Clarity needed over our future post-Brexit
ANGLESEY needs clarity and a clear vision following the vote to leave the EU, according to the island’s MP.
Speaking in a special debate in Parliament last week, Albert Owen called for long-term funding commitments for Ynys Môn and a clear plan for the future as the process of leaving the EU gathers momentum.
Whilst accepting the democratic result of the referendum, Mr Owen, a strong advocate of the EU, is fighting to protect the much-needed investment and support that the Island has benefitted from over the years.
Speaking in the debate, Mr Owen said: “I don’t like the word ‘Brexit’, it’s certainly not inclusive and even excludes Northern Ireland, now is the time we have to be positive about the UK’s future outside the EU, which means we must include 100% of our constituents and not just talk about the 52% who voted to leave or the 48% who voted remain.”
“I was shocked, as were many others that David Cameron had no contingency plan in place for the future and so we now find ourselves in a very difficult and challenging position.
“Anglesey and indeed a large part of rural Wales has benefitted hugely from EU support, it is totally wrong for the Conservatives to say this was a waste of money, because the social cohesion this money brought to my constituency, particularly after decades of under- investment, is a testament to the European vision.”
“Anglesey is the ‘ Gateway to Wales’ with close links to the Irish Republic, it’s vital we don’t allow the current uncertainty to impact on the hundreds of jobs this link brings to the Island.
“We need a clear vision for the future, just guaranteeing structural fund support until 2020 is not enough and I want the Welsh Government and others, including rural bodies, to be at the very centre of the decision making process.
“Many of the issues we are talking about are already devolved and I don’t want them to be centralised in Parliament. Finally, we need an assisted areas scheme to replace structural funds, a coherent scheme to help areas in greatest need like North West Wales.”