Following the sad passing of Lord Dafydd Elis-Thomas last week, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, Darren Millar MS, has today paid tribute to his former colleague who he described as “a titan of Welsh Politics”.   

Leading the tributes from his party in today’s meeting of the Welsh Parliament, Darren said Lord Elis-Thomas was “a respected and much loved figure across all political divides” and that “Wales has, indeed, lost a statesman”. 

He said: 

“It's no understatement to say that Dafydd was a titan of Welsh politics. His journey from an anti-establishment nationalist to a statesman at the heart of Wales's institutions was nothing short of remarkable.

“He was a swanky dresser. There was always a silk handkerchief in the pocket. He was also a man of great intellect, wit and conviction, never afraid to challenge the status quo, yet always open to the evolution of his own thoughts. And having been the first Llywydd of the then newly established National Assembly for Wales, it was Dafydd’s steady hand that helped to cement the Senedd’s place at the heart of our national life and Welsh democracy.

“His political journey was unique. He was a proud republican, who once stood outside the system but ultimately found himself within it, becoming a good friend of our now King Charles. And, of course, he became an MP and peer of the realm, and a respected and much-loved figure across all political divides. From the Welsh-speaking heartlands of Gwynedd to the dining rooms of Buckingham Palace, Dafydd Elis-Thomas was entirely at home. And what set him apart was not just his political skill, but his warmth, his humour and his ability to bring people together. He was always able to disarm his opponents with a well-placed quip just as easily as he could deliver a great speech with passion and intellect. He was, in every sense, a renaissance man.” 

He added: 

“There are very few politicians who have the privilege of seeing their careers end in triumph, but Dafydd was one of them. And his legacy is not only in the Senedd that he helped to shape, but in the respect, affection and admiration of all who knew him. 

“Wales has, indeed, lost a statesman, we have lost a friend, but his influence will certainly live on for many generations to come. So, rest in peace, Dafydd - a diolch am bopeth - and thank you for everything.” 

Photo Credit : BBC News

Watch Darren’s contribution in the Welsh Parliament below: