Good news on investment and jobs
I was delighted that the Welsh Government were able to confirm investment in Williams Medical Supplies in Rhymney which will see the creation of over 90 new jobs, and other jobs safeguarded in the years ahead.
This is really good news to start the year and the type of investment that my work on the Valleys Taskforce has been trying to encourage.
With the investment in Sharp Clinical in Rhymney last year this is putting us on the map.
Your Valleys – Your Business – Your Community
We hope to build on this encouraging news and on Friday, March 20 I am hosting a Welsh Government event to be held at Ysgol Idris Davies. The event is a breakfast time session from 7.30am to 9.30am and a range of business support organisations will be available to advise on setting up businesses, encouraging business expansion and training and skills opportunities.
I have also asked the head of the valleys taskforce Lee Waters AM to visit Rhymney with Caerphilly Council leader Philippa Marsden and myself as I believe it is time for further action to help make the high street a more attractive environment.
Post Office counters
I continue to work with Gerald Jones MP on a number of local financial services issues. We met Post Office Counters about services in several local communities and hope to see progress in the near future.
We are also still talking to LINK to ensure people have access to a network of free cash withdrawal services.
Council budgets
The Welsh Government has been able to provide local councils like Caerphilly County Borough Council with a better cash settlement for 2020/21 as a result of which the council has been able to postpone a number of cuts they were discussing, and to reduce their council tax increase.
While this is good news we are far from being free of cuts as the UK Treasury is yet to set spending plans for the years ahead. But at least 2020/21 is better than some anticipated.
Advice surgery
Thanks to those people who came to my advice surgery in Rhymney library. As you know I hold regular surgeries across the constituency and you can always contact the office for advice (01685 386672).
Marie Curie – Great Daffodil Appeal
There are always good causes to support but this month can I give a mention to the annual Marie Curie daffodil appeal which was recently launched in the Senedd. I was delighted to support their work around palliative care and I hope you will take the chance to support their collectors if you get the chance. You can also volunteer to help their collection. See mariecurie.org.uk for more information and on twitter @MarieCurieCymru
Dawn Bowden MS – Member of Senedd (as we will be officially known from May onwards)