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Dear Editor,
I read the article on Byron Davies MP's offer to meet steelworkers to discuss job losses with more than a little incredulity. After all, it is the failure to act by his party in Westminster that is partly responsible for those losses. The Conservative Party's refusal to deal with high energy costs, their lack of any tangible action on committing to British steel procurement and getting on with major infrastructure projects such as the Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon, and their ideological opposition to accessing EU funding to help workers losing their jobs, have all let down workers at Tata. But whilst Byron Davies is offering to talk, the Labour Welsh Government in Wales is acting. The Welsh Government has brought together Tata, the Trade Unions, Swansea University, and a range of organisations able to offer practical support to individuals and the business community following the devastating news. It is putting in place tangible steps such as a 'one stop shop' for support and advice for the workforce, and the development of a single coordinated route for vacancies to be communicated. Consideration is being given to up-skilling those workers who will retain their jobs to support the sustainability of Tata in the longer term. The Tata supply chain right across South Wales is being proactively contacted and offered support. Local Health Boards have been involved to support the physical and mental health of affected workers in both the short and longer term. On procurement, Welsh steel market capability and capacity is being explored, including how this aligns with known future project demand. Much here will depend on action from the UK Government, however. I will continue to back all efforts by the Labour Welsh Government to support the long term sustainability of steel making in Wales, to champion the cause of Welsh steel, and to offer tangible, practical help to workers who face losing their jobs. Rebecca Evans AM Welsh Labour Assembly candidate for Gower Comments are closed.
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