07 July 2020

Betsan Powys will take the lead in a new series of Pawb a'i Farn as the programme returns to the screen next week.

The announcement comes as S4C launches a new series of the long running programme, following Dewi Llwyd's departure back in November 2019 after 21 years of service.

The first episode will be shown on S4C on Wednesday, July 15 at 9pm. However, to keep up to date with current affairs, programmes will be scheduled as required throughout the year, and deal with topical and pressing issues.

Betsan Powys said: "It is vital that S4C has current affairs programmes scheduled around the year, and it is important to me that communities of all kinds have the opportunity to be heard and seen on the channel. It's vital that we get the chance to debate our story."

The topic in Betsan's first programme will unavoidably be Covid-19.

A traditional audience will not be able to join the conversation live from the studio due to restrictions caused by the pandemic. However, up to 12 guests, including politicians and members of the public, will join Betsan at the Tinopolis studio in Llanelli and by means of technology to discuss and question the effects of Covid-19 on our communities.

"It's going to be difficult and it's going to be challenging. Although the title of the programme is Pawb a'i Farn - not everyone will be in the studio. But it's important that we all remember that everyone's opinion still counts, so the crew is in the process of finding the technical solutions to make sure we can do that in the first programmes."

This is Betsan's first job since stepping down from her role as the Editor of BBC Radio Cymru back in 2018.

"When the offer came, it was not difficult for me to agree. I'm looking forward, and I have to say, the programme's occasional scheduling suits me and the kind of life I live!

"The latest chapter in my life has meant a great deal to me, and I will treasure it forever. It has given me a time where I had no responsibility for anyone other than myself and my family. It's been such a happy period and I appreciate being so lucky to have had a time like this."

What are Betsan's hopes as she takes on the new role of presenting the series?

"Everything I've ever worked towards comes to this point. People and communities need to take this opportunity and make sure that their voices are heard. Instead of pointing a finger, we need to debate our story.

"You want to be somewhere between sharp and lively when presenting Pawb a'i Farn. I hope I'll be insightful, but also hope that I will give the audience the feeling that they can raise a hand and share their opinion and join in the conversation. My job will also be to ask the questions that the audience is looking for the answers to."

ENDS