PLAID CYMRU – Statement on Apprenticeships

Plaid Cymru’s deal on apprenticeships with the Welsh Government in the recent budget negotiations will provide over 5500 people with valuable skills and opportunities to create meaningful employment opportunities.

Martin Davies, Plaid Rural Councillor for Hengoed Ward said:

“As a result of Plaid in action and focusing on the economy, we have been able to secure an extra £40 million of additional funding towards apprenticeships and business with the potential through EU funding to increase to £60 million over the next two years. Due to the growing concerns of Youth Unemployment in Llanelli, I am especially pleased to see the support will be specifically targeted for 16-26 years olds. Also for the first time ever, there will be government support for young people to take apprenticeships through the medium of Welsh”.

Local resident Tom McPhillips added:

“Of course, this is welcome news for Llanelli and the business community. It will help to even further close the skills gap that currently exists between Wales and the other countries of the U.K. It is also pleasing to see that the Young Recruits Programme will be extended with 2000 extra places secured annually and small businesses able to receive an extra incentive of £500 towards recruitment costs, all of which will benefit Llanelli locally and help to strengthen our fragile economy nationally.”