Senedd debate focusses on need for urgent, tangible action for flood-hit communities
Assembly Members will today have the opportunity to vote in favour of immediate action the Welsh Labour Government should take to support flood-hit communities across Wales.
Many communities, and businesses, have been devastated by flooding in recent weeks.
The Senedd debate follows widespread criticism of the response of the Welsh Labour Government to the flooding crisis.
Welsh Conservatives have continually urged Labour Ministers to take concrete action to offer tangible support to those impacted by flooding; including the need for the Welsh Government to:
· Explore the provision of rate relief for impacted businesses;
· Review how the Trunk Road Agency responds to adverse weather conditions;
· Assess the management of the A55 in relation to flooding;
· Provide additional freedoms to farmers and landowners to clear ditches, drains and agricultural channels; and
· Assess how the Rural Development Programme can better support flood prevention schemes for communities affected by flooding.
Shadow Environment Minister, Janet Howarth AM, who will lead today’s debate, said:
“Welsh Conservatives have outlined clear, practical action which Labour Ministers should take to support our flood-hit communities.
“The devastating impact of recent flooding has taken its toll on many across Wales; and I pay tribute to the tireless efforts of emergency services who have responded to this situation.
“Lessons need to be learned – and we hope Labour Ministers use our debate to support clear, affordable, practical action which can offer a vital lifeline to some of those most deeply affected by flooding.
“From offering rate relief to businesses who have faced a torrid few weeks, to undertaking a vital review as to the approach of the Trunk Road Agency; communities deserve nothing less than a comprehensive package that ensures Wales is better equipped to deal with adverse weather conditions.
“Practical action too; like offering landowners more freedom to deploy flood prevention techniques; could ensure the devastation seen in recent weeks is more easily avoided in the future.”
