The Party for the people of Wales

It is looking clear from canvassing that Plaid Cymru’s support is set to swell in Bridgend and membership is on an increase. What is even more encouraging is the increase in support from people outside of Wales, especially those from Wales’ nearest neighbour and closest friend England.

Within the Bridgend Constituency we have always had a significant number of English members who have chosen to make Wales and indeed Bridgend their home. However, in the past I have been left frustrated by some people’s misconceptions that Plaid is a party only for Welsh people or even more frustratingly only for Welsh speakers.

The reality of course is that there are more non-Welsh speakers than Welsh speakers within the party’s membership and many of our current politicians themselves were born in England. Plaid is a party for the people of Wales and not just Welsh people, which is why we can boast a diverse and talented range of candidates for this Welsh General Election.

The misconceptions on the doorsteps of Bridgend have been less and less frequent during this campaign. Perhaps testament to how Plaid have benefited all people’s lives while in government.

£2m announced for ASD support

I was delighted to learn that the One Wales coalition has announced a new funding package of £2million, which will be used to support adults and children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD.)

I am proud of the fact that, following on from the implementation of the ASD Strategic Action Plan for Wales, Wales is leading the world in raising awareness of Autism and providing improved opportunities for children and adults who have ASD.

This funding will be used to improve diagnosis and counselling for adults and children and will improve lifelong learning for people with autism.

On a personal note, this is particularly pleasing for me as I have a younger sister who suffers from Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of Autism. However, I am equally delighted that this will raise awareness of a condition that has in the past lacked understanding.

In Bridgend, we are fortunate enough to have Heronsbridge School, which has done a fantastic job in catering for the needs of children with learning difficulties such as Autism across the County Borough.Depending on pupil’s needs, the school provides specialist support for children and has excelled in academic subjects as well as in sport.

I sincerely hope that some of this funding will find its way to Heronsbridge and that Wales’ continues to excel in Autism support and awareness.

Tim Thomas selected for Bridgend

It will be an honour to stand as the Plaid Cymru candidate in Bridgend to contest the 2011 Assembly election.

I live within the Bridgend Constituency in Brackla with my wife; Sara and we have a 9-month-old daughter.

I look forward to sharing my thoughts and latest campaign news with you and would encourage you to comment on my blog updates.

Diolch yn fawr iawn I chi / Thank you very much

Tim