8. Will the First Minister make a statement on the progress of the ministerial task force for the south-Wales valleys? (OAQ51222)

The taskforce published ‘Our Valleys, Our Future’ in July, identifying three themes: good-quality jobs and the skills to do them, better public services, and my community. Following further discussions with communities, local authorities, businesses and delivery partners, a detailed delivery plan will be published on 7 November.

May I congratulate the Minister for Lifelong Learning and Welsh Language, Alun Davies AM, for the enthusiastic and energetic way in which he has launched his ministerial Valleys taskforce? The taskforce has stated that it will also explore the concept of a Valleys landscape park to help local communities build on many natural assets, including the potential for community energy generation and tourism. Will the First Minister outline the potential the Welsh Government sees in assisting the communities of Islwyn in ensuring that the Cwmcarn forest scenic drive is enjoyed by as many people as possible? Can I also personally invite the First Minister to accompany me to visit the Cwmcarn forest drive and enjoy one of the many wonders of Wales?

I have been, actually, to the forest drive, in my previous guise as a Minister some years ago now. Of course, there was a long period of closure, as we know, which was very difficult for the local community. It’s a wonderful asset for her constituency, and one that attracts many, many visitors. The Minister and I have discussed the landscape park, and we’re looking at ways as to how we might be able to take that forward. It’s a good idea. It’s a question now of seeing how we can flesh out that idea to provide benefit, not just for her constituency, but for all the communities that sit along the northern Valleys.