We cannot thank you enough

As we embark on a new year I know that many of us will be glad to see the conclusion of 2020, and look forward to the hope that will accompany 2021 writes Paul Davies MS

Little did we know as we reached the 2020s that this past year would be so challenging for families everywhere, in dealing with the consequences of the pandemic. Many have faced the toughest of times encountering ill health and worse, and many have experienced job losses and the failure of their business. I am, however, optimistic that next year will be better.

I am naturally optimistic and I see our role as politicians not just to lead and to listen but to inspire and give hope. I know that people expect politicians to step up in times of crisis, to show their strength and optimism even when things are tough.

At this time of the year I usually reflect on the good things I have seen, and in this year I have seen a lot which gives me pride and joy in how people have responded. From nurses, doctors, care home staff, teachers, social workers, council staff, community groups, Armed Forces personnel and inspirational individuals going above and beyond to keep us all safe.

We cannot thank you enough.

Whilst at times the picture has been bleak I don’t want to lose sight of what people have done, what they have sacrificed, and what they have achieved. This last year has shown immense human spirit, fortitude, and kindness. I am confident that 2021 will be a different year, one where a programme of vaccines will tackle the virus head on, one where life will start to return to some sort of normality for all of us. I believe that it will bring hope and confidence to all of us.

Over the next few months I am looking forward to setting out my Welsh Conservative platform as we approach the Welsh Parliamentary election in May. Although the last 12 months has rightly been about tackling the pandemic, I will be setting out our recovery plan for Wales, making clear our ambitious plans for the Welsh economy and public services, so that we can build back better and deliver a brighter future for Wales.

As we head into 2021 I wanted to wish everyone throughout Wales, on behalf of the Welsh Conservatives, a very Happy New Year!