I recently visited the Remploy factory in Porth where I discussed plans for business expansion with workers and managers at the factory. I believe the Porth Remploy factory could have a bright future if the UK Government's Department for Work and Pensions recognises its potential.
It may seem strange to talk about expanding a business when Remploy is discussing its closure, but the Remploy workers believe in their business and they have been successful in holding on to contracts and finding new customers, not least from the public sector. I hope that Remploy and the DWP will see the potential of the business. They can now recycle smart phones and iPads as well as computers.
The demand for this kind of work will only grow in the future. The Welsh Government has acted to create a grant for companies taking onredundant Remploy workers. Now the UK Tory-led government should recognise that the Porth factory is a viable business and back those with the imagination to make it work - the current workforce.
I also saw the potential of a new business called Red Rock set up by former Remploy managers in Bristol which is scanning invoices and files and paper records for public sector organisations and the Unite trade union. Finally, I also plan o discuss the Remploy factory with Huw Lewis AM, Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty in the Welsh Government.
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