AM Voices His Concerns

CARL SARGEANT AM ALARMED BY CHILDHOOD DEPRESSION RATES

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is expressing alarm at new figures revealed by a Children’s Society survey which found that more than quarter of children aged between 14 and 16 reported that they felt depressed. Mr Sargeant said: “I have written to the Health Minister expressing my concerns and asking the Minister to explore how we can help Mums and Dads recognise the signs of depression in their children. Parents need to know where they can turn to for advice and support. “We also need to have the right support networks in place for the young people themselves. The Assembly Government recently published our strategy for school-based counselling across Wales, which I believe is a very positive step in the right direction.“The emotional wellbeing of children and young people is of utmost importance. Growing up today comes with a whole host of emotional, social, and psychological stresses and pressures, and the Assembly Government needs to take a lead in addressing this.”

Latest NHS Patient Waiting Times

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES NHS WAITING TIMES STATS

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the latest monthly statistical release relating to waiting times in the NHS, published today. The statistics show that the number of patients waiting over 22 weeks on the inpatient/day case list fell over the month from 2,839 to 5. The number waiting over 22 weeks on the outpatient list fell over the month from 5,565 to 0. Mr Sargeant said: “We know that swift diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes for patients. Shorter waiting times are also key to reducing the stress, anxiety and uncertainty that can set in if there is a long wait for specialist care. “I am delighted by the news that no one in Wales is currently waiting more than 22 weeks for an outpatient appointment. That is a significant achievement and a testament to both the Assembly Government’s sound management of the NHS in Wales and the hard work of those working in the NHS. “Our aim is to also get the number of people waiting more than 22 weeks on the inpatient/day case list down to nil too – and we are nearly there. These latest figures are good news.”

AM Welcomes Changes

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES CHANGES TO SUSTAINABLE HOMES CODE

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the news that, in the future, social housing tenants in Alyn and Deeside can expect to have cheaper fuel bills. The Minister for Environment, Housing and Sustainability has announced that, from now on, all new housing funded by the Social Housing Grant is required to meet Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. It is also the Assembly Government’s intention to move towards Code Level 4 and 5 as soon as possible.Mr Sargeant said: “More energy efficient housing will mean cheaper bills for residents, which is obviously welcome news.“Our commitment to building more sustainable low carbon homes is also part of our strategy to decrease our carbon emissions in Wales. We are looking at ways to address the issues of climate change right across every government portfolio.”

AM Support For Free Home Fire Safety Check

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES TAKE-UP OF FIRE CHECKS

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the news that thousands of people across North Wales are taking advantage of the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service's free home fire safety checks.A total of 26,154 residents had the checks in the last financial year. So far in 2008, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service have also received almost 7000 requests for the service through the all - Wales freephone telephone number.Mr Sargeant said: “These new figures are encouraging. They show that people are taking the fire safety in the home seriously. “When you arrange a free home fire safety check, a member of the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service will visit you at home to offer fire safety hints and tips. They will help you formulate a fire escape plan in case of a fire, and if necessary, will fit new smoke alarms. All this is totally free of charge. The service is available for all residents in North Wales, and it has already saved lives by preventing fires in the home.“I am encouraging as many constituents as possible take up this chance to have a free fire safety check.”To register for a check, call 0800 169 12334, e-mail cfs@nwales-fireservice.org.uk or visit http://www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk/.

AM Support for UNESCO

AM HIGHLIGHTS UNESCO WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY
May 3rd is UNESCO World Press Freedom Day. The Day exists to recognise the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom of the press and to put pressure on the numerous countries that continue to deny their citizens this basic human right.As the intergovernmental organisation with a constitutional mandate to "promote the free flow of ideas by word and image", UNESCO observes World Press Freedom Day to highlight the importance of press freedom and the fundamental human right of freedom of expression.Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, said: “World Press Freedom Day serves as an occasion to inform people of violations of press freedom - a reminder that in dozens of countries around the world, publications are censored, fined, suspended and closed down, while journalists, editors and publishers are harassed, attacked, detained and even murdered as they try to bring people news.“Press freedom is considered to be a cornerstone of human rights and a guarantee of other freedoms. It encourages transparency and good governance. Freedom of the press is also a bridge of understanding and knowledge between nations and cultures.”

AM Welcomes Public Consultation

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES FISHERIES CONSULTATION

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming a public consultation on the Assembly Government’s proposals for a “Welsh Fisheries Zone.” The plans would see more of the seas around Wales under the authority of the Welsh Assembly Government.
Currently the Welsh Assembly Government is responsible for fisheries up to 12 nautical miles from the shore. The proposal by the Assembly Government is for a Welsh Fisheries Zone that will give responsibility for fisheries management and enforcement functions off the Welsh coast, up to the median lines between Wales, northern Ireland, England, Isle of Man and the Republic of Ireland. Median line is the half way point between two coastlines, for example between Wales and Ireland. This area is currently the responsibility of Defra.
Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly Government is bringing forward these proposals to simplify what is currently a very complex patchwork of fisheries legislation off the Welsh coast. A clearer system would make enforcement of the legislation far easier, and would also make things much clearer for those involved in commercial fishing, and who will be able to carry out their work with greater confidence.”The Assembly Government will be going out to consultation on this proposal shortly.

Talks With Deputy Minister

CARL SARGEANT AM MEETS WITH DEPUTY MINISTER

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has today met with the Deputy Minister for Regeneration to discuss the issues that fall under the Deputy Minister’s portfolio as they relate to Alyn and Deeside.
Mr Sargeant called for the meeting with the Deputy Minister because, whilst Flintshire has seen record investment and economic growth, these successes mask some pockets of deprivation.
Mr Sargeant said: “I had a helpful meeting with the Minister where we discussed a wide range of regeneration issues, with particular emphasis on the Assembly Government’s innovative and positive Communities First programme in Higher Shotton.
“We also explored how Business Eye Wales could offer local firms and would-be entrepreneurs in Alyn and Deeside the support they need to create jobs and bring about economic regeneration in those areas of our community which are currently underperforming economically. “Furthermore, I took the opportunity to reaffirm my commitment to fighting to keep viable Post Offices open across our constituency.”

AM 's Support For ASD

CARL SARGEANT AM HAILS NEW AUTISM STRATEGY

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed toady’s Assembly Government announcement of new wide-ranging efforts to tackle autism and improve services for those who are affected by the condition.Mr Sargeant said: “I am proud and excited that Wales is the first country in the world to have established a cross-cutting national strategic action plan for ASD. Our Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Strategic Action Plan will help the estimated 30,000 people that are either directly or indirectly affected by Autism in Wales.“It is vital that we ensure that people with ASD are supported and given the opportunity to fulfil their potential. That is why our ASD Strategic Action Plan will address the needs of people of all ages, and involve all agencies such as housing, health, education and social services. It will also involve not only the individuals with ASD, but also their families/carers in the decision making process.“This is another “World first” for Wales, and I am pleased that the Assembly Government is committed to backing its Strategy with appropriate financial resources.”

AM Welcomes Commisoner

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES NEW VOICE FOR OLDER PEOPLE

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is wishing Wales’ Commissioner for Older People well ash she takes up her new role this week.
The Commissioner – believed to be the first position of its kind in the world – will protect and strengthen the rights of older people in Wales.
Carl Sargeant AM said: ‘’Thanks to a better health service and healthier lifestyles more of us are living longer and healthier lives – but we need action to safeguard the rights of older people.
‘’The Assembly Government promised to create a role for a Commissioner for Older People in Wales as we think it is vital to involve older people in making the policies and decisions that affect their daily lives.
‘’The new Commissioner will look at ways of improving the services that the Assembly Government and NHS provide older people and will be a champion for older people across Wales. She will ensure that older people who are struggling to make ends meet or who may be suffering from abuse or neglect are given the voice they need to protect their rights.
“I wish the Commissioner for Older People well as she embarks upon her new and important role.”

AM's Support For Waste Awareness Week

CARL SARGEANT AM SUPPORTS REAL NAPPY WEEK

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is throwing his support behind Waste Awareness Wales and Sustainable Wales’ Real Nappy Week, which runs from 21st to 27th April 2008.
The campaign aims at encouraging new Mums and Dads to try using real nappies on their babies, rather than disposable ones, because for every potty trained child in Wales, around 5,000 disposable nappies will have been sent to landfill. A switch to real nappies will help save the environment – and parents’ wallets.
Mr Sargeant said: “Real nappies have changed beyond recognition in recent years. There are no longer any safety pins to contend with. Real nappies now come in bright patters, are shaped like disposable nappies, fasten with poppers or fabric, and are easy to wash. Moreover, with savings of up to £500 for the first child, they are not just good for the environment, but great for the pocket too.
Real Facts on Real Nappies:• In Wales 200 million disposable nappies are thrown away each year – 400 nappies every minute • A potty trained baby will have got through 4,000-6,000 nappies • Using real nappies can be up to half the cost of disposables – and they can be reused with subsequent children to save even more • Families with one baby could cut their waste in half by choosing to use real nappies • One baby’s disposable nappies from its nappy years will fill around 156 black rubbish

AM Welcomes Plans

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES NEW SCHOOL TRANSPORT PLANS
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming new plans from the Welsh Assembly Government to improve school transport in Wales.The draft Learner Travel (Wales) Measure seeks to improve safety on school transport by tackling unacceptable behaviour. Local authorities will be asked to explore using CCTV cameras and escorts on school buses. Mr Sargeant said: “As well as improving safety on school transport, we are proposing to open up the free school transport scheme to include more pupils. The Measure will make school transport free for primary school children who live two miles or more from their nearest school. At present the law is three miles from the age of eight.“I am also pleased that the measure proposes to allow local authorities to make changes to school start times in order to make the school transport arrangements more effective, efficient or environmentally stable.”The Assembly Government aims to have the main provisions in place for the start of the academic year in 2009.

AM Welcomes Debate

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES LIBRARIES DEBATE

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming today’s debate in the Assembly Chamber on libraries in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “Creating a network of Welsh libraries fit for the twenty first century is a priority for the Assembly Government, so I am pleased that it is being debated in the Chamber.“The significant Assembly Government investment of recent years is really paying off, with Wales’ new and modernised libraries, such as Saltney Library, attracting more and more people to use them. Wales has the highest proportion of active public library members in the UK, at a quarter of the population are currently members. Library users across Wales make a whopping 14.5 million visits to the library each year. That’s quite an achievement.“Of course, libraries are also important centres of information for the community, and a hive of activity, hosting a variety of local groups such as mother and toddler, reading groups, book clubs and providing ICT computer training for people who want to develop new skills. With the right investment and vision, our libraries can continue to go from strength to strength.”

Support for www.welshbacks.com

“DON’T TAKE BACK PAIN LYING DOWN,” SAYS CARL SARGEANT AM

Carl Sargeant, Assembly Member for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting a website which offers guidance and advice to people suffering from back pain. The web site sponsored by the NHS and the Assembly’s Health Challenge Wales gives smart advice to back pain sufferers with an aim to encouraging quicker recovery rates.
Carl Sargeant AM said: “'Welsh Backs is a joint initiative developed in response to Health Challenge Wales - the nation's challenge to improve health. Welsh Backs aims to reduce the physical burden faced by over two thirds of the population of Wales who will at some time suffer from back pain. Welsh Backs is based on similar initiatives in Scotland and Australia that have been successful in changing beliefs about back pain.
“The website has lots of information and practical tips for back pain sufferers, as well as information to help employers support their workers who are experiencing back pain.”
• Back pain will affect nearly 80% of us during our lives – probably more than once.• Back pain is rarely serious and there are lots of things you can do to manage your pain. • For more advice contact your employers occupational health service, your GP or visit the website www.welshbacks.com

Local School Visits The Assembly

YSGOL Y BRYN PUPILS VISIT ASSEMBLY

The Welsh Assembly has welcomed a group of special guests today - all pupils and staff from Ysgol y Bryn in Shotton, Alyn and Deeside.The group were spending two days in Cardiff. Yesterday they visited Cardiff Castle.The pupils were treated to a full and interactive guided tour of the Assembly building and the Pierhead building which houses a museum about the Assembly. Mr Sargeant said: “I delighted that pupils and staff from Ysgol y Bryn were able to make the trip down to Cardiff learn more about what Assembly Members do and about how our Assembly in Wales works. They have had a packed and exciting programme over their two day visit to the capital, and I hope that everyone has had a fun and interesting trip.”After their visit to the Assembly, the staff and pupils headed off for an afternoon at Techniquest, the interactive science museum.

AM 's Support For Campaign

CARL SARGEANT AM HIGHLIGHTS WASTE AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting new figures from Waste Awareness Wales which show that a staggering 4.4 million whole apples are being thrown away untouched every day by households in the UK with fruit and vegetables making up a huge 40 per cent of food waste.
The figures also show that on average each day every household in Wales throws out one portion of fruit or vegetables – contributing to the staggering £400million of food we throw out every year. The most common fruit and vegetables which are thrown out are apples, potatoes, bananas, tomatoes and oranges.
Mr Sargeant said: “We all know the importance of eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, but by throwing away so much of the fresh fruit and vegetables we buy, we are failing to get the nutritional benefits and our good intentions go to waste along with the food. It also means that we are throwing money away too. “Unless we are composting at home, the food we waste ends up on our landfill sites. As it rots, the wasted food creates methane, a greenhouse gas, which contributes towards climate change. So, by taking steps to reduce our fresh food waste we are not only saving money and living a healthier lifestyle, but we are also doing our bit to look after the environment too.”Top tips from Waste Awareness Wales on keeping fruit and vegetables fresher for longer: • Keep tomatoes in the fridge to keep them firm and fresher for longer. Try keeping them in a loosely tied bag to keep them even firmer. • Potatoes should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place – keeping them in a vegetable bag retains freshness. They can even be stored in a bag in the fridge if you have room. • A fruit bowl isn’t the best place for apples – keep them in the fridge. Those with sensitive teeth may want to bring them to room temperature before eating. • Always store broccoli in the fridge – otherwise it tends to soften and go yellow quickly. Keeping it in a vegetable bag will help it stay fresher for longer. • Lemons and peppers are best kept in a bag in the fridge – this way they retain more moisture so stay fresher for longer.ENDS EDITORS NOTES:

Support For Keep Wales Tidy

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES £3M FOR “TIDY TOWNS”

Faced with the prospect that Wales’ litter and waste clean up bill could soon top £50 million, Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the news that a Welsh Assembly Government funded initiative is underway to tackle problem hot spots.
The £3 million ‘Tidy Towns’ programme aims to strategically empower the people of Wales to take responsibility for the quality of their local environment. This will be delivered by encouraging community groups to adopt known black-spots and, with professional support from Keep Wales Tidy project officers, help to restore them to their former glory.
Mr Sargeant said: “The intention is that this project will be community-led. In addition to regular clean ups, communities could undertake more creative projects such as developing community gardens, improving disabled access or promoting waste amnesties.
“We all have a duty to help contribute towards the creation of a cleaner, safer and tidier Wales. I hope that this new investment will be a catalyst for change, and that communities and groups in Alyn and Deeside will seize this new opportunity.” Extra Keep Wales Tidy staff are being put in place right across Wales so that communities in every local authority can have access to expert advice and support. The team will also be charged with raising awareness of the short and long term effects that litter, waste and anti social behaviour has on the wellbeing of communities.

AM Welcomes Service

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES £6.5M FOR SCHOOL BASED COUNSELLING SERVICES

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed the publication of the Assembly Government’s strategy for developing school-based counselling services across Wales, supported by funding of £6.5m over the next 3 years.
The Welsh Assembly Government aims for a counselling service to be available to all pupils so they have someone to turn to if they need help or support.
Mr Sargeant said: “Consultation with young people in Wales and across the UK has consistently shown that what they really want when they are unhappy, afraid or distressed is an adult who shows them respect, is competent and respects their confidentiality. This is what this new strategy will be providing right across Wales.
“The emotional wellbeing of children and young people is of utmost importance. Growing up today comes with a whole host of emotional, social, and psychological stresses and pressures. Counselling is one of several important ways in which we can provide support. I am pleased that the Assembly Government is taking forward this strategy and backing it up with the financial investment that will be needed to make sure it works.”

Good News For Commuters

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES NEW DIRECT RAIL SERVICE TO LONDON

Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed the news that Wrexham and Shropshire’s new direct train service to London will commence on Monday 28th April 2008, offering passengers five trains a day in each direction between stations from Wrexham through Shropshire and on to London Marylebone.
Mr Sargeant, who has supported the efforts to bring about this new service, said: “This is great news for commuters in Alyn and Deeside. Shorter commuting times will give workers more time with their families, make life easier, and of course make Alyn and Deeside a more attractive place for businesses and employees alike.
“North East Wales is an important hub of the Welsh economy, and the new rail service will be another factor in helping to increase Alyn and Deeside’s economic prosperity.”

Cleaner Greener Wales

CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES RECYCLING BOOST

Recycling efforts in Flintshire are to be boosted by an extra £2,381,576 over the next year, thanks to the Assembly Government.
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant has welcomed the announcement from the Welsh Assembly Government of the additional cash to increase recycling and composting and cut landfill in Flintshire.
The funding is part of a £50 million Wales-wide package to local authorities under the Assembly Government’s ‘Sustainable waste management grant’. This is an increase of £15 million over the previous year.
Mr Sargeant said: "This is a major investment in the way our waste in Flintshire is managed, which will lead to more recycling and composting and less waste going to landfill.
“The extra cash will support the Local Authority as it moves towards the target for recycling and composting 40 per cent of waste by 2010 and I am pleased to see that the Assembly Government is asking councils to target the extra funding on looking at ways to recycle food waste. "We have made a great deal of progress with recycling in Wales, with latest figures showing 33 per cent of waste being recycled compared with just 7 per cent in 1999. But we still have a lot to do and today's announcement will lead to further progress at a time when more and more people of all ages are telling me that they want to do their bit for the environment.
“Climate change is one of the biggest challenges we face, and dealing with our waste effectively is one important way of tackling it. This investment clearly shows that the Assembly Government is committed to a cleaner, greener Wales.”