Caerphilly MP Wayne David has joined his Labour colleagues in Cardiff Bay in opposing plans to close the Remploy factory in Croespenmaen.
While the factory is in the constituency of Islwyn, Mr David recently visited workers at the plant – many of which come from the Caerphilly constituency.
On his visit, Mr David met a number of school pupils with disabilities and joined them in their work.
He said: “I hope the Government will show sense on this issue. Nobody questions the fact that Remploy needs to modernise and this is happening. But if factories like the one near Crumlin close then this will be bad news indeed.
“Many of the workers would face unemployment and many young people with disabilities will have nothing to look forward to except a life on benefits.”
Remploy was founded in 1945 to offer employment to people with disabilities and makes a wide variety of products.
But a new UK Government report states its £63 million subsidy would be better spent elsewhere.
The Sayce Report – penned by the Royal Association for Disability Rights’ chief executive Liz Sayce – has recommended a support system for individuals working in mainstream jobs.
The Welsh Government has already voiced its opposition to closure.
The Croespenmaen Remploy factory employs a total of 45 staff and manufactures packaging and print products. It first opened its doors in 1986 and this year underwent a massive upgrade with its machines.
Poor, short term, muddled thinking closing Remploy factories which have given employment for more than sixty years. Work is hard to come by, even if you are young and able bodied. The closure of this factory would slam the door on disadvantaged people who will struggle to find alternative work.
"But a new UK Government report states its £63 million subsidy would be better spent elsewhere." Perhaps they are thinking of giving it to the bankers or to the great Euro bail out fund?