In various parts of Wales, many individuals perceive life as more challenging than it should be.
Even with diligent effort, concerns about upcoming bills persist. Witnessing the decline of businesses in town centers or fearing that children may need to seek better job opportunities outside of Wales adds to the burden. This situation is unjust. As the First Minister, I advocate for confronting this reality truthfully.
Despite substantial funds being allocated to public services after enduring years of Conservative austerity and budget cuts, the feeling of tangible progress is lacking for numerous households. Therefore, it is imperative to persist in our efforts to ensure that families believe that remaining steadfast will yield significant benefits.
Wales stands at the brink of a new era. There is a genuine opportunity to transition from merely managing imposed Conservative reductions to shaping our own destiny after years of devolution efforts in enhancing skills, infrastructure, and confidence start to bear fruit.
Previously overlooked investors are now expressing interest, laying the groundwork for a new wave of job opportunities throughout Wales. The focus remains on stability, infrastructure, and most importantly, the welfare of individuals, based on my private sector experience, driving government actions.
Evident progress includes major energy initiatives in the north, an artificial intelligence growth zone in the south, advanced manufacturing in the east, and renewable projects along the western coast. Since assuming office, £16 billion in business investments have flowed into Wales following the announcement of hosting a highly successful Wales Investment Summit. These figures represent tangible outcomes like job creation, apprenticeships, and new prospects in Welsh communities, infusing vitality and optimism.
While economic growth is crucial, it must be equitable. A fair future entails access to healthcare services, decentralizing care, reducing wait times, ensuring public safety, and visible law enforcement. It also involves enabling young people to receive training, secure employment, and build their futures in Wales, reviving vibrant town centers, and sustaining the proud Welsh culture and language.
The electoral decision for Wales is becoming clearer. Some parties advocate for “change” without outlining governance plans or financial sustainability. Others, like Reform, thrive on discontent, proposing cuts and disorder that jeopardize essential services.
Reform asserts that the entire country is in disarray but lacks concrete solutions beyond criticizing the system. While acknowledging current inequalities, Welsh Labour is taking proactive measures instead of pointing fingers like Reform.
Welsh Labour offers a distinct approach, not only in contrast to Reform but also concerning counterparts in England, through initiatives such as free prescriptions, universal free school meals for primary students, paying care workers the Real Living Wage, and bringing railways back into public ownership. These policies are not mere slogans but impactful political decisions.
This election transcends a choice between change and continuity. It is about sustaining progress after overcoming austerity and cutbacks or risking the achievements made. With a fresh cohort of candidates and a clear objective, Welsh Labour is prepared to script the next phase and construct a fair future for Wales collectively.