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August 2025 Newsletter
Welcome to my latest E-newsletter which provides an update on what I have been doing within the constituency and in Cardiff.
Over the summer, I’ll continue to be out and about visiting local events and shows right across Montgomeryshire. It was great to visit Dolfor and Trefeglwys show on Saturday. Brilliant celebrations of rural life and community spirit. I’m looking forward to attending more throughout the rest of this month.
If you would like to meet with me to discuss any matter or if I can help in another way, please email me at [email protected] or call my office on 01686 610887.
Russell George met honey producers at Trefeglwys show and signed the petition against the Council selling off County Farms at Dolfor show on Saturday.
Protecting our Landscapes
A proposed pylon line is being presented by several wind energy developers who are planning large scale wind farm developments throughout Mid Wales. I have significant concerns about many of the schemes, with some developers proposing to build wind turbines up to 230 metres high in areas of currently unspoiled landscape.
Using huge offshore scale turbines onshore is not appropriate, and the industrialisation of our landscape with large-scale windfarms and pylons criss-crossing Mid Wales hills and valleys is not acceptable.
I would encourage residents to attend consultation events. My full update provides further details.
Supporting the Farming Industry
Last month, the Welsh Government published further information, including payment rates and details of the transition, for the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS). This will be the primary source of government support for Welsh farming starting in 2026.
There are aspects of the scheme that can be cautiously welcomed, but the decision to slash Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) support to 60% of current levels in 2026, with further reductions expected in future years will put enormous pressure on an already struggling sector.
Russell George raising concerns in the Senedd with the Government.
Royal Welsh Show
At the Royal Welsh last month, I was pleased to meet with many organisations and businesses.
I had helpful discussions with both Farming Unions about the Government's Sustainable Farming Scheme, bluetongue policy, and the devastation that bovine TB causes.
Mid Wales has an abundance of small food and drink producers, and the show was a good time to meet with many of them and to have discussions with the sector about an event I’m holding in the Senedd later in the year to celebrate the best of Montgomeryshire producers.
Protecting Local Health Services
From July 1st, some Powys patients will wait longer than English patients, when being treated in hospitals in England. This will lead to those from Powys facing slower access to treatment in English hospitals despite available capacity.
Proposals being considered by Hywel Dda University Health Board include the potential downgrading of stroke services in Bronglais, a move that could have devastating implications for patients in Mid Wales. Last month I attended a drop in event in Machynlleth to discuss this.
Powys Teaching Health Board met at the end of July and confirmed the continuation of temporary service changes first introduced in December last year. This included Inpatient units in Llanidloes and Bronllys continuing to focus on patients assessed as Ready To Go Home, with inpatient units in Newtown and Brecon continuing to focus on patients requiring more specialised rehabilitation. This will mean a downgrading of services at Llanidloes Hospital, a decision I do not support.
My full report provides more details on the above.
New Recycling Booking System needs Scrapping
Russell George MS with Powys County Councillors who also oppose the changes.
Many will be aware about Powys County Council’s controversial new recycling policy changes. I remain deeply concerned about the potential negative impacts these plans could have on residents, waste management, and the environment in our county.
You can read the results from my recent survey in the full update.
International Paramedic Day
It was a pleasure to sponsor the St John Ambulance Cymru event at the Senedd, held to mark International Paramedics Day 2025.
St John Ambulance Cymru is a truly inspiring organisation that plays a vital role in our communities. From providing first aid education in schools to delivering emergency medical support at public events, their work which is often carried out by dedicated volunteers, saves lives and empowers people with the confidence to act in a crisis.
The event brought together Senedd members with health professionals, volunteers and supporters from across Wales to celebrate the extraordinary work of paramedics and frontline responders. I had the opportunity to speak with NHS staff, community first responders, and St John volunteers, all of whom shared their experiences and insights into the challenges and rewards of their roles.
I even took part in a quick CPR session and it was a reminder of just how important basic first aid skills are for all of us.
Other news
I will be attending local shows throughout Montgomeryshire this month, please do approach me or contact me in advance if you would like to discuss any matter.
If you would like an update on the latest position in the campaign to save our local Air Ambulance base – click here.
For an update on Broadband and Mobile provision in the area – You can read my full update here.
Promoted by Russell George MS, 13 Parkers Lane, Newtown, SY16 2LT
The costs of this publication have been met by the Senedd Commission from public funds.
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