Public investment with a social purpose is what we’re about in Wales, First Minister Carwyn Jones will tell the TUC conference in Llandudno today.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Addressing the event the First Minister will say:
“Just this week we launched the Economic Contract which demonstrates a new approach to supporting businesses in Wales.
“It means that from this month onwards, all companies applying for direct business grant support from the Welsh Government will need to demonstrate that they are committed to Fair Work and promoting health in the workplace.
“A reciprocal ‘something for something’ approach that encourages business and Government to explore and test how a company contributes to the wealth and wellbeing of its workers and wider community.
“This is a very real example of social partnership delivering for working people in Wales.”
The First Minister will also pay tribute to the partnership with the trade unions over the past nine years.
He will say:
“Whatever the frustrations of this job, and whatever the occasional tensions there have been between us – we’ve been a partnership in power.
“And we’ve faced difficult decisions together.
“When I took over in 2009, we were in the midst of one of the worst financial crises the world has ever seen. Those times were tough. They tested the bonds of our social partnership. Difficult decisions were made as a result.
“But we made them from a position of power.
“I’m proud of that. As we mark the 150th anniversary of the TUC this year, I’m proud that in Wales we have a Government that works with, and not against its trade union partners.
“In Wales we have a government willing to stand up for working people. And in Wales, we made tough decisions in tough times, together.
“It’s been a genuine social partnership helping Wales, its economy and its public services prepare for future generations.”