5. 90-second Statements

– in the Senedd at 3:21 pm on 14 November 2018.

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Photo of Ann Jones Ann Jones Labour 3:21, 14 November 2018

So, item 5 is the 90-second statements, and the first up this afternoon is Vikki Howells.

Photo of Vikki Howells Vikki Howells Labour

Diolch, Dirprwy Llywydd. This year, Social Enterprise Day falls on Thursday, 15 November. The day is a chance to raise awareness of social enterprises, those businesses committed to a social or environmental mission. It is also part of Global Entrepreneurship Week. Something of the scale and scope of the sector in Wales is suggested by the report on social businesses in Wales: the state of the sector. This was produced by the Wales Co-operative Centre and funded by the Welsh Government and appeared in 2017. It paints a picture of a vibrant sector, contributing around £2.37 billion to the national economy. Also, one that employs in the region of 48,000 people.

It noted that social businesses are predominantly found in areas of social deprivation. In these areas, they play a key role, supporting communities and offering jobs and training. They also provide those fundamental services that the public and private sectors could otherwise struggle to maintain. Social Enterprise Day is an opportunity for us all to consider the positive impact that social enterprises have in our communities and in our economy. I am proud to be working with the Wales Co-operative Centre to promote Social Enterprise Day 2018 here in Wales, to help raise awareness of these amazing organisations and the work that they do putting positive social and environmental values at the heart of the economy. Thank you.

Photo of Jack Sargeant Jack Sargeant Labour 3:23, 14 November 2018

Last weekend, we had the opportunity to give thanks for our people's sacrifices during war, and to acknowledge those people who continue to serve in our armed forces today and in the future. Today, I'd like to celebrate the life of one of Shotton's bravest residents, Harry Weale VC. Harry was just 16 when he came forward to fight for and protect his country. I, for one, could not imagine how Harry felt, leaving home for the unknown to fight for the very first time in a foreign country. His courage alone was displayed from the very fact that he joined our armed forces, and he joined the Royal Welch Fusiliers, and it is no surprise that he returned home to a hero's welcome.

Deputy Llywydd, we should all remember that, without people like Harry, generations to come would not have had the choices, opportunities and freedoms that we have today. It is for those privileges that I am grateful and I'm sure we all are grateful here today too. So, we must never forget. One final thing I would like to say is:

'At the going down of the sun and in the morning / We will remember them.'