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Dawn Bowden is the Labour Senedd Member for the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency.

Thank you

I am very aware that every election is an opportunity for constituents to make a democratic choice and I am overwhelmed that so many of you chose to back me in the Senedd Election on May 6. It remains a real privilege for me as someone who left school at 16 and did not go to university, but gained my life experiences in so many other ways. Thank you and I will continue to serve you to the best of my ability.

Welsh Government

Following the election I have been asked by First Minister Mark Drakeford to serve in the Welsh Government as a Deputy Minister for art, sport and supporting the work of our new Economy Minister Vaughan Gething (while also being the Chief Whip of the Welsh Labour group of Members of the Senedd). 

It is a fantastic honour to serve in the Welsh Government and I will of course take on the role with enthusiasm, using the knowledge I have gained, while never forgetting the Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney constituency – which is the reason that I came in to politics in the first place.

Social media

I have recently had a couple of discussions with constituents on social media about local issues in the Upper Rhymney valley. I know that people sometimes like to ‘let off steam’ on social media, but that has to be balanced with asking the right people for help. For example if local streets or parks are untidy then the best place to start is contacting local councillors or the council direct. Each of us has responsibilities, and we can all care for our own local environment. That can include volunteer action as I know happens in many communities e.g. litter picking with Keep Wales Tidy.

Rhymney High Street 

I was pleased to see the package of improvements being carried out on the High Street by Caerphilly County Borough Council. Thanks to the local councillors and Gerald Jones MP, as we worked together for these improvements.

Busy time ahead     

It is clear that a busy time lies ahead but I will keep my regular constituency blog here in the wonderful Caerphilly Observer. I was very pleased to see Caerphilly Observer recognised in the Wales Media Awards. We are very lucky to have such a local news source for our communities.