AMs join forces to fight Remploy closure plans

Two of Bridgend’s leading Labour politicians have united to help workers campaigning to prevent the closure of the Remploy factory at Waterton Industrial Estate in the town.

Assembly Members, Carwyn Jones and Janice Gregory have issued a call for management at the company to think again in a strongly worded letter to the company’s Chief Executive, following meetings with staff at the plant and with Remploy Company Secretary, Guy Phillips.

Carwyn Jones AM (Bridgend) said,

"The Bridgend plant makes components for the automotive industry and still has its major contract in place. There is no question of the plant running short of work and it appears that some of the Remploy factories being kept open in other parts of the country are less viable than Bridgend."

"It provides a valuable training facility, with education taking place in situ, which would be difficult to replicate elsewhere."

Janice Gregory AM (Ogmore) added,

"There are no guarantees that appropriate alternative employment will be available in the area for Remploy employees should the closure be given the go ahead. Many of those that work there flourish at Remploy because of its sheltered nature. To place them outside of the company would cause them to lose the self-confidence that they have worked hard to achieve."

"We believe that the Remploy management need to look again at their modernisation plans. Meaningful engagement with the workers and their trade union representatives as part of an extended consultation period would be a good place to start the process of discussion from."

Take a break: Labour boost for carers in Bridgend

EXTRA support is on its way for disabled children and their families thanks to Welsh Labour.
£1.54m funding will be provided to local authorities in Wales to develop more short break care support services to families.

Short break carers can provide regular support to disabled children, easing the pressure and strain on parents and families. Children can develop new skills, become more confident and make new friends.

Bridgend Labour AM Carwyn Jones said:

‘’This Labour led Assembly Government is delivering on its promise to provide more help to the most vulnerable people in our local community and this extra care support will make a real difference in the lives for those families who really need it.

‘’Short breaks are one of the most frequently requested services by local families of disabled children because they can allow the whole family to live more normal and rewarding lives.

‘’I want to pay tribute to the hundreds of volunteer carers who unselfishly provide short term breaks for disabled children and their families.’’

Commenting on the extra money, the Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas said:

‘’Welsh Labour is committed to providing more care and support to disabled children and their families.

‘’Regular short breaks are a lifeline to some disabled children and their families. It allows the family to take time out to recharge their batteries and for the disabled child to have some fun.’’