Wednesday, February 16th, 2011

Journal Column – 16th February

Despite the recent figures showing that the UK economy fell by 0.5 per cent – a damning result of the Westminster government’s policies – Wales won a top European award for the way we run our economic development policy.

The European Commission’s Regions of Excellence award has been given for the way the Welsh Government, with the help of partnership bodies, successfully implements projects in line with the Europe 2009 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth.  Wales was one of only three European nations and regions to receive the award and is a testament to the leadership of Plaid Cymru’s Deputy First Minister, Ieuan Wyn Jones, who has direct responsibility for the field.

Qualifying for European funding demonstrates that the average income in certain areas of our nation is below the European average.  This is, of course, disappointing, and the ultimate aim for Wales is to no longer require such levels of funding.  In these difficult economic times however, EU funding has become more important than ever to support Welsh jobs and we should not overlook the importance of this funding nor the role it has played in our endeavours to improve the Welsh economy.

Carmarthenshire has benefited from a series of investments to improve our local economy; from the continued investment in Broadband to the recent investment for the creative industries in West Wales which will help build a strong enterprising sector. 

The challenge for Assembly Members and the Welsh Government is to grow our economy and ensure Wales is better placed to not need a fourth round of funding.  To do this it is important we create more employment opportunities locally and continue to safeguard existing jobs.

Plaid in Government has delivered a strong voice for rural Wales and brought much needed investment to the region.  In the face of Westminster’s content in attacking our rural way of life, Plaid will continue to champion west Wales.

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