Culture and sport are not just optional extras but essential components for creating a healthier and more prosperous society, according to Wales' newly appointed culture and sport minister, Heledd Fychan. In her first address to the Senedd, Ms. Fychan outlined her priorities, highlighting the vital role of the arts and sport in preventative health and overall well-being.
Focus on Preventative Health and Broadcasting Devolution
Ms. Fychan emphasized that culture and sport are integral to the Welsh Government's vision of shifting towards a preventative health agenda, which aims to put the health service on a more sustainable footing. She also reiterated calls for the devolution of broadcasting powers to Wales, stating that the nation deserves a confident, diverse, and sustainable media landscape rooted in public value and national ambition.
"These priorities mark the beginning of a journey and the beginning of a new chapter for culture and sport here in Wales," Ms. Fychan told the Senedd. "This government believes in the power of culture and sport to transform lives."
Shadow Broadcasting Authority and Support for Journalism
The minister revealed that work is underway to establish a shadow broadcasting and communications authority, designed to build a stronger and more accountable media environment in Wales. She also pledged to support public-interest journalism and safeguard the provision of high-quality news.
However, these plans faced criticism from opposition politicians. Reform's Louise Emery, shadow minister for culture, described the development of a shadow broadcasting authority as "completely unnecessary" and accused the government of "constitutional navel-gazing" and state-building towards independence. She also questioned the concept of state-funded journalism, warning of potential political bias and foreign interference.
Welsh Conservative spokesperson Paul Davies echoed these criticisms, arguing that given the challenges already highlighted, devolving broadcasting powers is not the best use of resources. He called for details on the cost and funding of the new authority.
Welsh Language and National Eisteddfod
Ms. Fychan described the use of the Welsh language, particularly in social contexts, as an integral part of her priorities. She announced a £0.25 million contribution from the government to support the upcoming National Eisteddfod, which celebrates its 850th anniversary. The funding will help inspire people to use the language and raise the festival's international profile, while also ensuring free access for local low-income families.
Reform's Ms. Emery, who has been learning Welsh for two years, welcomed the prioritization of the language but cautioned against coercion, stating that "coercion drives resentment, not fluency." She emphasized that Welsh culture, arts, and sport should lift people up and bring communities together, in whatever language they choose.
Addressing Inequalities in Access
Ms. Fychan stressed that culture, the arts, and sport have too often been pitted against the NHS, rather than being recognized as completely connected to it. She committed to making these sectors accessible to all, addressing inequalities due to cost, geography, disability, or other barriers.
Reform's shadow minister for health, prevention, and sport, James Evans, expressed agreement with the minister on the importance of sport in prevention. However, he questioned how much of the NHS budget would be reallocated to sports. Ms. Fychan responded that this is a new way of working for government and that discussions are taking place within the first 100 days, with updates to follow.
Music Tourism and Economic Benefits
Labour's Mike Hedges raised the importance of music tourism to Welsh culture and the economy, noting that in 2024, music touring attracted 834,000 visitors, supported 3,650 jobs, and generated £384 million. He pressed the minister to support Welsh music through smart public investment, reducing barriers to exporting music, and ensuring accessible music education.
Ms. Fychan referenced a report showing traditional music in Wales is in danger of disappearing entirely. She lamented that fewer children are taking GCSEs in music, drama, and art, and universities are cutting creative courses, often viewing these areas as not worth investing in. She affirmed that they are indeed worth investing in and expressed hope for a future for creative people and these economically beneficial sectors in Wales.
