THERE is a huge disconnect between West Wales and the Cardiff Bay-centric Welsh Government, it has been claimed.

Welsh Conservatives leader Andrew R T Davies made the comments as he took part in a question-and-answer session with pupils at Ysgol Gyfun Bro Pedr in Lampeter, before going on to visit the Da Mhile whisky distillery in Llandysul.

Emphasising the importance of engaging with people beyond the Cardiff Bay bubble, Mr Davies said it was vital that politicians of all parties made the effort to visit communities across Wales to fully understand the problems they face.

He said it was especially important for politicians to speak with young people, who often felt left out of the political process.

He congratulated John Savage-Onstwedder and his son James of Da Mhile Distillery, which employs nine people in Llandysul and earlier this year bottled the first batch of organic Welsh whisky produced on site.

This was especially significant as it meant that Wales now has two whisky distilleries, which enables it to be recognised as having its own whisky industry.

Mr Davies said: “I always enjoy visiting west Wales since it is an area steeped in history and is the origin of some of our best produce.

“For too long, people here have felt ignored by those in power in Cardiff Bay, and there is a disconnect that is all too real. It is vital that politicians take the time to visit and listen to the concerns and ideas people have."

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