Caerphilly County Borough Council is to set-up a group to investigate youth unemployment in the area.
The Plaid Cymru-led local authority is in the process of setting up a Task and Finish group which will look at the problem and feed back its findings to the cabinet.
The new group will involve Councillor Mike Prew, the council’s Youth Champion.
Cllr Prew said is very keen to have the input of young people and the council is looking at co-opting young people on the group so they could take part and give their views.
He said: “I will ensure that there are young people on that working group so they can have their voices heard direct which they are very keen to do.”
Commenting on the recent news that 100 apprentices and trainee jobs were being created by the council he added: “With high youth employment becoming more acute, I’m pleased that the council is taking action and providing opportunities for young people.
“It is vital that young people don’t become the victims of policies by the Westminster government. As youth champion I want to ensure our young people are given the opportunities.”
Cllr Prew, who is married with a son and who represents the Morgan Jones ward,was re-elected as the area’s Youth Champion for a third time last year. Working with youngsters and the council, the role is to ensure that young people’s views are considered in council decision-making and that full consideration is given to the impact of council activities.
Recent news reports have stated that there are now more over-65s working than ever before. Regardless of political persuasion each Government has 'forced' more over-65s to work.
Isn't it obvious why the youth cannot find employment?
It's good to see that our Council is seeking ways to further help young people get on the career ladder. Good luck.
Well done Caerphilly Council,our young people deserve a chance of work here.
It's about time that someone in Government, whether local or national, started investing in our youth. I'm glad to see that this Council is doing just that.