Questioning the Communities Secretary, Carl Sargeant AM, I noted that Wales continues to have one of the highest rates of poverty for all age groups, the highest levels of underemployment and the highest percentage of employees not on permanent contracts in the UK.
Responding to his Statement on the Welsh Government’s Child Poverty Strategy, I noted that child poverty levels in Wales remain higher than the UK average and greater than that of other devolved nations.
I also raised with him the need for new secure youth justice placements in North Wales to help offenders reform and find work on release, but he dismissed this.
I questioned the First Minister about the Welsh Housing Quality Standard. Although all social landlords were supposed to have achieved this by 2012, Flintshire and Wrexham had to submit revised business plans to the Welsh Government. Although Flintshire’s tenants were originally told that almost £150m would be needed, Flintshire’s limit for housing related borrowing to meet the Standard was just £25m.
Responding to the Statement on the Additional Learning Needs (Wales) Bill, which proposes to replace the Statement of Special Educational Needs with an Individual Development Plan, I expressed fears that this could result in the rationing of services.
Questioning the Environment Secretary, I raised concern that her Local Air Quality and Noise Management Consultation suggested that assessment should be based on averages across Wales rather than on localised excess pollution suffered particularly by children, older or disabled people.
I highlighted the objectives of December 3rd’s UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities, to deliver greater inclusion for disabled people.
During an Urgent Question on the Post Office Network, I noted the UK Government’s commitment to keeping Post Office branches open.
Responding to the Statement on Human Rights, I stated that human rights are for everyone and that they can also be used to improve services.
Assembly engagements included Chairing the Cross Party Autism Group and attending the National Assembly for Wales Carol Concert.
I visited Mold’s Royal Mail Delivery Office to thank our postmen and women for their hard work at Christmas and throughout the year, and attended St David's and Ty Gobaith Hospices annual 'Celebration of Christmas'.
I wish all readers a Merry Christmas and a happy 2017.
If you need my help, please email [email protected] or ring 0300 200 7217