Huw Lewis, Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
Earlier this year, the Welsh Government announced its intention to look afresh at our relationship with the Third Sector in Wales. Today, I am announcing the start of the formal consultation process and am publishing the consultation document.
In developing this consultation document, the Welsh Government has drawn on the advice and views of a wide range of interests, including key stakeholders and representatives from the Third Sector and beyond. To begin the process, we held a series of informal pre-consultation events which helped to shape and inform our thinking and have worked in close partnership with representatives from a specially commissioned reference group which examined our current relationship and developed a number of thematic areas for further consideration.
I would like to thank each of the persons who have provided their time, experience and expertise to developing this important document which, as we go forward, will help us to continue to develop our already strong relationship with the Third Sector and to face the challenges that lie ahead.
The Third Sector has a vital part to play in building resilient communities and helping people to get by in these difficult times. It is even more important now than in the past that resources and efforts are coordinated and used to the best possible effect. There is no doubt that there is scope to continue to improve the ways that the Welsh Government and the Sector work together. As we have already stated, this includes being clear on what we can achieve, the role that the Sector plays in Welsh Society; how we engage with each other, and the structure that supports the sector.
The consultation period starts from today and ends on 8 August 2013. It presents an opportunity for everyone to contribute and I strongly encourage anyone who has a view to do so. The outcomes from the consultation will help shape the future of the working and funding relationship between Welsh Government and the Third Sector in Wales.
You can access information about the consultation, including the relevant documents, and details of a series of consultation events, which you will be able to attend via the Welsh Government website.