Leanne Wood

Candidate for Rhondda

Tell us about yourself

I'm from Penygraig where I still live. I worked in various local factories before becoming a probation officer. I was elected as a local councillor for the Penygraig ward at the age of 25. I also worked for Women's Aid and later chaired their management board.

In 2012, I became the first woman leader of Plaid Cymru.

I was motivated to get involved in politics because I saw lots of injustice and unfairness that I wanted to do something about. That hasn't changed.

What is the most important thing you think the Senedd should do in the next five years?

Recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic by rebuilding and investing in the health service is a big priority. We also need to adapt for the climate crisis as well as improving our economic position, while tackling growth inequalities. These must be priorities for the next Senedd term.

We still lack many powers to provide solutions to our problems and so a redoubling of our efforts to get hold of the tools to do the job will be essential work for the next Senedd term.

What will you do for Rhondda if elected?

If re-elected, my priorities would be to work with all to rebuild the local economy following the impact of the health crisis. The Rhondda needs a plan to develop the economy and build jobs – particularly green jobs that will be needed in the future. I would also continue to fight for an independent inquiry into flooding and how the climate crisis can be mitigated.