Following the Senedd election, Wales has a new government under First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth, marking the first Plaid Cymru-led administration. With fresh faces around the Cabinet table and new ministerial portfolios, the coming months will shape the future of rural Wales.
As the new Cabinet begins its work, the Countryside Alliance looks forward to engaging constructively with ministers across government. We have already had the privilege of the First Minister and his Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability attend the Countryside Alliance awards ceremony on 9 June and look forward to working with the First Minister and his team on rural matters in the coming years.
While rural affairs remains at the heart of our work, decisions affecting the countryside are made across every department. From farming and country pursuits to planning, transport, healthcare, education and the rural economy, we will continue ensuring that the voice of the countryside is heard in every corner of Welsh Government when decisions affect rural Wales.
Here's a look at the team responsible for delivering the Government's priorities.
As First Minister, Rhun ap Iorwerth sets the overall direction of the Welsh Government. He leads Cabinet, represents Wales nationally and internationally and is ultimately responsible for delivering the Government's programme. His leadership will influence every aspect of public policy, from the rural economy to environmental management and public services.
Sioned Williams – Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
Alongside supporting the First Minister, Sioned Williams leads on tackling inequality, poverty, childcare and community wellbeing. Her portfolio also covers access to essential services—an issue of growing importance for many rural communities.
Perhaps the portfolio of greatest interest to Countryside Alliance members, Llyr Gruffydd oversees agriculture, food production, rural affairs, biodiversity and environmental sustainability. His decisions will directly affect farming businesses, land management and the future of rural communities across Wales.
Heledd Fychan – Trefnydd, Chief Whip and Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport
As Trefnydd and Chief Whip, Heledd Fychan manages the Government's legislative programme while also overseeing culture, heritage and sport. Her responsibilities include many of the traditions, events and cultural activities that are central to life in rural Wales.
Adam Price's portfolio covers business support, economic development, digital connectivity, transport links and energy policy. These issues are fundamental to the success of rural businesses, tourism and ensuring communities remain connected in an increasingly digital world.
Mabon ap Gwynfor – Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
Responsible for the NHS, social care and public health policy, Mabon ap Gwynfor faces the challenge of reducing waiting lists while improving access to healthcare. Ensuring high-quality services for people living in remote and rural areas will be a key test of his tenure.
A familiar face in Welsh politics and a former Rural Affairs Minister, Elin Jones controls the Welsh Government's budget. Every investment in farming, transport, healthcare and rural infrastructure will ultimately depend on decisions made within her department.
Siân Gwenllian – Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Siân Gwenllian's responsibilities include local councils, planning policy and housing. These issues are crucial to sustaining village communities, delivering affordable homes and ensuring planning policy supports both rural development and environmental protection.
This portfolio focuses on improving how government operates, constitutional affairs and public sector reform. While less visible, decisions made here will influence how effectively government delivers for communities across Wales.
Anna Brychan – Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
A new face in government, Anna Brychan is responsible for schools, lifelong learning and promoting the Welsh language. Education and skills remain essential to sustaining vibrant rural communities and creating opportunities for future generations.