Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:38 pm on 4 December 2019.
Yes, absolutely. As I referred to earlier, I think local intelligence—it's not just local intelligence that's often an underrated and underused resource, but, actually, if we're going to make these solutions work for the communities in which they're based, then the community does need to be properly a part of that. So, in taking this action forward, we'll be supporting authorities to become what I describe as a source of constant nuisance—constant nuisance to those who don't wish to engage or think it's okay to do the bare minimum. And, as part of this, we're addressing how we can implement tougher penalties and identifying more successful routes for enforcement.
The Chair of the committee in opening said that empty properties were a problem that impacts on all of our communities, and I don't think there's an elected representative here or outside of this place who hasn't had it raised with them, or had representations. In closing, I really want to reaffirm that this Welsh Government very much welcomes the report, which, happily, reinforces some of the steps we are taking and the plans that are in the imminent pipeline. I want to thank the committee once again for its findings, and I'm pleased that both I and my officials were able to play what I hope was a constructive and productive part, and I look forward to taking this work forward so that Wales is no longer a place where empty properties are left to rot, to become a blight on our communities, and impact on our pride in place. We are taking and we will take action.