1st Bistre Scouts champion climate action at Flintshire Council event

On Tuesday evening, the 1st Bistre Scouts were given a remarkable opportunity to make their voices heard as they took centre stage at Flintshire County Council’s Lord Barry Jones Chamber.

Invited to this event, the Scouts had the privilege of questioning key figures in climate action, including the Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Cllr David Healey, Chair of the Climate Committee, Cllr Alasdair Ibbotson, and the Program Manager for Climate Change at Flintshire Council, Alex Ellis.

Chaired by Cllr Gladys Healey, who skilfully managed the Scouts, the event was not only an opportunity for the Scouts to ask their pressing questions but also an important occasion for all involved.

In recognition of her support, Cllr Healey was inducted as an honorary 1st Bistre Scout, an honour she graciously accepted.

The event was organised by Cllr Dan Rose, representing Buckley Bistre West, who had dedicated several weeks to preparing the Scouts for the occasion. Their preparation involved understanding climate change and crafting questions for the panel.

The event, which is ahead of COP28 starting next month, gave the Scouts a chance to hold their own mini summit on climate change, reflecting the global discussions set for the UAE in November.

Cllr Dan Rose expressed his deep pride in the Scouts, describing them as articulate, well-informed, and deeply committed to climate change.

He noted, “They posed some truly challenging questions, and the panel members were taken by their engagement. I was pleased to see the Scouts’ journey from initial nerves to becoming much more at ease as the event progressed. I’m sure the refreshments played a part! A big thank you to all who backed the event and to the committed Scout Leaders at 1st Bistre Scouts.”

Highlighting the evening was a video message from the respected Welsh Environmentalist and Presenter, Iolo Williams. He conveyed his sincere appreciation to the Scouts for their dedication to environmental conservation. This message underlined the significant impact of the 1st Bistre Scouts’ endeavours.

The 1st Bistre Scouts of Buckley have shown their dedication to the environment and a sustainable future.

The event gave them a platform to voice their concerns and queries to those shaping climate policy in the region. Their enthusiasm and commitment stand as an inspiration to many, with their journey towards a sustainable world keenly observed.

Caergwrle Councillor Dave Healy commented, “Being part of the event and addressing the 1st Bistre Scouts’ questions was a pleasure. They’re an intelligent and involved group, and their thoughtful questions were evident. I was particularly struck by the initiatives some Scouts had already undertaken. Knowing such proactive young individuals are aware of the necessary changes gives me hope for our planet.”

The Scouts’ keenness for climate action drew the attention of Carolyn Thomas, Member of the Senedd for North Wales, who participated in the event virtually from Cardiff. Mrs. Thomas responded to a Scout’s question, emphasising the importance of including the youth in broader climate discussions nationally.

Carolyn remarked, “I was truly impressed by the Scouts’ research depth and the diversity of their questions. It was heartening to witness the next generation addressing the pressing issues we face in the climate and ecological crisis and being actively involved.”

Penyffordd Councillor Alasdair Ibbotson, chair of Flintshire’s Climate Change Committee, shared, “”It was a pleasure to welcome 1st Bistre Scouts and to take their questions.
“Young people deserve to have their voice heard at County Hall, and the quality of the discussion shows how engaged Scouts are with the key issues affecting our community.
“I know that Bistre Scouts will carry on working hard in our community, and I know everyone enjoyed hearing about what they’re doing to make positive changes happen.”

Several other dignitaries, including Cllr Carolyn Preece, Cllr Linda Thomas, and Buckley Town Councillor Emma Preece, supported the event. All were delighted with its success and look forward to similar future events.