A speech by The King for the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Senedd.

Llywydd, Prif Weinidog, Aelodau o’r Senedd, Boneddigion a Boneddigesau.

[Presiding Officer, First Minister, Members of the Welsh Parliament, ladies and gentlemen.]

The Queen and I are so delighted to join you today as we mark this significant milestone in our history – the twenty-fifth anniversary of Welsh devolution.

It is a milestone on a journey which it has been my privilege, all my life, to share with you. During times which have seen great change, profound sorrow, and tremendous achievement. Through it all, my respect and affection for the people of this ancient land have deepened with every passing year.

Braint yw cael rhannu eich cariad at y wlad arbennig hon.

[It is a privilege to share your love for this special land]

It has given me great pleasure to see my son’s relationship with this special land continue, including returning only this week to Anglesey - Ynys Môn – a place which I know means so much to him.

So, it is with countless special memories and particular pride that I am able to join you as we reflect upon the last quarter-century of the history we have shared, and which you - in your work in this Senedd - have the great responsibility of making. In 1999, when the National Assembly for Wales was established, we could not know what lay ahead. But we trusted that the common desire for the welfare of the people of Wales would be the surest guide for those who would create, shape and develop this new national institution.

Looking back at the distance travelled since then, I hope you can feel a real sense of pride in the respect that has been earned; and in the contribution that has been made to the lives of so many. Welsh minds have indeed been directed to Welsh matters, and the distinct voice of Wales is heard with clarity and purpose.

Edrychwn yn ôl ar y daith hyd yn hyn. Edrychwn ymlaen at y daith sydd i ddod.

[We look back at the journey so far. We look forward to the journey that is to come]

Now, of course, a parliament would not be worthy of the name were there not differences of opinion. But it is a tribute to that spirit of community – so evident to all who love Wales, as we do – that this has been managed with an inclusivity which the very shape of this chamber symbolises, and with a respectful recognition that there are many different ways to love and serve one’s country. 

And what a country you have to serve. What a unique mosaic of places, landscapes and cultures is entrusted to your care: o Fôn i Fynwy [from Anglesey to Monmouth], from Caergybi to Cardiff Bay - with all the myriad of communities in between: urban and rural, in all their complex diversity.

Y mae – os ga’ i ddweud – yn dda iawn i weld bod y Senedd yn defnyddio’r iaith Gymraeg gymaint. Nid fel symbol yn unig. Ond fel hanfod. Gorau anrhydedd, defnydd.

[It is – if I may say so – very good to see that the Senedd makes so much use of the Welsh language. Not just as a symbol. But as an essential. The best way to show honour, is to make use.]

Over the last twenty-five years, the Senedd has become more than a symbol. It has become essential to the life of Wales. As we look back over the last quarter-century in the long journey of our history, I offer you my heartfelt congratulations – llongyfarchiadau mawr – on all you have achieved.

We now look forward to the tasks that we face in the next quarter-century, not least the challenge we all share as inhabitants of this threatened planet – a challenge which I know you are seeking to meet with energy and determination. A great milestone has been reached. There are many more ahead. But you do not travel alone. The strength, resilience and aspiration of the Welsh people will help to sustain you. You take with you the goodwill and support of all who have the interests of Wales at heart. They will be equal to any task. And with those interests in mind, I pray that in the years to come, you will achieve even more, overcome even more challenges, and find even more causes for celebration.

Diolch o galon.

[Heartfelt thanks]

Charles R