During the First Assembly (1999–2003), she was the Shadow Minister for Local Government and Communities and in 2002 she was given additional responsibility for Finance. She was re-elected in May 2003 to serve in the Second Assembly (2003–2007) and was one of twelve members of the Plaid Cymru - The Party of Wales group. Following a Shadow Cabinet reshuffle in November 2003 she became the Shadow Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning. In April 2006, in line with changes made by the Assembly Government this portfolio changed to Education, Lifelong Learning and Skills. Her portfolio included responsibilities for schools, further education and skills development, higher education, the youth service and the careers service.