AM Raises Benefit Take-Up Question
12 Mawrth 2008
Plaid Cymru Assembly Member Bethan Jenkins has today raised concerns about attempts by the One Wales Government to increase benefit take-up whilst the Department of Work and pensions in London is closing offices and making redundancies.
Ms Jenkins, Assembly Member for South Wales West, asked Social Justice Minister, Brian Gibbons:
“I very much welcome last month’s launch of the One Wales Government’s Benefit Take Up Campaign but would like to ask the Minister how he thinks we encourage benefit take up in Wales when so many DWP offices are being closed in Wales, and people are forced, instead, to ring phone lines which are often unanswered?
“Clearly we need more cohesion between ministers at Westminster and in the Assembly, so that we can deliver for the people who need our help most.”
Ms Jenkins’ question comes as news emerged this week that the Public and Commercial Services Union will be striking against Government redundancy and pay plans for DWP workers.
“I fully endorse the actions of the PCS Union and wish them well in their quest to ensure justice for front-line servants of the public.”
ENDS
For further information contact Steffan Lewis on 02920 898 713 / 07961 732405
