A SURPRISE reshuffle of Ceredigion County Council’s Cabinet is more to do with politics than workload, according to a leading opposition councillor.

Council leader Ellen ap Gwynn announced at the council’s annual meeting that there would be changes in responsibilities for several of the eight Cabinet members.

Under the changes, Cllr ap Gwynn will be responsible for policy and performance, partnerships and democratic services, with deputy leader Ray Quant responsible for customer contact, legal and governance, people and organisation.

Dafydd Edwards will take over highways and environmental services together with housing, with Rhodri Evans becoming the Cabinet member for economy and regeneration.

Catherine Hughes will be responsible for children services and culture, Gareth Lloyd will take over finance and procurement services and public protection services, Catrin Miles will be response for learning services and lifelong learning, and Alun Williams will take over adult services.

Cllr ap Gwynn said: “I haven’t reduced the number of Cabinet members, there is enough work for the eight of us.”

But Ceredig Davies, the leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats on the council, said while staff numbers had been cut, the same was not true of the size of the Cabinet.

He said: “The reshuffle came as a complete surprise, not only for her own party members, but also as a surprise to her coalition partners.

“It amazes me that this is accepted by the independent councillors who prop up the Plaid administration.

“Their unquestioning support is being taken for granted and if their views are not required in a Cabinet reshuffle one can only presume that their views are not sought whilst making any other decision within council."

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition on Wednesday