current issues
I am currently involved with a range of policy issues of a local, national and global nature. To find out more please click on the links below:
1. Clean Air Charter for Port Talbot
I have been associated with many local environmental campaigns. On March 20, I launched with Council Leader Councillor Derek Vaughan a pioneering Clean Air Charter for Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council which also has the full support of Dr Brian Gibbons AM.
2. Carers and the 2011 Census
This issue is regarding the 2011 Census and the inclusion of questions on carers. The 2001 Census included questions on carers and this had a significant impact of assessing the numbers of carers in the UK and the number of hours each individual gave to caring and the ages of carers. As chair of the All Party Carers Group I have had several Ministerial meetings on this crucial subject.
3. Cross border issues England and Wales
The Welsh Affairs Committee is about to start an inquiry on ‘cross border’ issues – how different policies in health, education and transport affect public services in England and Wales. In this new inquiry we will be particularly keen to take evidence on student recruitment and research in universities and on specialist health provision.
4. Equality for Agency Workers
This Bill provides for the protection of temporary and agency workers, to require the principle of equal treatment to be applied to temporary and agency workers; to make provision about the enforcement of rights of temporary and agency workers; and for connected purposes.
5. Part Time Higher Education
I have participated in Debates and held meetings with Ministers in support of Higher Educational Institutions.
6. Learning and employment opportunities for disadvantaged young people
I am working with Mencap Cymru and Shaw Trust in my constituency and many other bodies to promote employment opportunities for young people with learning difficulties.
7. Cyprus
As Vice-President of the ‘Friends of Cyprus’ I campaign for the reunification of the island of Cyprus, bringing together in one state the Greek and Turkish communities.
8. Gaza
I have recently participated in a vigil in Parliament Square calling for a cease fire in the Palestinian/Gaza – Israel dispute.