Sir,
I do not usually respond to letters in the newspaper, as I think it is right and proper that people should express themselves freely in their local or national press. However, your letters page last week contained a letter from Ian Williams containing some rather personal observations about my part in the Tenby Hospital campaign. I would like to explain my side.
Firstly, I adhere to my view that beds on the Butts Field site remain the best option for in-patient care in south-east Pembrokeshire. I have never said otherwise. But the facilities going into the new building -including day care facilities for elderly people - something Tenby has needed for many, many years - are to be genuinely welcomed.
Secondly, I have never claimed leadership of the hospital campaign. That rests clearly with the League of Friends, chaired by Pat Wright. I have, however, been proud to be associated with the campaign, and have facilitated ministerial meetings here in Tenby and also in Cardiff.
Lastly, I continue to be closely involved in the implementation group which will help to design and commission the new facility, including the provision of 10 new beds in the independent sector, and I have played my part in ensuring that community representation is robust and respected by the health trust when delivering the new service for south-east Pembrokeshire.
It would have been far easier - when faced with a 'no' to on-site beds, to throw my rattle out of the pram and embark on a course of non co-operation.
I thought it better to hang in there, and to keep fighting for the rights of my constituents. That is not spin; it is the essence of the job I have been elected to do.
Christine Gwyther AM.