A VALE of Clwyd AM won’t be taking part in the Queen’s visit to Wales.
Plaid Cymru's new Assembly Member for North Wales Llyr Huws Gruffydd says he's getting his priorities ‘right’ by visiting homeless charity Shelter rather than being part of the ceremonial opening of the Assembly.
Instead of attending the Queen's visit to the Senedd in Cardiff this week, he will be discussing projects to help the homeless and reduce the housing crisis across north Wales.
"I’m a republican and don’t consider myself to be the Queen’s subject,” said Ruthin based Mr Gruffydd.
“As an Assembly Member I’m answerable to the people of Wales rather than to an unelected, unaccountable monarch.
"Millions of pounds spent every year bankrolling the monarchy could be better spent elsewhere.
“That’s why I’ll be spending the day getting on with the job I was elected to do, and discussing funding for projects to support homeless people across North Wales.
"I stood to become an AM because I wanted to tackle the many injustices I see around me.
“Taking part in the ceremonial pomp and pageantry of the Royal Opening won’t contribute much to that end and that’s why I won't be going along."