February 2008
Many constituents have written to me about the plight of temporary agency workers. There are at least 1.4 million such workers in the UK. Many of them endure poorer pay and conditions compared with permanent workers. This often means denial of sick pay, holiday and overtime pay. Along with other MPs I shall be supporting later this month a Private Member's Bill aimed at remedying these conditions. The Bill has broad public backing, particularly from trades unions.
Assembly Member Dr Brian Gibbons, Council Leader Derek Vaughan and I are launching a campaign to improve our local air quality. A recent announcement has given a real shot in the arm to this 'clean air' campaign.
We were delighted with the Corus decision to invest £60 million on energy management technology at the Port Talbot steel plant. This is not only good news for energy conservation within the BOS plant, it is also a significant contribution to reducing CO2 emissions into the atmosphere and is also a clear sign that new owners Tata have real confidence in the future of local steel making.
Even at the most local level, campaigning for community improvements can make a difference. We all agree that our public parks and gardens must be preserved, enhanced and made more accessible. That is why I was so pleased that local campaigners in Margam led by my friend Stan Mason have done sterling service by ensuring that the council refurbish the entrance of Tollgate Park with two handrails and securing steps. This is a big help to residents, especially the elderly and disabled. Well done Stan!
I recently met with Police Superintendent Phil Davies to discuss crime hot spots in the Port Talbot area. He was able to outline for me how the local police were working with local communities through the PACT meetings and how these were being developed at street level to involve residents who may not wish to attend large public meetings. The partnership between police, local authority and residents is one of the best positive developments in terms of community safety since I was elected in 2001.
