First ministers of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland to meet in Cardiff

The first ministers of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland are scheduled to come together in Cardiff on Monday to explore ways to enhance cooperation, particularly on constitutional matters. This meeting marks the first in-person gathering of the three nationalist leaders since Rhun ap Iorwerth of Plaid Cymru assumed office in May. Ap Iorwerth will welcome John Swinney, leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP), and Michelle O’Neill from Sinn Féin, with Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also set to attend the discussions.

Later in the day, ap Iorwerth and Swinney will engage in further talks anticipated to culminate in an agreement aimed at “future collaboration in areas of shared interest.” This meeting is notable as, for the first time since devolution, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland each have first ministers advocating for independence from the United Kingdom. According to a spokesperson for Plaid Cymru, the gathering represents a chance for the leaders to discuss collaborating on issues that are important across their respective nations. They stressed the importance of political cooperation touching on fields like energy, the economy, relations with Europe, and constitutional questions—including the right to self-determination—especially in light of Wales’ recent historic Senedd election and shifting political dynamics.

John Swinney expressed confidence in the growing momentum for constitutional change. He described the current period as “a moment of incredible constitutional opportunity,” stating that there is an increasing consensus that the Westminster system is failing ordinary citizens. Swinney cited Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s acknowledgment of this, noting that “the people of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have made it clear at the ballot box.” These discussions occur shortly after constitutional issues reemerged in the House of Commons, following comments by Burnham during Prime Minister’s Questions. Burnham suggested that a second referendum on Scottish independence could happen if there was clear public support, comparing the situation to the conditions required for a border poll in Northern Ireland under the Good Friday Agreement. He noted that such a poll would be considered when there is a clear consensus and a shift in public opinion. This softer stance was initially welcomed by Swinney, although Burnham later reaffirmed that another Scottish referendum remains “off limits.” For context, the 2014 referendum resulted in Scotland choosing to remain in the UK by 55% to 45%.

Rhun ap Iorwerth made history as the first non-Labour first minister of Wales following May’s Senedd election. Although he has ruled out pursuing a referendum on Welsh independence during his first term, he has expressed a desire to initiate a “national conversation” about the topic. His administration plans to establish a national commission to prepare the groundwork for future independence initiatives. Meanwhile, Welsh government officials are seeking increased devolved powers, including authority over policing and youth justice, a proposal that Burnham has said he is “open” to considering. In Northern Ireland, the roles of first and deputy first minister carry equal powers and responsibilities, with Emma Little-Pengelly of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) serving as deputy first minister. Little-Pengelly has criticized O’Neill’s participation in the meeting.

Funding discussions are expected to form a significant part of Monday’s talks, particularly concerning how the devolved nations receive financial support from the UK government. Welsh officials have long argued that the Barnett funding formula is unfair to Wales, although some believe Scotland benefits from it. Burnham, before becoming Prime Minister, advocated for reform of the formula but has recently downplayed the likelihood of changes during visits to Wales. The devolved leaders are planned to meet with the Prime Minister next month. The UK government maintains that the Prime Minister is committed to delivering improvements across all parts of the United Kingdom and remains a strong supporter of the union. Meanwhile, Welsh Conservatives leader Darren Millar criticized the Welsh first minister for focusing on independence rather than addressing challenges such as the NHS crisis and declining school standards, while Reform UK Wales accused Plaid Cymru of revealing its true agenda by meeting with Sinn Féin and Scottish separatists

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