TUC Cymru is the voice of Wales at work, bringing workers together through 48 affiliated unions to campaign for better jobs and a more equal and prosperous country. Established over half a century ago in 1974, TUC Cymru campaigns on behalf of trade unionists across Wales, and the role of President sits at the heart of that work.
Runeckles takes on the role at a significant moment for Welsh politics, following the 2026 Senedd elections which saw Plaid Cymru replace Labour as the largest party for the first time. Runeckles made the decision to stand for President as she believes she has “the skills and experience necessary to help TUC Cymru, alongside the General Secretary and brilliant staff, to develop the new relationships necessary for us to stay relevant and for our priorities to be delivered”.
She takes over from the Laura Doel, who vacated the presidency upon her election as TUC Cymru General Secretary. Runeckles brings substantial experience to the role, having been involved in the Labour movement in Wales for nearly 30 years. She’s currently the National Officer for FDA Cymru | Wales, where she supports members in the Welsh Government, Estyn, the Wales Office, the Senedd Commission, Transport for Wales, the National Library of Wales and the National Museums and Galleries of Wales as well as civil servants in the Ministry of Defence across the UK. Prior to joining the FDA two years ago, she spent her career either working in Welsh Government or for the Wales TUC (TUC Cymru)
Following her election, Runeckles said: “I look forward to the opportunity to work with TUC Cymru General Secretary Laura Doel, Vice President Jess Turner, and the staff of TUC Cymru to ensure that we can build strong relationships with the new political leadership and make sure our voice is heard at this crucial time for all of our members.”
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