THE Queen has praised the efforts of all those in Wales who worked to mitigate the coronavirus pandemic, in a speech delivered at the opening of the sixth session of the Welsh Senedd.

With the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall sat nearby, the Queen said: “I have spoken before about how recent times have, in many ways, brought us closer together.

 

Queen Elizabeth II, accompanied by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall attend the opening ceremony of the sixth session of the Senedd in Cardiff. Picture date: Thursday October 14, 2021.

Queen Elizabeth II, accompanied by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall attend the opening ceremony of the sixth session of the Senedd in Cardiff. Picture date: Thursday October 14, 2021.

 

“We all owe a debt of gratitude to those who have risen so magnificently to the challenges of the last 18 months – from key workers to volunteers, who have done so much to serve their communities.

“They are shining examples of the spirit for which the Welsh people are so renowned, a spirit which I have personally encountered so many times.”

 

Queen Elizabeth II signs a document inside the Siambr (Chamber) during the ceremonial opening of the Sixth Senedd in Cardiff. Picture date: Thursday October 14, 2021.

Queen Elizabeth II signs a document inside the Siambr (Chamber) during the ceremonial opening of the Sixth Senedd in Cardiff. Picture date: Thursday October 14, 2021.

 

The Queen was spotted using a walking stick for the second time this week and took a lift to a lobby area of the parliament building in Cardiff where she met dignitaries before attending the opening.

First Minister Mark Drakeford has welcomed the visit, claiming the presence of the Queen highlights the “significance of the Parliament” in Wales.

 

Queen Elizabeth II (left), Llywydd (presiding officer) Elin Jones, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall (right) listen to a response by First Minister Mark Drakeford (back to camera) inside the Siambr (Chamber) during the ceremonial opening of the

Queen Elizabeth II (left), Llywydd (presiding officer) Elin Jones, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall (right) listen to a response by First Minister Mark Drakeford (back to camera) inside the Siambr (Chamber) during the ceremonial opening of the

 

Speaking to Sky News, Mr Drakeford said: “Decisions are made in four different parliaments and I know the Queen has always taken very seriously the job that she does in marking that.

“As I say, she’s never missed an opening of a new Senedd term and despite the circumstances, and her age, she will be making that effort again today.”