Plaid Cymru the Party of Wales Euro MPs Jill Evans and Eurig Wyn have expressed their concern that Wales will not have a direct representative in vital negotiations on the future of the European Union.

The Convention on the Future of Europe, set up following the Laken Summit in December, will be a crucial forum in the process of developing the Union's governance structures leading up to the Intergovernmental Conference in 2004. Its remit will include negotiations on how powers are divided between different levels of government. This has clear implications for Wales and the National Assembly, as well as at local government level.

After attending today's meeting of the European Affairs Committee at the National Assembly, Plaid Cymru leader in the European Parliament, Jill Evans MEP, said:

"Rhodri Morgan has missed an opportunity to ensure that Wales plays its part in influencing the future structures of the EU. Wales and the National Assembly are again being sidelined.

"Scotland have seized this opportunity and will have a seat at the table through its representation on the Committee of the Regions. This shows what constitutional status and legislative powers can achieve. Rhodri Morgan clearly did not plead a strong enough case for Wales' representatives on the Committee of the Regions to be nominated."

Eurig Wyn added:

"It's disappointing that Welsh interests will not be directly represented in talks on how Wales will contribute to the governance of Europe in years to come. Wales will be relegated to a 'third division' status among the regions and nations of Europe unless we attain legislative powers soon."

The Convention will mostly consist of representatives of the governments and parliaments of the member-states, and members of the European Parliament. The Committee of the Regions has also appointed six representatives, two each from cities, regions and regions with legislative powers, and six substitutes.

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