WLGA Presiding Member and First Minister pay tribute to Councillor Andrew Morgan

Councillor Lis Burnett, Presiding Member of the WLGA said:"Throughout his long career, Councillor Andrew Morgan has simply been a model public servant. Respected across local government, Wales, and beyond, Councillor Morgan has rightly long earned a reputation for his determined leadership, eye for detail, and his compassion.

"Since his first election as a councillor in 2004, he has remained a formidable ambassador for his beloved Mountain Ash and his county in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

"During his long tenure as leader, he has borne witness to some of the most challenging periods in modern history including the pandemic, swingeing austerity years, and multiple devastating flooding events.

"Councillor Morgan has always been a forceful and effective advocate for councils and all the vital services they run. He provided clear, trusted leadership and consistent, steadfast support to his fellow leaders.

"His stature within Welsh politics and the strong, constructive relationships he built across government were pivotal in securing the partnership agreement between both tiers of government, strengthening how local and national government work together for communities across Wales.

"On behalf of the local government family, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Andrew for his endless guidance, wisdom, and friendship. His vast contribution and towering presence in local government over many years will endure."

Councillor Mark Pritchard, WLGA Independent Group Leader, said: "Andrew Morgan has been a hugely respected figure in local government in Wales for many years and brings an enormous amount of experience to everything he does.

"He understands local government inside out, and that practical experience has been invaluable in supporting councils through difficult decisions and complex challenges. His steady, thoughtful approach has been appreciated by colleagues across Wales."

Councillor Gary Pritchard, WLGA Plaid Cymru Group Leader, said: "Councillor Morgan has always been someone who takes local government seriously. He has never lost sight of the workforce behind council services or the responsibility that comes with leading an organisation of that scale. That practical, down-to-earth approach has earned him a lot of respect, and it's something colleagues across Wales have valued over many years.

"Andrew's leadership has been defined by a willingness to rise above party politics and work cooperatively and respectfully with others, always focused on delivering what is right for the people of Wales."

Councillor Jake Berriman, WLGA Liberal Democrat Group Leader, said:"Over more than two decades as a councillor, and 12 years as a council leader, Andrew has been committed to public service and has approached that role with professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility.

"He has been a consistent and respected voice within local government, bringing experience and perspective to discussions that matter to councils and communities.

"When I took up the mantle as Council Leader last May, Andrew was quick to provide me with kind words and practical support to help me be more impactful in my role.

"I want to thank Andrew for his open, collaborative approach and for his service and wish him every success as he looks ahead to the future."

Eluned Morgan MS, First Minister of Wales said:"I want to pay tribute and thank Andrew Morgan for his unwavering dedication to the people living in the communities he represented and to local government in Wales, over many years.

"Andrew played a phenomenal role during the pandemic, working tirelessly to support our communities. His leadership during those incredibly challenging times made a real difference to people's lives.

"He has been a passionate champion for local government and has led the Welsh Local Government Association with distinction. His commitment to the people of his own communities and to all of Wales has been truly inspiring, and he leaves behind a lasting legacy. I wish him every success and happiness for the future."

Erstwhile members of the Association during Councillor Morgan's tenure as leader also paid tribute.

Peter Fox MS, Former WLGA Conservative Group Leader said: "Having spent a long time in local government, I know the commitment and responsibility that come with this type of role. Over many years, Andrew has helped shape how councils work together in Wales, particularly through constructive engagement between local and national government. I would like to thank Andrew for his contribution over the years and wish him the best for the future."

Llinos Medi MP, Former WLGA Plaid Cymru Group Leader said: "As WLGA social care spokesperson at the time of the pandemic, I worked closely with Andrew as the Association's leader and saw at close quarters his tireless efforts and care for local services. He demonstrated a natural leadership ability which helped to steer local government at a time when it was needed most. I would like to wish him all the very best for the future."