FOLLOWING a reshuffle in the Welsh Government, I am no longer a minister, but continue as an Assembly Member for Newport East.

It has been a privilege to serve the people of Wales in my ministerial roles in Labour Welsh Governments over many years: putting the Active Travel Act on the statute book to increase cycling and walking; merging Environment Agency Wales, Forestry Commission Wales and Countryside Council for Wales into new powerhouse organisation – Natural Resources Wales; implementing a badger vaccination programme to help tackle TB in cattle rather than a cull; and introducing new strategies to put physical education and arts education at the heart of school life. I am proud of the contribution I have made. And I have always been proud to be in the Assembly representing Newport East, whether I’ve been a Minister or not, and that work - which is exciting, challenging, and a real honour - continues.

Following the ‘No’ vote the UK Government has made it clear there will be far-reaching changes to devolved government in the UK. In Wales new powers for the Welsh Government to raise finance and new areas of responsibility were already proposed and are a base to build on. In my view nothing short of a fundamental and speedy redistribution of power and wealth to Wales and across the UK is required. Wales, Scotland, the North of England and other areas badly need UK Government action, in partnership with those areas, to spread jobs, economic growth and income. Inequality within the UK is far too great and must be addressed and radically reduced

I was lucky recently to go a fantastic concert by an organisation that really deserves some credit and thanks.

Live Music Now are a charity who work to bring live music to people who otherwise would have limited chance to experience it. Part of their work is with young people with special educational needs, running music workshop sessions where the children play and perform. For these young people, music sessions can help them express themselves, and develop their creativity, concentration and motor skills, as well as being a hugely enjoyable experience. Working with older people is another thing the charity does, running both music workshops and concerts.

The concert I went to was put on for residents at Glyn Anwen in my constituency, and it was a great experience. Music and the arts are important, and this charity is doing great work in bringing the joy we can find through music to people who otherwise might not get the chance. I’d like to thank them, and the staff and residents at Glyn Anwen for the chance to come to this concert. If you want to find out more about the organisation, they have a website at www.livemusicnow.org.uk