Plaid Cymru MEP for Wales Jill Evans has enlisted the help of Morse as she launches her new communications strategy in Holyhead today (Friday 18 September, 12.30 p.m.)

Jill will be at the Holyhead Maritime Museum, which houses a Morse key, illustrating the ‘Marconi connection’ with Ynys Mon. Guglielmo Marconi lived on the island in the early part of the twentieth century, and Jill is looking back at that as she sets out her new strategy to ensure better communications – in all forms – with constituents.

Speaking in Holyhead, Jill Evans MEP, who represents the whole of Wales in the European Parliament, said:

"After ten years as an MEP I decided it was time to review the ways available to constituents to get in touch with me, whether they want help in dealing with a problem, or to comment on an issue.

“Representing the whole of the country in parliament means that we are dealing with a unique set of circumstances, and so I have looked carefully and critically at the way I use the public money available to me to cover the costs of working with my constituents in Wales.

“I have explored different and new ways I can connect with people as well as using the more traditional ways like newsletters and surgeries. Most of all, I want people to have a look at my ideas and let me know what they think. I'm sure people can come up with more ways to make my work more effective. The people of Wales elected me in June I promised to put them first and that is exactly what I am going to do."

In the detailed consultation paper, Jill sets out her commitment to respond to constituents in agreed time limits, and how their enquiries will be handled. There will be clear points of contact, and constituents will be able to communicate with Jill and her staff using the network of Plaid Cymru offices throughout Wales, and other local centres. As well as the more obvious means of contact such as the telephone, it is planned to offer appointments by video or internet link.

There will be joint surgeries with Plaid AMs and MPs across Wales, and local newsletters and bi-annual reports will be issued. These will be available, along with information leaflets, throughout Wales at Plaid offices, libraries, shops and other public places.

Jill Evans added:

“One thing we won’t be using is Morse code! But looking back at what was innovative technology over a hundred years ago shows us that we have to ‘think different’. I want my constituents to be able to contact me and communicate with me as easily and effectively as possible, and I think this new strategy will go a long way towards that.”

Diwedd/Ends.

Jill Evans’ consultation paper: O Fôn i Fynwy.