Keep Safe

“STAY SAFE THIS BONFIRE NIGHT,” SAYS CARL SARGEANT AM
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside is joining the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service in appealing to everyone to help keep Alyn and Deeside injury free during this year’s bonfire night celebrations.
Mr Sargeant said: “North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is advising people that the best way to reduce the number of injuries is by attending organised events. They are asking families planning back garden bonfires and fireworks parties to reconsider and attend a great community bonfire and fireworks display instead. These are the safest type of displays. They have the best facilities, and offer the best value for money by far.
“It is a particular concern that Guy Fawkes celebrations see an increase in the anxiety experienced by older people and pet owners. Think about the older people and pet owners living around you – by attending an organised display you could save them a great deal of stress and upset.
“North Wales Fire and Rescue Service are also reporting that carelessness with sparklers, mainly at private bonfires, account for many of the injuries to the face and hands which they and other emergency service professionals encounter every year. A burning sparkler reaches a temperature of over two thousand degrees centigrade - twenty times the boiling point of water! Sparklers therefore should be treated with extreme care and should never be given to children under five.
"A typical rocket travels at 150mph and a mortar shell will go as high as 200 meters exploding its contents over a wide area so it is common sense to leave fireworks displays in the hands of trained and experienced organisers.”
It is illegal to sell fireworks to anyone under the age of eighteen years old. Many types of fireworks are banned from sale to the public. Throwing fireworks in a public place is also illegal - a fine of up to £5000 awaits anyone convicted.

AM's Support For Campaign

CARL SARGEANT AM BACKS HELP THE AGED CAMPAIGN
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside is throwing his support behind Help the Aged’s new campaign to tackle loneliness and isolation among older people this winter.
Mr Sargeant said: “New research from Help the Aged has revealed that 1.4 million older people in the UK feel socially isolated and nearly 300,000 have gone a full month in the last year without speaking to any family or neighbours. This added to the fact that more than 1.25 million older people are often or always lonely paints a bleak picture of what life is like for many pensioners today.”
In an effort to tackle these issues head-on, Help the Aged is launching a new fundraising campaign called ‘1 is the saddest number’ which aims to help end isolation and loneliness among older people.
Mr Sargeant said: “Feelings of loneliness can be even more acute during traditional holiday times such as Christmas. Help the Aged is aiming to reach out to 25,000 older people across the UK by providing them each with a Christmas meal to enjoy with friends at their local day centre over the festive period. A donation of just £4 will enable Help the Aged to supply such a meal for an older person and the Charity is hoping the public will get behind the campaign to help it raise £100,000 for this cause before the end of the year. I am urging constituents in Alyn and Deeside to help really make a difference this Christmas.”
To donate to the Help the Aged ‘1 is the saddest number’ appeal please call 0207 239 1983 or visit http://www.saddestnumber.org.uk/ where you can find out more information about how your donation will help.

Support For Firebrake Wales

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES LAUNCH OF BONFIRE SAFETY KIT
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed the launch of an education and information kit for children to help keep them safe on bonfire night. The Fire Flash bonfire safety kit has been designed to encourage children to attend organised firework displays and to promote the ‘Never play with Fireworks’ message.Targeted at key stage 1 and 2 pupils the kit has information and activities on bonfire safety. It includes a poster colouring competition for younger children and a poster drawing competition for older children. There is also a booklet about bonfire safety for older kids, bright red reflective ‘Don’t Play With Fireworks’ Stickers and a DVD on bonfire safety.Mr Sargeant said: “I wholeheartedly welcome the launch of this kit which has been produced by Firebrake Wales with £10,000 of funding from the Welsh Assembly Government. It is being distributed by the three Welsh fire and rescue services to primary schools across Wales.“Of course Bonfire Night can be lots of fun, and fireworks are very exciting. However, every year on and around Guy Fawkes night, children are injured in accidents with fireworks and bonfires right across Wales. This safety kit is designed to help children understand the dangers of fireworks and enjoy bonfire night safely by attending an organised display.”

Direct Government Funding for Hospices

AMS WELCOME DELIVERY OF HOSPICE FUNDING PROMISE

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, and Sandy Mewies, AM for Delyn, have welcomed today’s announcement from the Minister for Health that the Assembly Government will deliver on its promise for £2 million for hospices in Wales.This fulfils a Labour pledge made in its most recent budget, and will mark the first time that hospices in Wales have received direct Government funding. The budget found support only from Labour Members. The issue of funding for hospices has been championed by Sandy Mewies AM and Carl Sargeant AM who tabled a joint Statement of Opinion at the National Assembly for Wales calling for the funding.Mr Sargeant said: “By delivering this ground-breaking money for hospices, Labour is sending out a loud message that the role they play in our healthcare system is both valued and supported at the highest levels. This promise is all about making sure that money goes where it is most needed. I am delighted that we have delivered on that promise.”Mrs Mewies said: “The important work of hospices is has up to now been funded solely by voluntary contributions and so it is often a struggle for them to get by and to plan effectively for the future. When it comes to the end of someone’s life, it is crucial that people across the community receive the dignified care they deserve – the sort of care we would all want. I am very pleased by the announcement and hope that hospices start to benefit from this funding as soon as possible.”The funding comes as an interim measure, during which time a full investigation into hospice funding will be undertaken to determine the future of hospice funding in Wales.

AM Welcomes Local School

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES DERWEN FOUNDATION PRIMARY SCHOOL TO ASSEMBLY
Twenty four pupils and their teachers from Derwen Foundation Primary School in Alyn and Deeside have visited their Assembly Member Carl Sargeant at the National Assembly for Wales.The pupils met with Mr Sargeant in the Assembly Chamber’s public gallery, and had a very entertaining question and answer session. Pupils took the opportunity to quiz their AM on a wide variety of questions ranging from what he considered to be the Assembly’s greatest achievements to how he feels during long meetings.Mr Sargeant said: “I really enjoyed meeting with the pupils of Derwen Foundation Primary School and their teachers. Welcoming local groups from Alyn and Deeside to the Assembly is one of the most special parts of my job. It is great to see such an enthusiastic group of young people. Many of their questions showed that they are really clued-up about politics and the Assembly, and I hope the children enjoyed their visit as much as I did.”The children were also treated to a full and interactive guided tour of the Assembly building and the Pierhead building which houses a museum about the Assembly, before spending the afternoon visiting St Fagan’s Museum of Welsh Life and finishing the day with a Disco.

Support for Waste Awareness Wales

CARL SARGEANT AM: “GO GREEN THIS HALLOWEEN”

It’s nearly Halloween, and as thousands of pumpkins across the country go under the knife, Carl Sargeant AM is joining Waste Awareness Wales in challenging constituents to use pumpkins for more than just the fright-factor.Mr Sargeant said: “A carved pumpkin is the centrepiece of any Halloween celebration, but every year the insides are scooped out and thrown in the bin, to be followed soon after by the used pumpkin shell. This year, Waste Awareness Wales is asking people to think a little greener, and see if they can make more use of their Halloween delicacies to reduce the staggering amount of food waste sent to landfill each year. “Much of what is thrown away is perfectly useable, and that is a real waste. By making the most of our food we can help save both the environment and our wallets. So, let’s go green this Halloween!"Tips from Waste Awareness Wales on reducing food waste this Halloween:• Use the flesh of the pumpkin to make warming pumpkin soup, or turn it into pumpkin pies, pumpkin and feta cheese tarts or roasted pumpkin risotto. Pumpkin is also a great replacement for sweet potato – and is much cheaper. • Even the pumpkin seeds can be used – toast them in a dry pan or roast in the oven then keep in an airtight jar. Sprinkle them over soups, pasta, muesli or salads or use them as a healthy snack.For more pumpkin recipe ideas visit http://www.wasteawarenesswales.org.uk/

Boost For Youth Volunteering

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES £800,000 BOOST FOR YOUTH VOLUNTEERING

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the announcement of a package of grants worth over £800,000 to encourage more young people to take up volunteering.The funding will support organisations in developing new volunteering opportunities for young people in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “The Welsh Assembly Government recognises the huge contribution that volunteers make to community life in Wales. We are committed to supporting young people's involvement in their communities, and we have a great deal of admiration and respect for young people in Wales and know that many already volunteer.“This grant package will help organisations provide significant opportunities that challenge young people, meet their aspirations and add value to their communities. “This announcement gives me a great opportunity to pay tribute to the young volunteers who are already helping to improve our communities in Alyn and Deeside. Young people often get a bad press, but there are many, many young people out there making a great contribution to their local communities in the fields of caring, the environment and so on. “I am delighted that there is money set aside in this new package to encourage young people to volunteer who might never have thought of it, or had the opportunity to get involved, before.”

AM Welcomes Climate Change Commission

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES CLIMATE CHANGE COMMISSION
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed this week’s announcement by the Minister for Environment, Sustainability and Housing, that a Climate Change Commission for Wales is to be established.Mr Sargeant said: “There is no escaping the fact that climate change is one of the most important challenges facing the world and tackling it must be a key priority of this Assembly Government. “The challenge is one where we need to build a broad consensus to mobilise action by the public sector, business and voluntary organisations – as well as by individuals and communities right across Wales. “The Commission will engage with diverse groups including the CBI, Welsh Local Government Association, the TUC, the Carbon Trust, Environment Agency for Wales, and the Countryside Council for Wales.“A key early task for the Commission will be to advise on the definition of our target that, by 2011, we should be achieving annual 3% reductions in emissions in areas of devolved competence. “I wish the Commission well, and look forward to its input in developing a meaningful way forward on the issue of climate change.”

AM Support For Campaign

AM STANDS UP AGAINST GLOBAL POVERTY

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside has thrown his support behind the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.Mr Sargeant said: “Two years ago, more than a hundred thousand people in Wales made a stand and campaigned to Make Poverty History. “As a result of the huge public pressure and momentum behind the campaign across the developed world, rich nations promised debt cancellation and increased levels of aid. Much has been done to ease the suffering of people in developing countries, but many of the promises are still yet to be delivered, and levels of global poverty remain unacceptable.“International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is another call to action. We can respond to this both as individuals in terms of our consumer power, and as governments. I would like to thank Oxfam and the TUC Cymru for keeping this issue right at the top of the political agenda in Wales, and for engaging so positively with Assembly Members.”

AM Pays Tribute To All Airbus Workforce

CARL SARGEANT AM HOSTS ASSEMBLY RECEPETION
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed delegations from Airbus UK and EADS to the National Assembly for Wales.Mr Sargeant hosted the reception, where Assembly Members received updates on the business activities of Airbus UK and EADS and had the opportunity to question representatives of the companies and raise matters of interest. At the reception, Mr Sargeant said: “It is fitting that we are meeting together in a landmark week for Airbus UK. On Monday, Airbus handed over its first super-jumbo A380 jet to its new owners Singapore Airlines.
“The past eighteen months have proved to be uncertain times for the Aerospace sector, which only serves to highlight what a significant achievement is being celebrated this week. This also gives me a wonderful opportunity to pay tribute to the work of all the staff involved at the plant in Broughton. The hand-over of the aircraft is a testimony to the world-class skill and dedication of the whole workforce without whom this could never have been achieved. Brian Fleet is entirely correct when he says: “It's people that make Airbus fly. Skilled and motivated people.”
“Of course, this is not the first time that I have welcomed representatives of Airbus to the National Assembly for Wales in the past few weeks. Just two weeks ago I was delighted celebrate with Barry Lewis, Training and Development Manager at Airbus UK Broughton, as he accepted a prestigious Learndirect Achievement Awards on behalf of the company. In conjunction with their partners at Deeside College, Airbus UK offers Learndirect courses, aimed at supporting employees development to meet both their employers needs and their own personal growth requirements. Here again, Airbus UK is a leader in the field.”

Latest Surgery Details

Surgery Details

ALYN and Deeside AM Carl Sargeant will be holding a surgery tomorrow Friday the 20th February at Higher Kinnerton Village Hall at 4.oopm.

Mr Sargeant will also be available at Shotton Community Centre on Saturday the 21st of February betweeen 9.15 am and 10.15am. He will also be available at Connah’sQuay Labour Club from 10.45am to noon.

AM Welcomes Airbus

CARL SARGEANT AM TO HOST AIRBUS UK AND EADS ASSEMBLY RECEPETION

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, will be welcoming delegations from Airbus UK and EADS to the National Assembly for Wales tomorrow.Mr Sargeant will be hosting the reception, where Assembly Members will receive updates on the business activities of Airbus UK and EADS and have the opportunity to question representatives of the companies and raise matters of interest. Mr Sargeant said: “I am delighted to be able to welcome Airbus UK and EADS to the Assembly. Airbus is a major employer in Alyn and Deeside, offering good quality, well-paid, skilled employment to thousands of local people. I am particularly impressed by the apprenticeship opportunities at Airbus, and I was recently thrilled to attend the prestigious Learndirect Achievement Awards 2007 Ceremony at the National Assembly for Wales where Airbus was recognised as a leader in the field of employee learning and training.
“I look forward to the event tomorrow, and to welcoming representatives of Airbus UK and EADS to the National Assembly for Wales.

Crackdown On Fuel Fraud

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES CRACKDOWN ON FUEL FRAUD

Carl Sargeant AM is welcoming a new UK-wide crackdown on the use of red diesel by private motorists.In a series of nationwide operations, HM Revenue and Customs’ detection teams will challenge motorists in a variety of locations from supermarket car parks to filling station forecourts. Tests will show if their vehicles are running illegally on rebated red diesel - intended for off road use - instead of white diesel, the legitimate road fuel. Mr Sargeant said: “With a price difference of around 65p a litre between red and white diesels, many see this as an opportunity to save money. However those using rebated fuels illegally are abusing a tax system which is there to support and reduce the burden on UK industries such as agriculture. It isn't about cheating the Government out of a few pounds; it's about depriving our public services of vital funding. “Fuel fraud is not a so-called ‘victim-less crime.’ About £350m is lost to illicit diesel in the UK annually. Just imagine how that money could be put to use in our hospitals or schools. “I fully welcome this new crackdown, which I hope will make it easier for honest fuel retailers to be able to operate without the threat of unfair competition, and remind drivers to be aware of their responsibilities. “Motorists abusing the system risk penalties or seizure of their vehicle when they are caught out."Anyone who knows of fuel misuse or suspicious activities should contact the HMRC Confidential Hotline by email at customs.confidential@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk, in writing to Freepost Customs Confidential, Freepost SEA 939, PO Box 100, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 2BR or by phone on 0800 59 5000. HMRC is committed to tackling the illicit fuel trade at all points of the supply chain, from smuggling and laundering through to storage, distribution and eventual use.

AM Congratulates Local Workforce

CARL SARGEANT AM PAYS TRIBUTE TO AIRBUS UK BROUGHTON WORKFORCE

On the day that Airbus UK has handed over its first super-jumbo A380 jet to its new owners Singapore Airlines, Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has paid tribute to the work of the 7,000 employees involved at the plant in Broughton.
Mr Sargeant said: “This is a landmark day for the Airbus Broughton workforce. The hand-over of the aircraft is a testimony to the world-class skill and dedication of the workforce here in Broughton, without whom this could never have been achieved. The workforce should be very proud of all that has been achieved.
“The past eighteen months have been uncertain times for the Aerospace sector, which only serves to highlight what a significant achievement is being celebrated today.”
The A380 is able to carry up to 800 passengers. It will be flown to its new home at Singapore's Changi airport on Wednesday. The aircraft's first commercial flight will take place on 25 October, when the A380 takes off for Sydney.

Recycling Boost for County

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES MAJOR BOOST FOR RECYCLING IN FLINTSHIRE
WE NEED to make sure we recycle everything possible said local AM Carl Sargeant as Flintshire received a major funding boost for recycling.
Welsh Labour Environment Minister Jane Davidson has announced a £1,025,531 grant to Flintshire, Denbighshire, and Conwy local authorities for vehicles and equipment to collect and recycle food and kitchen waste. This waste can then be used to generate electricity and produce compost.
Wales’s first ever plastic bottle recycling plant will also be set up in Blaenau Gwent to sort recycle bottles from all over Wales in a further boost to Wales’s green credentials.
Mr Sargeant said: ‘’Welsh Labour was elected on a manifesto that promised action on climate change and recycling and that’s what this extra cash is going to deliver.
‘’Recycling everything possible such as our kitchen and food waste will produce clean and renewable energy.
‘’This extra money for recycling in Alyn and Deeside is going to help local people who want to do their bit for the environment and create a greener environment for us all to enjoy.
‘’Thanks to record investment the Labour led Assembly Government has already smashed this year’s recycling target and is on course to make sure 40% of waste is recycled by 2010.’’

AM Supports Plan

CARL SARGEANT AM SUPPORTS HOME SPRINKLER PLAN
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has spoken out on the Assembly Chamber about his delight that his Labour colleague Ann Jones AM has brought forward a proposal for a legislative competence Order which would give the Assembly the power to require all new build homes to be fitted with sprinkler systems.
During a debate on the subject, Mr Sargeant told the Chamber: “I speak with some experience as a trained firefighter. I received training from North Wales, Lancashire and Gloucestershire fire and rescue services. If you have not experienced the pain and devastation that fire can cause, not just to personal property but to the persons themselves, it is an awful lot to take in.”
Mr Sargeant called the proposal “very forward looking” and pledged to give all the support he could.
Mr Sargeant also took the opportunity to acknowledge the excellent work of North Wales Fire and Rescue Service: “In terms of recognising the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service for its proactive work on community safety, we should note that it has shown a new way forward by focusing on fire prevention and working in the homes of the vulnerable and the elderly. I have seen the good work that the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service does in Deeside. I welcome that and long may it continue.”

AM Welcomes Local School

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES SOUTHDOWN PRIMARY SCHOOL TO ASSEMBLY
Twenty eight pupils and their teachers from Southdown Primary School in Buckley have visited their Assembly Member Carl Sargeant at the National Assembly for Wales.The pupils met with Mr Sargeant in the Assembly Chamber’s public gallery, and had a very entertaining question and answer session. Pupils took the opportunity to quiz their AM on a wide variety of questions ranging from what he considered to be the Assembly’s greatest achievements to the hardest decisions he has had to make. Mr Sargeant said: “I really enjoyed meeting with the pupils of Southdown Primary School and their teachers. Welcoming local groups from Alyn and Deeside to the Assembly is one of the most special parts of my job. It is great to see such an enthusiastic group of young people. Many of their questions showed that they are really clued-up about politics and the Assembly, and I was impressed in particular by their clear interest in the eco-friendly aspects of our new Senedd building. I hope the children enjoyed their visit as much as I did.”The children were also treated to a full and interactive guided tour of the Assembly building and the Pierhead building which houses a museum about the Assembly, before spending the afternoon visiting the Millennium Stadium.

Making Communities Safer

AM BACKS TOUGH ACTION ON ARSON
Local AM Carl Sargeant has welcomed Welsh Labour Social Justice Minister Brian Gibbons’ announcement of a £2.5m fund over the next three years for the Arson Reduction Team in North Wales.
A major new drive to reduce arson attacks in Alyn and Deeside and protect local schools against fires in underway thanks to the Labour led Assembly Government.
The teams are made up of police and fire service personnel who use educational and crime prevention measures to reduce arson attacks, such as deliberate school fires. The extra money will allow the teams to undertake a full crime reduction survey of local schools and offer grants for extra fire protection.
Since the Arson Reduction Teams were set up in 2005 there has been a 30% reduction in deliberately set fires attended by the Fire and Rescue service of Wales – saving the Welsh economy almost £24m.
Mr Sargeant said: ‘’Welsh Labour is on the side of local parents, teachers and pupils with our zero tolerance approach on arson.
‘’Extra funding for the Arson Reduction Teams will cut the number of arson attacks and prevent the devastating impact arson attacks can have.
‘’Arson attacks on schools cause widespread damage and disruption to our students and local community.
‘’The local Arson Reduction Team will be able to undertake a crime reduction survey of local schools and offer funding for security measures like secure fencing and secure bin storage.
‘’Thanks to Welsh Labour’s tough action on arson attacks our communities and schools are much safer.’’

Support For Fair Trade

“LET’S ACHIEVE A WORLD FIRST IN FAIR TRADE,” SAYS CARL SARGEANT AM
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is backing the campaign to make Wales the world’s first ever Fair Trade Nation by the end of the year.Mr Sargeant said: “There is already a huge amount of support for fairly traded goods in Wales, and a lot of work is being put into the race to become the world’s first Fair Trade Nation. We all have a part to play in achieving that status. For example, 75% of people in Wales need to be buying a Fair Trade product every year, with 40% of people regularly buying Fair Trade products.“Locally, Deeside College is leading the way by becoming the first college in Wales to achieve Fair Trade status. Staff and students have worked tremendously hard over the past year to promote Fair Trade on the campus, and I am very pleased that Welsh Baccalaureate students also study Fair Trade in more detail in the Wales, Europe and the World module of their qualification.“Fair Trade has demonstrated its potential to help producers improve their livelihoods, strengthen their businesses and benefit their communities, but compared with what is needed in the poorer countries of the world, we’ve really only begun to make a dent in the struggle against poverty and unfair trade. The use of Fair Trade products in Wales is helping thousands of developing country farmers and producers to trade their way out of poverty, and I want to see that increase significantly year on year. Our simple buying decisions can make a real difference. Let’s all make the change to fairly traded goods, and make Wales the world’s first Fair Trade Nation.”

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

CARL SARGEANT AM BACKS CARBON MONOXIDE AWARENESS WEEK
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is throwing his support behind Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, which runs from 15th – 21st October 2007.Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning, usually the result of poorly maintained boilers or other domestic appliances, is thought to kill 50 people in Britain every year and death rates are rising. Carbon monoxide blocks the body's ability to carry oxygen and poisoning from the gas can happen in minutes or over a period of time depending on the amount of carbon monoxide in the air.Mr Sargeant said: “Most people will not realise that carbon monoxide is the most common poison in the UK today. Also alarming is the fact that a recent report by CORGI showed that Wales is the second most at risk 'hot spot' for carbon monoxide poisoning across the UK, and the results of a consumer survey showed that participants in Wales were the worst at being able to tell whether their gas appliance is working safely.“If your home has even one fuel-burning appliance in your home, you should purchase a carbon monoxide detector. Detectors are cheap and are widely available, and could save your life and that of your family.”Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:• Mild headache • Dizziness• Nausea • Vomiting • Fatigue • Drowsiness • Coma and death

Wales Leads The Way

NEW CURRICULUM FOR ALYN AND DEESIDE’S SCHOOLS

Alyn and Deeside’s schoolchildren are set to benefit from a new and improved learning experience thanks to the Labour led Assembly Government’s new school curriculum.
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant has welcomed Welsh Labour Education Minister Jane Hutt’s plans for a distinctive Welsh curriculum. The revised curriculum for 3-19 year olds will begin in September 2008 and comes after four years of expert, public and local consultation.
The new curriculum will:
• Transform early years education through the Foundation Phase, 3 – 7 year olds will learn from interactive educational play inside and outside the classroom• Focus on developing children’s key skills in key subjects from the age of seven including communication, numeracy and information technology skills• Offer a full range of personal and social education to cover diet, health, sustainable living and active citizenship Mr Sargeant said: ‘’I am delighted that once again Welsh Labour is taking the lead on transforming education for children in Alyn and Deeside.
‘’Welsh Labour is committed to meeting the aspirations of our young people and this new curriculum will equip our schoolchildren with the skills they will need later in life.
‘’This new education plan will transform early years education and will ensure that from the age of seven our children will be equipped with the personal, social and new technology skills they need for the twenty-first century.
‘’The Foundation phase will move early years education away from a rigid desk and blackboard style of teaching and will help young children to develop their speaking and listening skills.
‘’This new curriculum and Welsh Labour’s promise to end child poverty by 2020 proves that Welsh Labour has the ideas, vision and commitment to make sure every child in Alyn and Deeside reaches their full potential.’’

Facing The Challenges

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES RECORD RECYCLING

WALES has smashed its targets for recycling waste and Flintshire is well its way to take up the challenge of tackling climate change said local Labour AM Carl Sargeant.
Alyn and Deeside AM Carl Sargeant has congratulated Flintshire local authority for improving its recycling record. The Labour led Assembly Government's drive to reduce the amount of rubbish sent to landfill sites is proving a success and is cutting local carbon emissions. Across Wales the amount of waste recycled or composted has increased to 27 per cent in 2007, beating this year’s target of 25 per cent. In 1999 only seven per cent of Welsh rubbish was being recycled.Mr Sargeant said: ‘’Welsh Labour is helping Flintshire local authority to deliver more recycling schemes to make it easier for people to do their bit for the environment.‘’Achieving over 33 percent recycling and composting rates in Alyn and Deeside is something we should all be proud of. It is further proof that local people are continuing to rise to the challenge of climate change by recycling more.‘’These figures show that messages about recycling are working and that people in Alyn and Deeside are changing the way they think about waste and want to play their part in tackling climate change.‘’Welsh Labour is committed to a cleaner and greener Wales. The Labour led Assembly Government’s next target is to recycle or compost 40 per cent of waste in Wales by 2010. I am more than confident that the people of my constituency are up to the challenge.’’

AM Congratulates Local School

CARL SARGEANT AM CONGRATULATES SCHOOL ON PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is congratulating Rector Drew Voluntary Aided Junior School in Hawarden on achieving the Basic Skills Agency’s prestigious Quality Mark.
To be awarded the Quality Mark, a school has to meet minimum standards in the teaching of literacy and numeracy. A school must demonstrate that it meets 10 elements, including having a whole school strategy, assessing and reviewing pupil performance, having a target for improvement of the school’s performance and involving parents in developing their children’s basic skills.
The Quality Mark is based on a partnership with Local Authorities and is awarded to a school for three years. [A school can apply to renew it after the three years]. Local Authorities assess schools for the award and monitor the school once it has received the Quality Mark.
Mr Sargeant said: “In Wales, the Welsh Assembly Government, as part of its National Strategy for Basic Skills, has set a target that all schools and post 16 organisations with basic skills programmes will gain the Quality Mark this year. We are well on the way to achieving this.
“I am delighted that Rector Drew Voluntary Aided Junior School in Hawarden is the latest school to join other places of learning in Alyn and Deeside in achieving the Quality Mark. This is a real testimony to the work of teachers, parents, governors, and, of course, pupils. They deserve our wholehearted congratulations. Keep up the good work!”
For further information about the Quality Mark, visit http://www.basic-skills-wales.org/ .

Latest Homelessness Statistics

CARL SARGEANT AM GIVES CAUTIOUS WELCOME TO LATEST HOMELESSNESS STATISTICS
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has given a cautious welcome to the latest homelessness in Wales figures, released today.The latest quarterly statistical release presents information collected from local authorities about their actions under the homelessness legislation for the period April to June 2007 together with comparisons with figures for earlier periods.These latest figures state that there were 1,604 households accepted as homeless by local authorities during the April to June 2007 quarter - 4 per cent lower than the previous quarter and 15 per cent lower than the same quarter a year earlier. The number of households accommodated temporarily at the end of June 2007 was 3,089. This was 2 per cent lower than the previous quarter but less than 1 per cent higher than the same quarter a year earlier. By the end of June 2007, there were 321 households in Bed and Breakfast accommodation, a fall of 36 per cent since the same quarter the previous year. Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly has taken the challenge of tackling homelessness very seriously. We have created a National Homelessness Strategy for Wales, and these figures show that our strategy is working. Homelessness in Wales is falling.“However, we will not be complacent. It is important for the Assembly to remember that the fact that the overall trend of homelessness is falling is of no comfort to those individuals and families who are currently without a home. Homelessness can shatter lives and puts great stress on individuals and families, so we must keep this issue at the top of the agenda, and continue looking at ways in which to tackle and prevent homelessness.“Also, we must remember that these figures do not include the rough-sleepers who are at the really sharp end of homelessness. We must continue to explore ways to help and engage with rough-sleepers.

Information on Payment Arrangements

CARL SARGEANT AM HIGHLIGHTS PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS DURING ROYAL MAIL STRIKE

The Communications Workers Union (CWU) has announced further strike action, in the form of two 48-hour strikes, from lunchtime on Thursday 4th – lunchtime on Saturday 6th October, and from the early hours of Monday 8th – early hours Wednesday 10th October. This will be followed by an unspecified programme of weekly strikes, starting week commencing October 15th, until the resolution of the dispute.Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is keen to ensure that constituents are able to receive payments from the Department of Work and Pensions with minimum disruption.Mr Sargeant said: “The vast majority of DWP customers have their payment made directly into a bank or building society account. These payments will not be affected and will be paid into accounts as normal. However, customers who are paid by cheque will not receive their payment through the post to their home address during the dispute. Instead, cheques will be sent by courier to the Post Office nearest to their home address, as identified by Post Office Ltd. “These arrangements are a temporary measure designed to protect customers from what could otherwise be a significant impact of the dispute. When the strike has finished, cheques will be sent as normal. “Constituents should be aware that, from 4th October 2007, customers can find out which Post Office their cheque has been sent to by phoning 0845 600 4271 or from the Post Office website http://www.postoffice.co.uk.”When customers collect their cheques from the Post Office, they must ensure that they have proof of their identity.

www.childtrustfund.gov.uk

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES CHILD TRUST FUND ANNOUNCEMENT

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside is celebrating the announcement that the number of children with a Child Trust Fund now exceeds three million.Mr Sargeant said: “I am delighted that, thanks to Labour’s Child Trust Funds, there are now three million children in Britain who are guaranteed a financial asset at 18, regardless of their background. Child Trust Fund accounts are actively being opened by around three in four parents; the remainder will have an account opened for them by the Government to ensure that no child misses out. The scheme is already tremendously popular, but I would like to see more families to engage with it.“Child Trust Funds were launched to strengthen the savings habit of future generations, promote financial education, and ensure that at the age of 18 every child has access to a financial asset.“Further information is available to parents on the Child Trust Fund website http://www.childtrustfund.gov.uk/, including practical tools such as an account chooser - to help parents select the right account for their child - and a CTF calculator - to help parents work out what the account could be worth.”The CTF was introduced for all children born in the UK on or after 1 September 2002, with a £250 voucher from the Government to start off each child's account, and a further £250 paid into the account at age 7. Children from lower-income households receive an extra £250 top-up at birth and at age seven. The latest figures show that the total number of accounts opened is 3.02 million.

Respect for All

CARL SARGEANT AM DEMANDS DIGNITY IN CARE

Carl Sargeant AM is backing new action plan to improve respect for older people.
Respecting the dignity of older people must be part of local strategies for improving the health, social care and well-being of local people said Alyn and Deeside AM Carl Sargeant today to mark the International Day of Older People (Monday, October 1st 2007).
The Labour led Assembly Government has launched a major new drive to ensure older people are given the respect they deserve and that their dignity is protected.
Wales’s first Dignity in Care strategy will include:
• A Local Action plan to promote dignity and respect for older people in health and social care services• Raising awareness of the need to respect older people’s dignity and of existing standards already in place. A regional event will take place to highlight this within the local NHS and social services• Ensuring all organisations with an interest in older people work together to improve care and support for older people • A review of staff training to ensure it includes dignity issues explicitly • Reporting on best practice across Wales and identifying areas that need further attention
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant said:‘’Welsh Labour wants a health and care system where there is zero tolerance of abuse and disrespect of older people. ‘’Many staff in our care services take excellent care of our older people and give them the respect they deserve. Welsh Labour wants to see no exceptions.‘’This new action plan will ensure that good practice is taken on board and that improved staff training take place in hospitals and care homes. Labour Deputy Minister for Social Services Gwenda Thomas said: ‘’With the upcoming appointment of Wales’s first ever Commissioner for Older People, Wales is recognised as a world leader on older people’s issues but we must do more. ‘’Welsh Labour believes older people in Wales should never be subject to abuse and should be treated with respect. We want to create a situation where people in Wales are as outraged by disrespect for and abuse of older people as they are at the abuse of children.’’

AM Welcomes Changes

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES MORE MONEY AND NEW HOLIDAY FOR MILLIONS OF WORKERS

Carl Sargeant AM is welcoming today’s increases in the minimum wage and the minimum annual leave entitlement.
Mr Sargeant said: “More than 60,000 workers in Wales and more than a million workers across the UK will see their hourly rate of pay increase from today, while two million others will benefit from extra holiday entitlement.
“Today, the adult minimum wage is going up to £5.52 an hour, while the hourly rates for 18-21 year olds and 16-17 year olds increase to £4.60 and £3.40 respectively.
“The minimum statutory paid leave entitlement also goes up today, rising from 4 weeks to 4.8 weeks. This means that as of next week, all full time workers in Wales will get at least 24 days holiday a year. Leave will increase again in April 2009 to 5.6 weeks, as the second stage of the increase comes into effect, eventually leaving full-time employees with a minimum of 28 days holiday a year. That is absolutely great news for millions of workers.
“As a Labour man, I believe that the introduction of the National Minimum Wage is one of the Labour Party’s finest achievements. At the last general election, Labour pledged “a rising minimum wage” and today’s increase demonstrates our continuing commitment to tackling poverty pay. It is right that at a time when our economy is strong we should continue to help those who get paid the least.
"I want everyone to be aware of the rights they have in the workplace, as a step towards ending unfair treatment and discrimination. Anyone who believes they are not being paid the minimum wage that they are entitled to can call the National Minimum Wage hotline, 0845 600 678 for advice or for the National Minimum Wage Team to investigate. "
ENDS