi. Ceir un o gymunedau mwyaf difreintiedig Cymru yng Nghaergybi, a chanddi’r lefelau uchaf o ddiweithdra yn y wlad. Hefyd yr wythnos hon, cyhoeddodd Selonda ei gynlluniau i ddatblygu fferm bysgod lledod y môr ym Mhenmon, a allai fod yn sylfaen i ddiwydiant pysgod cynaliadwy yng Nghymru. Mae prosiectau sector preifat cyffrous ar y gweill. Bwriadwn ychwanegu at y llwyddiant hwnnw ar gyfer y dyfodol.

Alun Cairns spoken in English p. 7

Alun Cairns siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 7

In order to prevent decommitment in the future, Wales will need to be given full funding in the forthcoming comprehensive spending review, including match funding and the European element. That is the view of the Minister’s Liberal Democrat colleague Peter Black, according to last night’s South Wales Evening Post, in which it was stated that the Liberal Democrats want European grant funding. Does the Minister agree with that view, and if so, why did he and his Liberal Democrat colleague vote against the motion on 23 May? [ASSEMBLY MEMBERS: ‘Answer the question.’]

Er mwyn atal dadymrwymo yn y dyfodol, bydd ar Gymru angen cyllid llawn yn yr adolygiad cynhwysfawr o wariant nesaf, gan gynnwys arian cyfatebol a’r elfen Ewropeaidd. Dyna farn cyd-Aelod y Gweinidog, y Democrat Rhyddfrydol Peter Black, yn ôl y South Wales Evening Post neithiwr, lle y datganwyd yr hoffai’r Democratiaid Rhyddfrydol dderbyn cyllid grant Ewropeaidd. A yw’r Gweinidog yn cyd-weld â’r farn honno ac, os felly, pam y gwnaeth ef a’i gyd-Aelod bleidleisio yn erbyn y cynnig ar 23 Mai? [AELODAU’R CYNULLIAD: ‘Atebwch y cwestiwn.’]

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 7

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 7

Order. If the Welsh Conservatives stopped shouting for an answer to be given, the Minister might be able to answer.

Trefn. Pe bai Ceidwadwyr Cymru’n rhoi’r gorau i weiddi am gael ateb, efallai y gallai’r Gweinidog ateb.

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 8

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 8

We are confident—[Interruption.]

Yr ydym yn ffyddiog—[Torri ar draws.]

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 8

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 8

Order.

Trefn.

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 8

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 8

In the previous comprehensive spending review, we delivered on our commitment in terms of Objective 1 and we are confident that the next CSR, which will be announced shortly, will also give full backing to our commitment on Objective 1 and other structural funds rounds.

Yn yr adolygiad cynhwysfawr o wariant blaenorol, bu inni wireddu ein hymrwymiad o ran Amcan 1 ac yr ydym yn ffyddiog y bydd yr adolygiad cynhwysfawr o wariant nesaf, a gyhoeddir cyn hir, yn rhoi pob cefnogaeth i’n hymrwymiad ar Amcan 1 a chylchoedd y cronfeydd strwythurol eraill.

Buddsoddi yng Ngogledd Cymru

Investment in North Wales

Q4 Eleanor Burnham spoken in English p. 8

C4 Eleanor Burnham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 8

Will the Minister make a statement on recent and current economic investment in north Wales? (OAQ18722)

A wnaiff y Gweinidog ddatganiad ar fuddsoddiad economaidd diweddar a chyfredol yng ngogledd Cymru? (OAQ18722)

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 8

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 8

Private sector investment in north Wales since 1 July 1999 has resulted in a projected capital expenditure of over £257 million, which is expected to create over 4,000 jobs and safeguard a further 5,000 jobs. An Objective 1 grant worth around £54 million has also been approved for 82 north Wales-led projects.

Mae’r buddsoddiad gan y sector preifat yn y Gogledd ers 1 Gorffennaf 1999 wedi arwain at wariant cyfalaf rhagamcanol o fwy na £257 miliwn, y disgwylir iddo greu dros 4,000 o swyddi a diogelu 5,000 o swyddi eraill. Hefyd cymeradwywyd grant Amcan 1 gwerth tua £54 miliwn i 82 o brosiectau a reolir gan y Gogledd.

Eleanor Burnham spoken in English p. 8

Eleanor Burnham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 8

Anglesey is one of the most economically deprived counties in Wales, with unemployment levels among the worst in the country. What are you doing to help ensure economic investment in Anglesey? Do you agree with Anglesey County Council’s decision to allow trading using the euro on the island to boost the local economy, as around three million ferry passengers per year travel across the island from Holyhead?

Ynys Môn yw un o’r siroedd mwyaf economaidd ddifreintiedig yng Nghymru, a chanddi lefelau diweithdra sydd ymysg y gwaethaf yn y wlad. Beth yr ydych yn ei wneud i helpu i sicrhau buddsoddiad economaidd yn Ynys Môn? A ydych yn cytuno â phenderfyniad Cyngor Sir Ynys Môn i ganiatáu i bobl ddefnyddio’r ewro wrth fasnachu ar yr ynys er mwyn hybu’r economi leol, gan fod tua thair miliwn o deithwyr llongau fferi’n croesi’r ynys o Gaergybi bob blwyddyn?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 8

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 8

I am concerned about the position in Anglesey. That is why I met the business community and local authority officials in Anglesey a few weeks ago to discuss economic development, following an invitation by the local Member of Parliament, Albert Owen. As a result, I have offered to lead a delegation to meet the Irish Government to explore the opportunities that could be provided by greater links with the economies of Dublin and the Republic of Ireland. I hope to do that, if not over the summer, then in early autumn. I have already referred to two successful significant Objective 1 projects that have been signed off, namely the development of Holyhead port and the Selonda fish farm. Objective 1 and the Team Wales approach provide tremendous opportunities. Working in partnership with the local authority, we can make a significant difference in regenerating the Anglesey economy, particularly in Holyhead.

Yr wyf yn bryderus ynghylch y sefyllfa yn Ynys Môn. Dyna pam y cyfarfûm â’r gymuned fusnes a swyddogion yr awdurdod lleol yn Ynys Môn ychydig wythnosau’n ôl i drafod datblygu economaidd, ar wahoddiad yr Aelod Seneddol lleol, Albert Owen. O ganlyniad, yr wyf wedi cynnig arwain dirprwyaeth i gwrdd â Llywodraeth Iwerddon i ymchwilio i’r cyfleoedd y gellid eu darparu drwy sefydlu cysylltiadau pellach gydag economïau Dulyn a Gweriniaeth Iwerddon. Gobeithiaf wneud hynny dros yr haf neu ar ddechrau’r hydref. Yr wyf wedi cyfeirio eisoes at ddau o brosiectau llwyddiannus a phwysig Amcan 1 y cytunwyd arnynt, sef datblygu porthladd Caergybi a fferm bysgod Selonda. Mae Amcan 1 a gwaith Tîm Cymru yn cynnig cyfleoedd aruthrol. Drwy weithio mewn partneriaeth â’r awdurdod lleol, gallwn wneud gwahaniaeth sylweddol o ran adfywio economi Ynys Môn, yn enwedig yng Nghaergybi.

Peter Rogers spoken in English p. 9

Peter Rogers siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 9

I welcome the highlighting of the problems in Anglesey, and the investment in the area. It is, however, a drop in the ocean. At a recent meeting of the North Wales Regional Committee, the Welsh Development Agency warned that it is difficult to attract inward investment to Anglesey. Can this be attributed to Plaid Cymru’s long-dictated policies in Anglesey, or is there another reason that could be addressed?

Croesawaf y sylw a roddir i’r problemau yn Ynys Môn, a’r buddsoddiad yn yr ardal. Er hynny, nid yw ond yn rhan fach o’r hyn sydd ei angen. Mewn cyfarfod diweddar o Bwyllgor Rhanbarth y Gogledd, rhybuddiodd Awdurdod Datblygu Cymru ei bod yn anodd denu mewnfuddsoddiad i Ynys Môn. A ellir priodoli hyn i’r hen bolisïau a orfodwyd gan Blaid Cymru yn Ynys Môn, neu a oes rheswm arall y gellid ymdrin ag ef?

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 9

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 9

Order. The Minister is responsible for economic development. I do not believe that he is currently responsible for Plaid Cymru policies.

Trefn. Mae’r Gweinidog yn gyfrifol am ddatblygu economaidd. Nid wyf yn credu ei fod yn gyfrifol am bolisïau Plaid Cymru ar hyn o bryd.

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 9

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 9

For which I am very grateful.

Ac yr wyf yn ddiolchgar iawn am hynny.

Tom Middlehurst spoken in English p. 9

Tom Middlehurst siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 9

Do you agree that the buoyant economy of north-east Wales is largely due to the excellent partnership in the region between agencies, the education sector and the Labour-led councils of Flintshire and Wrexham in particular? They have been exemplars in their promotion of and support for local business. That has built confidence and thus attracted inward investment. Is this not also the reason why businesses are investing heavily in long-term commitments, thereby ensuring a good economic base and that unemployment remains at a record low?

A ydych yn cytuno mai’r hyn a greodd economi fywiog gogledd-ddwyrain Cymru yn bennaf yw’r bartneriaeth ragorol yn y rhanbarth rhwng asiantaethau, y sector addysg a chynghorau sir y Fflint a Wrecsam dan arweiniad y Blaid Lafur? Buont yn esiampl o ran hybu a chefnogi busnes lleol. Mae hynny wedi meithrin hyder gan ddenu mewnfuddsoddiad. Onid hyn hefyd yw’r rheswm pam y mae busnesau’n buddsoddi’n helaeth mewn ymrwymiadau tymor-hir, gan sicrhau sylfaen economaidd dda a pham y mae diweithdra’n parhau ar ei isaf erioed?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 9

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 9

I am glad that I am not responsible for Plaid Cymru’s economic policy. I know a hopeless case when I see one.

Yr wyf yn falch nad wyf yn gyfrifol am bolisi economaidd Plaid Cymru. Gallaf weld ei fod yn anobeithiol.

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 10

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 10

Order. I was trying to be helpful earlier, Minister.

Trefn. Yr oeddwn yn ceisio bod o gymorth yn gynharach, Weinidog.

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 10

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 10

As Tom knows, I recently met Flintshire County Council to discuss development issues in the area. Labour-led local authorities are taking economic and social regeneration seriously. On a visit to Ebbw Vale last week—production at the Ebbw Vale steelworks will end this Friday, which will be a sad occasion—I was buoyed by the positive approach of the management, the unions and the local authority to the opportunities available to develop the local economy. Labour authorities, along with those led by other parties, have a key role to play, and I continue to work closely with them.

Fel y gŵyr Tom, cyfarfûm â Chyngor Sir y Fflint yn ddiweddar i drafod materion datblygu yn yr ardal honno. Mae’r awdurdodau lleol a arweinir gan Lafur yn cymryd adfywio economaidd a chymdeithasol o ddifrif. Yn ystod ymweliad â Glynebwy yr wythnos diwethaf—trist fydd gweld y cynhyrchu yng ngwaith dur Glynebwy yn dod i ben ddydd Gwener—cefais fy nghalonogi gan agwedd gadarnhaol y rheolwyr, yr undebau a’r awdurdod lleol at y cyfleoedd sydd ar gael i ddatblygu’r economi leol. Mae gan awdurdodau Llafur, ynghyd â rhai a arweinir gan bleidiau eraill, rôl allweddol i’w chwarae ac yr wyf yn parhau i gydweithio’n agos â hwy.

Ieuan Wyn Jones Arweinydd yr Wrthblaid siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 10

Ieuan Wyn Jones The Leader of the Opposition spoken in Welsh p. 10

Yn naturiol, yr wyf yn croesawu’r buddsoddiad sylweddol a wnaed fel rhan o raglen Amcan 1 ym mhorthladd Caergybi. Mae hynny’n newyddion da i economi’r ynys gyfan. Un o’r problemau mawr sy’n rhwystro cwmnïau lleol rhag ehangu yw prinder tir lle gellid adeiladu ffatrïoedd newydd. Os caiff y Gweinidog wybod am enghreifftiau o broblemau felly, a yw’n fodlon trafod y sefyllfa gydag Awdurdod Datblygu Cymru i sicrhau bod tir ac adeiladau addas ar gael i gwmnïau lleol pan fyddant yn dymuno ehangu?

Naturally, I welcome the substantial investment in the port of Holyhead as part of the Objective 1 programme. That is good news for Anglesey’s economy as a whole. One of the major problems preventing local companies from expanding is shortage of land on which to build new factories. If the Minister is made aware of examples of such problems, would he be willing to discuss them with the Welsh Development Agency in order to ensure that land and appropriate buildings are available to local companies when they wish to expand?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 10

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 10

This was a key issue that arose in my meeting with the local authority and the local Member of Parliament a few weeks ago, and I have taken it up with the Welsh Development Agency. There are infrastructure issues to be addressed and, now that good links have been established by the dualling of the A55, we must ensure that there are sufficient development opportunities for local companies and inward investors. I also made the point at the meeting that the University of Wales Bangor and Coleg Menai have important roles to play in developing the knowledge economy and ensuring that adequate skills are available locally. Therefore, as well as infrastructure, many other issues need to be addressed in terms of regenerating the local economy.

Yr oedd hyn yn fater allweddol a gododd yn fy nghyfarfod â’r awdurdod lleol a’r Aelod Seneddol lleol ychydig wythnosau’n ôl, ac yr wyf wedi’i godi gydag Awdurdod Datblygu Cymru. Bydd yn rhaid trafod materion sy’n ymwneud â seilwaith a, gan fod cysylltiadau da bellach drwy ddeuoli’r A55, rhaid inni sicrhau bod digon o gyfleoedd buddsoddi i gwmnïau lleol a mewnfuddsoddwyr. Bu imi nodi hefyd yn y cyfarfod fod gan Brifysgol Cymru Bangor a Choleg Menai ran bwysig i’w chwarae yn natblygiad yr economi wybodaeth ac wrth sicrhau bod sgiliau digonol ar gael yn lleol. Felly, yn ogystal â’r seilwaith, mae angen ymdrin â llawer o faterion eraill yng nghyd-destun adfywio’r economi leol.

Karen Sinclair spoken in English p. 11

Karen Sinclair siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 11

Do you agree that, although north-east Wales does not benefit from Objective 1 status, the other investments gained through the commitment of the Labour Government in Wales, such as URBAN II and the Brymbo reclamation scheme, are making a significant difference to the lives and job opportunities of people in my constituency? Will you also join me in applauding the commitment of Wrexham County Borough Council, which is an effective and capable partner in this work?

A ydych yn cytuno, er nad yw’r Gogledd-ddwyrain yn cael budd o statws Amcan 1, fod y buddsoddiadau eraill a gafwyd drwy ymrwymiad y Llywodraeth Lafur yng Nghymru, megis URBAN II a chynllun adfer Brymbo, yn gwneud gwahaniaeth o bwys ym mywydau a chyfleoedd gwaith y bobl yn fy etholaeth i? A wnewch chi hefyd ymuno â mi i ganmol ymrwymiad Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Wrecsam, sy’n bartner effeithiol a galluog yn y gwaith hwn?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 11

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 11

I met the chief executive and the leader of the local authority a few weeks ago to consider development issues in Wrexham. The WDA will be making a significant investment over the next three years the town centre’s regeneration. You mentioned two other initiatives. I know from my own constituency that the URBAN II programme has had a fantastic effect in terms of regenerating the community of Townhill, which was one of the poorest communities in Wales. The clearance of the former Brymbo steelworks site was one of our major priorities. As I said in reply to Tom Middlehurst earlier, local authorities have a key role in economic development. The Team Wales approach is helping to turn round our local economies.

Cyfarfûm â phrif weithredwr ac arweinydd yr awdurdod lleol ychydig wythnosau’n ôl i ystyried materion datblygu yn Wrecsam. Bydd y WDA yn buddsoddi’n helaeth dros y tair blynedd nesaf yn y gwaith o adfywio canol y dref. Bu ichi sôn am ddwy fenter arall. Gwn fod y rhaglen URBAN II yn fy etholaeth i wedi cael effaith wych o ran adfywio cymuned Townhill, a oedd yn un o’r cymunedau tlotaf yng Nghymru. Clirio safle cyn waith dur Brymbo oedd un o’n prif flaenoriaethau. Fel y dywedais mewn ymateb i Tom Middlehurst yn gynharach, mae gan awdurdodau lleol rôl allweddol yn natblygiad economaidd eu hardaloedd. Mae gwaith Tîm Cymru yn helpu i weddnewid ein heconomïau lleol.

Adfywio Cymoedd y De

Regenerating the South WalesValleys

Q5 Janice Gregory spoken in English p. 11

C5 Janice Gregory siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 11

Will the Minister make a statement on the role of tourism in the economic regeneration of the south Wales Valleys? (OAQ18720)

A wnaiff y Gweinidog ddatganiad ar rôl twristiaeth o ran adfywio economi Cymoedd y De? (OAQ18720)

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 11

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 11

Tourism plays a central role in the Welsh economy and has an important part to play in the economic regeneration of the south Wales Valleys. This has been recognised by the Wales Tourist Board, by local authorities in the Valleys and by other key stakeholders who have come together to develop the south Wales Valleys industrial heritage action plan. The plan identifies several strands for potential development. The central theme is the development of a competitive tourism product with increased visitor numbers and greater economic returns.

Mae twristiaeth yn chwarae rhan ganolog yn economi Cymru ac mae iddi ran bwysig yn y gwaith o adfywio economi Cymoedd y De. Cydnabuwyd hyn gan Fwrdd Croeso Cymru, awdurdodau lleol y Cymoedd a chan y rhanddeiliaid allweddol eraill sydd wedi dod at ei gilydd i ddatblygu cynllun gweithredu treftadaeth ddiwydiannol Cymoedd y De. Mae’r cynllun yn nodi sawl elfen y gellid ei datblygu. Y thema ganolog yw datblygu cynnyrch twristiaeth cystadleuol gyda chynnydd yn y nifer o ymwelwyr a mwy o adenillion economaidd.

Janice Gregory spoken in English p. 12

Janice Gregory siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 12

Introducing tourism into the south Wales Valleys is a challenge. I endorse your comments on organisations coming together. Will you congratulate the Bridgend Railways Company in my constituency on its foresight and vision in planning to reopen a former coal railway line to the Garw Valley for tourism, which is much needed in my area? Will you support it in its bid for grant aid? I invite you to visit the project during the summer recess and see Ogmore at its most beautiful.

Mae cyflwyno twristiaeth i Gymoedd y De yn cynnig her. Ategaf eich sylwadau am fudiadau yn dod at ei gilydd. A wnewch longyfarch Bridgend Railways Company yn fy etholaeth i ar ei weledigaeth a’i ragweledigaeth o ran ei fwriad i ailagor cyn reilffordd lofaol yng Nghwm Garw ar gyfer twristiaeth, y mae mawr angen amdani yn fy ardal i? A wnewch ei gefnogi yn ei gais am gymorth grant? Fe’ch gwahoddaf i ymweld â’r prosiect yn ystod toriad yr haf i weld Ogwr ar ei phrydferthaf.

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 12

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 12

I am interested in the project. I played a small part in it about a year ago when a piece of subordinate legislation was passed to allow the provision of passenger services along the Garw line. I would welcome the opportunity to visit the project and discuss with you and others involved the contribution it can make to regenerating the local community. Some £2 million has been set aside for the Valleys industrial heritage action plan. Tourism is important in terms of helping to regenerate the Valleys and £1 million of the Corus package has been set aside to develop tourism in the south-east Valleys. I accept your invitation to visit the project.

Yr wyf yn ymddiddori yn y prosiect. Chwaraeais ran fach ynddo tua blwyddyn yn ôl pan basiwyd is-ddeddfwriaeth i ganiatáu darparu gwasanaethau teithwyr ar hyd rheilffordd Garw. Byddwn yn croesawu’r cyfle i ymweld â’r prosiect a’i drafod gyda chi ac eraill sy’n gysylltiedig â’i gyfraniad posibl i adfywio’r gymuned leol. Mae tua £2 filiwn wedi’i neilltuo ar gyfer cynllun gweithredu treftadaeth ddiwydiannol y Cymoedd. Mae twristiaeth yn bwysig o ran helpu i adfywio’r Cymoedd a neilltuwyd £1 filiwn o becyn Corus i ddatblygu twristiaeth yng Nghymoedd y De-ddwyrain. Derbyniaf eich gwahoddiad i ymweld â’r prosiect.

Geraint Davies spoken in English p. 12

Geraint Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 12

Broadband internet access offers businesses in areas such as the Valleys one of their greatest opportunities to promote tourism and regenerate the economy. At present only 2 per cent of businesses in Wales use this technology, compared with 11 per cent in London. In many areas the service is unavailable and there are no plans to provide it. When will the Minister commit long-overdue public money to providing this technology, so that Welsh businesses can compete on a level playing field?

Mae mynediad i’r rhyngrwyd drwy fand llydan yn cynnig un o’r cyfleoedd mwyaf i fusnesau mewn ardaloedd fel y Cymoedd hyrwyddo twristiaeth ac adfywio’r economi. Ar hyn o bryd dim ond 2 y cant o’r busnesau yng Nghymru sy’n defnyddio’r dechnoleg hon, o’i gymharu ag 11 y cant yn Llundain. Nid yw’r gwasanaeth ar gael mewn llawer o ardaloedd ac nid oes cynlluniau i’w ddarparu. Pa bryd y gwnaiff y Gweinidog neilltuo arian cyhoeddus hirddisgwyliedig i ddarparu’r dechnoleg hon, fel y caiff busnesau yng Nghymru chwarae teg i gystadlu?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 12

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 12

You have identified one of the challenges facing us. You mentioned that only 2 per cent of businesses use broadband. I know from BT’s figures that take up by the private sector—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises—is poor. However, this is not only about infrastructure. Eighty per cent of companies in Cardiff can access asymmetric digital subscriber line broadband, but only 1 per cent do. We must raise awareness and ensure that companies know of the opportunities provided by the ability to trade electronically. The Government has invested £18.5 million in the broadband lifelong learning network for schools, colleges, libraries and learning centres. We are also investing significant amounts of money to provide broadband infrastructure for hospitals, doctors and the health service in general. I will make an announcement shortly on the implementation of the Analysys report on broadband infrastucture. I will keep Members informed of developments.

Yr ydych wedi nodi un o’r heriau sy’n ein hwynebu. Gwnaethoch sôn mai dim ond 2 y cant o fusnesau sy’n defnyddio’r band llydan. Gwn ar sail ffigurau BT fod maint y defnydd ohono gan y sector preifat—yn enwedig busnesau bach a chanolig eu maint—yn wael. Fodd bynnag, mae hyn yn ymwneud â mwy na seilwaith. Gall 80 y cant o’r cwmnïau yng Nghaerdydd gael y band llydan ar linell danysgrifio ddigidol anghymesur, ond dim ond 1 y cant sy’n gwneud hynny. Rhaid inni hybu ymwybyddiaeth a sicrhau bod cwmnïau’n gwybod am y cyfleoedd a geir drwy fasnachu’n electronig. Mae’r Llywodraeth wedi buddsoddi £18.5 miliwn yn y rhwydwaith dysgu gydol oes band llydan i ysgolion, colegau, llyfrgelloedd a chanolfannau dysgu. Yr ydym hefyd yn buddsoddi symiau sylweddol o arian i ddarparu seilwaith band llydan i ysbytai, meddygon a’r gwasanaeth iechyd yn gyffredinol. Gwnaf gyhoeddiad cyn hir ar weithredu adroddiad Analysys ar y seilwaith band llydan. Rhoddaf wybod i’r Aelodau am y datblygiadau.

Effeithiau Globaleiddio

Effects of Globalisation

Q6 Peter Black spoken in English p. 13

C6 Peter Black siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 13

Will the Minister make a statement on the effects of globalisation on the Welsh economy and Welsh businesses? (OAQ18767)

A wnaiff y Gweinidog ddatganiad ar effeithiau globaleiddio ar economi a busnesau Cymru? (OAQ18767)

Rhodri Morgan The First Minister spoken in English p. 13

Rhodri Morgan Prif Weinidog Cymru siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 13

That would be an hour-long lecture.

Byddai hynny’n ddarlith awr o hyd.

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 13

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 13

Order. There is no danger of us having an hour-long lecture.

Trefn. Nid oes perygl inni gael darlith awr o hyd.

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 13

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 13

Certainly not. Globalisation provides threats as well as opportunities. The level of competition increases significantly, but globalisation also opens up a new market place. Wales must rise to the challenge. Businesses must capture and exploit the opportunities offered by the growth in emerging economies, for example, through European Union enlargement and the exploitation of new technology and information communications technology.

Nac oes, yn sicr. Mae globaleiddio’n cynnig bygythiadau’n ogystal â chyfleoedd. Mae cynnydd sylweddol ym maint y cystadlu, ond mae globaleiddio hefyd yn agor marchnad newydd. Rhaid i Gymru ymateb i’r her. Rhaid i fusnesau achub ar y cyfleoedd a gynigir gan y twf mewn economïau sy’n datblygu, er enghraifft, drwy ehangu’r Undeb Ewropeaidd ac elwa o dechnoleg newydd a thechnoleg gwybodaeth a chyfathrebu.

Peter Black spoken in English p. 13

Peter Black siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 13

I am grateful for that brief reply. One danger posed by the emerging economies is the availability of cheap labour, which has a particular impact on the textile sector of the Welsh economy, leading to the closure of factories such as Dewhirst in Swansea. What can the Welsh Assembly Government do to counter that through its procurement policies?

Yr wyf yn ddiolchgar am yr ateb byr hwnnw. Un o beryglon yr economïau datblygol yw bod llafur rhad ar gael ynddynt, a chafodd hynny effaith benodol ar y sector tecstiliau yn economi Cymru, gan arwain at gau ffatrïoedd fel Dewhirst yn Abertawe. Beth y gall Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru ei wneud i wrthweithio hynny drwy ei pholisïau caffael?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 14

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 14

I have been heavily involved in dealing with the aftermath of Dewhirst’s decision to cease production at its Fforestfach plant. I have met the management and the unions; I met the unions last Friday to receive a petition on the closure and the threat to the textile industry. I will visit the plant again tomorrow to meet workers and the trade unions. Globalisation poses huge challenges, mainly as a result of wage differentials. The average wage in the textile industry in Wales and the UK is £200 a week. In Morocco, where Dewhirst also operates, it is £30 a week. Dewhirst is considering locating in Sri Lanka, where the average wage is £30 a month. That graphically brings home the challenge that we face. We must ensure investment in growth sectors where wage differentials are not a key factor. That is the challenge that we face, and that is the thrust of our national economic development strategy, ‘A Winning Wales’. We are on course to meet the challenge. Sectors such as the textile sector face significant challenges, and we will do everything possible with individual companies and the workforce to identify training and investment opportunities.

Bûm yn ymwneud yn agos iawn â’r hyn a ddigwyddodd yn sgîl penderfyniad Dewhirst i roi’r gorau i gynhyrchu yn ei waith yn Fforest-fach. Yr wyf wedi cwrdd â’r rheolwyr a’r undebau; cyfarfûm â’r undebau ddydd Gwener diwethaf i dderbyn deiseb ar gau’r gwaith a’r bygythiad i’r diwydiant tecstiliau. Byddaf yn ymweld â’r gwaith eto yfory i gwrdd â’r gweithwyr a’r undebau llafur. Mae globaleiddio’n cynnig heriau aruthrol, yn bennaf o ganlyniad i’r gwahaniaeth rhwng cyflogau. Y cyflog cyfartalog yn y diwydiant tecstiliau yng Nghymru a’r DU yw £200 yr wythnos. Ym Moroco, lle y mae Dewhirst yn gweithredu hefyd, mae’n £30 yr wythnos. Mae Dewhirst yn ystyried ymleoli yn Sri Lanka, lle y mae’r cyflog cyfartalog yn £30 y mis. Mae hynny’n dangos yn glir iawn yr her yr ydym yn ei hwynebu. Rhaid inni sicrhau buddsoddi mewn sectorau twf lle nad yw gwahaniaethau cyflog yn ffactor allweddol. Dyna’r her a wynebwn, a dyna bwyslais ein strategaeth datblygu economaidd genedlaethol ‘Cymru’n Ennill’. Yr ydym ar y llwybr iawn i ateb yr her. Mae sectorau fel y sector tecstiliau’n wynebu heriau mawr, a gwnawn bopeth sy’n bosibl gyda chwmnïau unigol a’r gweithlu i ganfod cyfleoedd hyfforddi a buddsoddi.

David Davies spoken in English p. 14

David Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 14

Globalisation creates all kinds of challenges. Do you agree that it would be ironic for us to call for better standards of living in the third world while building barriers to protect our standard of living and forgetting about those who live on wages of £30 a month?

Mae globaleiddio’n creu pob math o heriau. A ydych yn cytuno y byddai’n eironig pe byddem yn galw am well safonau byw yn y trydydd byd tra oeddem yn codi rhwystrau i ddiogelu ein safon byw ni ac yn anghofio am y rhai sy’n byw ar gyflog o £30 y mis?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 14

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 14

Globalisation offers major challenges as well as major opportunities. As I said to Peter, the Assembly Government must identify the opportunities that globalisation offers the Welsh economy in an increasingly competitive world market. We must identify where we have significant competitive advantage, particularly in the knowledge economy, and invest in those sectors for the future.

Mae globaleiddio’n cynnig heriau mawr yn ogystal â chyfleoedd mawr. Fel y dywedais wrth Peter, rhaid i Lywodraeth y Cynulliad ganfod y cyfleoedd y mae globaleiddio’n eu cynnig i economi Cymru mewn marchnad fyd-eang fwyfwy cystadleuol. Rhaid inni ganfod ym mhle y mae gennym fantais gystadleuol o bwys, yn enwedig yn yr economi wybodaeth, a buddsoddi yn y sectorau hynny ar gyfer y dyfodol.

Dafydd Wigley spoken in English p. 14

Dafydd Wigley siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 14

Does the Minister accept that we cannot compete with cheap manufactured goods or general services provided by low-paid workers at great distances away, and that we must concentrate on quality products and services in specialist sectors which require high skill levels? When will we have a planned, focused and targeted approach to deliver this?

A yw’r Gweinidog yn derbyn na allwn gystadlu â nwyddau gwneuthuriedig rhad neu wasanaethau cyffredinol a ddarperir gan weithwyr sydd ar dâl isel sy’n bell iawn i ffwrdd, a bod rhaid inni ganolbwyntio ar gynhyrchion a gwasanaethau o ansawdd da mewn sectorau arbenigol sy’n gofyn am lefelau uchel o sgiliau? Pa bryd y cawn ddull gweithredu cynlluniedig, eglur a bwriadus i gyflawni hynny?

Andrew Davies spoken in English p. 15

Andrew Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 15

I agree that the knowledge economy must be our priority. You were at the recent launch in the Assembly of Intellectual Property Wales, which is about providing targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises in identifying, protecting and exploiting their intellectual property. That must be the way forward. A range of Assembly Government policies and Welsh Development Agency and Education and Learning Wales measures focus on the key sectors that we need to develop for the future prosperity of the Welsh economy.

Cytunaf fod rhaid i’r economi wybodaeth fod yn flaenoriaeth i ni. Buoch yn bresennol yn ddiweddar yn y Cynulliad yng nghyfarfod lansio Eiddo Deallusol Cymru, sy’n ymwneud â darparu cymorth penodol i fusnesau bach a chanolig eu maint wrth ddynodi, diogelu ac elwa ar eu heiddo deallusol. Dyna yw’r ffordd ymlaen. Mae amryw o bolisïau Llywodraeth y Cynulliad a mesurau Awdurdod Datblygu Cymru a Dysgu ac Addysgu Cymru’n canolbwyntio ar y sectorau allweddol y mae’n rhaid inni eu datblygu er ffyniant economi Cymru yn y dyfodol.

Cwestiynau ar Gyllid i’r Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau

Questions on Finance to the Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities

Gwariant ar Wasanaethau Cyhoeddus yn Lloegr a Chymru

Funding of Public Services in England and Wales

Q1 Janet Davies spoken in English p. 15

C1 Janet Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 15

Does the Minister monitor differences between the funding of public services in England and Wales? (OAQ18707)

A yw’r Gweinidog yn monitro’r gwahaniaethau rhwng gwariant ar wasanaethau cyhoeddus yn Lloegr a’r gwariant yng Nghymru? (OAQ18707)

Edwina Hart The Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities spoken in English p. 15

Edwina Hart Y Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 15

Under the Barnett formula, Wales receives a population-based proportion of changes to comparable public expenditure in England. However, the consequential shares we receive from Whitehall Departments do not drive resource allocation in Wales, as this is a matter for the Assembly.

Dan fformiwla Barnett, mae Cymru’n derbyn cyfran sy’n seiliedig ar boblogaeth o’r newidiadau i wariant cyhoeddus tebyg yn Lloegr. Fodd bynnag, nid yw’r cyfrannau canlyniadol a dderbyniwn oddi wrth Adrannau Whitehall yn pennu’r dyraniad o adnoddau yng Nghymru, gan fod hynny’n fater i’r Cynulliad.

Janet Davies spoken in English p. 15

Janet Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 15

Will you press your colleagues in Westminster to provide the best possible funding arrangements for public services in Wales in the forthcoming comprehensive spending review?

A wnewch bwyso ar eich cyd-aelodau yn San Steffan i ddarparu’r trefniadau ariannu gorau posibl ar gyfer gwasanaethau cyhoeddus yng Nghymru yn yr adolygiad cynhwysfawr o wariant sydd i ddod?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 16

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 16

The Assembly Government is committed to universal public services in Wales. I have pressed the Secretary of State to ensure that we have a good allocation from the comprehensive spending review to enable us to maintain standards in Wales.

Mae Llywodraeth y Cynulliad wedi ymrwymo i wasanaethau cyhoeddus cyffredinol yng Nghymru. Yr wyf wedi pwyso ar yr Ysgrifennydd Gwladol i sicrhau y cawn ddyraniad da o’r adolygiad cynhwysfawr o wariant i’n galluogi i gynnal safonau yng Nghymru.

Alun Pugh spoken in English p. 16

Alun Pugh siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 16

A key difference between public services in Wales and England is that we have a national free bus travel scheme for pensioners. Can you assure us that funding for this scheme will continue, and will you join me in congratulating John Richards who has travelled on public transport from Colwyn Bay to be here in the public gallery this morning? [Applause.]

Un gwahaniaeth allweddol rhwng gwasanaethau cyhoeddus yng Nghymru a Lloegr yw bod gennym ni gynllun cenedlaethol i bensiynwyr ar gyfer teithio am ddim ar fysiau. A allwch ein sicrhau y bydd y cyllid ar gyfer y cynllun hwn yn parhau, ac a wnewch ymuno â mi i longyfarch John Richards sydd wedi teithio ar drafnidiaeth gyhoeddus o Fae Colwyn i fod yma yn yr oriel gyhoeddus y bore yma? [Cymeradwyaeth.]

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 16

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 16

I am sure that you are delighted that one of your constituents has travelled all the way from Colwyn Bay, using public transport. I congratulate the service providers on that. Free transport for pensioners has been, and will continue to be, one of our priorities.

Yr wyf yn siŵr eich bod wrth eich bodd bod un o’ch etholwyr wedi teithio’r holl ffordd o Fae Colwyn, gan ddefnyddio trafnidiaeth gyhoeddus. Llongyfarchaf ddarparwyr y gwasanaethau ar hynny. Trafnidiaeth am ddim i bensiynwyr fu un o’n blaenoriaethau, a bydd yn parhau felly.

Nick Bourne spoken in English p. 16

Nick Bourne siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 16

Are you satisfied that the amount of funding we receive enables us to give a fair deal to our secondary school pupils? Government statistics show that five years ago, we were spending more per pupil than England—excluding London—but that we are now spending roughly the same amount. Is that satisfactory?

A ydych yn fodlon bod y maint o gyllid a gawn yn ein galluogi i gynnig bargen deg i’n disgyblion ysgol uwchradd? Mae ystadegau’r Llywodraeth yn dangos ein bod bum mlynedd yn ôl wedi gwario mwy fesul disgybl na Lloegr—ac eithrio Llundain—ond ein bod bellach yn gwario tua’r un swm. A yw hynny’n foddhaol?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 16

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 16

Budgetary decisions are made in the National Assembly according to priorities. The Assembly Government has supported education fully, and has invested the necessary resources. Many schools in Wales are delighted with the resources being invested and the number of schemes that enhance education opportunities.

Gwneir y penderfyniadau cyllidebol yn y Cynulliad Cenedlaethol yn ôl blaenoriaethau. Mae Llywodraeth y Cynulliad wedi rhoi cefnogaeth lawn i addysg, ac wedi buddsoddi’r adnoddau angenrheidiol. Mae llawer o ysgolion yng Nghymru wrth eu bodd â’r adnoddau a fuddsoddir a nifer y cynlluniau sy’n hybu cyfleoedd addysg.

Ieuan Wyn Jones spoken in English p. 16

Ieuan Wyn Jones siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 16

The Minister will recall the question I put to the First Minister on Tuesday regarding the report that a Treasury team favours reviewing the Barnett formula, which would mean Wales receiving approximately £650 million in addition to the current Welsh block. The First Minister had not read that report on Tuesday, but I assume that you have now read it. Will you acknowledge that a specialist team in the Treasury takes this view, and do you therefore agree that Wales has nothing to fear from a review of the Barnett formula, and that your Government should encourage such a review?

Bydd y Gweinidog yn cofio’r cwestiwn a ofynnais i’r Prif Weinidog ddydd Mawrth ynghylch yr adroddiad bod tîm yn y Trysorlys o blaid adolygu fformiwla Barnett, a olygai y byddai Cymru’n cael tua £650 miliwn yn ychwanegol at y bloc Cymreig presennol. Nid oedd y Prif Weinidog wedi darllen yr adroddiad hwnnw ar ddydd Mawrth, ond cymeraf eich bod chi wedi’i ddarllen bellach. A wnewch gydnabod bod tîm arbenigol yn y Trysorlys yn arddel y farn hon, ac a ydych felly’n cytuno nad oes gan Gymru ddim i’w ofni o adolygiad o fformiwla Barnett, ac y dylai’ch Llywodraeth chi gymell adolygiad o’r fath?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 17

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 17

I read the report in The Guardian with interest, but I do not believe everything that I read in the newspapers. I thought that you, Ieuan, would also not believe what you read in the newspapers, especially when they comment on internal shenanigans within your party.

Darllenais yr adroddiad yn The Guardian gyda diddordeb, ond nid wyf yn credu popeth a ddarllenaf yn y papurau newydd. Tybiais na fyddech chi, Ieuan, yn coelio’r hyn a ddarllenwch yn y papurau newydd, yn enwedig pan ydynt yn gwneud sylwadau ar helyntion mewnol yn eich plaid.

Cynnyrch o Gymru

Welsh Produce

Q2 Janet Ryder spoken in English p. 17

C2 Janet Ryder siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 17

How do you encourage Assembly sponsored public bodies to adopt procurement policies that promote Welsh produce? (OAQ18698)

Sut yr ydych yn annog y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad i fabwysiadu polisïau caffael sy’n hyrwyddo cynnyrch o Gymru? (OAQ18698)

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 17

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 17

The Welsh Assembly Government encourages the Welsh public sector, including ASPBs, to include Welsh firms on their tender lists, and through that, the purchase of Welsh produce and products. The Welsh procurement initiative, which involves ASPBs, is considering, among other matters, how to encourage Welsh firms to compete for public sector contracts.

Mae Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru’n annog sector cyhoeddus Cymru, gan gynnwys y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad, i gynnwys busnesau o Gymru yn eu rhestrau tendro, a thrwy hynny, prynu cynnyrch a nwyddau o Gymru. Mae menter caffael Cymru, sy’n cynnwys y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad, yn ystyried, ymysg pethau eraill, sut i annog busnesau yng Nghymru i gystadlu am gontractau’r sector cyhoeddus.

Janet Ryder spoken in English p. 17

Janet Ryder siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 17

You will agree that ASPBs and local government hold tremendous buying power, if this were used locally to produce the cheapest contract—you mentioned using local produce and labour—the impact on local economies would be impressive. However, what is often missing is the capacity of local firms to meet those contracts. What discussions have you had with the Minister for Economic Development on ensuring that local capacity is developing so that we can encourage Assembly sponsored public bodies to buy locally and ensure that there is a capacity to meet those contracts?

Byddwch yn cytuno bod gan y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad a llywodraeth leol bŵer prynu aruthrol. Os câi’r pŵer hwnnw ei ddefnyddio’n lleol i gael y contract rhataf—gwnaethoch sôn am ddefnyddio cynnyrch a llafur lleol—byddai’r effaith ar economïau lleol yn drawiadol. Fodd bynnag, yr hyn sydd ar goll yn aml yw capasiti busnesau lleol i gyflawni’r contractau hynny. Pa drafodaethau a gawsoch â’r Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu Economaidd ar sicrhau bod y capasiti lleol yn datblygu fel y gallwn annog cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad i brynu’n lleol a sicrhau bod digon o gapasiti i gyflawni’r contractau hynny?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 18

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 18

I know that this concerns Andrew Davies as well as Sue Essex because there are also many sustainable development issues to be discussed. Most importantly, the procurement unit must consider how it can aid Welsh suppliers to tender for contracts. We cannot look for loopholes in EU procurement regulations, but we can assist local firms to win more public sector contracts by making them more competitive. That is the unit’s aim.

Gwn fod hyn yn bwysig i Andrew Davies yn ogystal â Sue Essex gan fod llawer o faterion datblygu cynaliadwy i’w trafod hefyd. Yn bwysicaf oll, rhaid i’r uned caffael ystyried sut y gall helpu cyflenwyr yng Nghymru i gynnig tendrau am gontractau. Ni allwn chwilio am fannau gwan yn rheoliadau caffael yr UE, ond fe allwn helpu busnesau lleol i ennill mwy o gontractau sector cyhoeddus drwy eu gwneud yn fwy cystadleuol. Dyna nod yr uned.

Kirsty Williams spoken in English p. 18

Kirsty Williams siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 18

In taking this policy forwards, will you consider asking all ASPBs to undertake a social responsibility audit regarding their procurement process so that we can see the extent of local procurement in ASPBs across Wales?

Wrth fwrw ymlaen â’r polisi hwn, a wnewch ystyried gofyn i’r holl gyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad archwilio cyfrifoldeb cymdeithasol yng nghyd-destun eu proses caffael fel y gallwn weld graddau’r caffael lleol yn y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad ledled Cymru?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 18

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 18

We must recognise that public sector procurement procedures currently allow for fairness through open competition. They fully subscribe to the European Union’s procurement regulations. With that caveat, I will discuss this with the First Minister because he may be able to raise it with the chief executives and chairs of ASPBs when he next meets with them.

Rhaid inni sylweddoli bod gweithdrefnau caffael y sector cyhoeddus yn caniatáu tegwch ar hyn o bryd drwy gystadlu agored. Maent yn cydymffurfio’n llawn â rheoliadau caffael yr Undeb Ewropeaidd. Ar ôl rhoi’r rhybudd hwnnw, byddaf yn trafod hyn gyda Phrif Weinidog Cymru gan ei bod yn bosibl y bydd yn gallu’i godi gyda phrif weithredwyr a chadeiryddion y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad pan fydd yn cyfarfod â hwy nesaf.

William Graham spoken in English p. 18

William Graham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 18

Will the Minister briefly outline discussions that she has had with the Ministers for Health and Social Services, Economic Development, Rural Development, and Education and Lifelong Learning to provide Welsh produce throughout our communities as well as through their purchasing agencies?

A wnaiff y Gweinidog roi disgrifiad byr o’r trafodaethau a gafodd gyda’r Gweinidogion dros Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol, Datblygu Economaidd, Datblygu Gwledig, ac Addysg a Dysgu Gydol Oes i ddarparu cynnyrch o Gymru ar hyd a lled ein cymunedau yn ogystal â thrwy eu hasiantaethau prynu?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 18

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 18

This issue concerns everyone. I have regular discussions about the nature of public sector procurement with my Cabinet colleagues. They feel that we need to encourage local firms to be a part of the procurement process, but we must do so within the confines of the legislation. I hope that the procurement unit can assist these firms and that we can ensure fair play for them in Wales.

Mae’r mater hwn yn berthnasol i bawb. Caf drafodaethau rheolaidd am natur caffael yn y sector cyhoeddus gyda’m cyd-aelodau yn y Cabinet. Teimlant fod angen inni annog busnesau lleol i fod yn rhan o’r broses caffael, ond rhaid inni wneud hynny o fewn cyfyngiadau’r ddeddfwriaeth. Gobeithiaf y bydd yr uned caffael yn gallu cynorthwyo’r busnesau hyn ac y gallwn sicrhau chwarae teg iddynt hwy yng Nghymru.

Cynlluniau Menter Cyllid Preifat

Public Finance Initiative Schemes

Q3 Phil Williams spoken in English p. 19

C3 Phil Williams siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 19

Will the Minister update the Assembly on any new PFI schemes currently under consideration? (OAQ18710)

A wnaiff y Gweinidog hysbysu’r Cynulliad am unrhyw gynlluniau menter cyllid preifat sydd o dan ystyriaeth ar hyn o bryd? (OAQ18710)

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 19

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 19

I am not currently considering any new PFI schemes, although I am in discussions with the Welsh Local Government Association about a further bidding round for local authorities.

Nid wyf yn ystyried unrhyw gynlluniau PFI newydd ar hyn o bryd, er fy mod yn cael trafodaethau â Chymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru am gylch ymgeisio pellach i’r awdurdodau lleol.

Phil Williams spoken in English p. 19

Phil Williams siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 19

In the budget for trunk road construction, £16 million a year, out of a total of £54 million—a full 30 per cent—is now reserved for PFI repayments and will be for many years. Do you agree that the inevitable effect of using PFI rather than upfront public expenditure in the long term leads to fewer new schools, few hospital beds and a greatly reduced budget for road construction?

Yn y gyllideb ar gyfer adeiladu cefnffyrdd, mae £16 miliwn y flwyddyn, o gyfanswm o £54 miliwn—30 y cant i gyd—wedi’i neilltuo bellach ar gyfer ad-daliadau PFI a bydd yn parhau felly am flynyddoedd lawer. A ydych yn cytuno mai effaith anorfod defnyddio PFI yn hytrach na gwariant cyhoeddus uniongyrchol yn y tymor hir fydd llai o ysgolion newydd, llai o welyau ysbyty a chyllideb lai o lawer i adeiladu ffyrdd?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 19

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 19

I have read with interest many learned articles and publications on PFI. I have been particularly interested in work undertaken by the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants in this area, which considers the long-term value of PFI money. We have taken a pragmatic approach in Wales to PFI—we have used it when it has suited us. My commitment to the traditional public sector route is also well known from the fact that we have funded new hospitals through traditional means.

Yr wyf wedi darllen gyda diddordeb lawer o erthyglau a chyhoeddiadau dysgedig am PFI. Ymddiddorais yn arbennig mewn gwaith a wnaed gan Gymdeithas y Cyfrifwyr Siartredig Ardystiedig yn y maes hwn, sy’n ystyried gwerth tymor hir arian PFI. Yr ydym wedi cymryd agwedd bragmatig yng Nghymru at PFI—yr ydym wedi’i defnyddio pan oedd yn addas i ni. Mae fy ymrwymiad i’r llwybr sector cyhoeddus traddodiadol yn hysbys iawn hefyd gan ein bod wedi ariannu ysbytai newydd drwy ddulliau traddodiadol.

David Davies spoken in English p. 19

David Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 19

I congratulate the Government of Wales for continuing to support PFI—an important scheme that was produced by a Conservative Government. Do you condemn these old-school socialists with their outdated notions about the private sector for criticising PFI and trying to undermine it by scoring cheap political points?

Llongyfarchaf Lywodraeth Cymru ar barhau i gefnogi PFI—cynllun pwysig a ddyfeisiwyd gan Lywodraeth Geidwadol. A ydych yn collfarnu’r sosialwyr hynny o’r oes o’r blaen â’u syniadau hen ffasiwn am y sector preifat am feirniadu PFI a cheisio’i thanseilio drwy sgorio pwyntiau gwleidyddol diwerth?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 19

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 19

What a lovely question about making cheap political points.

Dyna gwestiwn hyfryd am wneud pwyntiau gwleidyddol diwerth.

We have taken a pragmatic approach to PFI. Unlike the Conservatives we have considered it realistically. We have considered the position of staff in hospitals and how they are affected, which you did not take into account. We will continue to take this pragmatic approach. There are many socialists in this Chamber, including myself. Thank you for your congratulations.

Yr ydym wedi cymryd agwedd bragmatig at PFI. Yn wahanol i’r Ceidwadwyr, yr ydym wedi’i hystyried o ddifrif. Yr ydym wedi ystyried sefyllfa’r staff mewn ysbytai a’r effaith arnynt hwy, nad oeddech chi wedi’i hystyried. Gwnawn barhau â’r agwedd bragmatig hon. Mae llawer o sosialwyr yn y Siambr, ac yr wyf fi’n un ohonynt. Diolch ichi am eich llongyfarchion.

Grantiau Un-Tro

One-Off Grants

C4 David Lloyd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 20

Q4 David Lloyd spoken in Welsh p. 20

Pa effaith y mae cyflwyno grantiau un-tro drwy gydol y flwyddyn ariannol yn ei chael ar gyllideb gyffredinol y Cynulliad? (OAQ18695)

What effect does the announcement of one-off grants throughout the financial year have on the overall Assembly budget? (OAQ18695)

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 20

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 20

They usually have no effect because all expenditure, including one-off grants, has to be accommodated in the total budget.

Ni chânt unrhyw effaith fel arfer gan fod yn rhaid cynnwys yr holl wariant, gan gynnwys grantiau un-tro, yn y gyllideb gyfan.

David Lloyd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 20

David Lloyd spoken in Welsh p. 20

Sut fydd y Gweinidog yn sicrhau dilyniant cynlluniau pan fydd y grant wedi’i wario?

How will the Minister ensure the continuation of schemes once the grant has been exhausted?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 20

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 20

We have tried, particularly in relation to voluntary sector projects, to grant three-year funding programmes. I have received representations on continuing to fund projects for more than three years. In terms of local authorities, it is essential that some grants are limited to two or three years, and that they are mainstreamed into the revenue support grant settlement after that.

Gyda phrosiectau’r sector gwirfoddol yn enwedig, yr ydym wedi ceisio caniatáu rhaglenni ariannu tair blynedd. Cyflwynwyd sylwadau i mi ar barhau i ariannu prosiectau am fwy na thair blynedd. O ran yr awdurdodau lleol, mae’n hollbwysig cyfyngu rhai grantiau i ddwy neu dair blynedd, a’u bod yn cael eu rhoi ym mhrif ffrwd y setliad grant cynnal refeniw wedi hynny.

Jonathan Morgan spoken in English p. 20

Jonathan Morgan siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 20

Since 1999, the Assembly Government has allocated more than £100 million in special grant reports to schools. While schools and teachers welcome this money, many find it difficult to spend the money and to deal with the burdens associated with the grants. Would it not be better to use foresight and invest that money at the out-set?

Ers 1999, mae Llywodraeth y Cynulliad wedi dyrannu mwy na £100 miliwn mewn adroddiadau grant arbennig i ysgolion, Er bod yr ysgolion a’r athrawon yn croesawu’r arian hwn, mae llawer yn ei chael yn anodd gwario’r arian a delio â’r beichiau sy’n gysylltiedig â’r grantiau. Oni fyddai’n well arfer rhagweledigaeth a buddsoddi’r arian hwnnw ar y dechrau?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 20

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 20

In terms of the budget process, underspends sometimes emerge during the year, and if you can usefully reprofile money on specific projects, in education or elsewhere, it is beneficial for that money to be used to provide organisations with financial assistance. Therefore, it is complicated because sometimes you must make decisions in-year, as issues arise. Schools have been delighted by the money we have given them, but I will take on board the fact that you would prefer local government to allocate the money rather than the Assembly granting money directly to schools.

O ran proses y gyllideb, mae tanwario’n dod i’r golwg weithiau yn ystod y flwyddyn, ac os gallwch ailbroffilio arian yn fuddiol ar brosiectau penodol, mewn addysg neu mewn meysydd eraill, mae’n llesol defnyddio’r arian hwnnw i ddarparu cymorth ariannol ar gyfer cyrff. Gan hynny, mae’n gymhleth oherwydd weithiau rhaid ichi wneud penderfyniadau o fewn y flwyddyn, wrth i faterion godi. Mae’r ysgolion wedi bod wrth eu bodd â’r arian a roesom iddynt, ond fe ystyriaf y ffaith y byddai’n well gennych pe byddai llywodraeth leol yn dyrannu’r arian yn hytrach na bod y Cynulliad yn rhoi arian yn uniongyrchol i ysgolion.

Rhodri Glyn Thomas siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 21

Rhodri Glyn Thomas spoken in Welsh p. 21

Mae cyfeiriad yn eich datganiad Cabinet ar 20 Mai at £40 miliwn yn y gyllideb amaeth a datblygu gwledig nas wariwyd. Trafodwyd hyn yn y Pwyllgor Amaethyddiaeth a Datblygu Gwledig ddoe, a rhoddwyd yr argraff fod modd i’r Cynulliad ei wario. A allwch egluro inni beth yw statws yr arian hwn? A yw’n dod o gymorthdaliadau Ewropeaidd, sydd y tu allan i gyfrifoldeb y Cynulliad?

Your Cabinet statement of 20 May refers to a £40 million underspend in the agriculture and rural development budget. This was discussed in the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee yesterday, and the impression given was that the Assembly could spend this money. Can you explain the status of this money? Is it derived from European subsidies, and therefore outside the Assembly’s remit?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 21

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 21

There are two points on this, and I will need to check the figures because I do not have them to hand. I believe that the annually managed expenditure element of the underspend was in the region of £18 million. We can do nothing about that, as it is similar to local government housing receipts in that the money is spent as and when it is needed. The other element of the departmental expenditure limit underspend related specifically to the limiting effect of the foot and mouth disease outbreak on our spending. However, if it would be helpful, I would be happy to give you a written explanation on the workings of the budget.

Mae dau bwynt ar hyn, a bydd yn rhaid imi wirio’r ffigurau gan nad ydynt gennyf wrth law. Credaf fod yr elfen o wariant a reolir yn flynyddol yn y tanwariant oddeutu £18 miliwn. Ni allwn wneud dim ynghylch hynny, gan ei fod yn debyg i dderbynebion tai llywodraeth leol i’r graddau y caiff yr arian ei wario yn ôl yr angen. Yr oedd yr elfen arall yn nhanwario’r terfyn gwariant adrannol yn ymwneud yn benodol ag effaith gyfyngiadol clwy’r traed a’r genau ar ein gwariant. Fodd bynnag, os byddai o gymorth, byddwn yn falch o roi esboniad ysgrifenedig i chi ar weithrediadau’r gyllideb.

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 21

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in Welsh p. 21

Trosglwyddwyd cwestiwn 5 (OAQ18746) ar gyfer ateb ysgrifenedig.

Question 5 (OAQ18746) has been transferred for written answer.

Adolygiad Cynhwysfawr o Wariant (Amgylchedd)

Comprehensive Spending Review (Environment)

Q6 Janet Davies spoken in English p. 21

C6 Janet Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 21

What discussions have you had with the Minister for Environment regarding her portfolio’s requirements from the forthcoming comprehensive spending review? (OAQ18706)

Pa drafodaethau yr ydych wedi’u cael gyda’r Gweinidog dros yr Amgylchedd ynghylch gofynion y portffolio mewn perthynas â’r adolygiad cynhwysfawr o wariant arfaethedig? (OAQ18706)

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 21

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 21

I will be discussing these matters with the Minister for Environment as part of the budget planning round.

Byddaf yn trafod y materion hyn gyda’r Gweinidog dros yr Amgylchedd fel rhan o’r cylch cynllunio cyllideb.

Janet Davies spoken in English p. 22

Janet Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 22

Although you cannot provide details of the CSR arrangement at present, can you indicate what priority you will give to the competing needs of integrated public transport and road dualling?

Er na allwch roi manylion am drefniant yr adolygiad cynhwysfawr o wariant ar hyn o bryd, a allwch nodi pa flaenoriaeth y byddwch yn ei rhoi i anghenion cystadleuol trafnidiaeth gyhoeddus integredig a deuoli ffyrdd?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 22

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 22

Once I know what the Committees’ and the Minister’s priorities are, I will take a balanced view across all portfolios, and will then make a decision on resource allocation.

Pan fyddaf yn gwybod beth yw blaenoriaethau’r Pwyllgorau a’r Gweinidog, byddaf yn bwrw golwg cytbwys ar yr holl bortffolios, ac yn penderfynu wedyn ar ddyrannu adnoddau.

David Davies spoken in English p. 22

David Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 22

The daily congestion on the M4 in Newport is causing a great deal of damage to the economy in south Wales. Do you agree that the time has come to find additional money to fund improvements to the M4 in that area, or an M4 relief road?

Mae’r tagfeydd beunyddiol ar yr M4 yng Nghasnewydd yn peri llawer o niwed i economi’r De. A ydych yn cytuno ei bod yn bryd dod o hyd i arian ychwanegol i ariannu gwelliannau i’r M4 yn yr ardal honno, neu ffordd liniaru i’r M4?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 22

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 22

Transport policy is not within my portfolio; I act on requests from the Minister for Environment. However, I was pleased to attend, with Sir Harry Jones, the opening of the new road that circles Newport. This demonstrates our commitment to transport issues in that area.

Nid yw polisi trafnidiaeth yn fy mhortffolio i; gweithredaf yn ôl ceisiadau gan y Gweinidog dros yr Amgylchedd. Fodd bynnag, yr oeddwn yn falch o fod yn bresennol, gyda Syr Harry Jones, yn agoriad y ffordd newydd sy’n mynd o amgylch Casnewydd. Mae hynny’n dangos ein hymrwymiad i faterion trafnidiaeth yn yr ardal honno.

Adolygiad o Leoliad Swyddfeydd y Cynulliad

The Review of Assembly Office Locations

Q7 Ann Jones spoken in English p. 22

C7 Ann Jones siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 22

What progress has been made with regard to the review of Assembly office locations since your statement on 28 February? (OAQ18735)

Pa gamau sydd wedi’u cymryd mewn perthynas â’r adolygiad o leoliad swyddfeydd y Cynulliad ers eich datganiad ar 28 Chwefror? (OAQ18735)

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 22

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 22

At the 29 April Cabinet meeting, Ministers supported proposals that would deliver our targets of moving at least 400 Assembly Government jobs out of Cardiff by 2007, and also locating most new Assembly jobs outside Cardiff. An implementation programme is being established to identify the necessary resources and to take forward the Cabinet’s strategy. I will be writing to Assembly Members with further details of the strategy by the end of the month.

Yng nghyfarfod y Cabinet ar 29 Ebrill, cefnogodd y Gweinidogion gynigion a fyddai’n cyflawni ein targedau o symud o leiaf 400 o swyddi Llywodraeth y Cynulliad o Gaerdydd erbyn 2007, a hefyd yn lleoli’r rhan fwyaf o swyddi newydd y Cynulliad y tu allan i Gaerdydd. Sefydlir rhaglen weithredu i ddynodi’r adnoddau y mae eu hangen ac i fwrw ymlaen â strategaeth y Cabinet. Byddaf yn ysgrifennu at Aelodau’r Cynulliad gan roi manylion pellach am y strategaeth erbyn diwedd y mis.

Ann Jones spoken in English p. 22

Ann Jones siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 22

You will agree that it is only right and socialist to spread the benefits of Assembly offices to other parts of Wales, particularly north Wales. Do you also agree that it is not simply a matter of showing that the Assembly is about serving the whole of Wales? There are deprived areas in Wales where the economic multiplier effect provided by the location of a government office would be greater than in Cardiff. Will you take this into consideration when looking for locations in north Wales?

Byddwch yn cytuno mai cwbl gyfiawn a sosialaidd yw lledaenu manteision swyddfeydd y Cynulliad i rannau eraill o Gymru, yn enwedig y Gogledd. A ydych hefyd yn cytuno’i bod yn golygu mwy na dim ond dangos bod y Cynulliad yn ymwneud â gwasanaethu Cymru gyfan? Mae ardaloedd difreintiedig yng Nghymru lle y byddai’r effaith luosi economaidd o leoli swyddfa lywodraeth yn fwy nag yng Nghaerdydd. A wnewch ystyried hyn pan ydych yn chwilio am leoliadau yn y Gogledd?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 23

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 23

The First Minister and I have been anxious to see the benefit of Assembly jobs, and possible recruitment, going to areas of greatest need. This is in line with our thinking on location policy. In north Wales, there are Assembly offices in Colwyn Bay, St Asaph and Caernarfon but, if the Assembly is to mean something, offices need to be located throughout the region.

Mae Prif Weinidog Cymru a minnau wedi bod yn awyddus i weld manteision swyddi’r Cynulliad, ac o bosibl recriwtio, yn mynd i’r ardaloedd mwyaf anghenus. Mae hynny’n unol â’n syniadau ar bolisi lleoli. Yn y Gogledd, mae gan y Cynulliad swyddfeydd ym Mae Colwyn, Llanelwy a Chaernarfon ond, os yw’r Cynulliad i olygu rhywbeth, rhaid lleoli swyddfeydd ledled y rhanbarth.

Gareth Jones siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 23

Gareth Jones spoken in Welsh p. 23

Un peth yw arfarnu ac asesu sefyllfa gan ragweld eich bod am adleoli 100 o swyddi, ond, os ydych o ddifrif ynghylch hyn, dylech fod yn gallu dweud wrthym faint o fuddsoddiad ariannol yr ydych yn bwriadu’i wneud. Yr wyf yn siŵr bod gennych syniad o’r gost o leoli 100 o swyddi tu allan i Gaerdydd, er enghraifft yng ngogledd Cymru. A wnewch chi ddweud wrthym beth fydd y buddsoddiad hwnnw?

It is one thing to evaluate and assess a situation and anticipate that you will relocate 100 jobs, but, if you are serious about this, you should be able to tell us what financial investment you intend to make. I am sure that you have some idea of how much it would cost to relocate 100 jobs outside Cardiff, in north Wales for example. Will you tell us how much will be invested to this end?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 23

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 23

I am sometimes reluctant to speak in public about our plans for relocation because property developers might up the price in certain areas where we may be considering relocating jobs. Therefore I am sure that you will excuse me if I do not go into the details. I have considered what will provide value for money and I have added to that. I am also considering sites and having discussions with local authorities in north Wales about sites that they could provide or suggest as possible locations. This is an ongoing issue, and I will deal with the points raised in my written statement to Members before the end of July.

Yr wyf yn amharod weithiau i siarad yn gyhoeddus am ein cynlluniau i ail-leoli oherwydd gallai datblygwyr eiddo godi prisiau mewn rhai ardaloedd y gallem fod yn ystyried ail-leoli swyddi ynddynt. Felly yr wyf yn siŵr y gwnewch fy esgusodi os nad wyf yn manylu. Yr wyf wedi ystyried beth fydd yn rhoi gwerth am arian ac yr wyf wedi ychwanegu at hynny. Yr wyf hefyd yn ystyried safleoedd ac yn cynnal trafodaethau ag awdurdodau lleol yn y Gogledd am safleoedd y gallent eu darparu neu eu hawgrymu’n lleoliadau posibl. Mae hyn yn fater cyfredol, a gwnaf ymdrin â’r pwyntiau a godwyd yn fy natganiad ysgrifenedig i’r Aelodau cyn diwedd Gorffennaf.

Nick Bourne spoken in English p. 23

Nick Bourne siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 23

Since you are the member of the Government who represents the constituency most remote from Cardiff—some 45 miles away—or at least when the Deputy First Minister is not on another planet, you have a commitment to ensuring that jobs are diffused throughout Wales, which I share. Will you ensure, through the M4 Cabinet, that a full debate is held on this subject?

Gan mai chi yw’r aelod o’r Llywodraeth sy’n cynrychioli’r etholaeth bellaf o Gaerdydd—tua 45 milltir i ffwrdd—neu o leiaf pan nad yw Dirprwy Brif Weinidog Cymru ar blaned arall, mae gennych ymrwymiad i sicrhau y caiff swyddi eu gwasgaru ledled Cymru, ac yr wyf yn ei rannu. A wnewch sicrhau, drwy Gabinet yr M4, y cynhelir dadl lawn ar y pwnc hwn?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 24

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 24

I will have a word with my colleague, the Minister for Open Government, about the business timetable. If the Assembly would like an update on the issue in the form of a debate, I am sure that that could be considered. It is important that Assembly Members are aware of our commitment. This is a staged process in which members of staff are already involved, and we must ensure that, in putting forward these proposals, we take them with us.

Caf air â’m cyd-aelod, y Gweinidog dros Lywodraeth Agored, am yr amserlen busnes. Os hoffai’r Cynulliad gael y wybodaeth ddiweddaraf ar y mater ar ffurf dadl, yr wyf yn siŵr y gellid ystyried hynny. Mae’n bwysig bod Aelodau’r Cynulliad yn ymwybodol o’n hymrwymiad. Proses raddol yw hon y mae aelodau staff yn ymwneud â hi eisoes, a rhaid inni sicrhau, wrth gyflwyno’r cynigion hyn, ein bod yn cael eu cefnogaeth.

Cyllideb Addysg 2003-04

The 2003-04 Education Budget

Q8 Jonathan Morgan spoken in English p. 24

C8 Jonathan Morgan siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 24

Will the Minister make a statement on the projected financial allocations for the education budget for the financial year 2003-04? (OAQ18783)

A wnaiff y Gweinidog ddatganiad ar y dyraniadau ariannol amcanol i’r gyllideb addysg ym mlwyddyn ariannol 2003-2004? (OAQ18783)

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 24

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 24

I will discuss these matters with the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning as part of the budget planning round.

Gwnaf drafod y materion hyn â’r Gweinidog dros Addysg a Dysgu Gydol Oes fel rhan o gylch cynllunio cyllideb.

Jonathan Morgan spoken in English p. 24

Jonathan Morgan siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 24

You may be aware that, as a result of a decision taken by your party at Westminster, Wales’s local education authorities, from next year, will have to find an estimated £5.5 million to cover the additional costs of national insurance contributions. Cardiff County Council will have to find an estimated £700,000 to cover the employer’s extra contributions. Will you give an assurance that the money provided will be truly additional so that local education authorities are not penalised by having to find the money within existing projected budgets?

Efallai y byddwch yn ymwybodol y bydd awdurdodau addysg Cymru’n gorfod dod o hyd i £5.5 miliwn, yn ôl amcangyfrif, o’r flwyddyn nesaf ymlaen i dalu costau ychwanegol cyfraniadau yswiriant gwladol, oherwydd penderfyniad eich plaid yn San Steffan. Bydd Cyngor Sir Caerdydd yn gorfod dod o hyd i £700,000 amcangyfrifedig i dalu am gyfraniadau ychwanegol y cyflogwr. A wnewch roi sicrwydd y bydd yr arian a ddarperir yn wirioneddol ychwanegol fel na chaiff yr awdurdodau addysg lleol eu cosbi drwy orfod dod o hyd i’r arian yn y cyllidebau amcanol presennol?

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 24

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 24

I am always struck by the notion that a local education authority lies outside a local authority as though they were different groupings when, in fact, they are one and the same. Welsh local government has leapt in before you, because the consultative forum on finance has already raised the issue of national insurance contributions and its impact on the local government settlement.

Yr wyf bob amser yn rhyfeddu at y syniad bod awdurdod addysg lleol y tu allan i’r awdurdod lleol fel pe baent yn wahanol grwpiau a hwythau, mewn gwirionedd, yn un peth. Mae llywodraeth leol Cymru wedi neidio i mewn o’ch blaen chi, gan fod y fforwm ymgynghorol ar gyllid eisoes wedi codi mater cyfraniadau yswiriant gwladol a’i effaith ar y setliad llywodraeth leol.

Datganiad gan y Llywydd

Statement by the Presiding Officer

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 25

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 25

I make this statement in reply to a point of order raised by David Melding. In his temporary absence, the Conservatives’ business manager has seen a draft of the proposed reply. I refer Members to the Record of Proceedings for 14 March 2002, when David Melding raised a point of order about the use of holding replies to written Assembly questions. He was concerned that, when Ministers use holding replies such as

Yr wyf yn gwneud y datganiad hwn mewn ymateb i bwynt o drefn a godwyd gan David Melding. Gan ei fod yn absennol dros dro, mae trefnydd busnes y Ceidwadwyr wedi gweld drafft o’r ateb arfaethedig. Cyfeiriaf yr Aelodau at Gofnod y Trafodion ar gyfer 14 Mawrth 2002, pan gododd David Melding bwynt o drefn ynghylch defnyddio atebion dal i atebion Cynulliad ysgrifenedig. Yr oedd yn bryderus, pan yw Gweinidogion yn defnyddio atebion dal fel

‘I will write to the Member and place a copy of the letter in the Libraries at Cathays park and Cardiff bay’

‘ysgrifennaf at yr Aelod a rhoi copi o’r llythyr yn y Llyfrgelloedd ym mharc Cathays a bae Caerdydd’

the substantive answer, when it emerges, does not appear in the Record of Proceedings. I expressed sympathy with that view, while emphasising that it was not substantively a matter for the Presiding Officer, since the content of ministerial answers, as returned to Members, is not a matter of order. However, I indicated that it might be possible to publish substantive answers either in the Record of Proceedings or elsewhere on the Assembly website.

nad yw’r ateb parhaol, pan ddaw, yn ymddangos yng Nghofnod y Trafodion. Mynegais gydymdeimlad â’r farn honno, gan bwysleisio yr un pryd nad oedd yn fater i’r Llywydd, gan nad yw cynnwys atebion Gweinidogion, fel y’u dychwelir i’r Aelodau, yn fater o drefn. Fodd bynnag, nodais y gallai fod yn bosibl cyhoeddi atebion parhaol un ai yng Nghofnod y Trafodion neu yn rhywle arall ar wefan y Cynulliad.

The Business Committee has now provided helpful advice on this issue and the related issue of Ministers giving undertakings in Plenary that they will write to Members with further information. The Business Committee has agreed in principle that substantive replies following holding answers to written Assembly questions should be published in the Record of Proceedings. It has also accepted that when Ministers undertake in Plenary to write to Members they should do so as soon as possible and that the correspondence should also be published on the intranet and internet. There are some practical and technical issues to be resolved, on which officials in the Presiding Office and Cabinet Secretariat will work over the summer recess to ensure that these changes can be introduced from the beginning of our next term.

Mae’r Pwyllgor Busnes wedi darparu cyngor buddiol bellach ar y mater hwn ac ar y mater cysylltiedig o addewidion Gweinidogion yn y Cyfarfod Llawn y byddant yn ysgrifennu at Aelodau gan roi gwybodaeth bellach. Mae’r Pwyllgor Busnes wedi cytuno mewn egwyddor y dylai atebion parhaol ar ôl atebion dal i gwestiynau Cynulliad ysgrifenedig gael eu cyhoeddi yng Nghofnod y Trafodion. Mae wedi derbyn hefyd, pan yw Gweinidogion yn ymrwymo yn y Cyfarfod Llawn i ysgrifennu at Aelodau, y dylent wneud hynny cyn gynted ag y bo modd ac y dylai’r ohebiaeth gael ei chyhoeddi hefyd ar y fewnrwyd a’r rhyngrwyd. Mae rhai materion ymarferol a thechnegol i’w datrys, y bydd swyddogion yn Swyddfa’r Llywydd ac Ysgrifenyddiaeth y Cabinet yn gweithio arnynt yn ystod toriad yr haf i sicrhau bod modd cyflwyno’r newidiadau hyn ar ddechrau ein tymor nesaf.

I am grateful to the Business Committee for providing this advice and coming to an agreement, to the Minister for Open Government for his co-operation, and to David Melding for his characteristic forbearance in this matter.

Yr wyf yn ddiolchgar i’r Pwyllgor Busnes am ddarparu’r cyngor hwn ac am ddod i gytundeb, i’r Gweinidog dros Lywodraeth Agored am ei gydweithrediad, ac i David Melding am ei amynedd nodweddiadol yn y mater hwn.

Cymeradwyo Rheoliadau Ardrethu Annomestig (Newid Rhestri ac Apelau) (Diwygio) (Cymru) 2002

Approval of the Non-Domestic Rating (Alteration of Lists Appeals) (Amendment) (Wales) Regulations 2002

Carwyn Jones Y Gweinidog dros Lywodraeth Agored siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 26

Carwyn Jones The Minister for Open Government spoken in Welsh p. 26

Cynigiaf fod

I propose that

Carwyn Jones Y Gweinidog dros Lywodraeth Agored (parhad) siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 26

Carwyn Jones The Minister for Open Government (continued) spoken in Welsh p. 26

Cynigiaf fod

I propose that

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 26

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in Welsh p. 26

Gwelaf nad oes neb am siarad ar y mater hwn. Felly, galwaf am bleidlais ar egwyddor y Gorchymyn.

I see that no-one wishes to speak on this matter. Therefore, I call for a vote on the principle of the Order.

Cynnig NDM1102 Carwyn Jones t. 26

Motion NDM1102 Carwyn Jones p. 26

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 40 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (40)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Alun Cairns
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Ieuan Wyn Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 27

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in Welsh p. 27

Pleidleisiwn yn awr ar gymeradwyo’r Gorchymyn.

We will now vote on the approval of the Order.

Cynnig NDM1103 Carwyn Jones t. 27

Motion NDM1103 Carwyn Jones p. 27

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 39 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (39)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Alun Cairns
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Cymeradwyo Gorchymyn Digartrefedd (Cychwyn) (Cymru) 2002

Approval of the Homelessness (Commencement) (Wales) Order 2002

Edwina Hart The Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities spoken in English p. 28

Edwina Hart Y Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 28

I propose that

Cynigiaf fod

Edwina Hart The Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities (continued) spoken in English p. 28

Edwina Hart Y Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 28

I propose that

Cynigiaf fod

Edwina Hart The Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities (continued) spoken in English p. 29

Edwina Hart Y Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 29

The purpose of these motions is to seek your agreement to the making of the Homelessness Act 2002 (Commencement) (Wales) Order 2002. This Act, which extends to England and Wales, received Royal Assent on 26 February 2002, and will reform the legislation on homelessness and the allocation of social housing. It primarily amends or repeals parts VI and VII of the Housing Act 1996, which affects the way a local authority allocates its housing accommodation, and also the way it deals with homelessness applications.

Pwrpas y cynigion hyn yw ceisio cytundeb gennych i wneud Gorchymyn Digartrefedd (Cychwyn) (Cymru) 2002. Rhoddwyd Cydsyniad Brenhinol i’r Ddeddf hon, sy’n cynnwys Cymru a Lloegr, ar 26 Chwefror 2002, a bydd yn diwygio’r ddeddfwriaeth ar ddigartrefedd a dyrannu tai cymdeithasol. Yn bennaf, mae’n newid neu’n diddymu rhannau VI a VII o’r Ddeddf Tai 1996, sy’n effeithio ar y modd y mae awdurdod lleol yn dyrannu ei lety tai, a hefyd y modd y mae’n trafod ceisiadau digartrefedd.

Section 8 of the Act—a provision in respect of reviews as to suitability of accommodation—and paragraphs 3 and 7 of schedule 1, came into force by Royal Assent. They are therefore effective from that date, and both local authorities and registered social landlords in Wales have been advised. The remaining provisions of the Act will be brought into force by way of statutory instrument.

Daeth adran 8 o’r Ddeddf—darpariaeth sy’n ymwneud ag adolygiadau o addasrwydd llety—a pharagraffau 3 a 7 o atodlen 1, i rym drwy Gydsyniad Brenhinol. Felly maent yn weithredol o’r dyddiad hwnnw, ac mae’r awdurdodau lleol a’r landlordiaid cymdeithasol cofrestredig yng Nghymru wedi’u hysbysu. Gweithredir gweddill y darpariaethau yn y Ddeddf drwy offeryn statudol.

First, to consider homelessness provisions, the Act introduces an obligation on local housing authorities to produce a local homelessness strategy to address the problems of homelessness within 12 months of the homelessness part of the Act coming into force. It also strengthens the position of people who are homeless by removing limitations on the obligations of local housing authorities to assist the homeless, and by providing authorities with additional powers to give assistance. The Act abolishes the two-year limitation on the period during which an authority is subject to the main homelessness duty, and also abolishes the duty on the authority to consider whether other suitable accommodation is available before it can secure accommodation itself. The intended effect of this commencement Order is to bring these provisions of the Act into effect on 30 September 2002.

Yn gyntaf, gan ystyried y darpariaethau ar ddigartrefedd, mae’r Ddeddf yn cyflwyno gorfodaeth ar awdurdodau tai lleol i lunio strategaeth digartrefedd leol i ymdrin â phroblemau digartrefedd o fewn 12 mis wedi i’r rhan o’r Ddeddf sy’n trafod digartrefedd ddod i rym. Mae hefyd yn cryfhau sefyllfa pobl ddigartref drwy ddileu cyfyngiadau ar yr orfodaeth i awdurdodau tai lleol gynorthwyo’r digartref, a thrwy roi pwerau ychwanegol i’r awdurdodau i roi cymorth. Mae’r Ddeddf yn dileu’r cyfyngiad o ddwy flynedd ar y cyfnod pan yw awdurdod yn gorfod cyflawni’r brif ddyletswydd digartrefedd, a hefyd yn dileu’r ddyletswydd sydd ar yr awdurdod i ystyried a oes llety addas arall ar gael cyn y gall sicrhau llety ei hun. Effaith fwriadedig y Gorchymyn cychwyn hwn yw rhoi ar waith y darpariaethau hyn yn y Ddeddf ar 30 Medi 2002.

As far as the allocation of accommodation provisions are concerned, the Act abolishes the requirement for authorities to maintain a housing register. It also gives them a power to secure accommodation for people who are ‘not in priority need’. The authority must also provide an information and advice service to all applicants for housing accommodation, and must provide that, in its allocation scheme, it gives reasonable preference to certain categories of applicants.

O ran y darpariaethau dyrannu llety, mae’r Ddeddf yn dileu’r gofyniad i awdurdodau gadw cofrestr dai. Mae hefyd yn rhoi pŵer iddynt sicrhau llety i rai ‘nad ydynt mewn angen blaenoriaethol’. Rhaid i’r awdurdod hefyd ddarparu gwasanaeth gwybodaeth a chyngor i bawb sy’n ymgeisio am lety tai, a rhaid iddo ofalu, yn ei gynllun dyrannu, ei fod yn rhoi blaenoriaeth resymol i rai categorïau o ymgeiswyr.

Local authorities are still required to have allocation schemes, but they must include a statement on the authority’s policy on offering applicants a choice of housing accommodation. Those are the provisions relating to the allocation of accommodation, and the intention of this commencement Order is to effect them on 27 January 2003. Officials are in the process of revising the statutory code of guidance for local authorities on the allocation of accommodation and homelessness, which will include guidance on the Homelessness Act 2002; it will be issued for consultation in the summer of 2002.

Mae’n ofynnol o hyd i’r awdurdodau lleol gael cynlluniau dyrannu, ond rhaid iddynt gynnwys datganiad am bolisi’r awdurdod ar gynnig dewis o lety tai i ymgeiswyr. Dyna’r darpariaethau sy’n ymwneud â dyrannu llety, a bwriad y Gorchymyn cychwyn hwn yw eu rhoi ar waith ar 27 Ionawr 2003. Mae’r swyddogion ar ganol adolygu’r cod cyfarwyddyd statudol i awdurdodau lleol ar ddyrannu llety a digartrefedd, a fydd yn cynnwys cyfarwyddyd ar Ddeddf Digartrefedd 2002; fe’i cyhoeddir ar gyfer ymgynghori yn haf 2002.

I am greatly concerned by anecdotal evidence that suggests significant variations in how local authorities apply homelessness legislation, including the Homeless Persons (Priority Need) (Wales) Order 2001. I am therefore monitoring statistics and other homelessness information and inquiries, and will review the impact and implementation of the new priority need Order. I will work with organisations such as the Welsh Local Government Association and Shelter Cymru, to ensure that everyone fully understands the responsibilities that flow from that Order and other homelessness legislation. I intend to see consistency of treatment for vulnerable people throughout Wales.

Yr wyf yn bryderus iawn ynghylch tystiolaeth anecdotaidd sy’n awgrymu bod amrywiadau mawr yn y modd y mae awdurdodau lleol yn cymhwyso deddfwriaeth digartrefedd, gan gynnwys y Gorchymyn Personau Digartref (Angen Blaenoriaethol) (Cymru) 2001. Gan hynny, yr wyf yn monitro ystadegau a gwybodaeth arall am ddigartrefedd ac ymholiadau, a byddaf yn adolygu effaith a gweithrediad y Gorchymyn angen blaenoriaethol newydd. Byddaf yn gweithio gyda chyrff fel Cymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru a Shelter Cymru, i sicrhau bod pawb yn llawn ddeall y cyfrifoldebau sy’n deillio o’r Gorchymyn hwnnw a’r ddeddfwriaeth digartrefedd arall. Bwriadaf sicrhau bod cysondeb yn y driniaeth i bobl ddiamddiffyn ledled Cymru.

Local authorities have expressed concerns that they do not have adequate resources to deal with the increased number of homeless people. Our funding for homelessness projects has increased immensely, and I have also allocated £348,000 to local authorities for this financial year, to assist them in developing their local strategies.

Mae’r awdurdodau lleol wedi mynegi pryderon nad ydynt yn meddu ar adnoddau digonol i drafod y nifer gynyddol o bobl ddigartref. Bu cynnydd aruthrol yn ein cyllid i brosiectau digartrefedd, ac yr wyf hefyd wedi dyrannu £348,000 i’r awdurdodau lleol ar gyfer y flwyddyn ariannol hon, i’w helpu i ddatblygu eu strategaethau lleol.

As I mentioned earlier, this commencement Order will bring the homelessness provisions of the Homelessness Act 2002 into force on 30 September 2002 and the allocation provisions into force on 27 January 2003. That period should ensure that local authorities have sufficient time to prepare for the new and amended provisions.

Fel y dywedais yn gynharach, bydd y Gorchymyn cychwyn hwn yn rhoi darpariaethau digartrefedd Ddeddf Digartrefedd 2002 mewn grym ar 30 Medi 2002 ac yn rhoi’r darpariaethau dyrannu mewn grym ar 27 Ionawr 2003. Dylai’r cyfnod hwnnw sicrhau bod gan yr awdurdodau lleol ddigon o amser i baratoi ar gyfer y darpariaethau newydd a diwygiedig.

Janet Ryder spoken in English p. 31

Janet Ryder siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 31

I welcome the Minister’s comments about monitoring the consistency of the application of changing definitions—especially of ‘homelessness’—when the Order comes into force.

Croesawaf sylwadau’r Gweinidog am fonitro cysondeb y defnydd o ddiffiniadau sy’n newid—yn enwedig ‘digartrefedd’—pan ddaw’r Gorchymyn i rym.

Given that it is such a significant piece of legislation with many implications, I will discuss a few points, particularly on the homelessness strategies that local authorities must produce. Will the Minister confirm the timescale for authorities? When will they be expected to produce their first strategy? In discussions with authorities, I have been told that some have a long way to go in preparing strategies. I know that strategies are crucial, but authorities must communicate with departments other than housing, such as social services. There have been instances in the past where social services and housing departments have not worked as closely as perhaps they should have done. They must also work closely with local registered social landlords because, with authorities, they are the main providers of accommodation and support services. If the stock transfer goes ahead, these landlords will play an ever-increasing role. Currently, they offer many supported living schemes, which authorities should draw into their strategies.

Gan ei bod yn ddeddfwriaeth mor bwysig ac iddi lawer o oblygiadau, gwnaf drafod ychydig o bwyntiau, yn enwedig ar y strategaethau digartrefedd y mae’n rhaid i awdurdodau lleol eu llunio. A wnaiff y Gweinidog gadarnhau’r amserlen i’r awdurdodau? Erbyn pa bryd y bydd disgwyl iddynt lunio eu strategaeth gyntaf? Mewn trafodaethau â’r awdurdodau, dywedwyd wrthyf fod gan rai ohonynt lawer o waith i’w wneud wrth baratoi eu strategaethau. Gwn fod y strategaethau’n hollbwysig, ond rhaid i’r awdurdodau gysylltu ag adrannau heblaw tai, fel y gwasanaethau cymdeithasol. Bu achosion yn y gorffennol pan nad oedd adrannau gwasanaethau cymdeithasol a thai’n gweithio mor agos â’i gilydd ag y dylent o bosibl. Rhaid iddynt weithio’n agos hefyd gyda’r landlordiaid cymdeithasol cofrestredig lleol oherwydd hwy, ynghyd â’r awdurdodau, yw prif ddarparwyr llety a gwasanaethau cymorth. Os aiff y trosglwyddo stoc yn ei flaen, bydd y landlordiaid hyn yn chwarae rhan gynyddol. Ar hyn o bryd, maent yn cynnig llawer o gynlluniau byw â chymorth, y dylai’r awdurdodau eu cynnwys yn eu strategaethau.

Therefore, what timescale have you given these strategies, and when you will review them? Will you look for specific examples of close working with other service providers, such as registered social landlords and voluntary organisations?

Felly, beth yw’r amserlen yr ydych wedi’i rhoi ar gyfer y strategaethau hyn, a pha bryd y gwnewch eu hadolygu? A fyddwch yn disgwyl gweld enghreifftiau penodol o weithio agos gyda darparwyr gwasanaethau eraill, fel landlordiaid cymdeithasol cofrestredig a chyrff gwirfoddol?

Strategies must also show how the authority intends to implement measures to prevent homelessness, so that it has sufficient accommodation and satisfactory services. Gone are the days when authorities could provide that for themselves, and they must demonstrate a multi-agency approach in these strategies.

Rhaid i’r strategaethau ddangos hefyd sut y mae’r awdurdod yn bwriadu rhoi mesurau ar waith i atal digartrefedd, fel bod ganddo ddigon o lety a gwasanaethau boddhaol. Wedi darfod y mae’r dyddiau pan allai’r awdurdodau ddarparu hynny drostynt eu hunain, a rhaid iddynt ddangos dull gweithredu amlasiantaethol yn y strategaethau hyn.

On the provision of satisfactory services, I know of at least one authority that prefers to place its homeless clients into its empty properties. There is nothing wrong with that; authorities should fill their empty properties. However, that is not always the most suitable accommodation for that person, who may well need support, advice and help to make a success of the placement. When the Minister reviews these strategies, will she ensure that satisfactory services are available to support clients?

Ynghylch darparu gwasanaethau boddhaol, gwn am o leiaf un awdurdod y mae’n well ganddo roi ei gleientiaid digartref yn ei dai gwag. Nid oes dim o’i le ar hynny; fe ddylai awdurdodau lenwi eu tai gwag. Fodd bynnag, nid hwnnw yw’r llety mwyaf addas bob amser i’r rhai dan sylw, a allai fod ag angen cefnogaeth, cyngor a chymorth i wneud y lleoliad yn llwyddiant. Pan fydd y Gweinidog yn adolygu’r strategaethau hyn, a wnaiff sicrhau bod gwasanaethau boddhaol ar gael i gynorthwyo cleientiaid?

Will you also review the strategies to ensure that they contain alternative accommodation—such as various supported living schemes—to meet the needs of those who cannot live independently? It is important that people are aware that they are not obliged to choose the first accommodation offered to them, which may not always be suitable to their needs. To empower them to use that right, they must first know that they have it. It must be made clear that they are not making themselves ‘intentionally homeless’ should they exercise their right to refuse accommodation. That is another loophole that we must monitor, as there have been instances where clients were not aware of that right. I know of people who have accepted unsuitable accommodation because they were told that if they did not accept it there and then, no alternative would be offered. Authorities must now notify clients of their right to a review of suitable accommodation. Authorities must also be seen to be acting ‘reasonably’; demanding an instant decision on a placement from an applicant is surely unreasonable, and could be challenged in court.

A wnewch chi hefyd adolygu’r strategaethau i sicrhau bod mathau eraill o lety ynddynt—fel y gwahanol gynlluniau byw â chymorth—i ddiwallu anghenion y rhai na allant fyw’n annibynnol? Mae’n bwysig bod pobl yn gwybod nad oes rhaid iddynt ddewis y llety cyntaf a gynigir iddynt, a allai fod yn anaddas i’w hanghenion. Er mwyn eu galluogi i arfer yr hawl honno, rhaid iddynt wybod yn gyntaf eu bod yn meddu arni. Rhaid rhoi ar ddeall nad ydynt yn eu gwneud eu hunain yn ‘ddigartref o fwriad’ os ydynt yn arfer eu hawl i wrthod llety. Mae hwnnw’n fan gwan arall y bydd yn rhaid inni’i fonitro, gan y bu achosion pan nad oedd cleientiaid yn ymwybodol o’r hawl honno. Gwn am rai a dderbyniodd lety anaddas am y dywedwyd wrthynt, os na wnaent ei dderbyn yn y fan a’r lle, na chynigid dim arall yn ei le. Bellach rhaid i’r awdurdodau hysbysu cleientiaid am eu hawl i gael adolygiad o lety addas. Rhaid i awdurdodau gael eu gweld yn gweithredu’n ‘rhesymol’ hefyd; siawns nad yw mynnu penderfyniad ar leoliad gan ymgeisydd yn y fan a’r lle yn afresymol, a gellid herio hynny mewn llys.

The homelessness duty cannot be brought to an end unless the applicant has been informed of his or her right to request a review of the suitability of accommodation. Some councils are currently not adhering to that. Steps forward are being taken in offering a choice of accommodation to homeless people, but much will centre around the adequacy of local authorities’ strategies. I again ask for clarification of the timescale.

Ni ellir terfynu’r ddyletswydd digartrefedd oni bai bod yr ymgeisydd wedi’i hysbysu am ei hawl i wneud cais am adolygiad o addasrwydd llety. Mae rhai cynghorau nad ydynt yn cadw at hynny ar hyn o bryd. Fe gymerir camau ymlaen o ran cynnig dewis o lety i bobl ddigartref, ond bydd llawer yn dibynnu ar ddigonolrwydd strategaethau’r awdurdodau lleol. Gofynnaf eto am eglurhad ar yr amserlen.

Peter Law spoken in English p. 33

Peter Law siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 33

I welcome the Minister’s proposals in these regulations, and I thank her for her continual vigilance, and for wanting to take our homeless people off the streets and into a place of safety and warmth. In requiring local authorities to play a further role in the good work already done with the Assembly on dealing with homelessness, these regulations are important. I note that funding has been allocated to cover much of the resource costs that authorities will face. The homelessness strategy is important in removing the limitations on assistance, and providing an advice service. This Government and the previous Government have taken strong steps forward in dealing with homelessness in Wales.

Croesawaf gynigion y Gweinidog yn y rheoliadau hyn, a diolchaf iddi am ei gwyliadwriaeth gyson, ac am ddymuno mynd â’n pobl ddigartref oddi ar y strydoedd ac i le cynnes a diogel. O ran mynnu bod yr awdurdodau lleol yn chwarae rôl bellach yn y gwaith da a wnaed gyda’r Cynulliad eisoes ar ddelio â digartrefedd, mae’r rheoliadau hyn yn bwysig. Nodaf fod arian wedi’i ddyrannu i dalu am lawer o’r costau adnoddau y bydd yr awdurdodau’n eu hwynebu. Mae’r strategaeth digartrefedd yn bwysig o ran dileu’r cyfyngiadau ar gymorth, a darparu gwasanaeth cynghori. Mae’r Llywodraeth hon a’r Llywodraeth flaenorol wedi cymryd camau bras wrth ymdrin â digartrefedd yng Nghymru.

This is all excellent news, but it sharply contrasts with the situation in Newport. Sadly, the Newport Action for the Single Homeless Ltd night shelter has recently closed—which amazes me—because, it is suggested, of a lack of Assembly funding. I do not understand how such a blip could occur bearing in mind the Minister’s immense personal commitment to dealing with homelessness. Even with all this good work, we will never achieve what we want if another 15 people are back on the streets of Newport because their hostel has closed. I ask the Minister to take this into account and take urgent steps.

Mae hyn yn newyddion da i gyd, ond mae’n gwrthgyferbynnu’n gryf â’r sefyllfa yng Nghasnewydd. Gwaetha’r modd, mae lloches nos Newport Action for the Single Homeless Cyf wedi cau’n ddiweddar—sy’n peri syndod i mi—oherwydd, fe awgrymir, diffyg arian oddi wrth y Cynulliad. Nid wyf yn deall sut y gallai peth annisgwyl o’r fath ddigwydd o gofio ymrwymiad personol aruthrol y Gweinidog i ddelio â digartrefedd. Hyd yn oed o gael yr holl waith da hwn, ni wnawn byth wireddu ein dymuniad os yw 15 o bobl eraill yn ôl ar strydoedd Casnewydd am fod eu hostel wedi cau. Gofynnaf i’r Gweinidog ystyried hyn a chymryd camau ar frys.

William Graham spoken in English p. 33

William Graham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 33

I declare an interest as a member of Newport City Council. The Welsh Conservatives welcome this proposal, and acknowledge that one of the greatest challenges that an individual can face is homelessness. It is a problem mainly associated with our larger cities and towns, but it has also surfaced in our rural communities. We welcome the Assembly’s progress in directing local authorities to implement multi-agency strategies to tackle and prevent homelessness that must be published at least every five years.

Datganaf fuddiant fel aelod o Gyngor Dinas Casnewydd. Mae Ceidwadwyr Cymru’n croesawu’r bwriad hwn, ac yn cydnabod mai un o’r heriau mwyaf y gall rhywun ei hwynebu yw digartrefedd. Mae’n broblem sy’n gysylltiedig yn bennaf â’n dinasoedd a’n trefi mwyaf, ond mae wedi codi hefyd yn ein cymunedau gwledig. Yr ydym yn croesawu cynnydd y Cynulliad ar gyfarwyddo awdurdodau lleol i weithredu strategaethau amlasiantaethol i ymladd ac atal digartrefedd y mae’n rhaid eu cyhoeddi o leiaf bob pum mlynedd.

I endorse Peter Law’s comments, but remind him that Newport Action for the Single Homeless is still proceeding satisfactorily. The Newport night shelter that has sadly had to close is only one of its services. Will the Minister reconsider that important element of funding to maintain a night shelter?

Ategaf sylwadau Peter Law, ond yr wyf yn ei atgoffa bod Newport Action for the Single Homeless yn dal i fynd ymlaen yn foddhaol. Dim ond un o’i wasanaethau yw’r lloches nos yng Nghasnewydd y bu’n rhaid iddi gau, gwaetha’r modd. A wnaiff y Gweinidog ailystyried yr elfen bwysig honno o gyllid er mwyn cynnal lloches nos?

We support all the Minister’s efforts in this respect, but regret the abolition of the requirement for housing authorities to maintain a housing register. Once again, the emphasis is on the position of housing authorities, when it is generally recognised that the number of dwellings that comprise the local authority housing stock continues to fall. We must ensure that the independent sector provides a positive input in addressing this problem, as well as giving adequate direction to registered social landlords.

Yr ydym yn cefnogi holl ymdrechion y Gweinidog yn hyn o beth, ond mae’n ofid i ni fod y gofyniad i awdurdodau tai gadw cofrestr dai wedi’i ddileu. Unwaith eto, mae’r pwyslais ar sefyllfa’r awdurdodau tai, pan gydnabyddir yn gyffredinol bod y nifer o anheddau yn stoc dai’r awdurdodau lleol yn parhau i ddisgyn. Rhaid inni sicrhau bod y sector annibynnol yn darparu mewnbwn cadarnhaol wrth ymdrin â’r broblem hon, yn ogystal â rhoi cyfarwyddyd digonol i landlordiaid cymdeithasol cofrestredig.

Peter Black The Deputy Minister for Local Government spoken in English p. 34

Peter Black Y Dirprwy Weinidog dros Lywodraeth Leol siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 34

The importance of this Order, as stated by several speakers, is that the legislation that it brings into force is a key plank in tackling homelessness in Wales.

Fel y dywedodd sawl siaradwr, mae’r Gorchymyn hwn yn bwysig gan fod y ddeddfwriaeth y mae’n ei gweithredu’n elfen allweddol yn y gwaith o fynd i’r afael â digartrefedd yng Nghymru.

The changes to the priority categories are important, and have helped to ensure that previously hidden homeless groups are now recognised and given the help and treatment that they need. Those changes have had resource implications, which have been helped by the massive increase in section 180 and social housing revenue grant moneys that we have introduced in successive budgets. In fact, the section 180 moneys have increased sevenfold since 1999.

Mae’r newidiadau i’r categorïau blaenoriaeth yn bwysig, ac maent wedi helpu i sicrhau bod grwpiau digartref a oedd yn guddiedig o’r blaen wedi’u cydnabod bellach a’u bod yn cael y cymorth a’r driniaeth y mae arnynt eu hangen. Bu goblygiadau o ran adnoddau yn y newidiadau hynny, a rhoddwyd gymorth at hynny drwy’r cynnydd aruthrol yn yr arian ar gyfer adran 180 a’r grant refeniw tai cymdeithasol yr ydym wedi’i gyflwyno yn y naill gyllideb ar ôl y llall. Mewn gwirionedd, mae’r arian ar gyfer adran 180 wedi cynyddu seithgwaith ers 1999.

However, a strategic approach is now needed at a local level across Wales. Homelessness is best tackled at a local level, where councils and the independent sector know best what problems exist, and how they should be tackled. The local homelessness strategies that will be introduced as a result of this legislation, will be key in taking this process through to its conclusion. These strategies will call on councils to make a full and proper assessment of need, and of the facilities and resources needed to deal with it. They will form an important part of future Assembly decisions to allocate the extra money that we have put in place to tackle homelessness, and contribute to our ultimate goal of ensuring that no-one needs to sleep rough if they do not wish to do so.

Fodd bynnag, mae angen dull gweithredu strategol yn awr ar y lefel leol ledled Cymru. Gellir mynd i’r afael â digartrefedd orau ar lefel leol, lle y mae’r cynghorau a’r sector annibynnol yn gwybod orau am y problemau sy’n bod, a sut y dylid ymdrin â hwy. Bydd y strategaethau digartrefedd lleol a gyflwynir o ganlyniad i’r ddeddfwriaeth hon yn allweddol wrth gwblhau’r broses hon. Bydd y strategaethau hyn yn galw ar y cynghorau i wneud asesiad llawn a phriodol o’r angen, ac o’r cyfleusterau a’r adnoddau sydd eu hangen i’w ddiwallu. Byddant yn chwarae rhan bwysig ym mhenderfyniadau’r Cynulliad yn y dyfodol ar ddyrannu’r arian ychwanegol yr ydym wedi’i neilltuo i fynd i’r afael â digartrefedd, ac yn cyfrannu at ein nod sylfaenol o sicrhau na fydd angen i neb gysgu allan os nad ydynt yn dymuno gwneud hynny.

Janet Ryder raised the issue of strategy timings. The Act makes it clear that the first strategy must be published within 12 months of this commencement Order. We will be looking for a cross-cutting approach, and we will be working with other providers. The strategies will be reviewed every five years, as William Graham said. As the Minister has previously pointed out, we have allocated an extra £348,000 to local councils in this financial year to help fund the development of these strategies.

Bu i Janet Ryder godi mater amseriadau’r strategaethau. Mae’r Ddeddf yn egluro bod rhaid cyhoeddi’r strategaeth gyntaf o fewn 12 mis ar ôl y Gorchymyn cychwyn hwn. Byddwn yn disgwyl gweld dull gweithredu trawsbynciol, a byddwn yn gweithio gyda darparwyr eraill. Adolygir y strategaethau bob pum mlynedd, fel y dywedodd William Graham. Fel y nododd y Gweinidog o’r blaen, yr ydym wedi dyrannu £348,000 ychwanegol i’r cynghorau lleol yn y flwyddyn ariannol hon i helpu i ariannu’r gwaith o ddatblygu’r strategaethau hyn.

It is up to local councils to determine the type of accommodation made available to homeless people, and to work with other bodies to ensure that people are aware of their rights. They are best placed to know of local needs. However, we will monitor this, and as the Minister has said, we are determined that vulnerable people should receive consistent treatment throughout Wales.

Mater i’r cynghorau lleol yw pennu’r math o lety a ddarperir i bobl ddigartref, a gweithio gyda chyrff eraill i sicrhau bod pobl yn ymwybodol o’u hawliau. Hwy sydd yn y sefyllfa orau i wybod am anghenion lleol. Fodd bynnag, gwnawn fonitro hyn, ac fel y dywedodd y Gweinidog, yr ydym yn benderfynol y bydd pobl ddiamddiffyn yn cael triniaeth gyson ledled Cymru.

I understand that officials are considering the issue of the Newport hostel. We will be studying Newport council’s strategy to ensure that it finds ways of filling the gap, and seeks funding for that purpose. I cannot give any further information on that issue. I commend the Order.

Deallaf fod swyddogion yn ystyried mater yr hostel yng Nghasnewydd. Byddwn yn astudio strategaeth cyngor Casnewydd i sicrhau ei fod yn dod o hyd i ddulliau o lenwi’r bwlch, ac yn ceisio cymorth i’r perwyl hwnnw. Ni allaf roi unrhyw wybodaeth bellach ar y mater hwnnw. Cymeradwyaf y Gorchymyn.

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 35

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in Welsh p. 35

Galwaf bleidlais ar egwyddor y Gorchymyn.

I call a vote on the principle of the Order.

Cynnig NDM1104 Edwina Hart t. 35

Motion NDM1104 Edwina Hart p. 35

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 42 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (42)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Alun Cairns
  • Christine Chapman
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 36

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in Welsh p. 36

Pleidleisiwn yn awr ar gymeradwyo’r Gorchymyn.

We will now vote on approving the Order.

Cynnig NDM1105 Edwina Hart t. 36

Motion NDM1105 Edwina Hart p. 36

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 41 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (41)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Cynnig Cyfansawdd: Cymeradwyo Gorchmynion yn ymwneud â’r Sefydliad Cenedlaethol dros Ragoriaeth Glinigol

Composite Motion: Approval of National Institute for Clinical Excellence Regulations

Dafydd Elis-Thomas Y Llywydd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 37

Dafydd Elis-Thomas The Presiding Officer spoken in Welsh p. 37

O dan Reol Sefydlog Rhif 22.25, ni chynhelir dadl ar y cynnig hwn.

Under Standing Order No.22.25, this motion is not subject to debate.

Carwyn Jones Y Gweinidog dros Lywodraeth Agored siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 37

Carwyn Jones The Minister for Open Government spoken in Welsh p. 37

Cynigiaf fod

I propose that

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 43 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (43)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Alun Cairns
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • David Melding
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Daeth y Dirprwy Lywydd i’r Gadair am 10.12 a.m.

The Deputy Presiding Officer took the Chair at 10.12 a.m.

Dirprwyo Swyddogaethau Deddf Cymunedau Ewrop 1972

Delegation of Functions of the European Communities Act 1972

Michael German The Deputy First Minister and Minister for Rural Development and Wales Abroad spoken in English p. 39

Michael German Dirprwy Brif Weinidog Cymru a’r Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu Gwledig a Chymru Dramor siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 39

I propose that

Cynigiaf fod

Michael German The Deputy First Minister and Minister for Rural Development and Wales Abroad (continued) spoken in English p. 39

Michael German Dirprwy Brif Weinidog Cymru a’r Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu Gwledig a Chymru Dramor (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 39

The purpose of this motion is to seek the Assembly’s agreement to the functions created in areas of European Union policy which the Assembly has been designated, namely the European Communities (Designation) Order 2002, being delegated to the First Minister, as provided for in section 62 of the Government of Wales Act 1998. This Order was made by Order in Council under section 2(2) of the European Communities Act 1972, and it empowers the National Assembly to make regulations, also under section 2(2) of the European Communities Act 1972, to implement European Union obligations in relation to the conservation of natural habitats and wild fauna and flora in Wales. The precise purposes in respect of which the National Assembly can make section 2(2) regulations under these powers are set out in the schedules to the Order and are set out in detail on the intranet.

Pwrpas y cynnig hwn yw ceisio cytundeb gan y Cynulliad i ddirprwyo’r swyddogaethau a grewyd ym meysydd polisïau’r Undeb Ewropeaidd a roddwyd i’r Cynulliad, sef Gorchymyn Cymunedau Ewrop (Dynodiadau) 2002, i Brif Weinidog Cymru, yn unol â’r ddarpariaeth yn adran 62 Deddf Llywodraeth Cymru 1998. Gwnaed y Gorchymyn hwn drwy Orchymyn yn y Cyfrin Gyngor o dan adran 2(2) Deddf Cymunedau Ewrop 1972, ac mae’n awdurdodi’r Cynulliad Cenedlaethol i wneud rheoliadau, hefyd o dan adran 2(2) Deddf Cymunedau Ewrop 1972, i weithredu ymrwymiadau’r Undeb Ewropeaidd mewn cysylltiad â chadwraeth cynefinoedd naturiol ac anifeiliaid a phlanhigion gwyllt yng Nghymru. Nodir yr union ddibenion y caiff y Cynulliad Cenedlaethol wneud rheoliadau adran 2(2) yn eu cylch o dan y pwerau hyn yn yr atodlenni i’r Gorchymyn ac fe’u nodir yn fanwl ar y fewnrwyd.

The purpose of this designation Order is to amend the earlier statutory instrument, the European Communities (Designation) (No. 3) Order 2000. It will enable the Assembly to implement its draft Environmental Impact Assessment (Uncultivated Land and Semi-Natural Areas) (Wales) Regulations 2002, which were considered by the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee yesterday. The new designation Order extends the Assembly’s powers by enabling it to introduce legislation for the conservation of natural habitats, which includes measures for the assessment and authorisation of projects for the development of uncultivated land and semi-natural areas which are likely to have a significant effect on the environment. The introduction of legislation covering the latter is the requirement of the environmental impact assessment directive, in relation to which infraction proceedings have been threatened.

Pwrpas y Gorchymyn dynodi hwn yw newid yr offeryn statudol cynharach, Gorchymyn Cymunedau Ewrop (Dynodiadau) (Rhif 3) 2000. Bydd yn galluogi’r Cynulliad i weithredu ei Reoliadau Asesu Effeithiau Amgylcheddol (Tir heb ei Drin ac Ardaloedd Lled-naturiol) (Cymru) 2002 drafft, a ystyriwyd gan y Pwyllgor Amaethyddiaeth a Datblygu Gwledig ddoe. Mae’r Gorchymyn dynodi newydd yn ymestyn pwerau’r Cynulliad drwy ei alluogi i gyflwyno deddfwriaeth yn ymwneud â chadwraeth cynefinoedd naturiol, sy’n cynnwys mesurau i asesu ac awdurdodi prosiectau i ddatblygu tir sydd heb ei drin ac ardaloedd lled-naturiol sy’n debygol o gael effaith sylweddol ar yr amgylchedd. Mae’n ofynnol cyflwyno deddfwriaeth i ymdrin â’r mater olaf o dan y gyfarwyddeb asesu effaith amgylcheddol, y cafwyd bygythiad o achos tor-ddyletswydd mewn cysylltiad ag ef.

The old designation Order of 2000, which will be repealed by this Order, enabled us to introduce legislation for the conservation of natural habitats, but excluded the ability to include measures for the assessment and authorisation of projects for the development of uncultivated land and semi-natural areas that were likely to have a significant effect on the environment. The ability to include environmental assessment measures was excluded from the 2000 designation Order because, at the date of the making of that Order, the Assembly had no function in relation to projects for the development of uncultivated land and semi-natural areas. That function was not acquired until 2001. The reason for including these related provisions was to bring together in one statutory instrument all the relevant European legislation, which would not have been possible under the old Order. The new designation Order rectifies that by extending the Assembly’s powers, and I commend this motion to Members.

Yr oedd hen Orchymyn dynodi 2000, a gaiff ei ddiddymu drwy’r Gorchymyn hwn, yn ein galluogi i gyflwyno deddfwriaeth yn ymwneud â chadwraeth cynefinoedd, ond nid oedd yn cynnwys y gallu i gynnwys mesurau i asesu ac awdurdodi prosiectau i ddatblygu tir heb ei drin ac ardaloedd lled-naturiol a oedd yn debygol o gael effaith sylweddol ar yr amgylchedd. Nid oedd y gallu i gynnwys mesurau asesu amgylcheddol wedi’i gynnwys yng Ngorchymyn dynodi 2000 am nad oedd gan y Cynulliad swyddogaeth ar ddyddiad gwneud y Gorchymyn hwnnw mewn cysylltiad â phrosiectau i ddatblygu tir heb ei drin ac ardaloedd lled-naturiol. Ni chafwyd y swyddogaeth honno tan 2001. Y rheswm dros gynnwys y darpariaethau cysylltiedig hyn oedd cyfuno mewn un offeryn statudol yr holl ddeddfwriaeth Ewropeaidd berthnasol, na fuasai wedi bod yn bosibl o dan yr hen Orchymyn. Mae’r Gorchymyn dynodi newydd yn cywiro hynny drwy ymestyn pwerau’r Cynulliad, a chymeradwyaf y cynnig hwn i’r Aelodau.

Janet Davies spoken in English p. 41

Janet Davies siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 41

I note that these extra functions were transferred in March under the European Communities Act 1972. It is important that such functions should be scrutinised to intensify efficient performance. Will you indicate how those delegated functions will be scrutinised and achieve citizen-orientated benchmarking in the Assembly, rather than decision-making disappearing into the hidden depths of the National Assembly’s workings? It is important to reach a transparent reform in this kind of decision-making. Functions are transferred from the European Union to build demand-driven progress, and should be exposed to scrutiny; otherwise, complaints of a democratic deficit at the heart of the union are given an extra lease of life when they come to Cardiff.

Nodaf fod y swyddogaethau ychwanegol hyn wedi’u trosglwyddo ym Mawrth o dan Ddeddf Cymunedau Ewrop 1972. Mae’n bwysig i swyddogaethau o’r fath gael eu harchwilio er mwyn sicrhau perfformiad mwy effeithlon. A wnewch nodi sut y caiff y swyddogaethau dirprwyedig hynny eu harchwilio a sicrhau meincnodi mewn modd dinesydd-ganolog yn y Cynulliad, yn hytrach na bod y penderfynu’n diflannu i grombil gweithrediadau’r Cynulliad Cenedlaethol? Mae’n bwysig sicrhau diwygio tryloyw mewn penderfynu o’r math hwn. Trosglwyddir swyddogaethau o’r Undeb Ewropeaidd er mwyn creu cynnydd a yrrir gan y galw, a dylent gael eu harchwilio; fel arall, mae cwynion ynghylch diffyg democratiaeth wrth wriadd yr undeb yn parhau pan ddeuant i Gaerdydd.

Eleanor Burnham spoken in English p. 41

Eleanor Burnham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 41

As true proponents of devolution, the Welsh Liberal Democrats favour this motion, as it will strengthen the Assembly’s role by giving more powers to the First Minister. However, it is important that the powers of the full Assembly, and the role of the Assembly Committees, are not eroded, otherwise we would risk being part of what would be perceived to be a presidential system of government. While this motion delegates extra functions to the First Minister, it does not reduce the pre-eminence of the authority of the full Assembly and the significant role of Assembly Committees.

Fel rhai sy’n wir o blaid datganoli, mae Democratiaid Rhyddfrydol Cymru’n bleidiol i’r cynnig hwn, gan y bydd yn cryfhau rôl y Cynulliad drwy roi mwy o bwerau i Brif Weinidog Cymru. Er hynny, mae’n bwysig nad yw pwerau’r Cynulliad llawn, a rôl Pwyllgorau’r Cynulliad, yn cael eu herydu, neu fel arall byddem mewn perygl o gael ein gweld yn rhan o system lywodraethu arlywyddol. Tra bo’r cynnig hwn yn dirprwyo swyddogaethau ychwanegol i Brif Weinidog Cymru, nid yw’n lleihau goruchafiaeth awdurdod y Cynulliad llawn a rôl bwysig Pwyllgorau’r Cynulliad.

Nick Bourne spoken in English p. 41

Nick Bourne siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 41

This is a technical issue. We are content for the matter to be delegated to the First Minister, even if he behaves in a presidential way on occasions. However, our fear is that, when we delegate power, he does not always use it sensibly; if he promises not to give this particular power to the Deputy First Minister, we are content.

Mater technegol yw hwn. Yr ydym yn fodlon i’r mater gael ei ddirprwyo i Brif Weinidog Cymru, hyd yn oed os yw’n ymddwyn yn arlywyddol ar brydiau. Fodd bynnag, yr ydym yn ofni, pan ydym yn dirprwyo pŵer, nad yw bob amser yn ei ddefnyddio’n synhwyrol; os yw’n addo peidio â rhoi’r pŵer penodol hwn i Ddirprwy Brif Weinidog Cymru, yr ydym yn fodlon.

Michael German The Deputy First Minister and Minister for Rural Development and Wales Abroad spoken in English p. 41

Michael German Dirprwy Brif Weinidog Cymru a’r Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu Gwledig a Chymru Dramor siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 41

The issue that Janet raised was considered by the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee yesterday. The Order was considered by the Legislation Committee, and has now been discussed by the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee. This means that Committees have a major role in discussing these issues with regard to the habitats directive and the environmental impact assessment. I would recommend that as the route to take. The Agriculture and Rural Development Committee discusses a number of Orders, and this Order was dealt with yesterday. Today’s motion on this designation Order is no different from many others that have been considered before, and I commend it to you.

Ystyriwyd y mater a gododd Janet yn y Pwyllgor Amaethyddiaeth a Datblygu Gwledig ddoe. Ystyriwyd y Gorchymyn gan y Pwyllgor Deddfau, ac mae bellach wedi’i ystyried gan y Pwyllgor Amaethyddiaeth a Datblygu Gwledig. Mae hyn yn golygu bod gan y Pwyllgorau rôl o bwys wrth drafod y materion hyn sy’n ymwneud â’r gyfarwyddeb cynefinoedd a’r asesiad o’r effaith amgylcheddol. Byddwn yn argymell dilyn y llwybr hwnnw. Mae’r Pwyllgor Amaethyddiaeth a Datblygu Gwledig yn trafod nifer o Orchmynion, ac ymdriniwyd â’r Gorchymyn hwn ddoe. Nid yw’r cynnig heddiw ar y Gorchymyn dynodi hwn yn ddim gwahanol i lawer o rai eraill a ystyriwyd o’r blaen, ac fe’i cymeradwyaf i chi.

Cynnig NDM1107 Michael German t. 42

Motion NDM1107 Michael German p. 42

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 42 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (42)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Alun Cairns
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • Val Lloyd
  • David Melding
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams

Adroddiadau Blynyddol Cynllun Partneriaeth Llywodraeth Leol

The Annual Reports of the Local Government Partnership Scheme

John Marek The Deputy Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 43

John Marek Y Dirprwy Lywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 43

I have selected amendments 1, 2 and 3 in the name of Jonathan Morgan.

Yr wyf wedi dethol gwelliannau 1, 2 a 3 yn enw Jonathan Morgan.

Edwina Hart The Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities spoken in English p. 43

Edwina Hart Y Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 43

I propose that

Cynigiaf fod

Edwina Hart The Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities (continued) spoken in English p. 43

Edwina Hart Y Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 43

Under the Government of Wales Act 1998 the Assembly is required to make a scheme that sets out how the Assembly, in the exercise of its functions, proposes to sustain and promote local government in Wales. A report on this scheme must be produced for each financial year.

O dan Ddeddf Llywodraeth Cymru 1998 mae’n ofynnol i’r Cynulliad wneud cynllun sy’n nodi sut y mae’r Cynulliad, wrth arfer ei swyddogaethau, yn bwriadu cynnal a hyrwyddo llywodraeth leol yng Nghymru. Rhaid cynhyrchu adroddiad ar y cynllun hwn ar gyfer pob blwyddyn ariannol.

The statutory Partnership Council with local government played a significant role in debating policy issues and shaping this policy framework. It examined the most important issues for the people of Wales and their public services, such as health, housing and education. It also addressed topical issues of concern such as provisions for asylum seekers and responses to flooding.

Mae’r Cyngor Partneriaeth statudol gyda llywodraeth leol wedi chwarae rhan o bwys wrth drafod materion polisi a ffurfio’r fframwaith polisi hwn. Archwiliodd y materion sydd bwysicaf i bobl Cymru a’u gwasanaethau cyhoeddus, fel iechyd, tai ac addysg. Ymdriniodd hefyd â materion a barai bryder ar y pryd fel y darpariaethau i geiswyr nodded a’r ymatebion i lifogydd.

The Partnership Council includes the whole of local government and is an important forum for the police, fire and national parks authorities, as well as for town and community councils. The Local Government and Housing Committee, when considering these reports, placed on record its appreciation of the contribution of those bodies, which I strongly endorse.

Mae’r Cyngor Partneriaeth yn cynnwys y cwbl o lywodraeth leol, ac mae’n fforwm pwysig i’r awdurdodau heddlu a thân ac awdurdodau’r parciau cenedlaethol, yn ogystal â chynghorau tref a chymuned. Pan ystyriwyd yr adroddiadau hyn gan y Pwyllgor Llywodraeth Leol a Thai, cofnododd ei werthfawrogiad o gyfraniad y cyrff hynny, ac yr wyf yn ategu hynny’n gryf.

A fire authorities’ presentation led to the current measures to improve fire safety in housing by providing hard-wired smoke alarms and sprinkler systems. That is an example of how partnership working runs right through from initial debates to practical improvements that otherwise would not have happened. I look forward to considering the report on preventing arson which was also produced under the Partnership Council’s aegis.

Cyflwyniad gan yr awdurdodau tân a arweiniodd at y camau presennol i wella diogelwch rhag tân mewn tai drwy ddarparu larymau mwg gwifredig a systemau taenellu dŵr. Mae hynny’n enghraifft o’r modd y mae gweithio mewn partneriaeth yn bodoli o’r dadleuon cyntaf hyd at welliannau ymarferol na fyddai wedi digwydd fel arall. Edrychaf ymlaen at ystyried yr adroddiad ar atal llosgi bwriadol sydd hefyd wedi’i gynhyrchu dan nawdd y Cyngor Partneriaeth.

Our discussions with the police also highlighted how Assembly policies could contribute to increasing community safety. The Partnership Council will consider proposals on this subject at its next meeting.

Mae ein trafodaethau gyda’r heddlu hefyd wedi tynnu sylw at y modd y gallai polisïau’r Cynulliad gyfrannu at gynyddu diogelwch cymunedol. Bydd y Cyngor Partneriaeth yn ystyried cynigion ar y pwnc hwn yn ei gyfarfod nesaf.

Town and community council representatives also made presentations to the Partnership Council, and the Assembly’s Local Government and Housing Committee, about their role. As a result of a Partnership Council proposal, the Welsh Assembly Government agreed to commission research into town and community councils as a basis for future policy development. That study is now under way and will be completed in April 2003.

Mae cynrychiolwyr cynghorau tref a chymuned hefyd wedi rhoi cyflwyniadau i’r Cyngor Partneriaeth, ac i Bwyllgor Llywodraeth Leol a Thai y Cynulliad, am eu rôl. O ganlyniad i gynnig gan y Cyngor Partneriaeth, cytunodd Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru i gomisiynu ymchwil i gynghorau tref a chymuned i fod yn sail i ddatblygu polisi yn y dyfodol. Mae’r astudiaeth honno’n mynd rhagddi ar hyn o bryd ac fe’i cwblheir yn Ebrill 2003.

Another example of a made-in-Wales approach to achieving continuous improvement in local government services is the Wales programme for improvement. This again was developed in partnership with local government and involved other key partners such as the voluntary sector, business and trade unions. Debate at the Partnership Council set the direction for that programme, which is based on the principle that local authorities themselves should lead the improvement process and tackle those issues where they can most improve their performance.

Enghraifft arall o ddull gweithredu a wnaed yng Nghymru i sicrhau gwella parhaus mewn gwasanaethau llywodraeth leol yw rhaglen Cymru ar gyfer gwella. Yr oedd hon hefyd wedi’i datblygu mewn partneriaeth â llywodraeth leol ac yr oedd yn cynnwys partneriaid allweddol eraill fel y sector gwirfoddol, busnes ac undebau llafur. Dadlau yn y Cyngor Partneriaeth a bennodd y cyfeiriad i’r rhaglen honno, sy’n seiliedig ar yr egwyddor y dylai’r awdurdodau lleol eu hunain arwain y broses o wella a mynd i’r afael â’r materion hynny lle y gallant wella eu perfformiad fwyaf.

The Assembly also offered practical support to Welsh local government. This year we helped to fund the establishment of an equalities unit for local government based in the Welsh Local Government Association. I look forward to a similar unit being established to support good practice in procurement.

Cynigiodd y Cynulliad gymorth ymarferol i lywodraeth leol Cymru hefyd. Eleni gwnaethom helpu i ariannu sefydlu uned cydraddoldeb i lywodraeth leol sydd wedi’i lleoli yng Nghymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru. Edrychaf ymlaen at weld sefydlu uned debyg i hybu arfer da mewn caffael.

In March 2002, the Welsh Assembly Government published the policy statement ‘Freedom and Responsibility in Local Government’ which set out its vision for local government and the policy framework to support its achievement. That has been widely welcomed as a refreshing approach, which is, in itself, evidence of the maturing partnership between the Assembly and local government. Local government looks forward particularly to the work on reviewing specific grant schemes which was heralded in ‘Freedom and Responsibility in Local Government’ and to simpler planning requirements.

Ym Mawrth 2002, cyhoeddodd Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru’r datganiad polisi ‘Rhyddid a Chyfrifoldeb mewn Llywodraeth Leol’ a nodai ei gweledigaeth ar gyfer llywodraeth leol a’r fframwaith polisi er mwyn ei gwireddu. Rhoddwyd croeso cyffredinol i hwnnw fel dull gweithredu newydd sydd, ynddo’i hun, yn dystiolaeth o’r bartneriaeth rhwng y Cynulliad a llywodraeth leol, sy’n aeddfedu. Mae llywodraeth leol yn edrych ymlaen yn benodol at y gwaith ar adolygu cynlluniau grant penodol a gyhoeddwyd yn ‘Rhyddid a Chyfrifoldeb mewn Llywodraeth Leol’ ac at ofynion cynllunio symlach.

This policy framework provides a sound basis for further progress in joint working with local government. It places a clear emphasis on the community leadership role of local authorities. Local authorities are now developing community strategies for their areas in partnership with others. No Member should underestimate their importance. They have the potential to greatly improve the effectiveness of public services, to make better use of what partners have to contribute, and to reduce duplication and wasted effort. They will also inform dialogue between the Assembly and local government about national and local priorities. I will take steps to ensure that Assembly sponsored public bodies play their full part in supporting the development of those community strategies.

Mae’r fframwaith polisi hwn yn sail gadarn i gynnydd pellach ar weithio ar y cyd â llywodraeth leol. Mae’n rhoi pwyslais pendant ar rôl yr awdurdodau lleol mewn arweinyddiaeth gymunedol. Bellach mae’r awdurdodau lleol yn datblygu strategaethau cymunedol i’w hardaloedd mewn partneriaeth ag eraill. Ni ddylai’r un Aelod danbrisio eu pwysigrwydd. Mae ynddynt botensial i wella effeithiolrwydd gwasanaethau cyhoeddus yn sylweddol, i ddefnyddio’n well yr hyn sydd gan y partneriaid i’w gynnig, ac i leihau dyblygu ac ymdrech ofer. Byddant hefyd yn goleuo’r ddeialog rhwng y Cynulliad a llywodraeth leol am flaenoriaethau cenedlaethol a lleol. Cymeraf gamau i sicrhau bod y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad yn chwarae rhan lawn wrth hybu datblygiad y strategaethau cymunedol hynny.

Any scheme must be assessed for what it achieves. What we have achieved, working with all facets of local government in the past two years, shows that we are fulfilling the spirit of the scheme and not just the letter. I commend these reports to the Assembly.

Rhaid asesu unrhyw gynllun yn ôl yr hyn y mae’n ei gyflawni. Mae’r hyn yr ydym wedi’i gyflawni, gan weithio gyda phob agwedd ar lywodraeth leol yn y ddwy flynedd diwethaf, yn dangos ein bod yn gwireddu ysbryd y cynllun yn ogystal â’r gair. Cymeradwyaf yr adroddiadau hyn i’r Cynulliad.

William Graham spoken in English p. 46

William Graham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 46

I propose the following amendments in the name of Jonathan Morgan. Amendment 1: in point 1, delete ‘the periods August 2000 to March 2001 and’.

Cynigiaf y gwelliannau canlynol yn enw Jonathan Morgan. Gwelliant 1: ym mhwynt 1, dileu ‘cyfnodau Awst 2000 i Fawrth 2001 ac’.

William Graham (continued) spoken in English p. 46

William Graham (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 46

I propose amendment 2. After point 1, insert new point and renumber subsequent points accordingly:

Cynigiaf welliant 2. Ar ôl pwynt 1, ychwanegu pwynt newydd ac ailrifo’r pwyntiau dilynol yn unol â hynny:

William Graham (continued) spoken in English p. 46

William Graham (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 46

I propose amendment 3. Delete original point 2 and replace with:

Cynigiaf welliant 3. Dileu’r pwynt 2 gwreiddiol ac yn ei le rhoi:

William Graham (continued) spoken in English p. 46

William Graham (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 46

The report for April 2001 to March 2002 deserves consideration, as it outlines significant developments in the local government partnership scheme. However, it would be a sad reflection on the Assembly if we could not form a partnership with local authorities, because many Members have experience of being in local government. Generally, the local government partnership scheme is a welcome innovation, and has shown that local government leaders’ fears were misplaced. The Assembly has strengthened local government.

Mae’r adroddiad ar gyfer Ebrill 2001 i Fawrth 2002 yn haeddu ei ystyried, gan ei fod yn amlinellu datblygiadau o bwys yng nghynllun partneriaeth llywodraeth leol. Fodd bynnag, byddai’n adlewyrchu’n wael ar y Cynulliad pe na allem ffurfio partneriaeth â’r awdurdodau lleol, gan fod profiad gan lawer o’r Aelodau o fod mewn llywodraeth leol. Ar y cyfan, mae’r cynllun partneriaeth llywodraeth leol yn ddatblygiad i’w groesawu, ac mae wedi dangos bod ofnau arweinyddion llywodraeth leol yn ddi-sail. Mae’r Cynulliad wedi cryfhau llywodraeth leol.

I appreciate that section 7.1 of the local government partnership scheme requires the National Assembly to prepare a report after each financial year of how its proposals, set out in the scheme, were implemented in that financial year. Instead of leaving the August 2000 to March 2001 report for so long before being brought to the Assembly, the administration should have explained that the fruition of the agreement and the scheme’s development would occur during 2001-02. I am sure that such an explanation would have secured the Local Government and Housing Committee’s support.

Gwerthfawrogaf fod adran 7.1 o’r cynllun partneriaeth llywodraeth leol yn mynnu bod y Cynulliad Cenedlaethol yn paratoi adroddiad ar ôl pob blwyddyn ariannol am y modd y gweithredwyd ei gynigion, a nodir yn y cynllun, yn y flwyddyn ariannol honno. Yn hytrach na gadael bwlch mor hir cyn dod â’r adroddiad ar gyfer Awst 2000 i Fawrth 2001 i’r Cynulliad, dylai’r weinyddiaeth fod wedi egluro y byddai’r cytundeb a datblygiad y cynllun yn dwyn ffrwyth yn ystod 2001-02. Yr wyf yn sicr y byddai esboniad o’r fath wedi sicrhau cefnogaeth y Pwyllgor Llywodraeth Leol a Thai.

Seeking to present the August 2000 to March 2001 report more than 15 months after the end of the financial period, and being able to present the April 2001 to March 2002 report after just three months, exposes the first report as a dismal and amateur example of proofreading, and highlights that it has been superseded by the second report. Indeed, by these sequential annual reports being issued at the same time, it appears that the first report has been deliberately superseded by this administration. However, instead of demanding an explanation of the report’s publication date—particularly when portions of the text indicate that it was written before 9 July 2001—we seek to look beyond the report and bring a present-day consideration to a currently valid report.

Mae ceisio cyflwyno’r adroddiad ar gyfer Awst 2000 i Fawrth 2001 yn fwy na 15 mis ar ôl diwedd y cyfnod ariannol, a gallu cyflwyno’r adroddiad ar gyfer Ebrill 2001 i Fawrth 2002 ar ôl dim ond tri mis, yn dangos bod yr adroddiad cyntaf yn esiampl amaturaidd ac anobeithiol o ddarllen proflenni, ac yn tynnu sylw at y ffaith bod yr ail adroddiad wedi’i ddisodli. Yn wir, drwy gyhoeddi’r adroddiadau blynyddol dilynol hyn ar yr un pryd, mae’n ymddangos bod y weinyddiaeth hon wedi disodli’r adroddiad cyntaf yn fwriadol. Fodd bynnag, yn hytrach na mynnu eglurhad am ddyddiad cyhoeddi’r adroddiad—yn enwedig pan fo rhannau o’r testun yn dangos ei fod wedi’i ysgrifennu cyn 9 Gorffennaf 2001—yr ydym yn ceisio edrych y tu hwnt i’r adroddiad ac ystyried adroddiad sy’n gyfredol ddilys yng nghyd-destun y presennol.

The partnership scheme report outlines the proposals that were implemented under the scheme during the specified financial year. It shows the extent to which a positive partnership has developed with local government.

Mae’r adroddiad cynllun partneriaeth yn amlinellu’r cynigion a weithredwyd dan y cynllun yn ystod y flwyddyn ariannol a nodir. Mae’n dangos y graddau y mae partneriaeth gadarnhaol wedi datblygu gyda llywodraeth leol.

Sadly, this report contains some errors. Paragraph 9 places the Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities in a Plenary held on 31 December 2001, announcing the conclusions of the consultations on the public-private partnership and the private finance initiative in Wales. Perhaps AMs from other parties met to make a new year’s resolution to accept independent sector finance to secure better service provision in Wales on 31 December.

Gwaetha’r modd, ceir rhai gwallau yn yr adroddiad hwn. Mae paragraff 9 yn gosod y Gweinidog dros Gyllid, Llywodraeth Leol a Chymunedau mewn Cyfarfod Llawn a gynhaliwyd ar 31 Rhagfyr 2001, yn cyhoeddi casgliadau’r ymgynghori ar y bartneriaeth gyhoeddus-preifat a’r fenter cyllid preifat yng Nghymru. Efallai fod Aelodau Cynulliad o bleidiau eraill wedi cwrdd i wneud adduned blwyddyn newydd i dderbyn cyllid y sector annibynnol i sicrhau gwell darpariaeth o wasanaethau yng Nghymru ar 31 Rhagfyr.

The Conservative group understands the value of and need for such projects. However, when the Assembly debated PPP and PFI, the contributions from many AMs from other parties consisted of 90 per cent condemnation of the independent sector funding service provision, with 10 per cent recognition that it is the only way of providing the people of Wales with the quality services they require. We support the recognition of the vital contribution that the independent sector can make in Wales.

Mae’r grŵp Ceidwadol yn deall gwerth prosiectau o’r fath a’r angen amdanynt. Fodd bynnag, pan fu dadl yn y Cynulliad ar y bartneriaeth gyhoeddus-preifat a’r fenter cyllid preifat, yr oedd 90 y cant o’r cyfraniadau gan lawer o Aelodau Cynulliad o’r pleidiau eraill yn gollfarnu ar y sector annibynnol yn ariannu’r ddarpariaeth o wasanaethau, a 10 y cant yn gydnabyddiaeth mai hon yw’r unig ffordd i ddarparu’r gwasanaethau o ansawdd da y mae ar bobl Cymru eu hangen. Yr ydym yn cefnogi’r gydnabyddiaeth i’r cyfraniad hollbwysig y gall y sector annibynnol ei wneud yng Nghymru.

The report emphasises the agreements made by all 22 local authorities to meet this administration’s targets for acquiring additional funding via the performance incentive grant. Those agreements directly—

Mae’r adroddiad yn tynnu sylw at y cytundebau a wnaed gan bob un o’r 22 awdurdod lleol i gyrraedd targedau’r weinyddiaeth hon ar gyfer cael cyllid ychwanegol drwy’r grant cymhelliad perfformiad. Mae’r cytundebau hynny’n uniongyrchol—

Janet Ryder spoken in English p. 48

Janet Ryder siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 48

I want to challenge you on what you said about private partnership arrangements. You said that there was a 90 per cent feeling against using private firms but you then said that it was agreed that it was the only way to fund those services properly. You might want to reflect on that; Members said that it was the only way that this Labour Government was offering. Obviously, public services can be adequately funded and preserved as good-quality public services through the public purse. There is an alternative to private finance.

Dymunaf eich herio ar yr hyn a ddywedasoch am drefniadau partneriaeth breifat. Dywedasoch fod ymdeimlad o 90 y cant yn erbyn defnyddio busnesau preifat ond dywedasoch wedyn fod cytundeb mai honno oedd yr unig ffordd i ariannu’r gwasanaethau hynny’n briodol. Efallai y byddwch am fyfyrio ynghylch hynny; dywedodd yr Aelodau mai honno oedd yr unig ffordd yr oedd y Llywodraeth Lafur hon yn ei chynnig. Wrth gwrs, gellir ariannu a chadw gwasanaethau cyhoeddus yn ddigonol fel gwasanaethau cyhoeddus o ansawdd da drwy’r pwrs cyhoeddus. Mae dewis amgen i gyllid preifat.

William Graham spoken in English p. 48

William Graham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 48

I agree that there is, technically. However, we all know of the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s firm resolution not to increase the public sector borrowing requirement.

Cytunaf fod dewis amgen, yn dechnegol. Er hynny, fe wyddom oll am benderfyniad cadarn Canghellor y Trysorlys i beidio â chynyddu gofyniad benthyca’r sector cyhoeddus.

Best Value and the revised Best Value scheme have highlighted many areas where our local authorities’ efficiency can be improved. It is hoped that the Wales Programme for Improvement will achieve a shift in emphasis from how the service is provided to the quality of service provision. However, we still await confirmation that the efficiency savings of Best Value are higher than the system’s implementation costs.

Mae Gwerth Gorau a’r cynllun Gwerth Gorau diwygiedig wedi tynnu sylw at lawer o feysydd lle y gellir gwella effeithlonrwydd ein hawdurdodau lleol. Gobeithir y bydd Rhaglen Cymru ar gyfer Gwella yn symud y pwyslais o’r dull o ddarparu’r gwasanaeth at ansawdd y gwasanaeth a ddarperir. Fodd bynnag, yr ydym yn dal i ddisgwyl cadarnhad bod yr arbedion o Gwerth Gorau o ran effeithlonrwydd yn fwy na chostau gweithredu’r system.

We support initiatives undertaken by the local government Partnership Council that seek to achieve greater transparency, such as developing e-government and increasing the number of meetings held outside Cardiff. They provide people with greater access, not only to the process of government, but to the actions taken on their behalf.

Yr ydym yn cefnogi’r mentrau a weithredwyd gan y Cyngor Partneriaeth llywodraeth leol sy’n ceisio sicrhau mwy o dryloywder, fel datblygu e-lywodraeth a chynnal mwy o gyfarfodydd y tu allan i Gaerdydd. Maent yn cynnig mwy o fynediad i bobl, nid yn unig i broses llywodraeth, ond at y camau a gymerir ar eu rhan.

The 2001-02 report provides an account of the local government partnership scheme for that period, and the programme of initiatives under consideration for the current financial year. We acknowledge the developing partnership between the Assembly and local government. I ask Members to support our amendments.7

Mae’r adroddiad ar gyfer 2001-02 yn disgrifio cynllun y bartneriaeth llywodraeth leol i’r cyfnod hwnnw, a’r rhaglen o fentrau a ystyrir ar gyfer y flwyddyn ariannol bresennol. Yr ydym yn cydnabod y bartneriaeth sy’n datblygu rhwng y Cynulliad a llywodraeth leol. Gofynnaf i’r Aelodau gefnogi ein gwelliannau.

Eleanor Burnham spoken in English p. 49

Eleanor Burnham siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 49

The relationship between the Assembly and local government is, in many ways, one of mutual dependency. We rely on it to implement our policies and programmes, and it relies on the Assembly for most of its funding. As in any relationship between two elected governmental bodies, there will be some disagreement. If everybody agreed, there would not be any point in having local government or devolution. For example, the Plaid Cymru-run Denbighshire County Council has not even applied for the Communities First programme, which is designed to regenerate local communities. We urge the council to adopt it, but it is its decision. This partnership Government has worked closely with local government, yet respects its right to disagree. Critics of the relationship between local government and the Assembly Government, while pretending to stand up for local government, patronise it. Debate and division is healthy for democracy. Rather than inflating every minute division, parties should recognise this, and applaud the maturity of others, if not their own.

Mae’r berthynas rhwng y Cynulliad a llywodraeth leol yn un gyd-ddibynnol, ar lawer cyfrif. Dibynnwn arni i gyflawni ein polisïau a’n rhaglenni, ac mae llywodraeth leol yn dibynnu ar y Cynulliad am y rhan fwyaf o’i chyllid. Fel y ceir mewn unrhyw berthynas rhwng dau gorff llywodraethol etholedig, mae rhywfaint o anghytuno. Pe byddai pawb yn cytuno, ni fyddai unrhyw ddiben mewn cael llywodraeth leol neu ddatganoli. Er enghraifft, nid yw Cyngor Sir Ddinbych, sy’n cael ei redeg gan Blaid Cymru, hyd yn oed wedi gwneud cais ar gyfer y rhaglen Rhoi Cymunedau’n Gyntaf, sydd â’r bwriad o adfywio cymunedau lleol. Yr ydym yn annog y cyngor i’w mabwysiadu, ond ei benderfyniad ef ydyw. Mae’r Llywodraeth bartneriaeth hon wedi cydweithio’n agos â llywodraeth leol, ac eto mae’n parchu ei hawl i anghytuno. Mae beirniaid y berthynas rhwng llywodraeth leol a Llywodraeth y Cynulliad, er eu bod yn cymryd arnynt sefyll o blaid llywodraeth leol, yn ei thrin yn nawddoglyd. Mae dadlau ac ymrannu’n beth iach i ddemocratiaeth. Yn hytrach na gwneud môr a mynydd o bob ymraniad bach, dylai’r pleidiau gydnabod hynny, a chanmol aeddfedrwydd eraill, os nad eu haeddfedrwydd eu hunain.

Janet Ryder spoken in English p. 49

Janet Ryder siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 49

I declare an interest as a member of Ruthin Town Council. To correct Eleanor’s remark, Plaid Cymru would love to run Denbighshire County Council. It only has a group of eight councillors, but the council has sensibly seen the value of having a Plaid Cymru leader, and that is the difference.

Datganaf fuddiant fel aelod o Gyngor Tref Rhuthun. Er mwyn cywiro sylw Eleanor, byddai Plaid Cymru wrth ei bodd yn rhedeg Cyngor Sir Ddinbych. Dim ond grŵp o wyth cynghorydd sydd ganddi, ond mae’r cyngor wedi gweld yn ddoeth y gwerth o gael arweinydd Plaid Cymru, a dyna’r gwahaniaeth.

On William’s comments about the amendments that have been tabled, there must be an annual report on the Partnership Council every year, which begs the question: why are we two years late in reviewing one of these reports? We did not have this debate last year. However, you would expect to see a year-on-year improvement as the reports are presented. One report should be laid, and we should then review what progress has been made by the time of the second report in the following year. If you compare the two reports, they show progress and some development. I do not see how we can reject the 2000-01 report, and I am not convinced that there is any sense in the Tories’ amendments.

Ynghylch sylwadau William am y gwelliannau a gyflwynwyd, rhaid cael adroddiad blynyddol ar y Cyngor Partneriaeth bob blwyddyn, sy’n cymell y cwestiwn: pam yr ydym ddwy flynedd yn hwyr yn adolygu un o’r adroddiadau hyn? Ni chawsom y ddadl hon y llynedd. Fodd bynnag, byddech yn disgwyl gweld gwelliant y naill flwyddyn ar ôl y llall pan gyflwynir yr adroddiadau. Dylid gosod un adroddiad, ac wedyn dylem adolygu’r cynnydd a wnaed erbyn adeg yr ail adroddiad yn y flwyddyn ganlynol. Os cymharwch y ddau adroddiad, maent yn dangos cynnydd a rhywfaint o ddatblygu. Ni allaf weld sut y gallwn wrthod adroddiad 2000-01, ac nid wyf wedi fy argyhoeddi bod unrhyw synnwyr yng ngwelliannau’r Torïaid.

I will discuss a few differences between the two reports. In section 31 of the 2000-01 report, and in section 33 of the 2001-02 report, there are parts entitled, ‘Town and Community Councils’. In the 2000-01 report, it was noted that in the July meeting of the Partnership Council proposals for commissioning a scoping study of town and community councils were to have been discussed. The study would form the basis for evaluating any suggestions for measures that the Assembly, or town and community councils, might usefully bring forward concerning the role of town and community councils and their mechanism for dialogue with local authorities and the Assembly. By the 2001-02 report, it states that the study has been commissioned and that its work commenced on 1 April 2002. It will last for a year, so it will report back in April 2003. I welcome the commissioning of this study, but I am disappointed at the length of time that it will take to report back. It will take two or three years from commissioning this study and it carrying out its work, for it to report back. At the end of that period, it will only form the basis of further policy development. Will the Minister suggest a timescale to which she is working on this report? In addition, when can we expect some suggestions for further policy development with regard to town and community councils? I know that the prospect of developing the duties of town and community councils is not universally welcomed within the Minister’s party; it is somewhat similar to the commission headed by Professor Eric Sunderland, which published its report on electoral arrangements yesterday, which was commissioned by the partnership agreement. The Commission and the partnership agreement are not universally popular within the Minister’s party. There are aspects of yesterday’s report that some would like to see buried. I trust that the same fate does not befall the outcome of this scoping study into town and community councils. It is obvious that the next Assembly will have been elected before recommendations are brought forward, and by then, there may well be a different majority party in the Chamber, which, I know, would consider the recommendations differently.

Trafodaf rai o’r gwahaniaethau rhwng y ddau adroddiad. Yn adran 31 o’r adroddiad ar gyfer 2000-01, ac yn adran 33 o’r adroddiad ar gyfer 2001-02, ceir rhannau o dan y teitl ‘Cynghorau Tref a Chymuned’. Yn yr adroddiad ar gyfer 2000-01, nodir bod cynigion i’w trafod yng nghyfarfod y Cyngor Partneriaeth yng Ngorffennaf i gomisiynu astudiaeth gwmpasu o gynghorau tref a chymuned. Byddai’r astudiaeth yn sail i werthuso unrhyw awgrymiadau am fesurau buddiol y gallai’r Cynulliad, neu’r cynghorau tref a chymuned, eu cyflwyno ynghylch rôl y cynghorau tref a chymuned a’u peirianwaith ar gyfer deialog â’r awdurdodau lleol a’r Cynulliad. Yn yr adroddiad ar gyfer 2001-02, dywedir bod yr astudiaeth wedi’i chomisiynu a bod y gwaith arni wedi dechrau ar 1 Ebrill 2002. Bydd yn parhau am flwyddyn, felly bydd yn adrodd yn ôl yn Ebrill 2003. Croesawaf gomisiynu’r astudiaeth hon, ond yr wyf yn siomedig y bydd yn cymryd cymaint o amser i adrodd yn ôl. Bydd yn cymryd dwy neu dair blynedd oddi ar gomisiynu’r astudiaeth a gwneud y gwaith arni, i adrodd yn ôl. Ar ddiwedd y cyfnod hwnnw, ni fydd ond yn sail i ddatblygu polisi pellach. A wnaiff y Gweinidog roi awgrym am yr amserlen y mae’n ei dilyn ar yr adroddiad hwn? Yn ogystal â hynny, pryd y gallwn ddisgwyl awgrymiadau ar gyfer datblygu polisi pellach mewn cysylltiad â chynghorau tref a chymuned? Gwn nad yw pawb ym mhlaid y Gweinidog yn croesawu’r gobaith o ddatblygu dyletswyddau cynghorau tref a chymuned; mae braidd yn debyg i’r comisiwn dan arweiniad yr Athro Eric Sunderland, a gyhoeddodd ei adroddiad ar drefniadau etholiadol ddoe, a gomisiynwyd gan y cytundeb partneriaeth. Nid yw’r Comisiwn a’r cytundeb partneriaeth yn boblogaidd gan bawb ym mhlaid y Gweinidog. Mae agweddau ar adroddiad ddoe y byddai rhai’n hoffi gweld eu claddu. Hyderaf na ddaw’r un dynged i ran canlyniad yr astudiaeth gwmpasu hon ar gynghorau tref a chymuned. Mae’n amlwg y bydd y Cynulliad nesaf wedi’i ethol cyn cyflwyno’r argymhellion ac, erbyn hynny, mae’n ddigon posibl y bydd plaid fwyafrifol wahanol yn y Siambr a fyddai, fe wn, yn ystyried yr argymhellion yn wahanol.

Another aspect in the report is the lack of reference in the Partnership Council to the police authorities, the fire authorities and the national parks. The Minister has mentioned them today, but they do not appear in the report. I want to see that put right by next year, because those three bodies each play a vital part.

Agwedd arall ar yr adroddiad yw’r diffyg cyfeiriad yn y Cyngor Partneriaeth at yr awdurdodau heddlu, yr awdurdodau tân a’r parciau cenedlaethol. Mae’r Gweinidog wedi’u crybwyll heddiw, ond nid ydynt yn ymddangos yn yr adroddiad. Dymunaf weld cywiro hynny erbyn y flwyddyn nesaf, gan fod pob un o’r tri chorff hynny’n chwarae rhan hollbwysig.

Peter Law spoken in English p. 51

Peter Law siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 51

I am pleased to support this, because it is another wonderful example of how closely the Government of Wales is working with local government; it is probably the best partnership that we have ever seen. I commend the Minister on that. She is a listening Minister who cares about the contribution of local government. It is vital that we work with our partners to provide a quality service to the people of Wales. Since its inception, the Assembly’s work has demonstrated that joint working, particularly through this unique Partnership Council arrangement, which is the envy of the UK. We can be proud of that.

Yr wyf yn falch o gefnogi hyn, gan ei fod yn enghraifft wych arall o’r cydweithio agos rhwng Llywodraeth Cymru a llywodraeth leol; mae’n debyg mai hon yw’r bartneriaeth orau a welsom erioed. Canmolaf y Gweinidog ar hynny. Mae’n Weinidog sy’n gwrando ac mae cyfraniad llywodraeth leol yn bwysig ganddi. Mae’n hollbwysig ein bod yn gweithio gyda’n partneriaid i ddarparu gwasanaeth o ansawdd da ar gyfer pobl Cymru. Ers ei sefydlu, mae gwaith y Cynulliad wedi amlygu’r cydweithio hwnnw, yn enwedig drwy’r trefniant Cyngor Partneriaeth unigryw hwn, sy’n destun cenfigen i’r DU. Gallwn ymfalchïo yn hynny.

It is important that we work hard with our honourable partners in local government, and the report emphasises that. That must be the way forward, if we are to give the people of Wales the service they deserve. Some good moves have been made in the last year, particularly with the establishment of the statistical unit for Welsh local government, which came about as a result of the Minister’s work with our local government partners. We know much about our policy agreements; we do not have to face the hypothecation that English authorities do. We act differently here; we are listening. The Minister takes account of local government’s ideas, and we work together for the good of everyone in Wales.

Mae’n bwysig inni weithio’n galed gyda’n partneriaid anrhydeddus mewn llywodraeth leol, ac mae’r adroddiad yn pwysleisio hynny. Dyna’r ffordd y mae’n rhaid ei dilyn, os ydym i roi i bobl Cymru y gwasanaeth y maent yn ei haeddu. Cymerwyd rhai camau da yn y flwyddyn ddiwethaf, yn enwedig wrth sefydlu’r uned ystadegol i lywodraeth leol Cymru, sy’n ganlyniad i waith y Gweinidog gyda’n partneriaid mewn llywodraeth leol. Gwyddom lawer am ein cytundebau polisi; nid ydym yn gorfod wynebu’r un math o bridiannu ag y mae awdurdodau Lloegr. Yr ydym yn gweithredu’n wahanol yn y fan hyn; yr ydym ni’n gwrando. Mae’r Gweinidog yn ystyried syniadau llywodraeth leol, ac yr ydym yn gweithio gyda’n gilydd er lles pawb yng Nghymru.

We have a good relationship with the fire authorities, which are delighted with the Partnership Council, and that they are, at last, recognised. Indeed, I understand that the fire authorities generally wish that they could come under the National Assembly’s remit on operational matters. I hope we see that development in future.

Mae gennym berthynas dda â’r awdurdodau tân, sydd wrth eu bodd â’r Cyngor Partneriaeth, a’u bod yn cael eu cydnabod o’r diwedd. Yn wir, deallaf y byddai’r awdurdodau tân yn gyffredinol yn dymuno bod yn rhan o gylch gwaith y Cynulliad Cenedlaethol o ran materion gweithredol. Gobeithiaf y gwelwn y datblygiad hwnnw yn y dyfodol.

We have also seen our relationship with police authorities, which also sit on the Partnership Council, develop. That makes a great difference. All these bodies—and the national park authorities—come together for us to have a central body to discuss matters of joint concern throughout Wales. It is an excellent example of working in partnership.

Gwelsom ein perthynas â’r awdurdodau heddlu, sydd hefyd yn eistedd ar y Cyngor Partneriaeth, yn datblygu hefyd. Gwnaiff hynny wahaniaeth mawr. Mae’r holl gyrff hyn—ac awdurdodau’r parciau cenedlaethol—yn dod at ei gilydd fel bod gennym gorff canolog i drafod materion sydd o ddiddordeb cyffredin ledled Cymru. Mae’n enghraifft ragorol o weithio mewn partneriaeth.

At the outset, the Minister said that Assembly sponsored public bodies must remember that they have a part to play in supporting community strategies. That is important. I have said it in Committee as have other Members. If we are to have a comprehensive approach for the good of the people of Wales, it is no good Assembly sponsored public bodies thinking that they can go their own way. That is not how to give the people of Wales the better services for which we are fighting.

Ar y dechrau, dywedodd y Gweinidog fod yn rhaid i’r cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad gofio bod ganddynt ran i’w chwarae wrth gefnogi strategaethau cymunedol. Mae hynny’n bwysig. Yr wyf wedi dweud hynny yn y Pwyllgor fel y mae Aelodau eraill. Os ydym i gael dull gweithredu cynhwysfawr er lles pobl Cymru, ni wiw i gyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad feddwl y gallant ddilyn eu ffordd eu hunain. Nid felly y rhoddir i bobl Cymru y gwasanaethau gwell yr ydym yn ymladd drostynt.

This report is another example of good practice in local government. I compliment the Minister on it. The Local Government and Housing Committee was generally pleased with it. We look forward to working on it in future, and developing even further our excellent relationships with local government, the Welsh Local Government Association, and our town and community councils, which do so much good work throughout Wales for the people whom they represent.

Mae’r adroddiad hwn yn enghraifft arall o arfer da mewn llywodraeth leol. Canmolaf y Gweinidog arno. Yr oedd y Pwyllgor Llywodraeth Leol a Thai’n fodlon ag ef ar y cyfan. Edrychwn ymlaen at weithio arno yn y dyfodol, a datblygu ymhellach byth ein perthynas ragorol â llywodraeth leol, Cymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru, a’n cynghorau tref a chymuned, sy’n gwneud cymaint o waith da ledled Cymru dros y bobl a gynrychiolant.

Pauline Jarman spoken in English p. 52

Pauline Jarman siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 52

I declare an interest as a member of the Welsh Local Government Association and as leader of Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council.

Datganaf fuddiant fel aelod o Gymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru ac arweinydd Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Rhondda Cynon Taf.

It would be churlish to deny that there have been benefits from this joint working between local government and the National Assembly. However, it is no substitute for full devolution in Wales, which is the only way that a truly Welsh political system will be developed, free from unwelcome control and influence from Westminster and Whitehall.

Peth anfoesgar fyddai gwadu na chafwyd buddion o’r cydweithio hwn rhwng llywodraeth leol a’r Cynulliad Cenedlaethol. Fodd bynnag, ni all gymryd lle datganoli llawn yng Nghymru, sef yr unig fodd y datblygir system wleidyddol wirioneddol Gymreig, yn rhydd oddi wrth reolaeth a dylanwad annerbyniol gan San Steffan a Whitehall.

Despite signs of a distinctive Welsh policy agenda in a few sectors, too much of the driving force in the governance of Wales still comes from outside Wales. It is based on Labour Party political dogma, which foists upon Wales attempts to placate the disaffected middle classes in south-east England that are at odds with Welsh needs and culture. Only a National Assembly with full powers will be mature enough to form a true partnership with local government in Wales that will deliver sustainable economic and social change.

Er gwaethaf yr arwyddion o agenda polisi Gymreig mewn ychydig o sectorau, daw gormod o’r ysgogiad wrth lywodraethu Cymru o’r tu allan i Gymru o hyd. Mae’n seiliedig ar ddogma wleidyddol y Blaid Lafur, sy’n gwthio ar Gymru ei hymdrechion i dawelu’r dosbarth canol ymddieithriedig yn ne-ddwyrain Lloegr sy’n groes i anghenion a diwylliant Cymru. Dim ond Cynulliad Cenedlaethol a chanddo bwerau llawn a fydd yn ddigon aeddfed i ffurfio gwir bartneriaeth â llywodraeth leol yng Nghymru a ddaw â newid economaidd a chymdeithasol cynaliadwy.

Too many opportunities have already been lost, as the Assembly struggles to escape the shadow of Westminster and develop truly Welsh strategies and solutions for Welsh needs.

Collwyd gormod o gyfleoedd eisoes, wrth i’r Cynulliad ymdrechu i ddianc rhag cysgod San Steffan a datblygu strategaethau ac atebion Cymreig ar gyfer anghenion Cymru.

Lorraine Barrett spoken in English p. 53

Lorraine Barrett siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 53

Is Pauline’s vision to have passport control on the Severn bridge?

Ai gweledigaeth Pauline yw cael rheolaeth ar drwyddedau teithio ar bont Hafren?

Pauline Jarman spoken in English p. 53

Pauline Jarman siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 53

I will give that question the answer that it deserves—none at all. The local government funding settlement in Wales is just one example of a key issue on which councils are still unable to plan with confidence. Information arrives too late, and political spin confuses the real messages. A growing reliance on grants as incentives to drive local authorities in certain directions, and a failure to provide the necessary additionality for key initiatives like Objective 1 and the Communities First programme, means that the Assembly is starving councils in Wales of the necessary cash and freedom of choice to meet the needs and aspirations of local people. Despite this, at the same time, our performance on key matters such as reduction in crime will be judged on the basis of the same targets as those set for England.

Fe roddaf i’r cwestiwn hwnnw yr ateb y mae’n ei haeddu—dim un o gwbl. Un enghraifft yn unig yw’r setliad cyllid llywodraeth leol yng Nghymru o fater allweddol na all y cynghorau gynllunio’n hyderus yn ei gylch. Mae’r wybodaeth yn cyrraedd yn rhy hwyr, ac mae’r sbin wleidyddol yn drysu’r gwir negeseuon. Mae’r ddibyniaeth gynyddol ar grantiau fel cymelliadau i yrru awdurdodau lleol i gyfeiriadau penodol, a methiant i roi’r ychwanegedd angenrheidiol ar gyfer mentrau allweddol fel Amcan 1 a’r rhaglen Rhoi Cymunedau’n Gyntaf, yn golygu bod y Cynulliad yn amddifadu cynghorau yng Nghymru o’r arian angenrheidiol a’r rhyddid i ddewis i fodloni anghenion a dyheadau pobl leol. Er gwaethaf hyn, ar yr un pryd, bernir ein perfformiad ar faterion allweddol fel gostwng troseddu yn ôl y targedau a osodwyd ar gyfer Lloegr.

The Assembly has created the conditions for a huge sense of national failure at a time when we need to raise the morale, expectations and hopes of Welsh people that we can create a better life for everyone. Conversely, in other areas, the Assembly seems content to set less ambitious targets than those in England and to condemn another generation in Wales to second-rate standards of public service.

Mae’r Cynulliad wedi creu’r amodau ar gyfer ymdeimlad mawr o fethiant cenedlaethol ar adeg pan fo angen inni hybu ysbryd, disgwyliadau a gobeithion pobl Cymru y gallwn greu gwell bywyd i bawb. Ar y llaw arall, mewn meysydd eraill, mae’n ymddangos bod y Cynulliad yn fodlon gosod targedau llai uchelgeisiol na’r rhai yn Lloegr a chondemnio cenhedlaeth arall yng Nghymru i safonau gwasanaeth cyhoeddus eilradd.

Within the Partnership Council, it is important that the WLGA speaks with confidence as the voice of all local authorities in Wales. That cannot be the case when a growing number of authorities not controlled by the Labour Party feel marginalised and isolated from the private club where deals are done between certain Labour leaders and Assembly Ministers behind closed doors.

Yn y Cyngor Partneriaeth, mae’n bwysig bod Cymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru’n siarad yn hyderus fel llais holl awdurdodau lleol Cymru. Ni all hynny ddigwydd pan fo nifer gynyddol o awdurdodau nas rheolir gan y Blaid Lafur yn teimlo eu bod wedi’u gwthio i’r ymylon a’u gwahanu oddi wrth y clwb preifat lle y caiff bargeinion eu taro rhwng rhai arweinyddion Llafur a Gweinidogion y Cynulliad y tu ôl i ddrysau caeëdig.

If there were a true and equal partnership in Wales, the Assembly would lift the burden of restriction on local authorities in terms of the onerous requirements to produce endless strategic plans and monitoring reports on progress that often lie unread in the offices of Assembly officials. Huge amounts of time, money and energy are being diverted from delivering improved services for local people under this regime, which is worsening rather than improving, despite Assembly promises. Only when the leadership of the WLGA reflects properly the full political spectrum of local authorities in Wales and when the Assembly Cabinet meets its public with a full and open record of its proceedings will Wales be able to show that it has reached political maturity following devolution.

Pe byddai partneriaeth gyfartal a gwirioneddol yng Nghymru, byddai’r Cynulliad yn codi’r cyfyngiadau oddi ar yr awdurdodau lleol o ran y gofynion beichus i gynhyrchu cynlluniau strategol ac adroddiadau monitro cynnydd diddiwedd sy’n aml yn aros heb eu darllen yn swyddfeydd swyddogion y Cynulliad. Mae llawer iawn o amser, arian ac egni’n cael ei droi oddi wrth ddarparu gwell gwasanaethau i bobl leol dan y gyfundrefn hon, sy’n gwaethygu yn hytrach na gwella, er gwaethaf addewidion y Cynulliad. Dim ond pan fydd arweinyddiaeth Cymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru’n adlewyrchu’n briodol holl sbectrwm gwleidyddol yr awdurdodau lleol yng Nghymru a phan fydd Cabinet y Cynulliad yn cwrdd yn gyhoeddus gyda chofnod llawn ac agored o’i drafodion y gall Cymru ddangos ei bod wedi dod i’w llawn dwf yn wleidyddol ar ôl datganoli.

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 54

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 54

First, I will address Jonathan Morgan’s amendments. We are required to prepare an annual report about the proposals that were implemented in the local government partnership scheme. The partnership scheme needs to be considered by the Partnership Council and the Local Government and Housing Committee. The report for 2000-01 was considered by the Partnership Council and the Committee. There is nothing inconsistent in discussing both reports in Plenary today. In many ways it is important that we discuss them to show how the scheme is working as a whole. You can see the comparison against both years. I will ensure that there is an annual debate on the local government partnership scheme, if that will assist Members.

Yn gyntaf, ymdriniaf â gwelliannau Jonathan Morgan. Mae’n ofynnol inni baratoi adroddiad blynyddol am y cynigion a weithredwyd yn nghynllun partneriaeth llywodraeth leol. Rhaid i’r cynllun partneriaeth gael ei ystyried gan y Cyngor Partneriaeth a’r Pwyllgor Llywodraeth Leol a Thai. Ystyriwyd yr adroddiad ar gyfer 2000-01 gan y Cyngor Partneriaeth a’r Pwyllgor. Nid oes dim sy’n anghyson am drafod y ddau adroddiad yn y Cyfarfod Llawn heddiw. Ar lawer cyfrif, mae’n bwysig inni eu trafod i ddangos sut y mae’r cynllun yn gweithio yn ei gyfanrwydd. Gallwch weld y gymhariaeth yn erbyn y ddwy flynedd. Gwnaf sicrhau bod dadl flynyddol ar gynllun partneriaeth llywodraeth leol, os bydd hynny o gymorth i Aelodau.

The understanding of local government issues in the Local Government and Housing Committee was well reflected in some of William Graham’s comments today. I take on board what he said about Best Value. We need to ensure that the new scheme delivers in terms of quality of services and how council tax payers benefit in that regard. I recognise Janet Ryder’s points on several issues, but more work on the police and fire authorities would drain the Local Government and Housing Committee. I have advised officials that reports should include more detail on those matters, reflecting the true partnership that exists between organisations in Wales, which Peter Law mentioned.

Yr oedd y ddealltwriaeth o faterion llywodraeth leol yn y Pwyllgor Llywodraeth Leol a Thai wedi’i hadlewyrchu’n dda yn rhai o sylwadau William Graham heddiw. Cymeraf i ystyriaeth yr hyn a ddywedodd am Gwerth Gorau. Rhaid inni sicrhau bod y cynllun newydd yn cyflawni’i amcan o ran ansawdd y gwasanaethau a’r modd y mae talwyr y dreth gyngor yn elwa yn hynny o beth. Cydnabyddaf bwyntiau Janet Ryder ar sawl mater, ond byddai rhagor o waith ar yr awdurdodau heddlu a thân yn dreth ar y Pwyllgor Llywodraeth Leol a Thai. Yr wyf wedi hysbysu swyddogion y dylai’r adroddiadau gynnwys mwy o fanylion ar y materion hynny, gan adlewyrchu’r wir bartneriaeth sy’n bodoli rhwng cyrff yng Nghymru, y cyfeiriodd Peter Law ati.

Janet raised the issue of community councils. There have been many discussions with them on how they are organised. It was important to get the specification right in terms of what we were going to do. It was certainly not a delaying tactic. The community councils set the pace for my response. Neither the Partnership Council nor the community councils raised the issue of timescales with me. They are content with the timescale. However, once we have the results of the report, discussion with the Partnership Council will be essential. We will have to consider what we can implement when we have dealt with the report.

Cododd Janet fater y cynghorau cymuned. Bu llawer o drafodaethau â hwy ar y dull o’u trefnu. Yr oedd yn bwysig cael y fanyleb yn iawn o ran yr hyn yr oeddem am ei wneud. Yn sicr, nid tacteg oedi ydoedd. Y cynghorau cymuned a bennodd gyflymder fy ymateb. Ni chododd y Cyngor Partneriaeth na’r cynghorau cymuned fater yr amserlenni gyda mi. Maent yn fodlon ar yr amserlen. Fodd bynnag, wedi inni gael canlyniadau’r adroddiad, bydd yn hollbwysig cynnal trafodaeth gyda’r Cyngor Partneriaeth. Bydd yn rhaid inni ystyried beth y gallwn ei weithredu wedi inni drafod yr adroddiad.

Eleanor was critical of Denbighshire County Council. I am having discussions with it on its Communities First projects. There have been initial difficulties, but projects can be difficult to get off the ground.

Yr oedd Eleanor yn feirniadol o Gyngor Sir Ddinbych. Yr wyf yn cael trafodaethau ag ef ynghylch ei brosiectau Rhoi Cymunedau’n Gyntaf. Bu anawsterau ar y dechrau, ond gall fod yn anodd cychwyn prosiectau.

Janet Ryder spoken in English p. 56

Janet Ryder siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 56

I wish to correct Eleanor’s implication that it was a Plaid Cymru-led council that delayed the Communities First project—the delays occurred under the leadership of an independent councillor, and they are now being sorted out under the leadership of a Plaid Cymru councillor.

Dymunaf gywiro ensyniad Eleanor mai cyngor dan arweinyddiaeth Plaid Cymru a ohiriodd y prosiect Rhoi Cymunedau’n Gyntaf—digwyddodd yr oedi dan arweinyddiaeth cynghorydd annibynnol, ac mae’n cael ei ddatrys yn awr dan arweinyddiaeth cynghorydd Plaid Cymru.

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 56

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 56

What is important is that the delays are being sorted out. This is also an issue for Members such as Ann Jones, who often raises points about the importance of Communities First projects in the Rhyl area.

Y peth pwysig yw ei fod yn cael ei ddatrys. Mae hyn yn fater pwysig i Aelodau fel Ann Jones hefyd, sy’n aml yn codi pwyntiau ynghylch pwysigrwydd prosiectau Rhoi Cymunedau’n Gyntaf yn ardal y Rhyl.

Peter Law, in alluding to the work on the local government statistics unit and how the policy agreements have been made, showed what partnership is all about. I echo his important point about the role of Assembly sponsored public bodies and how they must engage in partnership with Welsh local government. I know that the First Minister is well aware of the views of Welsh local government on how ASPBs should engage with local authorities to realise our mutual plans.

Peter Law, wrth gyfeirio at y gwaith ar uned ystadegau llywodraeth leol a sut y gwnaed y cytundebau polisi, a ddangosodd bwrpas partneriaeth. Ategaf y pwynt pwysig a wnaeth am rôl y cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad a’r rheidrwydd arnynt i gymryd rhan mewn partneriaeth â llywodraeth leol yng Nghymru. Gwn fod Prif Weinidog Cymru’n ymwybodol iawn o farn llywodraeth leol yng Nghymru am y modd y dylai cyrff cyhoeddus a noddir gan y Cynulliad gysylltu â’r awdurdodau lleol er mwyn cyflawni ein cynlluniau cyffredin.

Pauline’s speech would have better suited a party political broadcast rather than a discussion on the Partnership Council. Our relationship with Welsh local government, which has been across parties in the main, has been good. Wales has fewer specific grant regimes than England and a smaller percentage of money goes to them. We are driving down the numbers of plans and considering how we can streamline. This is part of ‘Freedom and Responsibility in Local Government’, which I have issued and which I intend to implement. It is interesting to note that Janet Ryder made the point in an earlier debate that we must get to grips with local authorities in terms of homelessness, but Pauline does not seem to want to get to grips with them on any issues at all. In terms of the settlement, we are trying to act in a Welsh way, that ensures proper allocation of resources. This is recognised by local government in the main. As for Pauline’s internal difficulties with the WLGA, that is a matter for her club, not the National Assembly.

Buasai araith Pauline yn fwy addas i ddarllediad plaid wleidyddol nag i drafodaeth ar y Cyngor Partneriaeth. Bu ein perthynas â llywodraeth leol yng Nghymru, a fu’n drawsbleidiol gan mwyaf, yn un dda. Mae gan Gymru lai o gyfundrefnau grant penodol na Lloegr ac aiff canran lai o arian iddynt. Yr ydym yn gostwng nifer y cynlluniau ac yn ystyried sut y gallwn eu symleiddio. Mae hyn yn rhan o ‘Rhyddid a Chyfrifoldeb mewn Llywodraeth Leol’, a gyhoeddais ac y bwriadaf ei weithredu. Diddorol yw sylwi bod Janet Ryder wedi nodi mewn dadl gynharach fod rhaid inni fynd i’r afael â’r awdurdodau lleol ynghylch digartrefedd, ond ei bod yn ymddangos nad yw Pauline am fynd i’r afael â hwy ar unrhyw faterion o gwbl. O ran y setliad, yr ydym yn ceisio gweithredu mewn dull Cymreig, sy’n sicrhau y caiff adnoddau eu dyrannu’n briodol. Mae llywodraeth leol yn cydnabod hynny gan mwyaf. Am drafferthion mewnol Pauline gyda Chymdeithas Llywodraeth Leol Cymru, mater i’w chlwb hi yw hynny, nid i’r Cynulliad Cenedlaethol.

Gwelliant 1 William Graham t. 57

Amendment 1 William Graham p. 57

GwrthodwydRejected O blaidFor 9 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 35

Gwrthodwyd y gwelliant.

Amendment defeated.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (9)
  • Nick Bourne
  • Alun Cairns
  • David Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • William Graham
  • David Melding
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Peter Rogers
Yn erbynAgainst (35)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Gwelliant 2 William Graham t. 57

Amendment 2 William Graham p. 57

GwrthodwydRejected O blaidFor 8 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 35

Gwrthodwyd y gwelliant.

Amendment defeated.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (8)
  • Nick Bourne
  • Alun Cairns
  • David Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • William Graham
  • David Melding
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Peter Rogers
Yn erbynAgainst (35)
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Gwelliant 3 William Graham t. 58

Amendment 3 William Graham p. 58

GwrthodwydRejected O blaidFor 8 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 36

Gwrthodwyd y gwelliant.

Amendment defeated.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (8)
  • Nick Bourne
  • Alun Cairns
  • David Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • William Graham
  • David Melding
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Peter Rogers
Yn erbynAgainst (36)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Cynnig NDM1108 Edwina Hart t. 59

Motion NDM1108 Edwina Hart p. 59

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 44 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (44)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Alun Cairns
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • Peter Law
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • David Melding
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Ymateb Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru i’r Adroddiad ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’

The Welsh Assembly Government’s Response to the ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ Report

John Marek The Deputy Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 60

John Marek Y Dirprwy Lywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 60

I have selected amendment 1 in the name of Jocelyn Davies and amendments 2, 3 and 4 in the name of Jonathan Morgan.

Yr wyf wedi dethol gwelliant 1 yn enw Jocelyn Davies a gwelliannau 2, 3, a 4 yn enw Jonathan Morgan.

Jane Hutt The Minister for Health and Social Services spoken in English p. 60

Jane Hutt Y Gweinidog dros Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 60

I propose that

Cynigiaf fod

Jane Hutt The Minister for Health and Social Services (continued) spoken in English p. 60

Jane Hutt Y Gweinidog dros Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 60

It gives me great pleasure to invite colleagues to support this motion. In Plenary on 1 November last year, I explained the background to the establishment of the advisory group, and that our aim was to provide clear information on the services and support that people with learning disabilities, their families and their carers should be able to call upon in twenty-first century Wales, as laid out in ‘Fulfilling the Promises’. We received 198 consultation responses from a range of organisations and individuals, and I thank all those who responded.

Pleser mawr i mi yw gwahodd fy nghyd-Aelodau i gefnogi’r cynnig hwn. Yn y Cyfarfod Llawn ar 1 Tachwedd y llynedd, eglurais gefndir sefydlu’r grŵp ymgynghorol, ac mai ein nod oedd darparu gwybodaeth glir am y gwasanaethau a’r cymorth y dylai rhai ag anableddau dysgu, eu teuluoedd a’u gofalwyr allu galw arnynt yn yr unfed ganrif ar hugain yng Nghymru, fel y nodir yn ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’. Cawsom 198 o ymatebion i’r ymgynghoriad oddi wrth amryw o gyrff ac unigolion, a diolchaf i bawb a ymatebodd.

The matters raised in ‘Fulfilling the Promises’, and the consultation responses, will be considered in the context of our current budget planning round, but I am pleased today to make the following response on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government. First, we propose to issue guidance to authorities, setting out the service principles for adults with learning disabilities, and the service responses that health and social services should adopt. Authorities will be invited to audit their existing service and support arrangements against these principles and responses, and to prepare an action plan to change and develop their service and support arrangements, with costed priorities.

Caiff y materion a godwyd yn ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’, a’r ymatebion i’r ymgynghoriad, eu hystyried yng nghyd-destun ein cylch cynllunio cyllideb cyfredol, ond yr wyf yn falch heddiw o roi’r ymateb a ganlyn ar ran Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru. Yn gyntaf, bwriadwn roi cyfarwyddyd i’r awdurdodau, gan nodi’r egwyddorion gwasanaeth ar gyfer oedolion sydd ag anableddau dysgu, a’r ymatebion gwasanaeth y dylai gwasanaethau iechyd a chymdeithasol eu mabwysiadu. Gwahoddir yr awdurdodau i archwilio eu trefniadau gwasanaeth a chymorth presennol yn ôl yr egwyddorion a’r ymatebion hyn, ac i baratoi cynllun gweithredu i newid a datblygu eu trefniadau gwasanaeth a chymorth, gyda blaenoriaethau a brisiwyd.

Secondly, we propose to introduce a further development of self, citizen and short-term crisis advocacy services across Wales for people with learning disabilities, during 2003-04. This scheme will build upon the existing investments in such advocacy services and address gaps in provision.

Yn ail, bwriadwn ddatblygu ymhellach y gwasanaethau hunaneiriolaeth, eiriolaeth dinasyddion ac eiriolaeth argyfwng tymor byr ledled Cymru ar gyfer rhai sydd ag anableddau dysgu, yn ystod 2003-04. Bydd y cynllun hwn yn ychwanegu at y buddsoddiadau presennol mewn gwasanaethau eiriolaeth o’r fath ac yn rhoi sylw i fylchau yn y ddarpariaeth.

Thirdly, we will seek to fund further development of the direct payment scheme throughout Wales. This is a key element in encouraging people to exercise choice and independence in their service and support arrangements. We therefore propose that this further investment should help not only those with learning disabilities, but all disabled people in Wales.

Yn drydydd, byddwn yn ceisio ariannu datblygu pellach ar y cynllun talu uniongyrchol ledled Cymru. Mae hon yn elfen allweddol o ran annog pobl i arfer dewis ac annibyniaeth yn eu trefniadau gwasanaeth a chymorth. Cynigiwn felly y dylai’r buddsoddi pellach hwn helpu nid yn unig y rhai sydd ag anableddau dysgu, ond yr holl bobl anabl yng Nghymru.

With regard to children’s services, I propose to deal with the issues raised in ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ in the national service framework for children, which is currently being developed. The Social Services Inspectorate for Wales will also develop new guidance for local authorities, which will build upon the unified assessment process in order to make person-centred planning a reality.

O ran gwasanaethau i blant, bwriadaf ymdrin â’r materion a godwyd yn ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ yn y fframwaith gwasanaeth cenedlaethol i blant, sy’n cael ei ddatblygu ar hyn o bryd. Bydd Arolygiaeth Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol Cymru hithau’n datblygu cyfarwyddyd newydd i’r awdurdodau lleol, a fydd yn ategu’r broses asesu unedig er mwyn troi cynllunio sy’n canolbwyntio’n fwy ar y person yn realiti.

A further recommendation in ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ is that we should review our commitment to closing long-stay learning disability hospitals, and set a new target date of 2006 for completion of our resettlement programmes. The proposed comprehensive resettlement plan for Bryn y Neuadd Hospital was submitted to me earlier this year, and I am satisfied that it represents the most appropriate way forward. Therefore, I am delighted to announce my agreement to this plan, which has a completion date of 2006.

Un argymhelliad pellach yn ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ yw y dylem adolygu ein hymrwymiad i gau ysbytai anabledd dysgu arhosiad hir, a gosod dyddiad targed newydd o 2006 i gwblhau ein rhaglenni ailsefydlu. Cyflwynwyd y cynllun ailsefydlu cynhwysfawr arfaethedig ar gyfer Ysbyty Bryn y Neuadd imi’n gynharach eleni, ac yr wyf yn sicr mai honno yw’r ffordd fwyaf priodol ymlaen. Gan hynny, yr wyf yn falch iawn o gyhoeddi fy mod yn derbyn y cynllun hwn, sydd â dyddiad cwblhau o 2006.

Gareth Jones siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 61

Gareth Jones spoken in Welsh p. 61

Yr wyf yn falch o glywed eich sylwadau ar y cynllun hwn, a’ch bod yn fodlon ei dderbyn erbyn hyn. Fodd bynnag, a ydych yn fodlon ynghylch lefel yr ymgynghori gyda’r teuluoedd sy’n cynrychioli’r bobl yn Ysbyty Bryn y Neuadd?

I am pleased to hear your comments on this plan, and that you are now willing to accept it. However, are you satisfied with the level of consultation with the families representing patients in Bryn y Neuadd Hospital?

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 62

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 62

As I said, Gareth, ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ made a recommendation that long-stay hospitals be closed by 2006 and, as a result of the extra £25 million we have invested in resettlement, the plan for Bryn y Neuadd has proceeded. The comprehensive resettlement plan was submitted to me and I am confident that consultation has taken place. I believe that this news will be well received by those living in Bryn y Neuadd Hospital, and by their carers, friends and relatives. We have met our commitment and fulfilled our promises to those living in Bryn y Neuadd and their families. It also means that amendment 4 is unnecessary, because I have announced today our commitment to closing these hospitals.

Fel y dywedais, Gareth, yr oedd argymhelliad yn ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ y dylid cau ysbytai arhosiad hir erbyn 2006 ac, o ganlyniad i’r £25 miliwn ychwanegol a fuddsoddwyd gennym mewn ailsefydlu, mae’r cynllun ar gyfer Bryn y Neuadd wedi mynd rhagddo. Cyflwynwyd y cynllun ailsefydlu cynhwysfawr i mi ac yr wyf yn hyderus bod ymgynghori wedi digwydd. Credaf y bydd croeso i’r newydd hwn ymhlith y rhai sy’n byw yn Ysbyty Bryn y Neuadd, a’u gofalwyr, eu ffrindiau a’u perthnasau. Yr ydym wedi cyflawni ein hymrwymiadau ac wedi cadw ein haddewidion i’r rhai sy’n byw yn Bryn y Neuadd a’u teuluoedd. Golyga hefyd nad oes angen gwelliant 4, gan fy mod wedi cyhoeddi ein hymrwymiad heddiw i gau’r ysbytai hyn.

In responding to ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ and the consultation, we have looked beyond my portfolio, and the Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning is already pursuing agendas that will benefit children and adults with learning disabilities. For example, last November, the National Assembly approved the special educational needs code of practice in Wales, which seeks to remove barriers to participation and learning. The advisory group has also proposed that the National Assembly should make additional resources available to enable an additional 1,500 people with learning disabilities to live independently, away from the family home, by 2010. We propose to commission a study into the present and future housing needs of people with learning difficulties to provide the evidence base to inform our response and to take this matter forward.

Wrth ymateb i ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ ac i’r ymgynghoriad, yr ydym wedi edrych y tu hwnt i’m portffolio i, ac mae’r Gweinidog dros Addysg a Dysgu Gydol Oes eisoes yn dilyn agendâu a fydd o les i blant ac oedolion sydd ag anableddau dysgu. Er enghraifft, fis Tachwedd diwethaf, cymeradwyodd y Cynulliad Cenedlaethol y cod ymarfer anghenion addysgol arbennig yng Nghymru, sy’n ceisio dileu rhwystrau i gyfranogi a dysgu. Mae’r grŵp ymgynghorol wedi cynnig hefyd y dylai’r Cynulliad Cenedlaethol ddarparu adnoddau ychwanegol fel y gall 1,500 o bobl ychwanegol ag anableddau dysgu fyw’n annibynnol, oddi wrth gartref y teulu, erbyn 2010. Bwriadwn gomisiynu astudiaeth i anghenion tai pobl ag anawsterau dysgu yn awr ac yn y dyfodol i fod yn sylfaen dystiolaeth i oleuo ein hymateb ac i fwrw ymlaen â’r mater hwn.

I also wish to ensure that the implementation of our responses to ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ is taken forward in partnership, which is how we developed the whole strategy. I met the learning disability advisory group last week and proposed that a new external implementation group be set up to oversee the implementation of our response and to provide advice on it. The advisory group welcomed my proposal in principle, and we will discuss the terms of reference and the composition of the implementation group over the summer recess. I anticipate that the new implementation group will meet after our current budget planning round process has been completed.

Yr wyf hefyd yn dymuno sicrhau y caiff ein hymatebion i ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ eu gweithredu mewn partneriaeth, a dyna sut y gwnaethom ddatblygu’r strategaeth gyfan. Cyfarfûm â’r grŵp ymgynghorol anabledd dysgu yr wythnos diwethaf a chynnig y dylid sefydlu grŵp gweithredu allanol newydd i arolygu’r gwaith o weithredu ein hymateb a rhoi cyngor yn ei gylch. Croesawodd y grŵp ymgynghorol fy nghynnig mewn egwyddor, a thrafodwn gylch gorchwyl a chyfansoddiad y grŵp gweithredu dros doriad yr haf. Rhagwelaf y bydd y grŵp gweithredu newydd yn cwrdd ar ôl cwblhau proses ein cylch cynllunio cyllideb cyfredol.

Brian Hancock spoken in English p. 63

Brian Hancock siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 63

You have often heard me mention speech and language therapists. How will we fulfil our promise and ensure that young people and adults have the speech therapy they need? How will we address the shortage of speech and language therapists?

Yr ydych wedi fy nghlywed yn sôn yn aml am therapyddion iaith a lleferydd. Sut y gwireddwn ein haddewid a sicrhau y caiff pobl ifanc ac oedolion y therapi lleferydd y mae arnynt ei angen? Sut yr ymdriniwn â’r prinder therapyddion iaith a lleferydd?

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 63

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 63

One of my first statements today was that we will issue guidance to authorities to ensure that they audit their services and support arrangements against the principles set out in my response.

Un o’m datganiadau cyntaf heddiw oedd y byddwn yn rhoi cyfarwyddyd i’r awdurdodau i sicrhau eu bod yn archwilio eu trefniadau gwasanaeth a chymorth yn ôl yr egwyddorion a nodir yn fy ymateb.

I turn to amendments 1, 2 and 3. The advisory group estimates that combined health and local authority expenditure in Wales on learning disability services in 1999-2000 was over £193 million. There are evident challenges for funding and services but our response demonstrates that we are facing up to those challenges and therefore Jocelyn’s amendment 1 is unnecessary. My proposals in relation to advocacy and direct payment make Jonathan Morgan’s amendment 2 unnecessary and my proposals to complete the resettlement programme by 2006 also render amendment 4 unnecessary.

Trof at welliannau 1, 2 a 3. Mae’r grŵp ymgynghorol yn amcangyfrif bod y gwariant gan awdurdodau iechyd a lleol gyda’i gilydd yng Nghymru ar wasanaethau anabledd dysgu yn 1999-2000 yn fwy na £193 miliwn. Mae heriau amlwg o ran ariannu a gwasanaethau ond mae ein hymateb yn dangos ein bod yn wynebu’r heriau hynny ac felly mae gwelliant 1 Jocelyn yn ddiangen. Mae fy nghynigion ynghylch eiriolaeth a thalu uniongyrchol yn peri bod gwelliant 2 Jonathan Morgan yn ddiangen ac mae fy nghynigion i gwblhau’r rhaglen ailsefydlu erbyn 2006 yn peri bod gwelliant 4 yn ddiangen hefyd.

Turning to amendment 3, I acknowledge that primary healthcare workers may benefit from training on understanding the needs of those with learning disabilities. However, as regards health checks, our efforts ought to be concentrated on ensuring that people with learning disabilities have full access to our primary care services and therefore, I will not support that amendment.

Gan droi at welliant 3, cydnabyddaf y gall gweithwyr gofal iechyd sylfaenol gael budd o hyfforddiant mewn deall anghenion y rhai sydd ag anableddau dysgu. Fodd bynnag, o ran profion iechyd, dylai ein hymdrechion ganolbwyntio ar sicrhau bod pobl ag anableddau dysgu’n cael mynediad llawn i’n gwasanaethau gofal sylfaenol ac, felly, ni chefnogaf y gwelliant hwnnw.

I welcome the contributions made by all political parties and, most importantly, by the people with learning disabilities in Wales, in moving this forward. Many of those people are present in the Assembly today to celebrate this step towards ensuring that they can fulfil their potential and that we can fulfil our promises.

Croesawaf y cyfraniadau gan yr holl bleidiau gwleidyddol, ac yn bwysicaf oll, gan y rhai ag anableddau dysgu yng Nghymru, wrth fwrw ymlaen â hyn. Mae llawer o’r bobl hynny’n bresennol yn y Cynulliad heddiw i ddathlu’r cam hwn tuag at sicrhau y gallant gyflawni eu potensial ac y gallwn wireddu ein haddewidion.

David Lloyd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 64

David Lloyd spoken in Welsh p. 64

Cynigiaf welliant 1 yn enw Jocelyn Davies. Ym mhwynt 3, ychwanegu ar ôl ‘strategaeth’:

I propose amendment 1 in the name of Jocelyn Davies. In point 3, insert after ‘strategy’:

David Lloyd (parhad) siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 64

David Lloyd (continued) spoken in Welsh p. 64

Datganaf fuddiant fel meddyg teulu, cynghorydd sir ac, yng nghyd-destun y ddadl hon, datganaf fod fy mrawd-yng-nghyfraith yn seiciatrydd ymgynghorol yn arbenigo mewn anabledd dysgu.

I declare an interest as a general practitioner, county councillor and, in the context of this debate, I declare that my brother-in-law is a consultant psychiatrist who specialises in learning disabilities.

Mae gwelliant 1 yn nodi’r her sylweddol o ran ariannu a darparu gwasanaethau i wireddu amcanion ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’. Mae’n nodi hefyd fod cyllido a’r angen dybryd i wella gwasanaethau yn thema gyffredin yr ymatebion i’r adroddiad. Amcanion yr adroddiad yw sicrhau bod pawb sydd ag anabledd dysgu yn derbyn gwasanaethau modern, hyblyg, priodol i’w hanghenion a’u hamgylchiadau, ac sy’n rhwydd i’w cyrraedd.

Amendment 1 notes the significant challenge in terms of financing and providing services to realise the objectives of ‘Fulfilling the Promises’. It also notes that funding and the desperate need to improve services is a common theme in the responses to the report. The report aims to ensure that everyone with learning disabilities receives modern, flexible services that are relevant to their needs and circumstances and easily accessible.

Mae pwyslais ar hyblygrwydd ac ar ailintergreiddio unigolion yn y gymuned. Mae darparu gwasanaethau i bobl sydd ag anableddau dysgu yn fater eang a chymhleth. Yn yr amser sydd gennyf i siarad, ni allaf ond ymdrin â rhai o’r materion.

There is an emphasis on flexibility and on reintegrating individuals into the community. Providing services to people with learning disabilities is a broad and complex issue. In the time I have to speak, I can only address some of the issues.

Yn gyntaf, pwysleisiaf bwysigrwydd cynllunio ar sail anghenion yr unigolyn a phwysigrwydd asesu’r anghenion hynny’n barhaol, drwy gydol oes. Mae angen adnoddau digonol ar gyfer gofal ysbeidiol a gwasanaethau gofal yn y cartref ac i ddarparu gwybodaeth i deuluoedd ar y cymorth sydd ar gael.

First, I emphasise the importance of planning on the basis of individual needs and of continuous assessment of those needs. We need sufficient resources to provide respite care and home care services and information to families on the help available to them.

Mae’n hanfodol bod y sawl sydd ag anabledd dysgu yng nghanol cynllunio darpariaeth. Mae hyn yn arbennig o bwysig yn ystod y cyfnod trawsnewid rhwng bod yn blentyn a bod yn oedolyn. Nid yw darpariaeth y cyfnod hwnnw wedi’i safoni hyd yn hyn, a gall aros tra bo’r gwasanaethau statudol yn ceisio penderfynu pa un ai gwasanaethau plant neu wasanaethau oedolion sydd yn fwyaf priodol i’r unigolyn fod yn straen ar y person, y teulu a’r gofalwyr. Rhaid cael mwy o gydweithrediad rhwng gwasanaethau plant, gwasanaethau addysg a gwasanaethau i oedolion ag anabledd dysgu yn ystod y cyfnod trawsnewid. Efallai y dylid creu tîm arbenigol i oruchwylio’r cyfnod tyngedfennol hwn.

It is essential that those with learning disabilities are at the centre of planning provision. That is particularly important in the transition phase between being a child and being an adult. Provision for that period has not yet been standardised, and waiting while statutory services decide whether services for children or adults are most appropriate for the individual can put a strain on the individual, the family and carers. There must be more co-ordination between children’s services, education services and services for adults with learning disabilities during the transition period. Perhaps a specialist team should be created to oversee this crucial period.

Fodd bynnag, ni fydd cynllunio gogyfer y cyfnod trawsnewid, ac wedi hynny, yn llwyddiannus oni bai bod cyfleusterau ar gael ar ôl i bobl orffen eu cyfnod ysgol. Nifer fach o bobl ag anabledd dysgu sydd yn y gweithlu. Mae angen dewis a hyblygrwydd ar yr unigolyn ag anabledd dysgu—fel pawb arall—ynglŷn â gwaith a gyrfa, ac o ran lle i fyw.

However, planning for the transition period, and the ensuing periods, will not be successful unless resources are available to people after they have finished their schooling. Very few people with learning disabilities enter the workforce. People with learning disabilities need choice and flexibility—as we all do—with regard to work and career, and where they live.

Yn dilyn pryderon a fynegwyd gan bobl ag anabledd dysgu, gofynnaf i’r Gweinidog a fydd dyfodiad Deddf Safonau Gofal 2000 yn arwain at orfodi cartrefi pobl ag anabledd dysgu i gofrestru fel cartrefi gofal cofrestredig? Gall hynny arwain at golli hawliau tenantiaeth a hawliau budd-daliadau. Gobeithiaf y gall y Gweinidog ateb y pwynt hwnnw heddiw.

Following concerns expressed by people with learning disabilities, I ask the Minister whether the introduction of the Care Standards Act 2000 will lead to homes for people with learning disabilities having to register as registered care homes? That could lead to the loss of tenancy and benefit rights. I hope that the Minister can answer that point today.

Trof at awtistiaeth. Bu twf enbyd yn nifer yr achosion o awtistiaeth dros y blynyddoedd diwethaf, a chaiff diffygion yn y gwasanaethau ar gyfer plant a phobl ifanc sydd yn dioddef o anhwylderau’r sbectrwm awtistig eu crybwyll yn yr adroddiad. Mae angen cynllun clir ac eangfrydig i fynd i’r afael â phroblem gynyddol awtistiaeth. Mae angen cofrestr o achosion awtistiaeth yng Nghymru, ac mae angen gwasanaethau arbenigol ar fyrder i ddelio â sialens aruthrol awtistiaeth.

I turn to autism. There has been a massive increase in the number of cases of autism over the last few years, and the deficiencies in services for young people and children suffering autistic spectrum disorder are mentioned in the report. A clear and wide-ranging scheme is needed to get to grips with the increasing problem of autism. A register of autism cases in Wales is needed, and specialist services are urgently needed to deal with the huge challenge of autism.

Grŵp arall sy’n teilyngu sylw yn y ddadl heddiw yw’r unigolion hynny ag ymddygiad heriol. Mae angen asesiad cynnar a thimau cefnogi ymddygiad heriol. Mae angen gwasanaethau ymgynghori, hyfforddiant a chefnogaeth ar gyfer gofalwyr rheolaidd a darparwyr gwasanaeth. Mae’r gwasanaethau ar gyfer pobl ag ymddygiad heriol ac ymddygiad heriol difrifol yn brin.

Another group deserving of attention in today’s debate is people with challenging behaviour. We need early assessment and challenging behaviour support teams. Consultative, training and support services for regular carers and service providers are needed. Services for people with challenging behaviour and severe challenging behaviour are scarce.

Mae angen dybryd i wella mynediad pobl ag anabledd dysgu at wasanaethau iechyd yn gyffredinol. Gwyddom bod angen cydweithio rhwng gwasanaethau addysg a phlant ac yn y blaen, ac mae hefyd angen cydweithio i sicrhau bod pobl ag anabledd dysgu yn elwa o’n gwasanaeth iechyd cyffredinol hefyd. Erys sialens aruthrol. Gofynnodd Kerry Smallman o Mencap am onestrwydd yng nghyfarfod y Pwyllgor Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol fis Tachwedd diwethaf. Mae angen gonestrwydd i wireddu’r dyheadau hyn, mae angen y cyllid a’r gwasanaethau ar lawr gwlad, ac mae angen grym statudol i’r canllawiau er mwyn gwireddu a chyflawni’r addewidion.

There is a serious need to improve access for people with learning disabilities to health services in general. We know that co-operation between education and children’s services and so on is needed, and co-operation is also needed to ensure that people with learning disabilities benefit from our health service. A huge challenge remains. Kerry Smallman from Mencap asked for honesty in the Health and Social Services Committee meeting last November. We need honesty to realise these aims, we need funding and services at the grassroots, and we need these guidelines to have statutory force in order to realise and fulfil these promises.

David Melding spoken in English p. 66

David Melding siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 66

I propose the following amendments in the name of Jonathan Morgan. Amendment 2: at the end of the motion add a new point:

Cynigiaf y gwelliannau canlynol yn enw Jonathan Morgan. Gwelliant 2: ychwanegu pwynt newydd ar ddiwedd y cynnig:

David Melding (continued) spoken in English p. 66

David Melding (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 66

I propose amendment 3. At the end of the motion add a new point:

Cynigiaf welliant 3. Ychwanegu pwynt newydd ar ddiwedd y cynnig:

David Melding (continued) spoken in English p. 66

David Melding (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 66

I propose amendment 4. At the end of the motion add a new point:

Cynigiaf welliant 4. Ychwanegu pwynt newydd ar ddiwedd y cynnig:

David Melding (continued) spoken in English p. 66

David Melding (parhad) siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 66

I welcome this report and the consultation process. It is usually a labour of love to get through these long documents, particularly to go through the various responses with a fine-toothed comb. However, this debate has been assisted by the unanimity among those responding to the Government’s proposals and the clarity and lucidity of what they argue for. I am delighted that so many service users, carers and voluntary organisations are in the public gallery this morning to hear this debate. That is appropriate, and they can be assured that they have had a considerable influence on the discussions that have been held in the Assembly. I commend the documents that have been sent jointly by All-Wales People First, the Standing Conference of Voluntary Organisations for People with a Learning Disability in Wales, the All-Wales Forum of Parents and Carers, and Mencap Cymru. They show the voluntary sector working at its best. The documents are focused and concentrate on six principles, which also emerge from the many individual responses to the consultation. I commend those six points. The first is on person-centred planning, which has already been mentioned. I remind the Assembly that people with learning disabilities should be the centre of the service. The service should not just be forced to meet their needs if there happens to be a match with existing provision, rather it should be designed to meet the needs of people with learning disabilities. If the existing structure of the service does not adequately respond to their needs, it should be changed. That is central.

Croesawaf yr adroddiad hwn a’r broses ymgynghori. Llafur cariad yw darllen y dogfennau hir hyn fel arfer, yn enwedig mynd drwy’r gwahanol ymatebion â chrib mân. Fodd bynnag, bu’r ddadl hon ar ei hennill o gael unfrydedd ymysg y rhai a ymatebodd i gynigion y Llywodraeth ac oherwydd eglurder a thryloywder yr hyn y maent yn dadlau drosto. Yr wyf wrth fy modd bod cynifer o’r defnyddwyr gwasanaeth, y gofalwyr a’r cyrff a mudiadau gwirfoddol yn yr oriel gyhoeddus y bore yma i glywed y ddadl hon. Mae hynny’n briodol, a gallant fod yn dawel eu meddwl eu bod wedi cael cryn ddylanwad ar y trafodaethau a gynhaliwyd yn y Cynulliad. Canmolaf y dogfennau a anfonwyd ar y cyd gan Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Cymru Gyfan, Cynhadledd Sefydlog Mudiadau Gwirfoddol dros Rai ag Anabledd Dysgu yng Nghymru, Fforwm Rhieni a Gofalwyr Cymru Gyfan a Mencap Cymru. Maent yn dangos gwaith y sector gwirfoddol ar ei orau. Mae’r dogfennau’n eglur ac maent yn canolbwyntio ar chwe egwyddor, sydd hefyd yn dod i’r golwg yn y nifer fawr o ymatebion gan unigolion i’r ymgynghoriad. Cymeradwyaf y chwe phwynt hwnnw. Mae’r cyntaf yn ymwneud â chynllunio person-ganolog, a grybwyllwyd eisoes. Yr wyf yn atgoffa’r Cynulliad mai pobl ag anableddau dysgu a ddylai fod yn ganolbwynt i’r gwasanaeth. Yn hytrach na gorfodi gwasanaeth i ddiwallu eu hanghenion os oes cyfatebiaeth yn digwydd bod â’r ddarpariaeth bresennol, dylid ei gynllunio i ddiwallu anghenion pobl ag anableddau dysgu. Os nad oes cyfatebiaeth ddigonol rhwng strwythur presennol y gwasanaeth a’u hanghenion hwy, dylid ei newid. Mae hynny’n hanfodol.

Secondly, resources are needed to fulfil the strategy. In fairness, the Minister commented on this. She will be scrutinised on future conduct, but she made a positive contribution at the start of this debate. Thirdly, training is needed for health staff, and I was pleased that that was accepted in principle by the Minister. Fourthly, information should be accessible, not only to carers but also to those with learning disabilities and healthcare professionals, whom we want to train, as well as others in the social care sector. The provision of excellent information is a key requirement. Fifthly, accommodation needs must also be met, and not only in terms of the rehousing programme, although that is enormously important. The housing needs of people with learning disabilities, who are perhaps living with elderly carers, should be met and planned for across the board. Finally, there is the need for an advisory group to oversee the implementation of the strategy and to ensure that the Minister fulfils the promises being made in the document before us. Given the expertise of the voluntary sector, which can be clearly seen in its response to this debate, it is well placed to give us that advice.

Yn ail, mae angen adnoddau i gyflawni’r strategaeth. Er tegwch, fe wnaeth y Gweinidog sylw am hyn. Fe’i harchwilir o ran ei hymddygiad yn y dyfodol, ond gwnaeth gyfraniad cadarnhaol ar ddechrau’r ddadl hon. Yn drydydd, mae angen hyfforddiant ar gyfer staff iechyd, ac yr oeddwn yn falch bod y Gweinidog yn derbyn hynny mewn egwyddor. Yn bedwerydd, dylai gwybodaeth fod yn hawdd ei chael, nid yn unig gan ofalwyr ond gan y rhai sydd ag anableddau dysgu a gweithwyr gofal iechyd proffesiynol, y dymunwn eu hyfforddi, yn ogystal ag eraill yn y sector gofal cymdeithasol. Mae’n hollbwysig darparu gwybodaeth ragorol. Yn bumed, rhaid diwallu anghenion llety hefyd, ac nid yn unig o ran y rhaglen ailgartrefu, er bod honno’n bwysig tu hwnt. Dylid diwallu anghenion tai’r rhai sydd ag anableddau dysgu, sy’n byw gyda gofalwyr oedrannus efallai, a dylid cynllunio ar eu cyfer yn gyffredinol. Yn olaf, mae angen grŵp ymgynghorol i arolygu gweithrediad y strategaeth ac i sicrhau bod y Gweinidog yn gwireddu’r addewidion a wneir yn y ddogfen sydd o’n blaen. Oherwydd arbenigedd y sector gwirfoddol, y gellir ei weld yn glir yn ei ymateb i’r ddadl hon, mae mewn sefyllfa dda i roi’r cyngor hwnnw i ni.

On our amendments, amendment 2 addresses the need to promote advocacy and direct payments. The Government could support that amendment; it includes an important principle to incorporate into the motion. I hope that the Government rethinks its opposition to that amendment; I will not withdraw it, because it is important. However, I was immensely encouraged to hear what the Minister said about direct payments.

Ynghylch ein gwelliannau, mae gwelliant 2 yn ymdrin â’r angen i hyrwyddo eiriolaeth a thaliadau uniongyrchol. Gallai’r Llywodraeth gefnogi’r gwelliant hwnnw; mae’n cynnwys egwyddor bwysig i’w hymgorffori yn y cynnig. Gobeithiaf y bydd y Llywodraeth yn ailystyried ei gwrthwynebiad i’r gwelliant hwnnw; ni wnaf ei dynnu’n ôl gan ei fod yn bwysig. Fodd bynnag, fe’m calonogwyd yn fawr gan yr hyn a ddywedodd y Gweinidog am daliadau uniongyrchol.

Amendment 3 deals with annual health checks and training for staff, and I was pleased to hear the Minister’s comments on training. However, annual health checks are the focus we need to ensure that health staff respond properly to the health needs of people with learning disabilities. That is the best way to drive that point home.

Mae gwelliant 3 yn ymdrin ag archwiliadau iechyd blynyddol a hyfforddiant i staff, ac yr oeddwn yn falch o glywed sylwadau’r Gweinidog am hyfforddiant. Er hynny, archwiliadau iechyd blynyddol yw’r ffocws y mae arnom ei angen i sicrhau bod staff iechyd yn ymateb yn briodol i anghenion iechyd rhai sydd ag anableddau dysgu. Dyna’r ffordd orau i gyrraedd y nod ar hynny.

Finally, I am prepared to withdraw the amendment on accommodation and completing the rehousing scheme by 2006. The Minister gave us splendid news and it would be churlish not to acknowledge that. Indeed, I will let you into a naughty secret—our amendment is taken, almost word for word, from the Liberal Democrat group’s response to this document. I thought that that might be a source of embarrassment. However, I am pleased that my mendacious behaviour has not been rewarded on this occasion. I am delighted that this commitment has been brought forward to 2006. It is good news, which I acknowledge in the spirit of inclusive politics—I do not want to use the word ‘partnership’ because that might sign us up to the coalition, which would not help the coalition and would certainly not help us. I commend the tone of the debate, the contributions and what the Minister has been able to deliver. However, we want a little bit more again.

Yn olaf, yr wyf yn barod i dynnu’n ôl y gwelliant ar lety a chwblhau’r cynllun ailgartrefu erbyn 2006. Rhoddodd y Gweinidog newyddion ardderchog i ni ac anfoesgar fyddai peidio â chydnabod hynny. Yn wir, datgelaf gyfrinach ddrwg i chi—cymerir ein gwelliant, air am air bron, o ymateb grŵp y Democratiaid Rhyddfrydol i’r ddogfen hon. Credais y byddai hynny’n codi cywilydd. Fodd bynnag, yr wyf yn falch nad yw fy ymddygiad anwireddus wedi talu i mi y tro hwn. Yr wyf wrth fy modd bod yr ymrwymiad hwn i’w gyflawni’n gynharach yn 2006. Mae’n newyddion da a gydnabyddaf yn ysbryd gwleidyddiaeth gynhwysol—nid wyf am ddefnyddio’r gair ‘partneriaeth’ gan y gallai hynny olygu ein bod yn ymuno â’r glymblaid, na fyddai o gymorth i’r glymblaid ac na fyddai o gymorth i ni’n sicr. Cymeradwyaf naws y ddadl, y cyfraniadau a’r hyn y mae’r Gweinidog wedi gallu ei roi. Er hynny, yr ydym eisiau ychydig bach yn fwy eto.

Kirsty Williams spoken in English p. 68

Kirsty Williams siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 68

The Liberal Democrats welcomed the report when it was published. I am glad that we have now heard from the Government, because there was great deal of frustration and anxiety in the service and among people with learning disabilities about when they would hear what status the report would have and how the Government of Wales would act. The report is impressive in its scope and detail on how we can take this agenda forward. While it acknowledges that great strides have been made under the all-Wales strategy, it is clear that much remains to be done.

Croesawaodd y Democratiaid Rhyddfrydol yr adroddiad pan y’i cyhoeddwyd. Yr wyf yn falch ein bod wedi clywed oddi wrth y Llywodraeth yn awr, gan fod llawer iawn o rwystredigaeth a phryder yn y gwasanaeth ac ymysg pobl ag anableddau dysgu ynghylch pa bryd y byddent yn clywed am y statws a gâi’r adroddiad a sut y byddai Llywodraeth Cymru’n gweithredu. Mae’r adroddiad yn drawiadol o ran ei gwmpas a’r manylion ynghylch y modd y gallwn fwrw ymlaen â’r agenda hon. Er ei fod yn cydnabod bod camau bras wedi’u cymryd dan y strategaeth Cymru-gyfan, mae’n amlwg bod llawer i’w wneud o hyd.

I am pleased that the Minister intends to issue new guidance to local authorities on services for people with learning disabilities. It is unfortunate, but true, that with the ending of the hypothecated funding that accompanied the all-Wales strategy, services for people with learning disabilities drifted away; they have been eroded slowly but surely and have disappeared. Local authorities should consider again the services they are currently delivering, and plan for the future. In reviewing and developing their services, local authorities must take on board the principle that the individual is at the heart of the service. This issue is not only about talking about taking action but about making these services a reality. As David Melding rightly said, it is no longer appropriate that we fit individuals into services: we need to develop services for individuals. That is not how it has been in the past. If services are going to be truly person-centred at Assembly and local authority levels, it is important that we have adequate, well-financed advocacy services so that service users can take part in their planning and development. Without that, we will not hear the views of people for whom the services are being developed. They need an input at the local authority level planning stage to ensure that the adopted policies are realistic and relevant to service users.

Yr wyf yn falch bod y Gweinidog yn bwriadu rhoi cyfarwyddyd newydd i’r awdurdodau lleol ar wasanaethau i bobl ag anableddau dysgu. Mae’n anffodus, ond yn wir, mai mynd gyda’r gwynt a wnaeth y gwasanaethau i bobl ag anableddau dysgu pan ddaeth y cyllid wedi’i bridiannu a oedd yn cyd-fynd â’r strategaeth Cymru-gyfan i ben; fe’u herydwyd yn araf ond yn sicr ac maent wedi diflannu. Dylai’r awdurdodau lleol ailystyried y gwasanaethau y maent yn eu darparu ar hyn o bryd, a chynllunio ar gyfer y dyfodol. Wrth adolygu a datblygu eu gwasanaethau, rhaid i awdurdodau lleol ystyried yr egwyddor mai’r unigolyn sydd wrth graidd y gwasanaeth. Mae hyn yn golygu mwy na sôn am gymryd camau; mae’n golygu troi’r gwasanaethau hyn yn realiti. Fel y dywedodd David Melding, nid yw’n briodol bellach inni ffitio unigolion i’r gwasanaethau: rhaid inni ddatblygu gwasanaethau ar gyfer unigolion. Nid felly y bu yn y gorffennol. Os yw’r gwasanaethau i fod yn wirioneddol berson-ganolog ar lefel y Cynulliad a’r awdurdodau lleol, mae’n bwysig inni gael gwasanaethau eiriolaeth digonol a ariannwyd yn dda fel y gall defnyddwyr y gwasanaethau gymryd rhan yn y gwaith o’u cynllunio a’u datblygu. Heb hynny, ni chlywn farn y rhai y datblygir y gwasanaethau ar eu cyfer. Rhaid iddynt gael mewnbwn ar y cam cynllunio ar lefel yr awdurdodau lleol er mwyn sicrhau bod y polisïau a fabwysiedir yn realistig ac yn berthnasol i ddefnyddwyr y gwasanaethau.

I declare an interest as a patron of the Brecknock Citizens Advocacy. Its members carry out fantastic work in south Powys and some are present today. I cannot stress often enough the importance of these services and how patchy they have been in the past. For example, a great advocacy service is available for adults with learning disabilities in some parts of Powys, but not in others. The service is also available for children in some parts but not for adults. We need a comprehensive service across Wales, because as the chair of Mencap has said, people with learning disabilities and their families and carers need support, not to live better lives than their friends and neighbours but to live the same lives. Any advocacy services that we hope to develop need to be independent and separate from statutory authorities. That is an important underlying principle. Those who run the advocacy services need to know that they can argue their case and work with service users without fear of their funding being withdrawn because they have rocked the boat or have been a thorn in the side of those sitting in county halls around Wales.

Datganaf fuddiant fel un o noddwyr Eiriolaeth Dinasyddion Brycheiniog. Mae ei haelodau’n gwneud gwaith gwych yn ne Powys ac mae rhai ohonynt yn bresennol heddiw. Ni allaf bwysleisio’n ddigon aml mor bwysig yw’r gwasanaethau hyn a pha mor fylchog y buont yn y gorffennol. Er enghraifft, mae gwasanaeth eiriolaeth rhagorol ar gael i oedolion sydd ag anableddau dysgu mewn rhai rhannau o Bowys, ond nid mewn eraill. At hynny, mae’r gwasanaeth ar gael i blant mewn rhai ardaloedd ond nid i oedolion. Mae arnom angen gwasanaeth cynhwysfawr ledled Cymru, oherwydd fel y dywedodd cadeirydd Mencap, mae angen cymorth ar bobl sydd ag anableddau dysgu a’u teuluoedd a’u gofalwyr, nid i fyw bywydau gwell na’u ffrindiau a’u cymdogion ond i fyw yr un bywydau. Rhaid i unrhyw wasanaethau eiriolaeth y gobeithiwn eu datblygu fod yn annibynnol ar yr awdurdodau statudol a bod ar wahân iddynt. Mae honno’n egwyddor sylfaenol bwysig. Rhaid i’r rhai sy’n rhedeg y gwasanaethau eiriolaeth gael gwybod y gallant ddadlau dros eu hachos a gweithio gyda defnyddwyr y gwasanaeth heb ofni y caiff eu cyllid ei dynnu’n ôl am eu bod wedi siglo’r cwch neu wedi bod yn ddraenen yn ystlys y rhai sy’n eistedd yn y neuaddau sir o gwmpas Cymru.

The Minister’s comments about encouraging the use of direct payments were heartening. However, simply allowing people access to direct payments will not be enough. We must ensure that local authorities have adequate support services in place for the scheme. The Cardiff and Vale Coalition of Disabled People has developed its direct payment service excellently. However, some of my constituents who have received direct payments for the last few years have never received any support and how that money is spent has not been monitored. It is a barrier to people taking up direct payment. They will not do so until they know that the support is there to help them with issues such as becoming an employer of staff. It is a complex but liberating way forward. People need simple support to help and guide them and give them the confidence to take up this option.

Yr oedd sylwadau’r Gweinidog am hybu’r defnydd o daliadau uniongyrchol yn galonogol. Er hynny, nid digon fydd caniatáu i bobl ddefnyddio taliadau uniongyrchol. Rhaid inni sicrhau bod gwasanaethau cymorth digonol gan yr awdurdodau lleol ar gyfer y cynllun. Mae Cynghrair Pobl Anabl Caerdydd a’r Fro wedi datblygu ei gwasanaeth talu uniongyrchol mewn modd rhagorol. Fodd bynnag, nid yw rhai o’m hetholwyr sydd wedi derbyn taliadau uniongyrchol dros y blynyddoedd diwethaf erioed wedi derbyn unrhyw gymorth ac ni fu monitro ar y modd y gwariwyd yr arian hwnnw. Mae hyn yn rhwystro pobl rhag ymgymryd â thalu uniongyrchol. Ni wnânt hynny nes byddant yn gwybod bod cymorth ar gael i’w helpu â materion fel dod yn gyflogwr staff. Mae’n ffordd ymlaen sy’n gymhleth ond yn rhyddhaol. Mae ar bobl angen cymorth syml i’w helpu a’u harwain a meithrin hyder ynddynt i gymryd y dewis hwn.

You are clever, David, but not clever enough with regard to the closure of long-stay hospitals. I remember attending a conference at Llandrindod Wells and hearing about what was referred to at the conference as ‘the longest waiting list’. We spend a great deal of time discussing waiting lists in the Assembly but not much time discussing what is the longest waiting list. Some people spend their entire adult life living in hospitals such as Hensol, Llanfrechfa Grange, and Bryn y Neuadd. I have visited these hospitals, and I know that staff do their best to provide a good environment for the people who live there, but the situation is not appropriate. The report recommended that the closure of long-stay hospitals should be brought forward from the partnership agreement’s target of 2010 to 2006. I am delighted that the Minister has agreed to that today.

Yr ydych yn glyfar, David, ond nid yn ddigon clyfar mewn cysylltiad â chau ysbytai arhosiad hir. Cofiaf fod mewn cynhadledd yn Llandrindod a chlywed am yr hyn y cyfeiriwyd ato yn y gynhadledd fel ‘y rhestr aros hwyaf’. Treuliwn lawer iawn o amser yn trafod rhestrau aros yn y Cynulliad ond fawr o amser yn trafod beth yw’r rhestr aros hwyaf. Mae rhai’n treulio’r cyfan o’u hoes fel oedolion yn byw mewn ysbytai fel Hensol, Llanfrechfa Grange, a Bryn y Neuadd. Yr wyf wedi ymweld â’r ysbytai hyn, a gwn fod staff yn gwneud eu gorau i ddarparu amgylchedd da i’r rhai sy’n byw yno, ond nid yw’r sefyllfa’n un briodol. Argymhellodd yr adroddiad y dylid cau’r ysbytai arhosiad hir yn 2006, yn gynharach na’r targed o 2010 yn y cytundeb partneriaeth. Yr wyf wrth fy modd bod y Gweinidog wedi cytuno â hynny heddiw.

Geraint Davies siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 71

Geraint Davies spoken in Welsh p. 71

Hoffwn ddatgan buddiant fel fferyllydd ac aelod o Gyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Rhondda Cynon Taf. Yr wyf yn falch o gael y cyfle i gyfrannu at y ddadl hon ac i ymuno gyda’r nifer o fudiadau sy’n gweithio yn y maes sy’n croesawu’r adroddiad. Mae’r egwyddor o gyfle cyfartal a hyrwyddo cyfleoedd i bawb gyrraedd eu llawn botensial yn hanfodol a dylai fod yn ganolog i’n gweithredu.

I declare an interest as a pharmacist and a member of Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council. I am glad to have the opportunity to contribute to this debate and to join with the numerous organisations working in this field that welcome this report. The principle of equality of opportunity and promoting opportunities for all to reach their full potential is essential and should be central to our action.

Rhaid i ni gynllunio ar gyfer y dyfodol a sicrhau mwy o adnoddau ar gyfer y maes hwn gan fod nifer y bobl yng Nghymru a chanddynt anableddau dysgu difrifol yn debygol o gynyddu dros y blynyddoedd nesaf. Mae nifer o ffactorau yn cyfrannu at hynny. Er enghraifft, mae technoleg ac adnoddau gofal yn gwella’n barhaol, sy’n arwain at ddisgwyliad i fyw’n hŷn. Mae cynnydd hefyd yn nifer y babanod a anwyd yn gynnar neu o flaen yr amser disgwyliedig, a’r rheini a anwyd i fenywod yn eu pedwardegau a’u pumdegau.

We must plan for the future and secure more resources for this field because the number of people in Wales with serious learning disabilities is likely to increase over the next few years, with many factors contributing to that. Technology and care resources, for example, are continuously improving, which leads to longer life expectancy. The number of babies born prematurely or pre-term and those born to women in their forties and fifties is increasing.

Mae nifer o gamau syml y gallwn eu cymryd i hwyluso gallu pobl ag anableddau dysgu i gyfrannu i gymdeithas. O’r cychwyn cyntaf, dylem fachu ar bob cyfle i integreiddio plant ag anableddau i ysgolion a gweithgareddau craidd. Mae angen strategaethau lleol i alluogi pobl ifanc i ymuno gymaint â phosibl gyda’r brif ffrwd. Rhoddaf glod i elusen lleol yn y Rhondda, Viva, sy’n dod â phlant ag anableddau dysgu a phlant eraill ynghyd i gymdeithasu y tu allan i’r ysgol. Mae pawb sy’n ymwneud â’r fenter honno yn elwa ohoni.

We can take a number of simple steps to make it easier for people with learning disabilities to contribute to society. From the outset, we should take every opportunity to integrate children with learning disabilities into schools and core activities. We need local strategies to enable young people to join the main stream as much as possible. I commend the work done by a local charity in the Rhondda, Viva, which brings children with learning disabilities and other children together to socialise outside school. Everyone involved in that initiative benefits from it.

Rhaid cynllunio hefyd ar gyfer pobl ar hyd eu bywydau. Rhaid sicrhau bod gwybodaeth am wasanaethau ar gael yn hawdd i bobl ag anableddau a’u gofalwyr. Dylai’r wybodaeth fod yn hygyrch, yn gyfredol ac yn y fformat a’r iaith briodol i ddefnyddwyr. Dylem sicrhau bod y broses daliadau—boed yn daliadau uniongyrchol neu’n daliadau i ofalwyr—yn agored a hwylus. Dylem sicrhau bod adnoddau digonol ar gael hefyd i ddarparu gwasanaeth eiriolaeth cydlynus ledled Cymru yn newis iaith y defnyddwyr.

We must also plan for people throughout their lives. We must ensure that information about services is readily available to people with disabilities and their carers. The information should be accessible, up-to-date and in the appropriate format and language for users. We should ensure that the payment process—whether they be direct payments or payments to carers—is open and accessible. We should also ensure that adequate resources are available to provide a coherent advocacy service throughout Wales in the users’ chosen language.

Dewis sylfaenol sy’n wynebu pobl ag anableddau dysgu yw lle yr hoffent fyw a chyda phwy. Dylem sicrhau bod ganddynt wir ddewis, gan gofio mai’r nod yw galluogi pobl i ddatblygu a chyfrannu i’w llawn botensial. Mae mudiadau yn pryderu bod pobl a chanddynt ofalwyr hŷn yn wynebu cynnydd mewn rhestrau aros ar gyfer lleoedd preswyl. Mae angen sicrhau adnoddau i fynd i’r afael â’r broblem.

A basic choice facing people with learning disabilities is where they wish to live and with whom. We should ensure that they have a real choice, while bearing in mind that the aim is to enable people to develop and contribute to their full potential. There is concern among organisations that people with older carers face increasing waiting lists for residential accommodation. We need to secure resources to tackle the problem.

I gloi, hoffwn ategu sylwadau Dai Lloyd y dylai gwasanaethau a chymorth ateb anghenion yr unigolyn bob tro. Mae argymhellion yr adroddiad i’w croesawu a chredaf ein bod yn gytûn. Yr her yn awr yw sicrhau y caiff yr argymhellion eu gweithredu ac y dônt yn realiti.

Finally, I would like to endorse Dai Lloyd’s comments that services and assistance should always be tailored to the needs of the individual. The report’s recommendations should be welcomed and I believe that we all agree on them. The challenge now is to ensure that the recommendations are implemented and are made a reality.

Karen Sinclair spoken in English p. 72

Karen Sinclair siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 72

I warmly welcome this document and reiterate my wholehearted support for its recommendations. I join in welcoming those who are here to listen to the debate and those who have contributed so thoroughly to the consultation. The constructive feedback that we have received has been taken on board. It is welcome. I could talk for a week on this subject, but I intend to focus on one area. I ask Jane for reassurances with regard to advocacy: it must be effective and financially separate from service provision. That is imperative in order to protect the integrity and impartiality of advocates. That is the only way to ensure that individuals’ rights are protected. We should ensure—as Kirsty mentioned—that these services pan Wales and are not left to be dealt with regionally, which would mean service inequality as experienced in the past. We now need to pursue all the report’s recommendations with some urgency. I want the Minister to set a challenging timescale for their implementation.

Croesawaf y ddogfen hon yn dwymgalon a datgan eto fy nghefnogaeth frwd i’w argymhellion. Ymunaf ag eraill i groesawu’r rhai sydd yma i wrando ar y ddadl a’r rhai a gyfrannodd mor drwyadl i’r ymgynghoriad. Mae’r adborth adeiladol a gawsom wedi’i ystyried. Mae i’w groesawu. Gallwn siarad am wythnos ar y pwnc hwn, ond bwriadaf ganolbwyntio ar un maes. Gofynnaf i Jane am sicrwydd mewn cysylltiad ag eiriolaeth: rhaid iddi fod yn effeithiol ac ar wahân yn gyllidol i’r ddarpariaeth gwasanaethau. Mae hynny’n hanfodol er mwyn diogelu uniondeb a didueddrwydd yr eiriolwyr. Dyna’r unig fodd i sicrhau y caiff hawliau unigolion eu diogelu. Dylem sicrhau—fel y dywedodd Kirsty—fod y gwasanaethau hyn yn cynnwys Cymru gyfan ac nad adewir hwy i’w trin yn rhanbarthol, a olygai anghydraddoldeb mewn gwasanaethau fel y profwyd yn y gorffennol. Yn awr, rhaid inni ddilyn holl argymhellion yr adroddiad gyda chryn frys. Yr wyf am i’r Gweinidog bennu amserlen ymestynnol i’w rhoi ar waith.

Following the steps that have been taken since the all-Wales strategy, this is a big step towards getting a decent deal for people with learning disabilities in Wales. We need to keep up the pace and find the necessary funding to implement this vision across Wales.

Ar ôl y camau a gymerwyd ers y strategaeth Cymru-gyfan, mae hwn yn gam mawr tuag at sicrhau chwarae teg i bobl sydd ag anableddau dysgu yng Nghymru. Rhaid inni ddal ati a dod o hyd i’r cyllid angenrheidiol i wireddu’r weledigaeth hon ledled Cymru.

Dafydd Wigley siaradwyd yn Gymraeg ac yn Saesneg t. 73

Dafydd Wigley spoken in Welsh and English p. 73

Datganaf fuddiant fel llywydd Mencap Cymru, ac fel aelod o Theatr Hijinx, sy’n gwneud llawer o waith gyda phobl ag anableddau dysgu.

in Welsh I declare an interest as the president of Mencap Cymru and as a member of Hijinx Theatre, which does a great deal of work with people with learning disabilities.

Croesawaf deitl a chynnwys y ddogfen, yn ogystal â nifer o sylwadau’r Gweinidog. Bydd gwaith ardderchog y gweithgor ond o gymorth i bobl anabl a’u teuluoedd os caiff yr argymhellion eu gwireddu yn llawn, yn drwyadl ac yn fuan, ac os bydd ymrwymiad parhaol, cyson ac ymroddgar gan lywodraethau o wahanol liwiau o hyn hyd 2010, ac wedi hynny. Yn y cyd-destun hwnnw, mae’r mater goruwch ymgecru pleidiol. Mae gan bobl anabl Cymru yr hawl i ddisgwyl hynny.

in Welsh I welcome the document’s title and content, as well as many of the Minister’s comments. The advisory group’s excellent work will only be of assistance to disabled people and their families if the recommendations are implemented quickly, fully and thoroughly, and if there is a continuous, consistent and dedicated commitment by governments of whichever colour from now until 2010, and beyond. In that context, the matter is above party-political bickering. Wales’s disabled people have the right to expect that.

Mae gwersi yn sicr i’w dysgu o’r strategaeth Gymru gyfan a weithredwyd yn yr 1980au a’r 1990au. Gwnaed gwaith ardderchog, yn arbennig tra’r oedd Nicholas Edwards yn Ysgrifennydd Gwladol Cymru. Yr oedd ganddo ymrwymiad teuluol i’r mater hwn. Ar un adeg, yr oedd Cymru ar y blaen drwy Ewrop o ran amcanion y strategaeth. Pery’r egwyddorion yr un mor berthnasol heddiw, fel ag y sonnir yn yr adroddiad.

in Welsh There are certainly lessons to be learned from the all-Wales strategy that was implemented in the 1980s and 1990s. Excellent work was done, particularly while Nicholas Edwards was Secretary of State for Wales. He had a family commitment to this matter. At one stage, Wales was at the forefront throughout Europe in terms of the strategy’s aims. Those principles remain just as relevant today, as is mentioned in the report.

Collwyd ffocws a momentwm, a methwyd â gwireddu addewid y rhaglen, yn rhannol oherwydd diffyg ewyllys wleidyddol, ac yn rhannol oherwydd diffyg adnoddau, sy’n gysylltiedig. Mae’r rhaglen a amlinellir yn y ddogfen yn galw am adnoddau ychwanegol sylweddol. Byddai gweithredu’r amcangyfrifiad yn atodiad B yn golygu gwario tua £0.5 biliwn yn fwy rhwng eleni a 2010—swm sylweddol ond swm y dylid ei wario. Hoffwn glywed ymrwymiad gan y Llywodraeth i ganfod y cyllid hwnnw’n llawn.

in Welsh Focus and momentum were lost, and the programme’s promise was never realised, partly because of a lack of political will, and partly because of a lack of resources, which is related. The programme outlined in the document calls for significant additional resources. Implementing the estimate in annex B would mean spending around £0.5 billion more between this year and 2010—a substantial sum, but one which must be spent. I want to hear the Government commit to finding that funding in full.

Mae angen adnoddau er mwyn cyflogi mwy o weithwyr i ofalu am bobl ag anableddau dysgu, i weithio gyda’r bobl hynny ac i’w hyfforddi. Mae angen cyflogi cymaint â 2,000 o weithwyr ychwanegol rhwng nawr a 2006. Mae angen codi lefel cymwysterau’r bobl sy’n gweithio yn y sector. O’r 60,000 o bobl sy’n gweithio ynddo ar hyn o bryd, mae cymaint ag 80 y cant ohonynt heb y cymwysterau angenrheidiol. I sicrhau bod gan 50 y cant o’r gweithwyr y cymwysterau hynny erbyn 2005, rhaid cael mwy o arian.

in Welsh More resources are needed to employ more people to care for, to work with and to train people with learning disabilities. As many as 2,000 additional workers need to be employed between now and 2006. We need to improve the level of qualifications of the people who work in the sector. Of the 60,000 people who currently work within it, as many as 80 per cent do not have the necessary qualifications. We must have more funding if we are to ensure that 50 per cent of workers have those qualifications by 2005.

Mae angen adnoddau i ddarparu gofal ysbeidiol, ac i ysgafnhau’r baich ar y sawl sy’n gofalu o’u gwirfodd. Mae angen cyllido dewis teg i bobl ag anableddau dysgu, o ran lle i fyw, hyfforddiant, a chyfle i weithio. Mae angen gwasanaeth eiriolaeth annibynnol, fel yr awgrymodd sawl Aelod, er mwyn rhoi gwir ddewis i’r unigolyn.

in Welsh Resources are needed to provide respite care, and to relieve the burden on those who volunteer their care. We need to finance a fair choice for people with learning disabilities, in terms of a place to live, training and employment opportunities. An independent advocacy service is needed, as many Members have suggested, to give individuals a real choice.

I quote Eifion Jones, chair of Mencap Cymru:

yn Saesneg Dyfynnaf Eifion Jones, cadeirydd Mencap Cymru:

‘If ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ is to work, it has to mean that we are able to depend on support services, locally and nationally, which recognise that we are not different, that we are the same as you and as such, surely deserve the same opportunities at home, at work and at leisure. We ask nothing more and nothing less.’

yn Saesneg ‘Os yw ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ i weithio, rhaid iddo olygu ein bod yn gallu dibynnu ar wasanaethau cymorth, yn lleol ac yn genedlaethol, sy’n derbyn nad ydym yn wahanol, ein bod yr un fath â chi a, gan hynny, yn sicr o haeddu’r un cyfleoedd gartref, yn y gwaith ac wrth hamddena. Nid ydym gofyn am ddim mwy na dim llai.’

In its response document, Mencap highlighted the need to ensure that the recommendations are made to work across Wales, particularly in smaller and poorer unitary authorities. We need responsive information services tailored to the needs of individuals, real partnership in planning services, and the Assembly guidelines must have a strong element of expectation. Unitary authorities must be expected to adhere to these guidelines. If we can, surely we should try to ensure that some of this is geared into secondary legislation, to ensure that that happens. We also need to ring-fence the finance.

yn Saesneg Yn ei ddogfen ymateb, tynnodd Mencap sylw at yr angen i sicrhau y caiff yr argymhellion eu rhoi ar waith ledled Cymru, yn enwedig yn yr awdurdodau unedol llai a thlotach. Mae arnom angen gwasanaethau gwybodaeth ymatebol sydd wedi’u haddasu i anghenion unigolion, gwir bartneriaeth wrth gynllunio gwasanaethau, a rhaid i ganllawiau’r Cynulliad fod ag elfen gryf o ddisgwyliad. Rhaid gorfodi’r awdurdodau unedol i gadw at y canllawiau hyn. Os gallwn, siawns na ddylem geisio sicrhau y caiff rhywfaint o hyn ei gynnwys mewn deddfwriaeth eilaidd, i sicrhau bod hynny’n digwydd. Rhaid inni hefyd bridiannu’r cyllid.

Disabled people with learning disabilities have the right to expect the National Assembly to fulfil its responsibilities towards them.

yn Saesneg Mae gan bobl anabl ag anableddau dysgu hawl i ddisgwyl i’r Cynulliad Cenedlaethol gyflawni ei gyfrifoldebau tuag atynt.

Lorraine Barrett spoken in English p. 75

Lorraine Barrett siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 75

I wanted to speak from the rostrum today, so that I can address the many visitors who have travelled—

Yr oeddwn am siarad o’r llwyfan heddiw, fel y gallwn annerch y nifer fawr o ymwelwyr a deithiodd—

John Marek The Deputy Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 75

John Marek Y Dirprwy Lywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 75

Order. You do not speak to the visitors; you speak to Members in a Plenary session.

Trefn. Nid ydych yn siarad â’r ymwelwyr; yr ydych yn siarad â’r Aelodau mewn Cyfarfod Llawn.

Lorraine Barrett spoken in English p. 75

Lorraine Barrett siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 75

I will look at the Minister as I speak to her, and also look at the visitors whom we have welcomed here today. Rather than tell you what I think, Minister, about ‘Fulfilling the Promises’, I will tell you what Cardiff People First thinks. As you know, Cardiff People First is an organisation for people with learning disabilities, run by people with learning disabilities, under the umbrella of the All Wales People First, members of which are also here today. Cardiff People First consulted its membership by holding 11 meetings, involving 88 people, including year 13 pupils at Woodlands High School; it should be congratulated on a consultation of that scale. All but two people liked the vision in the report—if those two people are here today, they may wish to speak to you later, Minister.

Edrychaf ar y Gweinidog wrth imi siarad â hi, ac edrychaf hefyd ar yr ymwelwyr yr ydym wedi’u croesawu yma heddiw. Yn hytrach na dweud wrthych am yr hyn yr wyf fi’n ei feddwl, Weinidog, am ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’, fe ddywedaf wrthych beth y mae Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Caerdydd yn ei feddwl. Fel y gwyddoch, mae Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Caerdydd yn fudiad i bobl sydd ag anableddau dysgu, sy’n cael ei redeg gan bobl ag anableddau dysgu, o dan ambarél Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Cymru Gyfan, y mae ei aelodau yma heddiw hefyd. Fe ymgynghorodd Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Caerdydd â’i aelodau drwy gynnal 11 cyfarfod, gan gynnwys 88 o bobl, rhai ohonynt yn ddisgyblion blwyddyn 13 yn Ysgol Uwchradd Woodlands; dylid ei longyfarch am ymgynghori mor eang. Yr oedd pawb ond dau’n hoffi’r weledigaeth yn yr adroddiad—os yw’r ddau hynny yma heddiw, efallai y byddant yn dymuno siarad â chi’n ddiweddarach, Weinidog.

Those consulted welcomed the commitment to supporting people in planning what they want from life. They want information in plain language, with illustrations, and for it to be available in various formats. They also feel that it is important to have an advocate if needed—this has been covered by other Members this morning. They like the idea of working together to plan services, but they wonder if there is enough money available. Most Cardiff People First members believe that people should be able to live independently, with the appropriate support. Therefore, they welcome your promise, Minister, to close long-stay learning disability hospitals.

Yr oedd y rhai yr ymgynghorwyd â hwy’n croesawu’r ymrwymiad i gynorthwyo pobl wrth gynllunio’r hyn y maent am ei gael o fywyd. Maent am gael gwybodaeth mewn iaith eglur, gyda darluniau, ac maent am iddi fod ar gael mewn gwahanol fformatiau. Maent hefyd yn teimlo ei bod yn bwysig cael eiriolwr os oes angen—mae Aelodau eraill wedi ymdrin â hynny y bore yma. Maent yn hoffi’r syniad o weithio ynghyd i gynllunio gwasanaethau, ond maent yn tybied a oes digon o arian ar gael. Dylai’r rhan fwyaf o aelodau Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Caerdydd allu byw’n annibynnol, gyda chymorth priodol. Gan hynny, maent yn croesawu’ch addewid, Weinidog, i gau ysbytai anabledd dysgu arhosiad hir.

Cardiff People First members feel that the report’s actions and promises are good. They said that it was great to be involved, and that they are glad that their views are being heard.

Mae aelodau Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Caerdydd yn teimlo bod y camau a’r addewidion yn yr adroddiad yn dda. Dywedasant ei fod yn wych cael cymryd rhan, a’u bod yn falch bod eu barn yn cael ei chlywed.

I will conclude with some of their general comments on the report. They said that it is important that they are involved in issues concerning their lives; that the report’s proposals would mean that they are the same as everyone else; that if the report’s proposals are adopted, there will not be anything that they cannot do; that it is a great document; and that it would make all their dreams come true. I can add nothing to that.

Terfynaf drwy gyflwyno rhai o’u sylwadau cyffredinol am yr adroddiad. Dywedasant ei bod yn bwysig eu bod yn gysylltiedig â materion sy’n ymwneud â’u bywydau; y byddai’r cynigion yn yr adroddiad yn golygu eu bod yr un fath â phawb arall; na fydd dim na allant ei wneud os mabwysiedir cynigion yr adroddiad; ei bod yn ddogfen wych; ac y byddai’n gwireddu eu holl freuddwydion. Ni allaf ychwanegu dim at hynny.

John Marek The Deputy Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 76

John Marek Y Dirprwy Lywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 76

I remind Members that Standing Order No. 7.1 states:

Atgoffaf yr Aelodau bod Rheol Sefydlog Rhif 7.1 yn datgan:

‘Members called by the Presiding Officer to speak shall address the chair.’

‘Bydd Aelodau sy’n cael eu galw i siarad gan y Llywydd yn annerch y cadeirydd.’

I interpret that widely, but it would be useful for Members to bear it in mind.

Yr wyf yn dehongli hynny’n eangfrydig, ond byddai’n fuddiol i’r Aelodau ei gofio.

Lorraine Barrett spoken in English p. 76

Lorraine Barrett siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 76

I apologise; I got carried away with the emotion of the report.

Ymddiheuraf; aeth emosiwn yr adroddiad yn drech na mi.

Peter Law spoken in English p. 76

Peter Law siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 76

I commend those who have worked on this report throughout the communities of Wales. I know of the work undertaken by Mencap in my constituency of Blaenau Gwent, and I admire it. People with learning disabilities are our fellow human beings, and they deserve the greatest support and consideration, because they will never know that which we take for granted, and I remind myself of that daily. This is why the strategy is important. However, it is also important to emphasise that there must be choice in the system, and I have always believed that. We must ensure that everyone’s view on this is heard, which has generally been the case to date, and the Minister should be pleased about that.

Canmolaf y rhai a weithiodd ar yr adroddiad hwn mewn cymunedau ledled Cymru. Gwn am y gwaith a wneir gan Mencap yn fy etholaeth i, Blaenau Gwent, ac mae gennyf feddwl mawr ohono. Ein cyd-ddyn yw pobl ag anableddau dysgu, ac maent yn haeddu’r cymorth a’r ystyriaeth fwyaf, gan na fyddant byth yn gwybod yr hyn a gymerwn ni’n ganiataol, ac yr wyf yn fy atgoffa fy hun am hynny bob diwrnod. Dyna pam y mae’r strategaeth yn bwysig. Fodd bynnag, mae hefyd yn bwysig tanlinellu bod rhaid cael dewis yn y system, ac yr wyf yn credu hynny erioed. Rhaid inni sicrhau y clywir barn pawb am hyn, ac felly y bu hyd yma gan mwyaf, a dylai’r Gweinidog fod yn falch o hynny.

I do not subscribe to the ideas of those who stigmatise the residents or staff of places such as Llanfrechfa Grange Hospital, by referring to them as institutions. They are not institutions but places of care and safety that have been home for many years to some people. Anyone who goes to such places can see from the patients that they are places of care and safety. I pay tribute to the staff who have undertaken excellent work in providing care, safety and hope for many years, under difficult circumstances, with limited resources.

Nid wyf yn derbyn syniadau’r rhai sy’n difenwi preswylwyr neu staff lleoedd fel Ysbyty Llanfrechfa Grange, drwy eu galw’n sefydliadau. Nid sefydliadau ydynt ond mannau sy’n cynnig gofal a diogelwch a fu’n gartref am flynyddoedd lawer i rai pobl. Gall unrhyw un sy’n mynd i leoedd o’r fath weld oddi wrth y cleifion eu bod yn fannau sy’n cynnig gofal a diogelwch. Talaf deyrnged i’r staff a wnaeth waith rhagorol wrth ddarparu gofal, diogelwch a gobaith am flynyddoedd lawer, mewn amgylchiadau anodd, gydag adnoddau cyfyngedig.

However, as many people as possible must live in the community and enjoy a full life, and that is being achieved day-by-day. I was at Llanfrechfa Grange Hospital last month, for the Jubilee disco party, and I was impressed by the cases of people who have left to live successfully in the community. Some of those people thought that it could never happen. That is where the advocacy system has worked well. However, there are, and, sadly, always will be, cases of people that cannot live in the community, for whom long-term hospital care must be available. Sadly, some people have had to return to the hospital from the community. That is why I understand, to an extent, the strong feelings of the Llanfrechfa Grange relatives and residents association members on this. They would have liked to see a village community being established on the hospital site. However, that is a separate issue, as the health authority has decided to take a different course of action. It will retain part of the hospital site for a new build, as some residents will remain there. That is good, and is appropriate practice. It is amazing that the short-term stay and assessment centre, currently located at Llanfrechfa Grange, will be transferred to St Cadoc’s mental illness hospital. That is not right. There is no specialist facility there, and patients with learning disabilities should not be mixed with patients suffering from mental illnesses. I wish that that was not the case, and I hope that this will be addressed in future.

Fodd bynnag, rhaid i gynifer â phosibl fyw yn y gymuned a mwynhau bywyd llawn, a chyflawnir hynny fesul dydd. Bûm yn Ysbyty Llanfrechfa Grange y mis diwethaf, ar gyfer parti disgo’r Jiwbilî, a gwnaed argraff arnaf gan achosion y bobl sydd wedi ymadael i fyw’n llwyddiannus yn y gymuned. Credai rhai o’r bobl hynny na allai hynny byth ddigwydd. Mae’r system eiriolaeth wedi gweithio’n dda yn hynny o beth. Fodd bynnag, mae achosion yn awr, a bydd achosion bob amser, gwaetha’r modd, o rai na allant fyw yn y gymuned, y mae’n rhaid i ofal ysbyty tymor hir fod ar gael iddynt. Gwaetha’r modd, bu’n rhaid i rai pobl ddychwelyd i’r ysbyty o’r gymuned. Dyna pam yr wyf yn deall, i ryw raddau, y teimladau cryf ymysg aelodau cymdeithas perthnasau a phreswylwyr Llanfrechfa Grange ar hyn. Byddent wedi hoffi gweld sefydlu cymuned bentrefol ar safle’r ysbyty. Fodd bynnag, mater ar wahân yw hynny, gan fod yr awdurdod iechyd wedi penderfynu dilyn dull gweithredu gwahanol. Bydd yn cadw rhan o safle’r ysbyty ar gyfer adeiladau newydd, gan y bydd rhai preswylwyr yn aros yno. Mae hynny’n beth da, ac yn arfer priodol. Mae’n syndod y bydd y ganolfan asesu ac arhosiad tymor byr, sydd yn Llanfrechfa Grange ar hyn o bryd, yn cael ei throsglwyddo i ysbyty salwch meddwl Cadog Sant. Nid yw hynny’n iawn. Nid oes cyfleuster arbenigol yno, ac ni ddylai cleifion ag anableddau dysgu gael eu cymysgu â chleifion sy’n dioddef salwch meddwl. Byddai’n dda gennyf pe na bai felly, a gobeithiaf y caiff hyn sylw yn y dyfodol.

As was said earlier, the underlying principle must be that patients with learning disabilities must be cared for by specialist medical and nursing staff who have been trained in learning disabilities. Nothing less will do. The soft option of saying that nurses and doctors are available on-call is not acceptable. They need to be present on-site and they must be trained in learning disabilities. That concerns me, as these people need a facility that offers space, safety and compassion.

Fel y dywedwyd yn gynharach, yr egwyddor sylfaenol yw y dylai cleifion ag anableddau dysgu gael gofal gan staff meddygol a nyrsio arbenigol sydd wedi’u hyfforddi mewn anableddau dysgu. Ni wnaiff dim llai na hynny’r tro. Nid yw’r dewis hawdd o ddweud bod nyrsys a meddygon ar gael ar alwad yn dderbyniol. Rhaid iddynt fod yn bresennol ar y safle a rhaid iddynt fod wedi’u hyfforddi mewn anableddau dysgu. Mae hynny’n peri pryder i mi, gan fod ar y bobl hyn angen cyfleuster sy’n cynnig digon o le, diogelwch a thosturi.

Many people in the former Gwent area were concerned that the real reason for the plan to sell Llanfrechfa Grange was to raise funding on real estate. The site has huge tracts of land, and some people have suggested that this would be prime land for housing developments. We do not want those who stay at Llanfrechfa Grange as residents to be hemmed in by huge blocks of social housing, thus losing their safety and privacy and the opportunity to live as they choose.

Yr oedd llawer o bobl yng nghyn ardal Gwent yn bryderus mai’r gwir reswm am y cynllun i werthu Llanfrechfa Grange oedd er mwyn codi arian o eiddo tiriog. Mae tiroedd eang iawn ar y safle, ac mae rhai wedi awgrymu y byddai’n dir rhagorol ar gyfer datblygiadau tai. Nid ydym am i’r rhai sy’n aros yn Llanfrechfa Grange fel preswylwyr gael eu hamgylchu gan flociau anferth o dai cymdeithasol, a thrwy hynny golli eu diogelwch a’u preifatrwydd a’r cyfle i fyw fel y dewisant.

It is important that people have the opportunity to make a choice. The residents must be our first consideration. It would be cruel to move people againt their will, when they have known Llanfrechfa Grange as their home for many decades. I welcome the health authority’s proposal to allow several older people living at Llanfrechfa Grange to remain there in appropriate accommodation. The accommodation and servicing at Llanfrechfa Grange and the new units in other parts of the former Gwent, such as Blaenau Gwent, must be of the highest standard. Nothing less than the highest standard will do; these people are our fellow human beings, and we will support them so that they can live as full and active lives as possible.

Mae’n bwysig bod pobl yn cael cyfle i ddewis. Rhaid i’r preswylwyr fod yn brif ystyriaeth gennym. Creulon fyddai symud pobl yn groes i’w hewyllys, a hwythau’n ystyried Llanfrechfa Grange yn gartref iddynt ers degawdau lawer. Croesawaf fwriad yr awdurdod iechyd i ganiatáu i nifer o bobl hŷn sy’n byw yn Llanfrechfa Grange gael aros yno mewn llety addas. Rhaid i’r llety a’r gwasanaethau yn Llanfrechfa Grange a’r unedau newydd mewn rhannau eraill o’r hen Went, megis Blaenau Gwent, fod o’r safon orau. Dim ond y safon orau a wnaiff y tro; ein cyd-ddyn yw’r bobl hyn, a gwnawn eu cynorthwyo fel y gallant fyw bywyd mor llawn a gweithgar ag y bo modd.

Jane Hutt The Minister for Health and Social Services spoken in English p. 78

Jane Hutt Y Gweinidog dros Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 78

I thank Members for their positive contributions, which illustrate the strong measure of cross-party support in the Assembly and the spirit of inclusive Government in Wales. Dai, David, Kirsty, Dafydd and others have said that funding is key. I have already mentioned the decisions made, based on considerable funding coming into the service; for example, the resettlement plans will be completed by 2006. I have also given my commitment on advocacy—we can move ahead on independent advocacy, which is important. As Members know, the budget planning round is underway, and we will take this forward. This debate has placed this issue at the top of the agenda, and has ensured that learning disability services will be at the forefront of our minds.

Diolchaf i’r Aelodau am eu cyfraniadau cadarnhaol, sy’n dangos cryfder y gefnogaeth drawsbleidiol yn y Cynulliad ac ysbryd Llywodraeth gynhwysol yng Nghymru. Mae Dai, David, Kirsty, Dafydd ac eraill wedi dweud bod ariannu’n allweddol. Yr wyf eisoes wedi sôn am y penderfyniadau a wnaed, yn seiliedig ar y ffaith y bydd cyllid sylweddol yn dod i’r gwasanaeth; er enghraifft, cwblheir y cynlluniau ailsefydlu erbyn 2006. Yr wyf wedi rhoi ymrwymiad ar eiriolaeth hefyd—gallwn symud ymlaen ar eiriolaeth annibynnol, sy’n bwysig. Fel y gŵyr yr Aelodau, mae’r cylch cynllunio cyllideb yn mynd rhangddo, a byddwn yn bwrw ymlaen â hyn. Mae’r ddadl hon wedi rhoi’r mater hwn ar ben yr agenda, ac wedi sicrhau y bydd gwasanaethau anabledd dysgu ym mlaen ein meddwl.

This plan is also about principles. Dai, David, Kirsty and others mentioned the importance of putting the person first, with people-centred planning. That is common sense, as our approach should primarily focus on the person’s needs.

Mae’r cynllun hwn yn ymwneud ag egwyddorion hefyd. Mae Dai, David, Kirsty ac eraill wedi sôn am y pwysigrwydd o roi’r unigolyn yn gyntaf, gyda chynllunio pobl-ganolog. Synnwyr cyffredin yw hynny, gan y dylai ein dull gweithredu ganolbwyntio’n bennaf ar anghenion yr unigolyn.

Gwenda Thomas spoken in English p. 79

Gwenda Thomas siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 79

I welcome today’s report and acknowledge your commitment to improving services. Will you confirm that the importance of the availability of supported employment will not be overlooked? People with disabilities have the same fundamental right to work as everyone else.

Croesawaf yr adroddiad heddiw a chydnabyddaf eich ymrwymiad i wella gwasanaethau. A wnewch gadarnhau nad esgeulusir y pwysigrwydd o gael cyflogaeth â chymorth? Mae gan bobl ag anableddau yr un hawl sylfaenol i weithio â phawb arall.

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 79

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 79

That is important. During the debate, we referred to the transition from childhood to adulthood. We are working on that transition. Education and Learning Wales and further education colleges are making a huge contribution on education and training. I was pleased that the Minister for Economic Development, Andrew Davies, announced a new framework for supported employment in Wales on 21 June. We heard examples of how that can be taken forward imaginatively.

Mae hynny’n bwysig. Yn ystod y ddadl, gwnaethom gyfeirio at y trawsnewid rhwng plentyndod ac oedolaeth. Yr ydym yn gweithio ar y trawsnewid hwnnw. Mae Dysgu ac Addysgu Cymru a’r colegau addysg bellach yn gwneud cyfraniad mawr ar addysg a hyfforddiant. Yr oeddwn yn falch bod y Gweinidog dros Ddatblygu Economaidd, Andrew Davies, wedi cyhoeddi fframwaith newydd ar gyfer cyflogaeth â chymorth yng Nghymru ar 21 Mehefin. Clywsom am enghreifftiau o’r modd y gellir hyrwyddo hynny’n ddychmygus.

We must ensure, David, that we have lively consultation and that we recognise the role of the voluntary sector. We give funding of £500,000 to support voluntary sector organisations in this, and it is those organisations that have enabled people to come here to listen to today’s debate. People with learning disabilities are at the forefront of voluntary organisations’ policy-making, which illustrates that we are all moving ahead and changing together.

Rhaid inni sicrhau, David, y cawn ymgynghori bywiog a’n bod yn cydnabod rôl y sector gwirfoddol. Yr ydym yn rhoi £500,000 o gyllid i gynorthwyo mudiadau sector gwirfoddol yn hyn o beth, a’r mudiadau hynny sydd wedi galluogi pobl i ddod yma i wrando ar y ddadl heddiw. Mae pobl ag anableddau dysgu yn y rheng flaen wrth ffurfio polisi mudiadau gwirfoddol, sy’n dangos ein bod yn symud ymlaen ac yn newid gyda’n gilydd.

I am delighted that we could support Mencap in providing independent support and information. As Geraint and others said, independent information is vital. We must ensure that the voluntary sector and people with learning disabilities keep us on our toes and challenge us when they think that we are slipping and not taking policies forward. They will carefully monitor how we implement ‘Fulfilling the Promises’. That is why I wanted an independent implementation group to take this forward to ensure that we continue on our journey together to fulfil our promises.

Yr wyf yn falch iawn ein bod wedi gallu cynorthwyo Mencap o ran darparu cymorth a gwybodaeth annibynnol. Fel y dywedodd Geraint ac eraill, mae gwybodaeth annibynnol yn hollbwysig. Rhaid inni sicrhau bod y sector gwirfoddol a phobl ag anableddau dysgu yn ein cadw ar flaenau ein traed ac yn ein herio pan gredant ein bod yn methu â mynd â pholisïau yn eu blaen. Byddant yn monitro’r modd yr ydym yn gweithredu ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ yn ofalus. Dyna pam yr oeddwn am i grŵp gweithredu annibynnol fwrw ymlaen â hyn i sicrhau ein bod yn parhau ar ein taith gyda’n gilydd er mwyn gwireddu ein haddewidion.

Kirsty mentioned direct payments. I strongly emphasised this in the Government’s response. We must ensure that an infrastructure is in place. The Cardiff and Vale Coalition of Disabled People is a model for us in this. Some local authority consortia are working together. However, they need more support. People need advice and guidance—as we all do—when deciding whether to employ people and, in particular, on personal care. We must invest more, and I have made that commitment.

Soniodd Kirsty am daliadau uniongyrchol. Rhoddais bwyslais mawr ar hyn yn ymateb y Llywodraeth. Rhaid inni sicrhau bod seilwaith wedi’i sefydlu. Cynghrair Pobl Anabl Caerdydd a’r Fro yw’r patrwm i ni yn hyn o beth. Mae rhai consortia awdurdodau lleol yn gweithio gyda’i gilydd. Fodd bynnag, mae arnynt angen mwy o gymorth. Mae ar bobl angen cymorth a chyfarwyddyd—fel y mae pob un ohonom—wrth benderfynu a ydynt am gyflogi pobl ac, yn benodol, ynghylch gofal personol. Rhaid inni fuddsoddi rhagor, ac yr wyf wedi ymrwymo i wneud hynny.

Many Members have mentioned the importance of independent advocacy. It is important that we build on the experience gained in the framework of advocacy services, with which Karen is well acquainted. We must build on that across Wales. I will seek the help of the implementation group in taking that forward.

Mae llawer o Aelodau wedi sôn am bwysigrwydd eiriolaeth annibynnol. Mae’n bwysig ein bod yn adeiladu ar sail y profiad a gafwyd yn y fframwaith o wasanaethau eiriolaeth, y mae Karen yn dra chyfarwydd ag ef. Rhaid inni adeiladu ar sail hynny ledled Cymru. Gwnaf geisio cymorth y grŵp gweithredu wrth fwrw ymlaen â hynny.

Dafydd mentioned carers. The year-on-year increases in funding for the carers’ strategy mean that we can ensure that we have appropriate respite care. I am pleased that we have invested in carers’ assessments, which local authorities will implement. This is not happening across the border. We are ensuring that carers’ assessments and the associated legislation is taken forward at local authority level, with our support.

Soniodd Dafydd am ofalwyr. Mae’r cynnydd yn y cyllid i’r strategaeth i ofalwyr flwyddyn ar ôl blwyddyn yn golygu y gallwn sicrhau bod gennym ofal seibiant addas. Yr wyf yn falch ein bod wedi buddsoddi mewn asesiadau gofalwyr, y bydd yr awdurdodau lleol yn eu gweithredu. Nid yw hyn yn digwydd dros y ffin. Yr ydym yn sicrhau bod asesiadau gofalwyr a’r ddeddfwriaeth gysylltiedig yn cael eu dwyn ymlaen ar lefel yr awdurdodau lleol gyda’n cymorth ni.

Dai raised concerns about independence and the Care Standards Act 2000. We recognise that that is an issue, and I have discussed it with voluntary sector colleagues. We want to find a way of providing proper and adequate protection for our most vulnerable people, as highlighted in the Act, without necessarily requiring that supported or extra care housing accommodation must be registered as a care home. We are consulting on these sensitive and important issues. We will announce the outcome of our deliberations shortly.

Mynegodd Dai bryderon ynghylch annibyniaeth a’r Ddeddf Safonau Gofal 2000. Yr ydym yn cydnabod bod y mater hwnnw’n codi, ac yr wyf wedi’i drafod â’m cydweithwyr yn y sector gwirfoddol. Yr ydym am ddod o hyd i fodd i warchod ein pobl fwyaf diamddiffyn yn briodol ac yn ddigonol, fel y nodir yn y Ddeddf, heb fynnu o reidrwydd fod rhaid cofrestru llety â chymorth neu ofal ychwanegol yn gartref gofal. Yr ydym yn ymgynghori ar y materion sensitif a phwysig hyn. Byddwn yn cyhoeddi canlyniad ein trafodaethau cyn hir.

We must consider how we will take forward and implement the proposals in ‘Fulfilling the Promises’ with the funding available.

Rhaid inni ystyried sut y byddwn yn bwrw ymlaen â’r cynigion yn ‘Gwireddu’r Addewidion’ a’u rhoi ar waith gyda’r cyllid sydd ar gael.

Dafydd Wigley spoken in English p. 81

Dafydd Wigley siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 81

Before you conclude, will you address the point I raised about the enforcement of guidelines? Is there any possibility of this being included in secondary legislation to ensure that it is not just a request of unitary authorities, but rather an expectation that should be fulfilled?

Cyn ichi derfynu, a wnewch ymdrin â’r pwynt a godais am orfodi canllawiau? A oes unrhyw bosibilrwydd o gynnwys hynny mewn deddfwriaeth eilaidd i sicrhau nad dim ond cais i’r awdurdodau unedol ydyw, ond yn hytrach yn ddisgwyliad y dylid ei gyflawni?

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 81

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 81

I am sure that we would seek regulations to underpin the framework where appropriate.

Yr wyf yn sicr y byddem yn ceisio rheoliadau i ategu’r fframwaith lle y bo’n briodol.

Brian Hancock spoken in English p. 81

Brian Hancock siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 81

I am interested in the direct payments, which you mentioned. Will it be possible for people in receipt of direct payments to use post offices, which would allow them to engage with local communities?

Ymddiddoraf yn y taliadau uniongyrchol, y gwnaethoch gyfeirio atynt. A fydd modd i bobl sy’n derbyn taliadau uniongyrchol ddefnyddio swyddfeydd post, a fyddai’n caniatáu iddynt ddod i gysylltiad â chymunedau lleol?

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 81

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 81

I hope that post offices could be used; we will investigate that.

Yr wyf yn gobeithio y bydd modd defnyddio swyddfeydd post; gwnawn ymchwilio i hynny.

I am pleased that Peter mentioned those who work with people with learning disabilities in the health and social services. We must recognise their contribution. I will investigate the local issues that you raised, Peter.

Yr wyf yn falch bod Peter wedi sôn am y rhai sy’n gweithio gyda phobl sydd ag anableddau dysgu yn y gwasanaethau iechyd a chymdeithasol. Rhaid inni gydnabod eu cyfraniad. Ymchwiliaf i’r materion lleol a godwyd gennych, Peter.

I conclude by returning to Lorraine’s comments. It is good to see so many people here today. Cardiff People First’s document was of assistance in preparing for today’s debate. In taking this forward, we must listen to and learn from the people who use and need the services for which we are responsible, in partnership with local government and the health service. We must reiterate our commitment to listening. Many people in the public gallery and the neuadd have come to listen to this debate. We welcome your contribution, and the contribution that people with learning disabilities make to their communities. We can learn from those people, as we have done today. We must now implement this, and show that we are not only here to talk and listen, but to deliver government and to deliver on our promises to the people of Wales, particularly those with learning disabilities.

Terfynaf drwy fynd yn ôl at sylwadau Lorraine. Mae’n dda gweld cynifer yma heddiw. Yr oedd dogfen Rhoi Pobl yn Gyntaf Caerdydd o gymorth wrth baratoi ar gyfer y ddadl heddiw. Wrth fynd ymlaen â hyn, rhaid inni wrando a dysgu gan y bobl sy’n defnyddio ac sydd ag angen y gwasanaethau yr ydym yn gyfrifol amdanynt, mewn partneriaeth â llywodraeth leol a’r gwasanaeth iechyd. Rhaid inni ailadrodd ein hymrwymiad i wrando. Mae llawer o bobl yn yr oriel gyhoeddus a’r neuadd wedi dod i wrando ar y ddadl hon. Croesawn eich cyfraniad, a chyfraniad pobl ag anableddau dysgu i’w cymunedau. Gallwn ddysgu gan y bobl hynny, fel y gwnaethom heddiw. Rhaid inni roi hyn ar waith yn awr, a dangos nad ydym yma i siarad a gwrando’n unig, ond i lywodraethu a gwireddu ein haddewidion i bobl Cymru, yn enwedig y rhai ag anableddau dysgu.

Gwelliant 1 David Lloyd t. 82

Amendment 1 David Lloyd p. 82

GwrthodwydRejected O blaidFor 20 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 27

Gwrthodwyd y gwelliant.

Amendment defeated.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (20)
  • Nick Bourne
  • Alun Cairns
  • Cynog Dafis
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • William Graham
  • Brian Hancock
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • David Lloyd
  • David Melding
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Phil Williams
Yn erbynAgainst (27)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • Janice Gregory
  • Christine Gwyther
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Peter Law
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Kirsty Williams

Gwelliant 2 David Melding t. 82

Amendment 2 David Melding p. 82

GwrthodwydRejected O blaidFor 20 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 27

Gwrthodwyd y gwelliant.

Amendment defeated.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (20)
  • Nick Bourne
  • Alun Cairns
  • Cynog Dafis
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • William Graham
  • Brian Hancock
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • David Lloyd
  • David Melding
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Phil Williams
Yn erbynAgainst (27)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • Janice Gregory
  • Christine Gwyther
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Peter Law
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Kirsty Williams

Gwelliant 3 David Melding t. 83

Amendment 3 David Melding p. 83

GwrthodwydRejected O blaidFor 8 YmatalAbstain 12 Yn erbynAgainst 27

Gwrthodwyd y gwelliant.

Amendment defeated.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (8)
  • Nick Bourne
  • Alun Cairns
  • David Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • William Graham
  • David Melding
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Peter Rogers
YmatalAbstain (12)
  • Cynog Dafis
  • Geraint Davies
  • Brian Hancock
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • David Lloyd
  • Janet Ryder
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Phil Williams
Yn erbynAgainst (27)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Christine Chapman
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • Janice Gregory
  • Christine Gwyther
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Peter Law
  • Val Lloyd
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Kirsty Williams

Tynnwyd gwelliant 4 yn ôl.

Amendment 4 withdrawn.

DerbyniwydAdopted O blaidFor 47 YmatalAbstain 0 Yn erbynAgainst 0

Derbyniwyd y cynnig.

Motion carried.

Sut y pleidleisiodd yr AelodauHow Members voted
O blaidFor (47)
  • Lorraine Barrett
  • Mick Bates
  • Peter Black
  • Nick Bourne
  • Eleanor Burnham
  • Alun Cairns
  • Christine Chapman
  • Cynog Dafis
  • Jane Davidson
  • Andrew Davies
  • David Davies
  • Geraint Davies
  • Glyn Davies
  • Ron Davies
  • Sue Essex
  • Delyth Evans
  • William Graham
  • Janice Gregory
  • Michael German
  • Brian Gibbons
  • Christine Gwyther
  • Brian Hancock
  • Edwina Hart
  • Jane Hutt
  • Pauline Jarman
  • Ann Jones
  • Carwyn Jones
  • Elin Jones
  • Gareth Jones
  • David Lloyd
  • Val Lloyd
  • Peter Law
  • David Melding
  • Tom Middlehurst
  • Jonathan Morgan
  • Rhodri Morgan
  • Alun Pugh
  • Jenny Randerson
  • Peter Rogers
  • Janet Ryder
  • Karen Sinclair
  • Gwenda Thomas
  • Owen John Thomas
  • Rhodri Glyn Thomas
  • Dafydd Wigley
  • Kirsty Williams
  • Phil Williams

Pwynt o Drefn

Point of Order

David Melding spoken in English p. 85

David Melding siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 85

Point of order. I apologise for my absence earlier when the Presiding Officer responded to a point of order that I raised on 14 March. I am afraid that one of life’s little vicissitudes intervened and prevented my attendance in the Chamber. I am pleased to respond to the Presiding Officer’s commendable ruling, and I am delighted that he so ruled. I am encouraged by the undertakings of the Business Committee to publish substantive replies to written questions in the Record of Proceedings. I look forward to further details as to how this will be accomplished in practice, but I thank all concerned for the serious way they have addressed this important issue.

Pwynt o drefn. Ymddiheuraf am fy absenoldeb yn gynharach pan ymatebodd y Llywydd i bwynt o drefn a godais ar 14 Mawrth. Mae arnaf ofn bod un o fân droeon bywyd wedi ymyrryd ac wedi fy atal rhag ymbresenoli yn y Siambr. Yr wyf yn falch o ymateb i ddyfarniad canmoladwy’r Llywydd, ac yr wyf wrth fy modd ei fod wedi dyfarnu felly. Yr wyf wedi fy nghalonogi gan ymgymeriadau’r Pwyllgor Busnes i gyhoeddi atebion parhaol i gwestiynau ysgrifenedig yng Nghofnod y Trafodion. Edrychaf ymlaen at gael manylion pellach am y modd y cyflawnir hyn yn ymarferol, ond diolchaf i bawb a oedd yn gysylltiedig am eu dull difrif o ymwneud â’r mater pwysig hwn.

Dadl Fer

Short Debate

Clefyd Alzheimer

Alzheimer’s

Gwenda Thomas siaradwyd yn Gymraeg ac yn Saesneg t. 85

Gwenda Thomas spoken in Welsh and English p. 85

Yr wyf wedi caniatáu i Janice Gregory, Dai Lloyd a Kirsty Williams gyfrannu at y ddadl hon.

in Welsh I have permitted Janice Gregory, Dai Lloyd and Kirsty Williams to contribute to this debate.

I have chosen Alzheimer’s as my topic for today’s short debate because next week is national Alzheimer’s awareness week. The theme for the week, which runs until Saturday 13 July, is ‘Feeling the Pulse’. In Wales alone, around 40,000 people suffer from dementia. Of this figure, about 60 per cent probably have Alzheimer’s disease. In Wales, there are 23 local branches and seven support groups working alongside three development officers based in Cardiff, Swansea and Bangor, under the guidance of Phil Davies, the Alzheimer’s Society’s manager in Wales. This network continues to provide valuable support to patients and carers.

yn Saesneg Yr wyf wedi dewis clefyd Alzheimer yn bwnc i’r ddadl fer heddiw am ei bod yn wythnos ymwybyddiaeth clefyd Alzheimer yr wythnos nesaf. Thema’r wythnos, sy’n rhedeg hyd ddydd Sadwrn 13 Gorffennaf, yw ‘Teimlo’r Pwls’. Yng Nghymru’n unig, mae tua 40,000 o bobl yn dioddef gan orffwylledd. O’r ffigur hwn, mae’n debyg mai clefyd Alzheimer sydd gan 60 y cant ohonynt. Yng Nghymru, mae 23 o ganghennau lleol a saith grŵp cymorth sy’n gweithio ochr yn ochr â thri swyddog datblygu sydd wedi’u lleoli yng Nghaerdydd, Abertawe a Bangor, dan arweiniad Phil Davies, rheolwr Cymdeithas Alzheimer yng Nghymru. Mae’r rhwydwaith hwn yn dal i ddarparu cymorth gwerthfawr i gleifion a gofalwyr.

Dementia, in one of its many forms, will no doubt have touched many Members in the Chamber today. Some of us may be, or have been, carers of family members who have suffered, often for long periods of time. Carers of dementia and Alzheimer’s sufferers will be only too aware of the pain and grief that conditions such as these can cause.

yn Saesneg Mae’n sicr bod gorffwylledd, ar un o’i ffurfiau lawer, wedi cyffwrdd â llawer o’r Aelodau yn y Siambr heddiw. Efallai fod rhai ohonom yn ofalwyr, neu wedi bod yn ofalwyr, i aelodau o’r teulu a ddioddefodd ganddo, am gyfnod hir yn aml. Ni fydd y rhai sy’n gofalu am ddioddefwyr gorffwylledd a chlefyd Alzheimer ond yn rhy ymwybodol o’r boen a’r gofid y mae salwch fel hyn yn gallu eu hachosi.

I take this opportunity to recognise the excellent, effective partnership in my constituency between the Neath Port Talbot branch of the Alzheimer’s Society, the voluntary sector, Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council, Bro Morgannwg NHS Trust and the local health group. I also pay tribute to home care staff, whom I have long felt have been seriously undervalued. These carers, who are mainly women, often give of their time beyond the call of duty, and the conditions of their employment are often below what would be expected or tolerated in the wider workforce.

yn Saesneg Achubaf ar y cyfle hwn i gydnabod y bartneriaeth ragorol, effeithiol yn fy etholaeth i rhwng cangen Castell Nedd Port Talbot o Gymdeithas Alzheimer, y sector gwirfoddol, Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Castell Nedd Port Talbot, Ymddiriedolaeth GIG Bro Morgannwg a’r grŵp iechyd lleol. Talaf deyrnged hefyd i’r staff gofal yn y cartref, y teimlaf ers talwm eu bod yn cael eu tanbrisio’n fawr. Mewn llawer achos, mae’r gofalwyr hyn, sy’n fenywod gan mwyaf, yn rhoi o’u hamser y tu hwnt i alwad dyletswydd, ac mae amodau eu cyflogaeth yn is yn aml na’r hyn y byddid yn ei ddisgwyl neu ei oddef yn y gweithlu’n fwy cyffredinol.

I pay tribute also to Dr Joan Roule and her staff, both nursing and domestic, at Tonna Hospital. I visited the hospital only last week and was impressed by the cleanliness there; it was nice to smell disinfectant in a hospital setting. As my mother used to say:

yn Saesneg Talaf deyrnged hefyd i Dr Joan Roule a’i staff nyrsio a domestig yn Ysbyty Tonna. Ymwelais â’r ysbyty mor ddiweddar â’r wythnos diwethaf a gwnaeth y glanweithdra yno argraff arnaf; yr oedd yn braf clywed arogleuon diheintydd mewn ysbyty. Fel y dywedai fy mam:

‘gallech chi fod wedi bwyta bwyd oddi ar y llawr’.

in Welsh ‘you could have eaten food off the floor’.

Many people who benefit from the services offered at Tonna Hospital return to their home environment. How can the contribution of informal carers be adequately recognised? These carers are predominantly family members who genuinely want to care for their loved ones, without seeing it as an enforced or onerous task. Their contribution to society cannot be mentioned often enough.

yn Saesneg Mae llawer o’r bobl sy’n cael budd o’r gwasanaethau a gynigir yn Ysbyty Tonna yn dychwelyd i’w cartrefi. Sut y gellir rhoi digon o gydnabyddiaeth i gyfraniad gofalwyr anffurfiol? Aelodau o’r teulu yw’r gofalwyr hyn gan mwyaf y mae arnynt wir eisiau gofalu am eu hanwyliaid, heb ystyried hynny’n orchwyl gorfodol neu feichus. Ni ellir sôn yn ddigon aml am eu cyfraniad i gymdeithas.

Transport, or indeed lack of it, can often be a major problem for carers and patients alike. I was pleased to be present at Tonna Hospital last Friday when the Neath Freemasons Lodge handed over a five-seater people carrier to the Neath Port Talbot branch of the Alzheimer’s society. I am sure that carers and patients will greatly benefit from this new vehicle. The Neath Port Talbot branch of the Alzheimer’s Society has been in existence since 1985. It was established by carers who recognised the need for such a service. In 17 years, it has gone from strength to strength, with many original members still actively involved. The present chair, Mrs Betty Hopkins, and the project leader, Mrs Joan Oxley, would, I am sure, want me to pay tribute to carers and the effective partnership working that takes places at Tonna Hospital. The branch has established many valuable schemes to support patients and carers. These include a share and care scheme, established in 1989, which offers local community support for families through a multi-agency partnership working with the local NHS trust and the social services department of Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council. The help available under the scheme includes a sitting and befriending service, help with the preparation of meals and domestic chores and accompanying carers and patients on outside visits. The society would, I am sure, also wish to acknowledge the funding that it receives from social services in Neath Port Talbot and the funding in kind given by the trust by way of making their buildings available to the society. Other schemes—

yn Saesneg Mae trafnidiaeth, neu ddiffyg trafnidiaeth, yn wir, yn gallu bod yn broblem fawr yn aml i ofalwyr a chleifion fel ei gilydd. Yr oeddwn yn falch o fod yn bresennol yn Ysbyty Tonna ddydd Gwener diwethaf pan drosglwyddodd Cyfrinfa Seiri Rhyddion Castell Nedd gerbyd pum sedd i gangen Castell Nedd Port Talbot o Gymdeithas Alzheimer. Yr wyf yn siŵr y caiff y gofalwyr a’r cleifion fudd mawr o’r cerbyd newydd hwn. Mae cangen Castell Nedd Port Talbot o Gymdeithas Alzheimer yn bod ers 1985. Fe’i sefydlwyd gan ofalwyr a ganfu’r angen am wasanaeth o’r fath. Yn y 17 flynedd hynny, fe aeth o nerth i nerth, ac mae llawer o’r aelodau gwreiddiol yn chwarae rhan weithredol o hyd. Yr wyf yn siŵr y byddai’r cadeirydd presennol, Mrs Betty Hopkins, a’r arweinydd prosiectau, Mrs Joan Oxley, yn dymuno imi dalu teyrnged i’r gofalwyr a’r gweithio effeithiol mewn partneriaeth sy’n digwydd yn Ysbyty Tonna. Mae’r gangen wedi sefydlu llawer o gynlluniau gwerthfawr i gynorthwyo cleifion a gofalwyr. Ymhlith y rhain y mae cynllun rhannu a gofalu, a sefydlwyd yn 1989, sy’n cynnig cymorth cymunedol lleol i deuluoedd drwy bartneriaeth amlasiantaethol gan weithio gyda’r ymddiriedolaeth GIG leol ac adran gwasanaethau cymdeithasol Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Castell Nedd Port Talbot. Mae’r cymorth sydd ar gael drwy’r cynllun yn cynnwys cynllun gwarchod a chyfeillio, cymorth i baratoi prydau ac i wneud gorchwylion o gwmpas y tŷ a mynd gyda gofalwyr a chleifion ar ymweliadau allanol. Yr wyf yn siŵr y byddai’r gymdeithas hefyd yn dymuno cydnabod y cyllid y mae’n ei dderbyn gan y gwasanaethau cymdeithasol yng Nghastell Nedd Port Talbot a’r cyfraniad gan yr ymddiriedolaeth drwy gynnig y defnydd o’i hadeiladau i’r gymdeithas. Rhai o’r cynlluniau eraill—

Edwina Hart a gododd—

Edwina Hart rose—

John Marek The Deputy Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 87

John Marek Y Dirprwy Lywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 87

Order. You cannot intervene.

Trefn. Ni chewch ymyrryd.

Gwenda Thomas spoken in English p. 87

Gwenda Thomas siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 87

Other schemes offered at Tonna Hospital by the Alzheimer’s Society include a volunteer shop and café, Siop Pant-y-coed, which is open three times a day, seven days a week. All the shop’s profits are returned to the society’s local branch. The branch also operates a hospital volunteers scheme whereby the volunteers act as companions in the day hospital. It also operates a volunteer driver scheme, which will now benefit from the new people carrier. Perhaps the most successful scheme, which is currently oversubscribed and which was recently commended in the Audit Commission report, ‘Losing Time’, is the education and training programme. Monies have been made available through the community fund to enable organisations such as the Benefits Agency to provide valuable information to carers and patients. That shows the importance of receiving up-to-date information and practical advice on the benefits available and the appeals procedure.

Rhai o’r cynlluniau eraill a gynigir yn Ysbyty Tonna gan Gymdeithas Alzheimer yw siop a chaffi gwirfoddolwyr, Siop Pant-y-coed, sy’n agor dair gwaith y diwrnod, saith niwrnod yr wythnos. Dychwelir holl elw’r siop i gangen leol y gymdeithas. Mae’r gangen hefyd yn gweithredu cynllun gwirfoddolwyr ysbyty fel y caiff y gwirfoddolwyr weithredu fel cymdeithion yn yr ysbyty dydd. Mae hefyd yn rhedeg cynllun gyrwyr gwirfoddol, a fydd ar ei ennill yn awr o gael y cerbyd cludo newydd. Efallai mai’r cynllun mwyaf llwyddiannus, y gordanysgrifir iddo ar hyn o bryd ac a ganmolwyd yn ddiweddar yn adroddiad y Comisiwn Archwilio, ‘Colli Amser’, yw’r rhaglen addysg a hyfforddiant. Darparwyd arian drwy’r gronfa gymunedol i alluogi cyrff fel yr Asiantaeth Budd-daliadau i ddarparu gwybodaeth werthfawr ar gyfer gofalwyr a chleifion. Mae hynny’n dangos mor bwysig yw derbyn gwybodaeth gyfoes a chyngor ymarferol am y budd-daliadau sydd ar gael a’r weithdrefn gwyno.

The Neath Port Talbot branch has also successfully secured funding of £21,000 from the Wales Council for Voluntary Action small grants fund, which will enable the society to take 40 patients and their carers on a hotel holiday to Weston-super-Mare later this year. A further 24 patients and carers will be taken on holiday to the Glamorgan Holiday Home in Porthcawl. This recognises that carers too need a break from their caring responsibilities occasionally.

Mae cangen Castell Nedd Port Talbot wedi llwyddo hefyd i sicrhau cyllid o £21,000 oddi wrth gronfa grantiau bach Cyngor Gweithredu Gwirfoddol Cymru, a fydd yn galluogi’r gymdeithas i fynd â 40 o gleifion a’u gofalwyr ar wyliau mewn gwesty yn Weston-super-Mare yn ddiweddarach eleni. Eir â 24 o gleifion a gofalwyr ychwanegol ar wyliau i Gartref Gwyliau Morgannwg ym Mhorthcawl. Mae hyn yn fodd i gydnabod bod ar y gofalwyr hwythau angen seibiant oddi wrth eu cyfrifoldebau gofalu o bryd i’w gilydd.

Despite the excellent provision at Tonna Hospital, not all sufferers and carers are benefiting from this essential support. How do we ensure that sufferers and their carers, for example, are not socially excluded? How do we seek to ensure that sufferers are identified and that the participation of general practitioners is recognised and is effective? How do we ensure that sufferers are kept safe and that carers are made aware of the support services that exist? The answers lie in establishing a national strategy for older people in Wales, which was recently advocated in the report, ‘When I’m 64…and more’. This should be developed under a designated Minister who would have overall responsibility for these cross-cutting issues.

Er gwaethaf y ddarpariaeth ragorol yn Ysbyty Tonna, nid yw’r holl ddioddefwyr a gofalwyr yn cael budd o’r cymorth hollbwysig hwn. Sut y gwnawn sicrhau na chaiff y dioddefwyr a’u gofalwyr eu hallgáu’n gymdeithasol, er enghraifft? Sut y ceisiwn sicrhau caiff y dioddefwyr eu hadnabod a bod cyfranogiad yr ymarferwyr cyffredinol wedi’i gydnabod a’i fod yn effeithiol? Sut y byddwn yn sicrhau y caiff y dioddefwyr eu cadw’n ddiogel a bod y gofalwyr yn cael eu hysbysu am y gwasanaethau cymorth sydd ar gael? Ceir yr atebion drwy sefydlu strategaeth genedlaethol i bobl hŷn yng Nghymru, a argymhellwyd yn ddiweddar yn yr adroddiad, ‘Pan fwyf yn hen a pharchus’. Dylid datblygu hynny dan Weinidog dynodedig a chanddo gyfrifoldeb cyffredinol dros y materion trawsbynciol hyn.

We need a strategic approach, with clear lead responsibilities and which recognises the importance of the safety net that public services can and do provide. Best practice, such as that witnessed at Tonna Hospital, must be shared. Budget sharing must become much more effective and joint working between all agencies must now become the norm. A national strategy for Wales must co-ordinate effective provision and the crucial importance of respite care must be nationally recognised. There must be equality of access to respite care, it must be regularly available and made accessible during times of sickness and family crises in particular, and it must be affordable.

Mae arnom angen dull gweithredu strategol gyda chyfrifoldebau arwain pendant sy’n cydnabod mor bwysig yw’r rhwyd achub y mae gwasanaethau cyhoeddus yn ei darparu. Rhaid rhannu’r arfer gorau, fel yr hyn a welir yn Ysbyty Tonna. Rhaid i’r rhannu ar gyllidebau ddod yn fwyfwy effeithiol a rhaid i weithio ar y cyd rhwng yr holl asiantaethau ddod yn norm yn awr. Rhaid i strategaeth genedlaethol i Gymru gydlynu darpariaeth effeithiol a rhaid cydnabod pwysigrwydd hanfodol gofal seibiant yn genedlaethol. Rhaid cael cydraddoldeb mynediad i ofal seibiant, rhaid iddo fod ar gael yn rheolaidd a rhaid ei ddarparu ar adegau o salwch ac argyfyngau teuluol yn benodol, a rhaid iddo fod yn fforddiadwy.

The role of the private sector must also be recognised, especially where there are excellent examples of high quality caring. The possibility of establishing more units for the elderly mentally infirm within the private sector must be explored, as well as the desirability for these units to become available for those who require respite care.

Rhaid cydnabod rôl y sector preifat hefyd, yn enwedig lle y bo enghreifftiau rhagorol o ofal o ansawdd da. Rhaid ymchwilio i’r posibilrwydd o sefydlu rhagor o unedau i’r henoed dryslyd yn y sector preifat, yn ogystal â’r priodoldeb o ddarparu’r unedau hyn ar gyfer y rhai y mae arnynt angen gofal seibiant.

Further training of staff in residential and nursing care is of utmost importance, and establishments in the public and private sectors must be encouraged to supply this training. Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council has long been committed to an ongoing training programme, with staff having the opportunity to achieve accredited qualifications. Many private nursing homes in my constituency are also committed to staff development and training and some homes have achieved recognition through the Investors in People award scheme.

Mae hyfforddiant pellach i staff mewn gofal preswyl a nyrsio o’r pwys mwyaf, a rhaid cymell sefydliadau yn y sectorau cyhoeddus a phreifat i gyflenwi’r hyfforddiant hwn. Mae Cyngor Bwrdeistref Sirol Castell Nedd Port Talbot wedi hen ymrwymo i raglen hyfforddi parhaus, gyda chyfle i’r staff ennill cymwysterau achrededig. Mae llawer o gartrefi nyrsio preifat yn fy etholaeth wedi ymrwymo hefyd i ddatblygu a hyfforddi staff ac mae rhai cartrefi wedi sicrhau cydnabyddiaeth drwy gynllun dyfarnu Buddsoddwyr mewn Pobl.

The Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government has, since May 1999, developed several specific policies on health and social care issues, such as the national carers strategy. From April 2002, local government in Wales has been provided with an extra £3 million of resources so that authorities such as my own in Neath Port Talbot can provide vulnerable people who are assessed as needing community care with six weeks of free home care following their discharge from hospital. The Assembly has also established the Care Council for Wales, the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales and a free all-Wales mental health helpline.

Ers Mai 1999, mae Llywodraeth Cynulliad Cymru, dan arweiniad Llafur, wedi datblygu sawl polisi penodol ar faterion gofal iechyd a chymdeithasol, fel y strategaeth genedlaethol i ofalwyr. O Ebrill 2002 ymlaen, darparwyd £3 miliwn o adnoddau ychwanegol i lywodraeth leol yng Nghymru fel y gall awdurdodau fel fy un i yng Nghastell Nedd Port Talbot ddarparu chwe wythnos o ofal yn y cartref am ddim ar gyfer pobl sy’n agored i niwed yr asesir bod arnynt angen gofal cymunedol ar ôl eu rhyddhau o’r ysbyty. Yn ogystal â hynny, mae’r Cynulliad wedi sefydlu Cyngor Gofal Cymru, Arolygiaeth Safonau Gofal Cymru a llinell gymorth iechyd meddwl am ddim i Gymru gyfan.

To return to the theme of next week’s national Alzheimer’s awareness week—‘Feeling the Pulse’—I am sure that all Members will support the efforts of the national and local branches of the Alzheimer’s Society in their continuing valuable work. We refer to sufferers and carers as ‘them’ and ‘they’; I remind Members that we are them, and they are us.

Gan fynd yn ôl at thema’r wythnos ymwybyddiaeth clefyd Alzheimer genedlaethol yr wythnos nesaf—‘Teimlo’r Pwls’—yr wyf yn sicr y gwnaiff yr holl Aelodau gefnogi ymdrechion canghenion cenedlaethol a lleol Cymdeithas Alzheimer yn eu gwaith gwerthfawr parhaus. Yr ydym yn galw’r dioddefwyr a’r gofalwyr yn ‘hwy’; yr wyf yn atgoffa’r Aelodau mai ni ydynt hwy, ac mai hwy ydym ni.

John Marek The Deputy Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 90

John Marek Y Dirprwy Lywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 90

Less than three minutes remain for the three other speakers, so you have less than a minute each.

Mae llai na thair munud ar ôl i’r tri siaradwr arall, felly mae gennych lai na munud yr un.

Janice Gregory spoken in English p. 90

Janice Gregory siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 90

I thank Gwenda for raising the issue of this devastating disease. I have first-hand knowledge of the effect that caring for a loved one who suffers from Alzheimer’s can have on ordinary family life, and the distress caused when the decision has to be made to place that loved one in long-term care. I join Gwenda in paying tribute to all those involved in the care and treatment of Alzheimer’s and I encourage all carers to access the assistance available.

Diolchaf i Gwenda am godi mater y clefyd dinistriol hwn. Mae gennyf wybodaeth uniongyrchol am yr effaith y mae gofalu am rywun annwyl sy’n dioddef gan glefyd Alzheimer yn gallu ei chael ar fywyd arferol y teulu, a’r gofid a achosir pan fo’n rhaid penderfynu rhoi’r un annwyl hwnnw mewn gofal tymor hir. Ymunaf â Gwenda i dalu teyrnged i bawb sy’n gysylltiedig â gofal a thriniaeth clefyd Alzheimer ac anogaf yr holl ofalwyr i gael gafael ar y cymorth sydd ar gael.

David Lloyd siaradwyd yn Gymraeg t. 90

David Lloyd spoken in Welsh p. 90

Diolchaf innau i Gwenda am godi’r pwnc hanfodol bwysig hwn, gan ei bod yn wythnos codi ymwybyddiaeth o Alzheimer’s yr wythnos nesaf. Datganaf fuddiant fel is-lywydd cangen Abertawe o Gymdeithas Alzheimer. Mae Edwina Hart hefyd yn un o is-lywyddion y gymdeithas. Dylem lunio strategaeth iechyd meddwl ar gyfer pobl hŷn er mwyn gwella’r ddarpariaeth ar gyfer dioddefwyr Alzheimer’s a chlefydau tebyg.

I also thank Gwenda for raising this fundamentally important issue, as next week is Alzheimer’s awareness week. I declare an interest as the vice-president of the Swansea branch of the Alzheimer’s Society. Edwina Hart is also a vice-president of that society. We should devise a mental health strategy for older people to improve provision for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and similar illnesses.

Kirsty Williams spoken in English p. 90

Kirsty Williams siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 90

I am grateful to Gwenda for raising this issue and allowing me to contribute. Following the National Institute for Clinical Excellence’s ruling on the availability of aricept on the NHS, we must monitor how that is rolling out across Wales. The best policy that the UK Government could follow in terms of Alzheimer’s sufferers and their carers would be to introduce free personal care. At present, those who suffer from Alzheimer’s are unfairly penalised by having to pay for their personal care, while others who suffer from chronic long-term illnesses do not.

Yr wyf yn ddiolchgar i Gwenda am godi’r mater hwn ac am ganiatáu imi gyfrannu. Ar ôl dyfarniad y Sefydliad Rhagoriaeth Glinigol Genedlaethol ar argaeledd aricept drwy’r GIG, rhaid inni gadw golwg yn awr ar y modd y mae hynny’n datblygu ledled Cymru. Y polisi gorau y gallai Llywodraeth y DU ei ddilyn o ran y rhai sy’n dioddef gan glefyd Alzheimer a’r rhai sy’n gofalu amdanynt yw cyflwyno gofal personol am ddim. Ar hyn o bryd, mae’r rhai sy’n dioddef gan glefyd Alzheimer yn cael eu cosbi’n annheg drwy orfod talu am eu gofal personol, tra nad yw eraill sy’n dioddef gan salwch tymor hir cronig yn gorfod gwneud.

Jane Hutt The Minister for Health and Social Services spoken in English p. 90

Jane Hutt Y Gweinidog dros Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 90

I am pleased that Gwenda chose this topic for the short debate. The Alzheimer’s Society has arranged a range of activities next week and we congratulate that society on its work and the care, support and research that it undertakes. I am sure that Members will support next week’s events locally and nationally. We are aware of the devastating impact of all forms of dementia, not only on sufferers, but also, as you said, Gwenda, on their family, carers and friends. Figures suggest that around 40,000 people in Wales will suffer from dementia, so the social cost is immense. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60 per cent of all dementia cases.

Yr wyf yn falch bod Gwenda wedi dewis y pwnc hwn ar gyfer y ddadl fer. Mae Cymdeithas Alzheimer wedi trefnu amrywiaeth o weithgareddau’r wythnos nesaf a llongyfarchwn y gymdeithas honno ar ei gwaith a’r gofal, y cymorth a’r ymchwil y mae’n ymgymryd â hwy. Yr wyf yn sicr y bydd yr Aelodau’n cefnogi’r digwyddiadau yr wythnos nesaf, yn lleol ac yn genedlaethol. Yr ydym yn ymwybodol o effaith ddinistriol pob math o orffwylledd, nid yn unig ar y dioddefwyr, ond hefyd, fel y dywedasoch, Gwenda, ar eu teulu, eu gofalwyr a’u ffrindiau. Mae’r ffigurau’n awgrymu y bydd tua 40,000 o bobl yng Nghymru’n dioddef gan orffwylledd, felly mae’r gost gymdeithasol yn aruthrol. Mae clefyd Alzheimer yn gyfrifol am 60 y cant o’r holl achosion o orffwylledd.

Gwenda, Janet, Dai and Kirsty mentioned how we can respond with a more strategic approach in Wales. We are now consulting on the standards in the English national service framework on older people to assess whether those standards could be adapted for Wales, and we recently extended the consultation period to the end of July. That will be important in guiding us. One of those standards concerns the elderly mentally ill and we will consider the responses to that with interest. We must consider the way ahead carefully and, in doing so, we have the advantage of last month’s publication of ‘Losing Time’, an Audit Commission report on mental health services for older people in Wales. The commission’s work involved all local authorities and their local health groups, the 11 national health service trusts and five health authorities and included voluntary sector organisations and some from the private sector. National and local carers groups gave evidence to the commission, therefore, we have an excellent evidence base on which to work.

Soniodd Gwenda, Janet, Dai a Kirsty am y modd y gallwn ymateb drwy ddilyn dull gweithredu mwy strategol yng Nghymru. Yr ydym yn ymgynghori’n awr ar y safonau yn fframwaith gwasanaeth cenedlaethol Lloegr ar gyfer pobl hŷn i asesu a oes modd addasu’r safonau hynny ar gyfer Cymru, a gwnaethom ymestyn y cyfnod ymgynghori’n ddiweddar hyd ddiwedd Gorffennaf. Bydd hynny’n arweiniad pwysig i ni. Mae un o’r safonau hynny’n ymwneud â’r henoed dryslyd a byddwn yn ystyried yr ymatebion i hynny gyda diddordeb. Rhaid inni ystyried y ffordd ymlaen yn ofalus ac, wrth wneud hynny, bydd ‘Colli Amser’, adroddiad gan y Comisiwn Archwilio ar wasanaethau iechyd meddwl i bobl hŷn yng Nghymru a gyhoeddwyd y mis diwethaf, yn gymorth i ni. Yr oedd gwaith y comisiwn yn ymwneud â’r holl awdurdodau lleol a’u grwpiau iechyd lleol, yr 11 o ymddiriedolaethau gwasanaeth iechyd gwladol a’r pum awdurdod iechyd ac yn cynnwys cyrff y sector gwirfoddol a rhai yn y sector preifat. Rhoddwyd tystiolaeth i’r comisiwn gan grwpiau gofalwyr cenedlaethol a lleol ac, felly, mae gennym sylfaen dystiolaeth ragorol i’n gwaith.

However, as Gwenda pointed out, so much more needs to be done in terms of the strategic approach, and that is what the report stated. Many GPs need more support and training in dementia. Better information is needed for carers. Specialist teams need to be better equipped and home and day care services need strengthening. Of course, carers value respite care, and we are addressing that through the carers strategy. The examples you gave, Gwenda, of local innovations in partnership are crucial to that.

Fodd bynnag, fel y nododd Gwenda, mae angen gwneud mwy o lawer o ran y dull gweithredu strategol, a dyna a ddywedodd yr adroddiad. Mae ar lawer o feddygon teulu angen mwy o gymorth a hyfforddiant mewn gorffwylledd. Mae angen gwell gwybodaeth i ofalwyr. Mae angen gwell offer i’r timau arbenigol a rhaid cryfhau gwasanaethau gofal dydd ac yn y cartref. Wrth gwrs, mae gofal seibiant yn bwysig gan ofalwyr, ac yr ydym yn ymwneud â hynny drwy’r strategaeth i ofalwyr. Mae’r enghreifftiau a roesoch, Gwenda, o arloesi mewn partneriaeth yn hollbwysig yn hynny o beth.

Edwina Hart spoken in English p. 92

Edwina Hart siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 92

Will you join me in congratulating the lord mayor of Swansea, Councillor June Burtonshaw, who chose the Swansea branch of the Alzheimer’s Society as the charity of the year to highlight the work of local societies? Do you agree that it is important that politicians provide a good lead in this area and publicise volunteers’ hard work and help them to raise funds?

A wnewch ymuno â mi i longyfarch arglwydd faer Abertawe, y Cynghorydd June Burtonshaw, a ddewisodd gangen Abertawe o Gymdeithas Alzheimer yn elusen y flwyddyn i dynnu sylw at waith cymdeithasau lleol? A ydych yn cytuno ei bod yn bwysig bod gwleidyddion yn rhoi arweiniad da yn y maes hwn ac yn rhoi cyhoeddusrwydd i waith caled y gwirfoddolwyr ac yn eu helpu i godi arian?

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 92

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 92

I am delighted to congratulate June Burtonshaw on her support for the Alzheimer’s Society in Swansea. Concentrating on that charity for the whole year is important; we should not just consider this issue for one week in the year. It is an all-year issue and politicians—especially Councillor Burtonshaw as mayor—have a great opportunity to raise those issues. Gwenda described many interesting and effective local partnerships in the Neath Port Talbot area. Examples include the befriending scheme at Tonna Hospital and the work being done to raise funds from different sources of grants to finance holidays and respite. That is important in showing the way forward locally and nationally. Of course, that multi-agency working is critical if we are to deliver integrated care. I believe that that will come through our local health boards, which will have a duty to work in partnership and which will include a carer and a representative of the voluntary sector.

Yr wyf yn falch iawn o longyfarch June Burtonshaw ar ei chefnogaeth i Gymdeithas Alzheimer yn Abertawe. Mae’r sylw a roddir i’r elusen honno am flwyddyn gyfan yn bwysig; nid am un wythnos yn y flwyddyn yn unig y dylem ystyried y mater hwn. Mae’n fater ar hyd y flwyddyn ac mae gan wleidyddion—yn enwedig y Cynghorydd June Burtonshaw fel maer—gyfle gwych i godi’r materion hynny. Gwnaeth Gwenda ddisgrifio llawer o bartneriaethau lleol diddorol ac effeithiol yn ardal Castell Nedd Port Talbot. Rhai o’r enghreifftiau yw’r cynllun cyfeillio yn Ysbyty Tonna a’r gwaith a wneir i godi arian o wahanol ffynonellau grant i ariannu gwyliau a seibiant. Mae hynny’n bwysig o ran dangos y ffordd ymlaen yn lleol ac yn genedlaethol. Wrth gwrs, mae’r gwaith amlasiantaethol hwnnw’n hollbwysig os ydym i sicrhau gofal integredig. Credaf y daw hynny drwy ein byrddau iechyd lleol, y bydd yn ddyletswydd arnynt weithio mewn partneriaeth, ac a fydd yn cynnwys gofalwr a chynrychiolydd o’r sector gwirfoddol.

Alun Cairns spoken in English p. 92

Alun Cairns siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 92

The Minister highlighted the strategic approach that she would like to take in terms of improving provision and care for patients with mental illness. There have been difficulties in terms of health authorities providing different levels of aricept, a point that Kirsty Williams raised. Does the Minister envisage that the new structure will allow her to enable a more uniform approach across all local health boards?

Tynnodd y Gweinidog sylw at y dull gweithredu strategol y carai ei ddilyn o ran gwella’r ddarpariaeth a’r gofal i gleifion sydd â salwch meddwl. Bu anawsterau yn yr awdurdodau iechyd o ran darparu gwahanol lefelau o aricept, sy’n bwynt a gododd Kirsty Williams. A yw’r Gweinidog yn rhagweld y bydd y strwythur newydd yn caniatáu iddi hwyluso dull mwy unffurf cyd-rhwng yr holl fyrddau iechyd lleol?

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 92

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 92

Once the National Institute for Clinical Excellence provides guidance on the use of aricept, we expect the health communities across Wales to implement and deliver that guidance. We put extra funding into the budget line this year for health authorities to deliver and to ensure that NICE’s guidelines are adhered to. We will ensure that that is done through the local health boards and our all-Wales medicines strategic group, which will have an all-Wales view and role in the implementation of drug regimes and NICE guidelines.

Wedi i’r Sefydliad Rhagoriaeth Glinigol Genedlaethol ddarparu cyfarwyddyd ar y defnydd o aricept, yr ydym yn disgwyl i’r cymunedau iechyd ledled Cymru weithredu a chyflawni’r cyfarwyddyd hwnnw. Rhoesom gyllid ychwanegol yn y llinell gyllideb honno eleni i’r awdurdodau iechyd gael cyflawni hyn ac i sicrhau y cedwir at ganllawiau’r Sefydliad Rhagoriaeth Glinigol Genedlaethol. Gwnawn sicrhau y gwneir hynny drwy’r byrddau iechyd lleol a’n grŵp strategaeth meddyginiaethau i Gymru gyfan, a fydd â barn a rôl drwy Gymru wrth weithredu cyfundrefnau cyffuriau a chanllawiau’r Sefydliad Rhagoriaeth Glinigol Genedlaethol.

Alun Cairns a gododd—

Alun Cairns rose—

Jane Hutt spoken in English p. 93

Jane Hutt siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 93

I need to move on, Alun.

Rhaid imi symud ymlaen, Alun.

This is an important agenda for the Assembly. We have authoritative evidence from the Audit Commission of shortcomings in Wales, as well as evidence of good practice. That has been borne out by the commission’s report and by our experience in the Assembly. We must recognise that the way forward includes our adult mental health strategy, as well as the mental health strategy for children and adolescents. However, do we need to develop a strategy for services for the elderly mentally infirm? How can we quickly adopt a strategic framework, which Gwenda rightly recommends, and build on the strategy for older people, ‘When I’m 64…and more’? Dai Lloyd also raised that point. We may wish to adopt the standards of the English national service framework for older people.

Mae hon yn agenda bwysig i’r Cynulliad. Mae gennym dystiolaeth awdurdodol gan y Comisiwn Archwilio o’r diffygion yng Nghymru, yn ogystal â thystiolaeth o arfer da. Profwyd hynny gan adroddiad y comisiwn a chan ein profiad yn y Cynulliad. Rhaid inni sylweddoli bod y ffordd ymlaen yn cynnwys ein strategaeth iechyd meddwl i oedolion, yn ogystal â’r strategaeth iechyd meddwl i blant a’r glasoed. Fodd bynnag, a oes rhaid inni ddatblygu strategaeth ar gyfer y gwasanaethau i’r henoed dryslyd? Pa mor gyflym y gallwn fabwysiadu fframwaith strategol, y mae Gwenda yn ei argymell yn briodol, ac adeiladu ar sail y strategaeth i bobl hŷn, ‘Pan fwyf yn hen a pharchus’? Cododd Dai Lloyd y pwynt hwnnw hefyd. Efallai y byddwn yn dymuno mabwysiadu safonau fframwaith gwasanaeth cenedlaethol Lloegr i bobl hŷn.

You have put this issue on the agenda, Gwenda. We need to take a strategic approach towards the elderly mentally infirm in relation to mental health services and joint working. Mental health, including services for the elderly mentally infirm, is one of the three key health priorities that the Health and Social Services Committee support. Although we have made a good start on modernising services, we must maintain the momentum.

Yr ydych wedi rhoi’r mater hwn ar yr agenda, Gwenda. Rhaid inni gymryd agwedd strategol at yr henoed dryslyd mewn cysylltiad â gwasanaethau iechyd meddwl a gweithio ar y cyd. Iechyd meddwl, gan gynnwys y gwasanaethau i’r henoed dryslyd, yw un o’r tair blaenoriaeth iechyd allweddol y mae’r Pwyllgor Iechyd a Gwasanaethau Cymdeithasol yn eu cefnogi. Er ein bod wedi cychwyn yn dda ar foderneiddio gwasanaethau, rhaid inni gynnal y momentwm.

Thank you for placing this issue on the agenda. It will help to steer policy in terms of our response to the issue and the need for a strategic framework. This has been an informative debate, and I hope that next week will be a great success in raising awareness.

Diolch ichi am roi’r mater hwn ar yr agenda. Bydd o gymorth i lywio polisi o ran ein hymateb i’r mater hwn a’r angen am fframwaith strategol. Bu hon yn ddadl addysgiadol, a gobeithiaf y bydd yr wythnos nesaf yn llwyddiant mawr o ran hybu ymwybyddiaeth.

John Marek The Deputy Presiding Officer spoken in English p. 94

John Marek Y Dirprwy Lywydd siaradwyd yn Saesneg t. 94

That brings today’s proceedings to a close.

Daw hynny â chyfarfod heddiw i ben.

Daeth y cyfarfod i ben am 12.05 p.m.

The session ended at 12.05 p.m.