Jobs, childcare... the 12 facing Valleys’ residents
to the labour requirements. twice. market Raised
The sustainability of different programmes across the Valleys. Raised twice.
So far, there have been six meetings, with three being open to the public. The most recent of those was chaired by the minister for lifelong learning and Blaenau Gwent AM Alun Davies.
Mr Davies had said previously that valleys communities were “dispirited and under-engaged”, and so it was time to react to the “real world circumstances”.
He joined local residents at the Redhouse in Merthyr to hear about their aspirations for the future of the Valleys and explain how the newlyestablished taskforce can help improve opportunities for people living and working there.
As well as members of the public, it was attended by external members of the taskforce, including Ann Beynon, chair of the Cardiff City Region Board, Coun Andrew Morgan, leader of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Cardiff University professor Brian Morgan and Dr Chris Jones, chair of Cwm Taf University Health Board.
Speaking following the meeting Mr Davies said: “We feel that understanding and awareness of the work of the taskforce is growing and the engagement sessions we’ve held to date have been invaluable in helping to shape our priorities. It is vital however we continue to work with and listen to communities throughout the lifetime of the taskforce.
“From the discussions we’ve had with the public so far, some key themes have emerged.
“These include the importance of linking businesses with local schools to give young people the confidence and skills they need to enter into the world of work and the importance of linking infrastructure like industrial sites, schools, colleges and transport initiatives together, ensuring true connectivity for the Valleys.
“I would urge anyone who feels passionately about where they live to engage with the work of the taskforce and have their say. We’re here to listen and your views will help shape our shared vision for the valleys.”
The next public meeting will be held at Cynon Valley Bowls Club in Mountain Ash from 6pm on February 27, and will be chaired by Alun Davies.
Anyone wanting to attend or submit a question for discussion in advance, can do so via the Welsh Government Facebook page or @WG_Communities on Twitter using the hashtag #TalkValleys.