The Senedd’s presiding officer ruled Joe Martin’s remarks in a Welsh Gender Service debate disorderly and offensive, telling the Reform MS not to repeat such language. Martin called for the service to close and doctors who operated on children to be jailed; it treats adults only.
Martin did not specify which cases he meant. The Welsh Gender Service does not provide care to under-18s, and referrals from it for surgery are paused pending a review.
Huw Irranca-Davies intends to put the ruling on the record at the next available Plenary. Health Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor called Martin’s comments “entirely unacceptable”; Reform Wales said it believed they should be protected as free speech but accepted the ruling. Cardiff and Vale health board said it does not support comments that discriminate against or stigmatise trans patients or communities. The board says its review will seek views from people with relevant experience and expertise and aims to ensure patients continue to receive appropriate, safe and high-quality care.
