CARL SARGEANT AM BACKS DRINK DRIVE CRACKDOWN
The four Welsh Police forces led by North Wales Police and the Welsh Assembly Government are today launching their annual Christmas drink drive crackdown today with the warning, “We will take robust action if you are caught drinking and driving.”Mr Sargeant, who is backing the annual campaign, said: “19,554 drivers were breathalysed at the roadside as part of the 2007 Christmas Drink Drive Campaign, and 587 of them tested positive.“Despite annual Christmas campaigns and the ever vigilant work of our Welsh police forces, drink-driving remains a sad fact of life. The four Welsh police forces will once more this year have a co-ordinated approach in trying to eradicate the continuing problem of drink driving. “I am pleased that there will be a complete zero tolerance approach throughout the principality, both before and after Christmas and extending into the New Year. Drivers should be aware that police will carry out road checks during morning periods and will breathalyse drivers who may be over the limit from drinking the night before. “It is a sad fact that people are still losing their lives on our roads because of irresponsible drivers who continue to drive when under the influence of Alcohol or drugs. If you are going to have a drink, then don’t drive. It’s just not worth taking the risk. Jumping behind the wheel, even for a short journey, after having a drink could be the worst mistake you ever make.”Top tips to help people stay safe on the roads this Christmas time: • Even the smallest amount of alcohol can affect a driver’s skill without them realising, awareness will decrease and reactions will be slow. Limits have been set as to how much a driver can drink lawfully, but everyone is different and as a result there is no safe limit of alcohol that can be taken before driving. • If you’re hosting a party at home - be responsible. Do not offer alcohol to anyone who is driving. • Plan a night out in advance. If you have to take the car, stick to non-alcoholic or soft drinks or arrange for someone who is not drinking to drive. If possible take a taxi or use public transport. • If you have been drinking of an evening you may well be affected by alcohol the next day. Consider using another method of transport until you are certain that you no longer have any alcohol in your system. Over the next four weeks, thousands of motorists face being stopped as the police conduct road checks at various locations across the country. The campaign will run from 00:01 Monday 1st of December to 23:59hrs on Thursday 1st of January.If you know of someone who regularly drinks and drives, or if you suspect someone who is behind the wheel whilst under the influence of alcohol, contact North Wales Police on 0845 607 1001 (Welsh line) or 0845 607 1002 (English line).
Carl Sargeant
Assembly Member for Alyn and Deeside
Assembly Member for Alyn and Deeside
Friday, 28 November 2008
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
AM Highlights Day
CARL SARGEANT AM HIGHLIGHTS WORLD AIDS DAY
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting the United Nations Association’s World AIDS Day, which is held every year on 1st December, and outlining the work the Assembly Government is taking to encourage early diagnosis, offer appropriate treatments, and help prevent new cases in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “According to a new report from the Health Protection Agency, a record number of 77,400 people are now HIV positive in the UK, with more than a quarter of these people unaware that they are carrying the virus. The report also shows that almost a third of HIV positive people are being diagnosed late, when their immune systems have already been compromised. This can mean that treatment options are limited, and can lead to a premature death.“The Assembly Government is working with doctors to highlight best practice about offering and recommending, where appropriate, HIV testing in all healthcare settings, not just those traditionally offering this service. “Our Strategic Framework for promoting sexual health in Wales launched in 2000, aims to improve the sexual health of the population by ensuring that people have access to sexual health information, advice and services. One of the key objectives within the Strategy is to reduce the incidence of sexually transmitted infections.
“As part of the strategy, the Welsh Assembly Government is currently financing two campaigns to reduce the level of sexually transmitted diseases. Since 2001, the STI Prevention Campaign targets teenagers and young adults. Posters and information leaflets are displayed in the toilets of pubs, clubs, universities and colleges, youth clubs and various healthcare settings throughout Wales.
“The Terrence Higgins Trust has been funded by the Assembly Government since July 2001 to deliver an all Wales HIV health promotion campaign that targets gay men who remain the highest risk group within the indigenous community. The Terrence Higgins Trust also runs the ‘Better to know’ campaign. The aim of this is to encourage people from high-risk countries now living in Wales to come forward for HIV testing. These campaigns include the production of information resources, outreach work and in-depth motivational work.
“The Terrence Higgins Trust were awarded a Health Challenge Wales voluntary sector grant to establish a HIV network in Wales. The network brings together service users, service providers and the voluntary sector to improve service provision across Wales. The Trust also provides training on HIV health promotion to various professional groups including hospital staff, primary care professionals and youth workers.”
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting the United Nations Association’s World AIDS Day, which is held every year on 1st December, and outlining the work the Assembly Government is taking to encourage early diagnosis, offer appropriate treatments, and help prevent new cases in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “According to a new report from the Health Protection Agency, a record number of 77,400 people are now HIV positive in the UK, with more than a quarter of these people unaware that they are carrying the virus. The report also shows that almost a third of HIV positive people are being diagnosed late, when their immune systems have already been compromised. This can mean that treatment options are limited, and can lead to a premature death.“The Assembly Government is working with doctors to highlight best practice about offering and recommending, where appropriate, HIV testing in all healthcare settings, not just those traditionally offering this service. “Our Strategic Framework for promoting sexual health in Wales launched in 2000, aims to improve the sexual health of the population by ensuring that people have access to sexual health information, advice and services. One of the key objectives within the Strategy is to reduce the incidence of sexually transmitted infections.
“As part of the strategy, the Welsh Assembly Government is currently financing two campaigns to reduce the level of sexually transmitted diseases. Since 2001, the STI Prevention Campaign targets teenagers and young adults. Posters and information leaflets are displayed in the toilets of pubs, clubs, universities and colleges, youth clubs and various healthcare settings throughout Wales.
“The Terrence Higgins Trust has been funded by the Assembly Government since July 2001 to deliver an all Wales HIV health promotion campaign that targets gay men who remain the highest risk group within the indigenous community. The Terrence Higgins Trust also runs the ‘Better to know’ campaign. The aim of this is to encourage people from high-risk countries now living in Wales to come forward for HIV testing. These campaigns include the production of information resources, outreach work and in-depth motivational work.
“The Terrence Higgins Trust were awarded a Health Challenge Wales voluntary sector grant to establish a HIV network in Wales. The network brings together service users, service providers and the voluntary sector to improve service provision across Wales. The Trust also provides training on HIV health promotion to various professional groups including hospital staff, primary care professionals and youth workers.”
Welcomes News
CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES CLASS SIZE NEWS
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming new figures published today which show that almost all infant and junior age pupils in Wales continue to benefit from class sizes of 30 or fewer.Since 2001 all infant class have been subject to the 30 pupil class size limit. After taking into account the exceptions permitted by law, the September 2008 Class Size Count showed that just 15 of the 3991 infant classes in Wales had more than 30 pupils. The Welsh Assembly Government is working with local authorities and schools to ensure that all 15 classes comply with the legislative limit by the start of next school term.The Welsh Assembly Government also has a target of ensuring that junior classes contain 30 pupils or fewer. At the time of the count, 3.7% of junior classes had more than 30 pupils. This compares with 25% in 1999 and 3% in 2007. Mr Sargeant said: “I welcome these new figures which demonstrate the Assembly Government’s continuing and strong commitment to smaller class sizes in Wales, and I am sure parents and teachers will agree that the figures are good news.“The Assembly Government will be working with schools and local authorities to ensure that larger classes are eliminated.“Smaller class sizes are good news for pupils because there is less disruption and teachers and classroom assistants have more time to spend with each child.”
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming new figures published today which show that almost all infant and junior age pupils in Wales continue to benefit from class sizes of 30 or fewer.Since 2001 all infant class have been subject to the 30 pupil class size limit. After taking into account the exceptions permitted by law, the September 2008 Class Size Count showed that just 15 of the 3991 infant classes in Wales had more than 30 pupils. The Welsh Assembly Government is working with local authorities and schools to ensure that all 15 classes comply with the legislative limit by the start of next school term.The Welsh Assembly Government also has a target of ensuring that junior classes contain 30 pupils or fewer. At the time of the count, 3.7% of junior classes had more than 30 pupils. This compares with 25% in 1999 and 3% in 2007. Mr Sargeant said: “I welcome these new figures which demonstrate the Assembly Government’s continuing and strong commitment to smaller class sizes in Wales, and I am sure parents and teachers will agree that the figures are good news.“The Assembly Government will be working with schools and local authorities to ensure that larger classes are eliminated.“Smaller class sizes are good news for pupils because there is less disruption and teachers and classroom assistants have more time to spend with each child.”
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
AM Welcomes Funding
CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES FUNDING TO TACKLE DOMESTIC ABUSE
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed today’s announcement by the Assembly Government of funding worth over £1.5 million to support organisations tackling domestic and sexual abuse.The announcement coincides with International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.Mr Sargeant said: “Today’s funding will help ensure that domestic abuse organisations across Wales can grow and continue to improve the help and support that they are able to offer to people affected by domestic and sexual abuse.“The announcement is also timely because it comes as we enter the festive season when, sadly, incidents of domestic violence tend to increase.“I am pleased that the funding announced today will benefit organisations right across Wales, including the North Wales Women Centre which will receive £300,000 for a new One-Stop Shop, and the North Wales Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Support Centre will receive £19,450 for vital new equipment.”
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has welcomed today’s announcement by the Assembly Government of funding worth over £1.5 million to support organisations tackling domestic and sexual abuse.The announcement coincides with International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.Mr Sargeant said: “Today’s funding will help ensure that domestic abuse organisations across Wales can grow and continue to improve the help and support that they are able to offer to people affected by domestic and sexual abuse.“The announcement is also timely because it comes as we enter the festive season when, sadly, incidents of domestic violence tend to increase.“I am pleased that the funding announced today will benefit organisations right across Wales, including the North Wales Women Centre which will receive £300,000 for a new One-Stop Shop, and the North Wales Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Support Centre will receive £19,450 for vital new equipment.”
Monday, 24 November 2008
AM Congratulates Team
CARL SARGEANT AM CONGRATULATES WELSH DRUG TEAM OF THE YEAR
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is celebrating the news that the North Wales Harm Reduction Team, based in Shotton, is a finalist in the national Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards. The Awards, which are run by the Home Office, are now in their third year and recognise and celebrate those unsung heroes who go over and above the call of duty in tackling drug use in communities across the country. Ten regional winners have been announced in total for the individual award and ten for the team award. Mr Sargeant said: “These Awards recognise the skill, hard work, and dedication of the people on the front line in tackling the effects of drugs in our communities. I am delighted that the North Wales Harm Reduction Team has won the Team of the Year title to honour the remarkable work they are doing in our local community.“Overall drug use among adults and young people is at its lowest level in more that ten years. This could not have been achieved without the dedication of all the many professionals and volunteers who are working to ensure that our communities are free of drug-related crime, that drug misusers enter and finish their treatment programmes, and that there is tough enforcement of the law. “I wish the team all the very best as they compete for the overall UK Team of the Year at the Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards finals in London at the beginning of December.”
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is celebrating the news that the North Wales Harm Reduction Team, based in Shotton, is a finalist in the national Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards. The Awards, which are run by the Home Office, are now in their third year and recognise and celebrate those unsung heroes who go over and above the call of duty in tackling drug use in communities across the country. Ten regional winners have been announced in total for the individual award and ten for the team award. Mr Sargeant said: “These Awards recognise the skill, hard work, and dedication of the people on the front line in tackling the effects of drugs in our communities. I am delighted that the North Wales Harm Reduction Team has won the Team of the Year title to honour the remarkable work they are doing in our local community.“Overall drug use among adults and young people is at its lowest level in more that ten years. This could not have been achieved without the dedication of all the many professionals and volunteers who are working to ensure that our communities are free of drug-related crime, that drug misusers enter and finish their treatment programmes, and that there is tough enforcement of the law. “I wish the team all the very best as they compete for the overall UK Team of the Year at the Tackling Drugs Changing Lives Awards finals in London at the beginning of December.”
Support For White Ribbon Campaign
“REAL MEN DO NOT COMMIT VIOLENCE,” SAYS CARL SARGEANT AM
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is backing the White Ribbon Campaign.Mr Sargeant explains: “The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort in the world of men working to end men's violence against women. By wearing one of these ribbons, men are standing up and being counted as being totally against any kind of violence toward women. “It is a horrifying fact that many women in Wales are likely to have suffered some sort of violence. This may be domestic, rape, forced marriage or other crime. The all-pervasive nature of violence against women is damaging to our society.“The White Ribbon campaign is a symbol for men taking a stand. Real men do not commit violence.“By wearing a white ribbon men are making a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.”For further information see: http://www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is backing the White Ribbon Campaign.Mr Sargeant explains: “The White Ribbon Campaign is the largest effort in the world of men working to end men's violence against women. By wearing one of these ribbons, men are standing up and being counted as being totally against any kind of violence toward women. “It is a horrifying fact that many women in Wales are likely to have suffered some sort of violence. This may be domestic, rape, forced marriage or other crime. The all-pervasive nature of violence against women is damaging to our society.“The White Ribbon campaign is a symbol for men taking a stand. Real men do not commit violence.“By wearing a white ribbon men are making a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.”For further information see: http://www.whiteribboncampaign.co.uk/
Thursday, 20 November 2008
Latest Developments
CARL SARGEANT AM RESPONDS TO MCLEAN HOMES NEWS
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is responding to today’s news that David McLean Homes has been bought by Elan Homes, a new company formed by former senior management at David McLean.The David McLean Group’s finance director Mr John Kendrick last night completed the buyout of the housebuilding division of David McLean for a reported sum in the region of £40 million.Mr Sargeant said: “This is certainly some much needed good news for the company and employees in what are very difficult economic times, particularly for the construction industry.“I understand that this buyout will save around 90 jobs, which is very positive news that I warmly welcome.“I am pleased that there is an experienced team which understands the company in place to take it forward, I wish the new owners well.”
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is responding to today’s news that David McLean Homes has been bought by Elan Homes, a new company formed by former senior management at David McLean.The David McLean Group’s finance director Mr John Kendrick last night completed the buyout of the housebuilding division of David McLean for a reported sum in the region of £40 million.Mr Sargeant said: “This is certainly some much needed good news for the company and employees in what are very difficult economic times, particularly for the construction industry.“I understand that this buyout will save around 90 jobs, which is very positive news that I warmly welcome.“I am pleased that there is an experienced team which understands the company in place to take it forward, I wish the new owners well.”
AM Welcomes News
ASSEMBLY GOVERNMENT LEADS THE WAY IN PAYING BILLS ON TIME
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant today welcomed figures which show that the Welsh Assembly Government is leading the way in paying its bills to Welsh companies in record time. According to the latest figures, the Assembly Government took an average of 5.89 days to pay for invoices between April and October this year, with fewer than five per cent of payments taking longer than ten days. The Assembly Government also recently agreed to increase the proportion of payments made within ten days and to work to ensure that the thirty day target for payments is met across the public sector in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly Government’s excellent record of paying its bills on time will be welcome news to businesses across Wales during the current global economic difficulties. It’s good to see Labour in the Welsh Assembly once again leading the way and showing how it should be done.
“I also welcome the fact that the Assembly Government wants to improve its payment record even further and I want to see all public sector bodies in Wales playing their part in improving the time in which they pay their bills.
“Paying their bills on time is one of the best ways that public bodies like Councils and Government Departments can help our smaller and medium sized businesses get through these global economic difficulties.
“The Assembly Government’s payment record is also in stark contrast to the way in which the Tories are acting in some parts of Wales. In Tory controlled Monmouthsire, for example, they are presiding over the worst performing local authority in Wales in terms of the amount of time it takes to pay bills to local suppliers and businesses. According to the most recent figures, that council paid only 40% of bills on time within the 30 day target.
“This just goes to show how big the gap is between what the Tories say and what they do when they are in power at any level.”
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant today welcomed figures which show that the Welsh Assembly Government is leading the way in paying its bills to Welsh companies in record time. According to the latest figures, the Assembly Government took an average of 5.89 days to pay for invoices between April and October this year, with fewer than five per cent of payments taking longer than ten days. The Assembly Government also recently agreed to increase the proportion of payments made within ten days and to work to ensure that the thirty day target for payments is met across the public sector in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly Government’s excellent record of paying its bills on time will be welcome news to businesses across Wales during the current global economic difficulties. It’s good to see Labour in the Welsh Assembly once again leading the way and showing how it should be done.
“I also welcome the fact that the Assembly Government wants to improve its payment record even further and I want to see all public sector bodies in Wales playing their part in improving the time in which they pay their bills.
“Paying their bills on time is one of the best ways that public bodies like Councils and Government Departments can help our smaller and medium sized businesses get through these global economic difficulties.
“The Assembly Government’s payment record is also in stark contrast to the way in which the Tories are acting in some parts of Wales. In Tory controlled Monmouthsire, for example, they are presiding over the worst performing local authority in Wales in terms of the amount of time it takes to pay bills to local suppliers and businesses. According to the most recent figures, that council paid only 40% of bills on time within the 30 day target.
“This just goes to show how big the gap is between what the Tories say and what they do when they are in power at any level.”
AM Welcomes News
ASSEMBLY GOVERNMENT LEADS THE WAY IN PAYING BILLS ON TIME
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant today welcomed figures which show that the Welsh Assembly Government is leading the way in paying its bills to Welsh companies in record time. According to the latest figures, the Assembly Government took an average of 5.89 days to pay for invoices between April and October this year, with fewer than five per cent of payments taking longer than ten days. The Assembly Government also recently agreed to increase the proportion of payments made within ten days and to work to ensure that the thirty day target for payments is met across the public sector in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly Government’s excellent record of paying its bills on time will be welcome news to businesses across Wales during the current global economic difficulties. It’s good to see Labour in the Welsh Assembly once again leading the way and showing how it should be done.
“I also welcome the fact that the Assembly Government wants to improve its payment record even further and I want to see all public sector bodies in Wales playing their part in improving the time in which they pay their bills.
“Paying their bills on time is one of the best ways that public bodies like Councils and Government Departments can help our smaller and medium sized businesses get through these global economic difficulties.
“The Assembly Government’s payment record is also in stark contrast to the way in which the Tories are acting in some parts of Wales. In Tory controlled Monmouthsire, for example, they are presiding over the worst performing local authority in Wales in terms of the amount of time it takes to pay bills to local suppliers and businesses. According to the most recent figures, that council paid only 40% of bills on time within the 30 day target.
“This just goes to show how big the gap is between what the Tories say and what they do when they are in power at any level.”
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant today welcomed figures which show that the Welsh Assembly Government is leading the way in paying its bills to Welsh companies in record time. According to the latest figures, the Assembly Government took an average of 5.89 days to pay for invoices between April and October this year, with fewer than five per cent of payments taking longer than ten days. The Assembly Government also recently agreed to increase the proportion of payments made within ten days and to work to ensure that the thirty day target for payments is met across the public sector in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly Government’s excellent record of paying its bills on time will be welcome news to businesses across Wales during the current global economic difficulties. It’s good to see Labour in the Welsh Assembly once again leading the way and showing how it should be done.
“I also welcome the fact that the Assembly Government wants to improve its payment record even further and I want to see all public sector bodies in Wales playing their part in improving the time in which they pay their bills.
“Paying their bills on time is one of the best ways that public bodies like Councils and Government Departments can help our smaller and medium sized businesses get through these global economic difficulties.
“The Assembly Government’s payment record is also in stark contrast to the way in which the Tories are acting in some parts of Wales. In Tory controlled Monmouthsire, for example, they are presiding over the worst performing local authority in Wales in terms of the amount of time it takes to pay bills to local suppliers and businesses. According to the most recent figures, that council paid only 40% of bills on time within the 30 day target.
“This just goes to show how big the gap is between what the Tories say and what they do when they are in power at any level.”
AM Welcomes News
ASSEMBLY GOVERNMENT LEADS THE WAY IN PAYING BILLS ON TIME
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant today welcomed figures which show that the Welsh Assembly Government is leading the way in paying its bills to Welsh companies in record time. According to the latest figures, the Assembly Government took an average of 5.89 days to pay for invoices between April and October this year, with fewer than five per cent of payments taking longer than ten days. The Assembly Government also recently agreed to increase the proportion of payments made within ten days and to work to ensure that the thirty day target for payments is met across the public sector in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly Government’s excellent record of paying its bills on time will be welcome news to businesses across Wales during the current global economic difficulties. It’s good to see Labour in the Welsh Assembly once again leading the way and showing how it should be done.
“I also welcome the fact that the Assembly Government wants to improve its payment record even further and I want to see all public sector bodies in Wales playing their part in improving the time in which they pay their bills.
“Paying their bills on time is one of the best ways that public bodies like Councils and Government Departments can help our smaller and medium sized businesses get through these global economic difficulties.
“The Assembly Government’s payment record is also in stark contrast to the way in which the Tories are acting in some parts of Wales. In Tory controlled Monmouthsire, for example, they are presiding over the worst performing local authority in Wales in terms of the amount of time it takes to pay bills to local suppliers and businesses. According to the most recent figures, that council paid only 40% of bills on time within the 30 day target.
“This just goes to show how big the gap is between what the Tories say and what they do when they are in power at any level.”
Local Labour AM Carl Sargeant today welcomed figures which show that the Welsh Assembly Government is leading the way in paying its bills to Welsh companies in record time. According to the latest figures, the Assembly Government took an average of 5.89 days to pay for invoices between April and October this year, with fewer than five per cent of payments taking longer than ten days. The Assembly Government also recently agreed to increase the proportion of payments made within ten days and to work to ensure that the thirty day target for payments is met across the public sector in Wales.Mr Sargeant said: “The Assembly Government’s excellent record of paying its bills on time will be welcome news to businesses across Wales during the current global economic difficulties. It’s good to see Labour in the Welsh Assembly once again leading the way and showing how it should be done.
“I also welcome the fact that the Assembly Government wants to improve its payment record even further and I want to see all public sector bodies in Wales playing their part in improving the time in which they pay their bills.
“Paying their bills on time is one of the best ways that public bodies like Councils and Government Departments can help our smaller and medium sized businesses get through these global economic difficulties.
“The Assembly Government’s payment record is also in stark contrast to the way in which the Tories are acting in some parts of Wales. In Tory controlled Monmouthsire, for example, they are presiding over the worst performing local authority in Wales in terms of the amount of time it takes to pay bills to local suppliers and businesses. According to the most recent figures, that council paid only 40% of bills on time within the 30 day target.
“This just goes to show how big the gap is between what the Tories say and what they do when they are in power at any level.”
Monday, 17 November 2008
AM Backs Campaign
CARL SARGEANT AM SPEAKS OUT AGAINST BULLYING
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has spoken out against bullying in support of this year’s anti-bullying week (November 17th – 21st). This year’s anti-bullying week seeks to highlight issues surrounding bullying, and through a range of events hopes to inspire councils, schools and young people to join together and stamp out the problem, and to help those affected to speak up. Initiatives include a Welsh Assembly Government poetry and news spoof competition.Mr Sargeant said: “I am proud to be backing this year’s Anti-Bullying Week to help teachers, pupils and parents stamp out this completely unacceptable behaviour.“The Assembly Government has made sure that all schools must now have an anti-bullying policy by law, but it is important that we redouble our efforts to stamp out bullying during every week of the year. This year I am pleased to see that the Assembly Government is promoting a whole school approach, to ensure that children and young people have the best opportunity to enjoy their education without fear of intimidation.“The most important thing is that young people who are being bullied talk to someone. Teachers, parents and fellow pupils can all help. I hope that schools across Alyn and Deeside will get involved in this year’s anti-bullying campaign. We all have to work together to tackle bullying in whatever form is takes.’’
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has spoken out against bullying in support of this year’s anti-bullying week (November 17th – 21st). This year’s anti-bullying week seeks to highlight issues surrounding bullying, and through a range of events hopes to inspire councils, schools and young people to join together and stamp out the problem, and to help those affected to speak up. Initiatives include a Welsh Assembly Government poetry and news spoof competition.Mr Sargeant said: “I am proud to be backing this year’s Anti-Bullying Week to help teachers, pupils and parents stamp out this completely unacceptable behaviour.“The Assembly Government has made sure that all schools must now have an anti-bullying policy by law, but it is important that we redouble our efforts to stamp out bullying during every week of the year. This year I am pleased to see that the Assembly Government is promoting a whole school approach, to ensure that children and young people have the best opportunity to enjoy their education without fear of intimidation.“The most important thing is that young people who are being bullied talk to someone. Teachers, parents and fellow pupils can all help. I hope that schools across Alyn and Deeside will get involved in this year’s anti-bullying campaign. We all have to work together to tackle bullying in whatever form is takes.’’
Support For Enterprise Week
CARL SARGEANT AM BACKS ENTERPRISE WEEK
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is backing Enterprise Week which begins today, saying that this year it will be “more important than ever.”Mr Sargeant said: “In 2008, Enterprise Week will be part of the first ever Global Entrepreneurship Week. It is a worldwide celebration of enterprise, and one of the key aims is to unleash young people’s enterprising ideas and address some of society’s biggest issues, from poverty reduction through to climate change. More than 70 countries are running their own versions of Enterprise Week, all under the Global Entrepreneurship Week banner.”The Assembly Government is taking a lead on this year’s Enterprise Week – an event designed to encourage and celebrate enterprise – by delivering practical help and expert advice to help Welsh businesses and entrepreneurs fight the recession.Mr Sargeant said: “In these difficult economic times, it is important that there is the right support for business in Wales. That is why I am pleased that the Assembly Government is working closely with our country’s business community. The recently launched Economic Summits are generating rapid action to help Welsh-based businesses face the economic challenges.“The Assembly Government will take the lead this week on several themes in Wales - including a series of 'People in Business' across Wales.”For more information about Enterprise Week, see: http://www.enterpriseweek.org.uk/
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is backing Enterprise Week which begins today, saying that this year it will be “more important than ever.”Mr Sargeant said: “In 2008, Enterprise Week will be part of the first ever Global Entrepreneurship Week. It is a worldwide celebration of enterprise, and one of the key aims is to unleash young people’s enterprising ideas and address some of society’s biggest issues, from poverty reduction through to climate change. More than 70 countries are running their own versions of Enterprise Week, all under the Global Entrepreneurship Week banner.”The Assembly Government is taking a lead on this year’s Enterprise Week – an event designed to encourage and celebrate enterprise – by delivering practical help and expert advice to help Welsh businesses and entrepreneurs fight the recession.Mr Sargeant said: “In these difficult economic times, it is important that there is the right support for business in Wales. That is why I am pleased that the Assembly Government is working closely with our country’s business community. The recently launched Economic Summits are generating rapid action to help Welsh-based businesses face the economic challenges.“The Assembly Government will take the lead this week on several themes in Wales - including a series of 'People in Business' across Wales.”For more information about Enterprise Week, see: http://www.enterpriseweek.org.uk/
Thursday, 13 November 2008
Road Safety Concerns
CARL SARGEANT AM CALLS ON COUNCIL TO SPEND ON ROAD SAFETY
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has called upon the independent-led Flintshire County Council to spend some of its £9.1million reserves on road safety measures in the county.Mr Sargeant said: “I am calling on Flintshire local authority to spend some of taxpayers’ money on traffic solutions for Flintshire. “Not a week goes by when constituents are not raising local traffic issues with me – be it speeding vehicles in Penyffordd, Treuddyn and Buckley, or gridlocks across Deeside and Shotton.“These problems are not going to go away on their own. Some serious investment is needed. There is no point in sitting on such huge sums of money when there is work to be done across the county.“It is not appropriate to hide behind the A494 unpopular scheme funding. These are local roads paid for by the public under the responsibility of the local authority. £9.1 million reserves will go a long way to make our children and older people safe when they wish to cross the road.”Mr Sargeant has received support from Councillor Cindy Hinds, who said: “It is most important that the 60 mph is reduced to 30 in Dobshill because of children's play areas and children alighting buses for school and pensioners are trying to cross a road at their own peril. “There are roads in Pen-y-ffordd that need reducing to at least 40 and in my own opinion should be 30mph.”
Shotton Town Council has been raising the issue of traffic congestion with Flintshire County Council year on year without much success.
The chaiperson of Shotton Town Council David Evans said: "There has always been a political will to do something about the problems we have in Shotton but the civil servants have always found excuses not to do anything about it.
"One of the main issues is that the buses stop in the middle of the road thereby causing congestion, the Council must modify the laybys for the buses and allow the traffic to keep moving.
"I would seriously welcome our Council leader making this a priority as this not only affects residents but also affects businesses and passing trade".
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has called upon the independent-led Flintshire County Council to spend some of its £9.1million reserves on road safety measures in the county.Mr Sargeant said: “I am calling on Flintshire local authority to spend some of taxpayers’ money on traffic solutions for Flintshire. “Not a week goes by when constituents are not raising local traffic issues with me – be it speeding vehicles in Penyffordd, Treuddyn and Buckley, or gridlocks across Deeside and Shotton.“These problems are not going to go away on their own. Some serious investment is needed. There is no point in sitting on such huge sums of money when there is work to be done across the county.“It is not appropriate to hide behind the A494 unpopular scheme funding. These are local roads paid for by the public under the responsibility of the local authority. £9.1 million reserves will go a long way to make our children and older people safe when they wish to cross the road.”Mr Sargeant has received support from Councillor Cindy Hinds, who said: “It is most important that the 60 mph is reduced to 30 in Dobshill because of children's play areas and children alighting buses for school and pensioners are trying to cross a road at their own peril. “There are roads in Pen-y-ffordd that need reducing to at least 40 and in my own opinion should be 30mph.”
Shotton Town Council has been raising the issue of traffic congestion with Flintshire County Council year on year without much success.
The chaiperson of Shotton Town Council David Evans said: "There has always been a political will to do something about the problems we have in Shotton but the civil servants have always found excuses not to do anything about it.
"One of the main issues is that the buses stop in the middle of the road thereby causing congestion, the Council must modify the laybys for the buses and allow the traffic to keep moving.
"I would seriously welcome our Council leader making this a priority as this not only affects residents but also affects businesses and passing trade".
AM Welcomes Grant
CARL SARGEANT AM WELCOMES “AWARDS FOR ALL” GRANT
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the news that victims of domestic abuse in Flintshire will have access to more advice and support, thanks to a grant of over £4,000 from the Awards for All Wales programme.
The Domestic Abuse Safety Unit in Deeside has been awarded a sum of £4,254 through the programme, which is supported by the Big Lottery Fund and Heritage Lottery Fund. The group will be spending the money on the ‘Freedom Programme’, which provides invaluable information and support for victims who are experiencing all kinds of domestic abuse. The programme has been running for over five years and the twelve-week course has been extremely successful in helping participants gain renewed confidence and hope, and empowering them with increased knowledge so that they feel physically and psychologically safer.
Mr Sargeant said: “The Awards for All programme aims to encourage people to take part in heritage and community activities by assisting projects that promote education, the environment and health in the local community. It offers grants of between £500 and £5,000.
“I congratulate the Domestic Abuse Safety Unit for making the most of the funding opportunity, and would encourage other local groups to explore whether they may also be eligible for financial help.
“The award to the Domestic Abuse Safety Unit comes at an important time, as the 25th of November marks the annual International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women, commonly known as White Ribbon Day. The day seeks to end violence against women by encouraging men across the globe to make a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.” The importance of this worldwide campaign remains as pertinent as ever, given that around 13 million women will suffer or be threatened with violence from partners or former partners this year, and more than 2 women will have been killed in the last week as a result of such crime
For more information about Awards for All see: www.awardsforall.org.uk
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is welcoming the news that victims of domestic abuse in Flintshire will have access to more advice and support, thanks to a grant of over £4,000 from the Awards for All Wales programme.
The Domestic Abuse Safety Unit in Deeside has been awarded a sum of £4,254 through the programme, which is supported by the Big Lottery Fund and Heritage Lottery Fund. The group will be spending the money on the ‘Freedom Programme’, which provides invaluable information and support for victims who are experiencing all kinds of domestic abuse. The programme has been running for over five years and the twelve-week course has been extremely successful in helping participants gain renewed confidence and hope, and empowering them with increased knowledge so that they feel physically and psychologically safer.
Mr Sargeant said: “The Awards for All programme aims to encourage people to take part in heritage and community activities by assisting projects that promote education, the environment and health in the local community. It offers grants of between £500 and £5,000.
“I congratulate the Domestic Abuse Safety Unit for making the most of the funding opportunity, and would encourage other local groups to explore whether they may also be eligible for financial help.
“The award to the Domestic Abuse Safety Unit comes at an important time, as the 25th of November marks the annual International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women, commonly known as White Ribbon Day. The day seeks to end violence against women by encouraging men across the globe to make a personal pledge never to commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.” The importance of this worldwide campaign remains as pertinent as ever, given that around 13 million women will suffer or be threatened with violence from partners or former partners this year, and more than 2 women will have been killed in the last week as a result of such crime
For more information about Awards for All see: www.awardsforall.org.uk
AM Support For Age Concern
CARL SARGEANT AM SUPPORTS ADVOCACY EVENT
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has attended a reception at the National Assembly for Wales to celebrate the launch of Age Concern Cymru’s Elder Abuse Project’s ‘Advocacy Counts 2’ report.‘Advocacy Counts 2’ has been produced to review advocacy provision for older people in Wales. Age Concern Cymru’s initial report was launched in October 2007 and was recognised as an important baseline measure for advocacy in Wales. This new report compares the findings 12 months on. Information on issues ranging from the commissioning of services, funding, training and reporting of elder abuse issues are highlighted in this report.
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, who holds regular meetings with Age Concern’s North Wales Project Officer with responsibility for tackling Elder Abuse, said: “The Age Concern Elder Abuse project is funded by Comic Relief, and has been designed in response to the need to develop advocacy work in Wales as a key means of tackling the abuse of older people and to the need to develop policy and practice in this area. The project represents a major opportunity to make a key and pioneering contribution to work in the field of tackling elder abuse.
“Elder abuse can take many forms – it can be financial or material, emotional or psychological. It can be physical or sexual, or can take the form of neglect. We need to increase the general public awareness of elder abuse, and ensure that people develop a complete zero tolerance for it. It is also important that we increase awareness and understanding of the value of advocacy in the protection and empowerment of older people.”
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, has attended a reception at the National Assembly for Wales to celebrate the launch of Age Concern Cymru’s Elder Abuse Project’s ‘Advocacy Counts 2’ report.‘Advocacy Counts 2’ has been produced to review advocacy provision for older people in Wales. Age Concern Cymru’s initial report was launched in October 2007 and was recognised as an important baseline measure for advocacy in Wales. This new report compares the findings 12 months on. Information on issues ranging from the commissioning of services, funding, training and reporting of elder abuse issues are highlighted in this report.
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, who holds regular meetings with Age Concern’s North Wales Project Officer with responsibility for tackling Elder Abuse, said: “The Age Concern Elder Abuse project is funded by Comic Relief, and has been designed in response to the need to develop advocacy work in Wales as a key means of tackling the abuse of older people and to the need to develop policy and practice in this area. The project represents a major opportunity to make a key and pioneering contribution to work in the field of tackling elder abuse.
“Elder abuse can take many forms – it can be financial or material, emotional or psychological. It can be physical or sexual, or can take the form of neglect. We need to increase the general public awareness of elder abuse, and ensure that people develop a complete zero tolerance for it. It is also important that we increase awareness and understanding of the value of advocacy in the protection and empowerment of older people.”
AM Highlights Consultation
CARL SARGEANT AM HIGHLIGHTS CARE CONSULTATION
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting a new Assembly Government consultation that will explore how care will be best paid for across Wales in the future.The consultation and engagement process - ‘Paying for Care in Wales: creating a fair and sustainable system’, will take place between November 2008 and March 2009, and will focus on how the current system of paying for care will need to change in order to meet future needs in addition to examining the balance of responsibility that lies between the state, the individual and their families.Mr Sargeant said: “With our rapidly aging population, it is predicted that by 2018 the number of people in Wales aged 85 and over will increase by 29% from the current 72,000 to 93,000. Those aged 65 to 84 are projected to increase by 24% from 469,000 to 582,000.“This presents us with a large funding gap between the cost of care services and the money that is available to pay for them. This is a serious challenge that we need to start preparing for now.“The consultation will seek to gather opinions on how care services should be funded – and I am sure that many constituents will have strong views and will wish to have their voice heard in the process.”Questions that will be debated during the consultation process include:• Should the Government do more to ensure that people prepare for the costs of their own care, for instance by making some sort of saving for these costs compulsory? • Should the system be the same for everybody or should we consider varying the ways we allocate government support for individuals according to certain principles? • Should there be one system for everyone or different systems depending on the type of need for care and support that somebody has? • Which is more important: local flexibility or national consistency? • What should the balance be between targeting government resources at those who are least able to pay and having a system that supports those who plan and save? An interactive website, Paying for Care in Wales, has also been established that will enable people to respond directly to key questions online. The website can be found at www.payingforcareinwales.net
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting a new Assembly Government consultation that will explore how care will be best paid for across Wales in the future.The consultation and engagement process - ‘Paying for Care in Wales: creating a fair and sustainable system’, will take place between November 2008 and March 2009, and will focus on how the current system of paying for care will need to change in order to meet future needs in addition to examining the balance of responsibility that lies between the state, the individual and their families.Mr Sargeant said: “With our rapidly aging population, it is predicted that by 2018 the number of people in Wales aged 85 and over will increase by 29% from the current 72,000 to 93,000. Those aged 65 to 84 are projected to increase by 24% from 469,000 to 582,000.“This presents us with a large funding gap between the cost of care services and the money that is available to pay for them. This is a serious challenge that we need to start preparing for now.“The consultation will seek to gather opinions on how care services should be funded – and I am sure that many constituents will have strong views and will wish to have their voice heard in the process.”Questions that will be debated during the consultation process include:• Should the Government do more to ensure that people prepare for the costs of their own care, for instance by making some sort of saving for these costs compulsory? • Should the system be the same for everybody or should we consider varying the ways we allocate government support for individuals according to certain principles? • Should there be one system for everyone or different systems depending on the type of need for care and support that somebody has? • Which is more important: local flexibility or national consistency? • What should the balance be between targeting government resources at those who are least able to pay and having a system that supports those who plan and save? An interactive website, Paying for Care in Wales, has also been established that will enable people to respond directly to key questions online. The website can be found at www.payingforcareinwales.net
Monday, 3 November 2008
AM To Visit Local Bank
CARL SARGEANT AM TO MEET LOCAL BANKING STAFF
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, will this Friday visit the Shotton branch of Lloyds TSB to meet with the Local Director for North Wales and the branch manager and staff.Mr Sargeant has been invited to visit the branch to discuss local banking issues, including matters relating to both individuals and businesses in the area. Mr Sargeant said: “I am looking forward to this opportunity to meet with local banking staff as I am sure that they will be able to share some valuable and unique insights into the current credit crunch and how they see it affecting individuals and businesses in our area.”
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, will this Friday visit the Shotton branch of Lloyds TSB to meet with the Local Director for North Wales and the branch manager and staff.Mr Sargeant has been invited to visit the branch to discuss local banking issues, including matters relating to both individuals and businesses in the area. Mr Sargeant said: “I am looking forward to this opportunity to meet with local banking staff as I am sure that they will be able to share some valuable and unique insights into the current credit crunch and how they see it affecting individuals and businesses in our area.”
Keep Safe This Bonfire Night
“HAVE A SAFE BONFIRE NIGHT,” SAYS CARL SARGEANT AM
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting advice from the Welsh Assembly Government on how to stay safe this Bonfire Night.
Mr Sargeant said: “The best way to stay safe this Bonfire Night is to attend an organised display. This is by far the safest option and they certainly offer the best value for money. Fireworks may look harmless enough in boxes, but they can be extremely dangerous. Every year on and around Bonfire Night people are injured in accidents with fireworks and bonfires across Wales. Most of the injuries are to children under the age of 16.
“If you do choose to arrange your own display or join one run by friends or family you are at a significantly greater risk and should follow the Fireworks Code.”
The Fireworks Code:• If you do use fireworks only buy from a reputable trader. • Make sure that fireworks are marked with the British Safety Standard 7114 and always read the instructions. • Remember to read the instructions using torchlight not a flame. • Keep fireworks in a metal box and take them out one at a time. • Never go back to a firework once it has been lit. • Keep a bucket of water nearby. • Always protect children from fireworks and remember that sparklers should not be given to children under five years of age. • Don’t light too many fireworks at once, this won’t give you enough time to move out of the way. • Don’t get too close to fireworks and NEVER put them in your pocket. • Never drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks or tending a bonfire. • If guests at your party are drinking alcohol keep them away from the fireworks and bonfire. • Consider limiting the availability of alcohol until after the fireworks have been set-off. • Remember the age limit for buying fireworks is 18. Remember don’t fool with fireworks – it isn’t worth the risk.
Carl Sargeant, AM for Alyn and Deeside, is highlighting advice from the Welsh Assembly Government on how to stay safe this Bonfire Night.
Mr Sargeant said: “The best way to stay safe this Bonfire Night is to attend an organised display. This is by far the safest option and they certainly offer the best value for money. Fireworks may look harmless enough in boxes, but they can be extremely dangerous. Every year on and around Bonfire Night people are injured in accidents with fireworks and bonfires across Wales. Most of the injuries are to children under the age of 16.
“If you do choose to arrange your own display or join one run by friends or family you are at a significantly greater risk and should follow the Fireworks Code.”
The Fireworks Code:• If you do use fireworks only buy from a reputable trader. • Make sure that fireworks are marked with the British Safety Standard 7114 and always read the instructions. • Remember to read the instructions using torchlight not a flame. • Keep fireworks in a metal box and take them out one at a time. • Never go back to a firework once it has been lit. • Keep a bucket of water nearby. • Always protect children from fireworks and remember that sparklers should not be given to children under five years of age. • Don’t light too many fireworks at once, this won’t give you enough time to move out of the way. • Don’t get too close to fireworks and NEVER put them in your pocket. • Never drink alcohol if you are setting off fireworks or tending a bonfire. • If guests at your party are drinking alcohol keep them away from the fireworks and bonfire. • Consider limiting the availability of alcohol until after the fireworks have been set-off. • Remember the age limit for buying fireworks is 18. Remember don’t fool with fireworks – it isn’t worth the risk.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Categories
- News (1)
