One of the most rewarding aspects of being a constituency MP is helping often disadvantaged and vulnerable constituents resolve problems that they have with the Council and Government Departments. What I have noticed at my own surgeries and when I look through the lists of local people who have contacted me for help over the last few years is that there is a marked and steady decline in the number seeking my help with Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) issues.
I am not about to welcome a fall in local unemployment just based on unscientifically counting cases in my constituency office in Barry – the official statistics show this too. In fact, the latest figures that are available show that there were 1,276 people in the Vale claiming JSA this April, 591 fewer than in April 2014 and 1,195 fewer than in April 2012. These aren’t just dry statistics, they represent hundreds more families who now have the security of a regular pay packet and the increased responsibility and self-respect that work brings.
Indeed, more people are employed now in Wales than there have ever been before. This record low in unemployment would not be possible without a growing economy – the results of which we can see here in Barry. The Island, which has seen renewed private investment, is preparing for one of its best summers in recent years and with developments such as the Pumphouse at the Waterfront we can see that the town is more than capable of sustaining new and innovative areas of enterprise. The opportunities created by the current climate of investment are being taken in Barry and my foremost priority locally is to champion action to support rather than thwart growth.
That’s why I will continue to speak out in favour of the infrastructure we need; upgrades to the five mile lane, a Dinas Powys by-pass and an Island link road ready for the summer season. It’s why I will champion free car parking in the town centre and additional parking on Barry Island. The impact that these projects could and will have on the local economy should not be underestimated, a successful Barry means more financially secure local families as well as a stronger local community.