JANET Finch-Saunders MS has wished everyone in her Aberconwy constituency a happy new year.

Mrs Finch-Saunders reflected on the past year, and expressed the hope that everyone would do their best to look after the less fortunate in 2023.

She highlighted the need to shop within the region as much as possible, support vulnerable young people facing homelessness, and protect those fleeing war and persecution, particularly in Ukraine.

She said: “I hope that everyone had a fantastic Christmas and new year. 2022 has been a remarkable year, and who knows what 2023 may have in store.

“Throughout the year, I have made an effort to buy as much food and gifts as locally as possible. However, the reality remains that we are still reliant on imported goods.

“Are we acting as a globally responsible nation if an area equivalent to 40 per cent of the size of Wales is required overseas to grow Welsh imports of cocoa, palm, beef, leather, natural rubber, soy, timber, pulp and paper in an average year?

“Shockingly, Welsh beef imports use a land area the size of Brecon Beacons.

“Those of us who can, should make it a mission to buy food from local producers and shops whenever possible.”

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Speaking on the need to support the homeless in 2023, she said: “Through my role as the Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy and shadow minister for climate change and housing, there has been a major problem I have been handling on almost a weekly basis.

“During 2021-22, 1,126 people contacted Gwynedd Council because they were homeless: 50 per cent more than 2018-19.

“In Wrexham, the number of individuals classed as homeless has more than doubled to 2,238 from 2019-20 to 2021-22.

“And in our own home county of Conwy the number of children in B&Bs have jumped by 82 per cent from Quarter 1 to Quarter 3 this financial year.

“In an effort to try and stop the tsunami of eviction notices and ensure that as many people as possible have a home, I have been pushing for the legislation to be suspended and housing targets met”.

Speaking on the need to assist those seeking refuge, Janet said: “We must also think of those who have had to flee their homes because of war.

“I am proud that so many across our community have opened hearts to Ukrainian refugees.

“For example, I am aware that the Rotary Club of Llandudno have been planning and co-ordinating initiatives designed to help the refugees feel welcome and integrate them into the community.

“I am sure that many of you will have seen the Ukrainian flags flown across our communities as a sign of support.

“And I was touched to hear that a Christmas tree had been decorated in St Grwst Church, Llanrwst, in a way that celebrates a special Ukrainian Christmas tradition.

“My wish for 2023 is that people, be they citizens of this country or another, have a safe place to call home, and that we take all steps possible to ensure that we, at least here in Wales, are acting in a globally responsible way.

“Happy New Year to you all!”