IEUAN WINS LOCAL PARTY BACKING
A FORMER Deputy First Minister has explained his decision to make a shock return from the political wilderness, but admits he faces a tough battle in one of North Wales’ tightest seats.
Five years after stepping down as the Assembly Member for Ynys Môn, Ieuan Wyn Jones was chosen by party members to be Plaid Cymru’s candidate for the parliamentary seat held by Labour.
Shortly after his selection, the 67 year old conceded that he had a fight on his hands, but felt compelled to make a return to the political stage 30 years after first being elected as the island’s MP.
When asked why he made the decision to enter the selection process, he told the Mail: “It was the exceptional political circumstances we find ourselves in, I’ve never known a period like this.
“It’s important for those of us who believe in fairness, tolerance and working hard for communities, to stand up.
“There’s a real challenge postBrexit, ensuring the money that comes to us from Europe, continues to come from Westminster. It’s the MP’s job to ensure Angle- sey doesn’t lose out.”
Some party members at the hustings held in Llangefni last Wednesday, expressed sadness that a younger face was not selected, with more than one saying the veteran had been ‘parachuted in.’ Another described his selection as “a stitch up.”
But Mr Jones, having secured over 50% of the vote, said that due to the short timeframe until polling day, a high profile and experienced figure was needed.
“This has been an exceptional night for the party, probably our biggest gathering on the island since 1987, so it shows the enthusiasm there is for this campaign.
“The other three candidates were excellent and gave a good account of themselves.
“I made the decsion (to stand) very late indeed. I realised this contest needed someone with a high profile to make the case strongly for the people of Anglesey. I still feel passionate about the island and while there are threats that need to be met head on. I have the experience.”
However, Mr Jones conceded that winning the seat will not be easy, with the party having con- sistently failed to regain their main target constituency since losing it in 2001.
“The figures don’t lie. Labour have a 229 majority and the Conservatives are riding high in the polls, so I’d most certainly agree that its a three way marginal.”