Green jobs green light - despite Rhodri's bluster

11.27.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 29th Jul 2008

Welsh Liberal Democrats' campaign to put Wales at the forefront of creating jobs and backing the environment looks set to finally succeed in the Autumn - despite First Minister Rhodri Morgan's claim that Wales doesn't need one.

In answer to written question from party leader Mike German, the Minister for Economic Development has stated that the long awaited Green Jobs Strategy will be ready by the end of September. His answer casts a curious shadow over the performance of First Minister Rhodri Morgan at his final question time earlier this month, where he was evasive on the issue and accused Mr German of being "obsessed" with the strategy.

Mike German, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, said: "I'm pleased that we finally have a date for the Green Jobs Strategy - but perplexed by why the First Minister made such a meal of answering my questions in the chamber just a week and a half ago. I find it hard to believe he didn't know that the document was in the pipeline, so why didn't he just say so?

"The reason I have been pressing the first Minister on this issue is not because it's a personal obsession - but because it is right for Wales. Scotland launched its Green Jobs Strategy in June 2005. Labour's delay has allowed other parts of the UK and the rest of the world to get a head start in an area where Wales has great opportunities and great natural resources. I only hope now that when the document is launched for consultation it will live up to our aspirations."

Economic Development spokesperson Kirsty Williams AM added: "The Labour Party in Wales has failed for years to give proper prominence to green jobs. I am pleased that we are finally getting some action.

"Going green isn't about extra regulation, nor is it about being worthy do-gooders. Going green is an economic opportunity, and needs to be sold to business that way. It is a chance for our companies in Wales to cut costs, to expand in to new markets, and beef up our economy to match the best of the rest in Europe.

"By promoting green jobs, we are promoting the economy and building a brighter future for Wales."

Notes:

As long ago as 20 March 2006, Welsh Liberal Democrats put forward a motion calling for a Green Jobs Strategy for Wales. It was voted down by the Labour Government.

The motion for the Welsh Liberal Democrat Party nominated debate reads:

The National Assembly for Wales:

1. Believes that Sustainable Development should be at the heart of government actions, not simply words, and calls on the Welsh Assembly Government to:

a. Publish an annual index in the Sustainable Development report, measuring clearly economic growth against CO2 emissions;

b. Implement a green jobs strategy, with clear and measurable targets for success, similar to that pursued in Scotland;

c. Develop and publish energy efficiency ratings for public buildings in Wales.

Text of written question - answered today 28 July 2008

Mike German (South Wales East): Will the Minister outline the proposed timetable for the introduction of the Green Jobs Strategy? (WAQ52276)

The Deputy First Minister: A consultation document for the Green Jobs Strategy is expected by the end of September 2008. A 12-week period will be provided to enable interested parties, businesses and their representative organisations, to contribute to the strategy