Randerson challenges Civic Society to be new lawmakers

5.21.50pm GMT Mon 20th Nov 2006

A Senior Assembly Member has today challenged civic society to play a greater role in making new laws to improve life in Wales.

Speaking at a conference in Cardiff on 'The Emerging Assembly' organised by Cymru Yfory/Tomorrow's Wales, Jenny Randerson AM said the Assembly's new powers would require greater input from civic organisations. She also encouraged them to work together within sectors to pool their influence.

Mrs Randerson, a former cabinet minister and chair of the committee writing new standing orders for the Assembly, said: "Civic Society has an opportunity, and a duty to bring forward ideas for new legislation. It is a challenge that must be met.

"In Westminster, an MP who wins the ballot for a private members' bill is besieged with proposals. In Cardiff Bay thus far, every ballot has resulted in a blind panic once AMs hear their name called out.

"Where are the ideas from Welsh civic society? Where is the clamour to turn support for a cause in to new laws?

"The Assembly's increased powers give us greater scope than ever to make a difference to the lives of people in Wales. But I would urge anyone with ideas not to sit back and leave it to AMs - get involved, make a difference."

Notes:

For more details of the conference see

www.tomorrow-wales.co.uk