First ministers of Wales, Scotland and NI hold historic talks in Cardiff

First ministers from Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have convened in Cardiff for a landmark meeting focused on closer collaboration and constitutional questions. This marks the first in-person gathering of nationalist leaders from these nations since Rhun ap Iorwerth assumed office in Wales following May’s election.

All three officials share the goal of their respective countries leaving the United Kingdom, yet they diverge on immediate strategies. Scotland’s John Swinney and Northern Ireland’s Michelle O’Neill have publicly advocated for independence referendums, whereas Ap Iorwerth has ruled out pursuing a vote during his party’s current term in government.

Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald also attended the proceedings in Cardiff Bay. The meeting underscores a shift in the political landscape, with Wales now having its first non-Labour first minister, ending decades of Labour dominance in the role.

Later on Monday, Ap Iorwerth and Swinney are scheduled to hold separate discussions as government leaders, with both expected to sign an agreement outlining future cooperation in areas of mutual interest. A Plaid Cymru spokesperson emphasized the need for practical political cooperation on energy, the economy, and engagement with Europe, alongside broader constitutional discussions regarding self-determination.

Ap Iorwerth described the recent Welsh election as a “turning point,” asserting that the Westminster model is no longer effective for Wales. Similarly, Swinney labeled the situation a “pivotal moment” for the UK, stating that the people of Scotland, Wales, and Ireland possess an inherent right to determine their own futures.

O’Neill echoed these sentiments, arguing that the interests of the island of Ireland have been poorly served by Westminster. She highlighted that the election of three nationalist first ministers signals a desire for constitutional change across the regions.

Tensions regarding the timing of votes remain evident. In Wales, Ap Iorwerth’s administration plans to establish a national commission to explore independence, prioritizing a “national conversation” over an immediate referendum. Meanwhile, the Welsh government is seeking additional powers in policing and youth justice, a move UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he is open to considering.

The discussions follow recent comments by Burnham during Prime Minister’s Questions, where he compared potential Scottish independence conditions to Northern Ireland’s border poll rules. Although his remarks suggested flexibility, he later clarified that another Scottish referendum remains off the table, referencing the 2014 vote where 55% of Scots chose to remain in the UK.

Opposition voices were quick to criticize the summit. Darren Millar, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, urged Ap Iorwerth to focus on the NHS and education crises rather than independence. Reform UK Wales accused Plaid Cymru of revealing its “true colours” by aligning with separatist groups.

In Northern Ireland, Democratic Unionist Party deputy first minister Emma Little-Pengelly criticized O’Neill for participating in the talks. The group will also address funding disparities, particularly the Barnett formula, which Welsh ministers argue disadvantages Wales despite benefiting Scotland.

The devolved leaders are scheduled to meet Prime Minister Burnham next month, though the UK government maintains its strong commitment to preserving the union across all four nations.