6. Will the First Minister provide an update on the Welsh Government's discussions regarding the 94 jobs that are under threat at the Northwood Hygiene Products factory in Penygroes in the Arfon constituency? OQ55424

May I thank Siân Gwenllian for that question? Formal consultation on closure proposals for the Northwood factory ended on 4 July. Despite efforts by the local workers and management, Gwynedd Council and the Welsh Government, the company has decided to go ahead with closure plans. Efforts now turn to supporting staff and seeking alternative investment for the site.

I thank your Government for being so willing to provide assistance and to support the alternative proposal by the workforce in Penygroes, but unfortunately, as you have said, the company has rejected that opportunity for commercial reasons and they are making the 94 staff redundant, which is a huge blow. But we must continue to seek to find alternative use for the site. So, thank you for giving the assurance that your Government officials will continue to work with Gwynedd Council and others to look at the options available, including attracting a new buyer for the site. Ninety-four jobs in Dyffryn Nantlle would equate to thousands of jobs in more highly populated areas of Wales and deserve the same effort and the same attention from your Government as we seek a way forward.

Thank you, Siân Gwenllian. I acknowledge the point that she makes about the impact of the loss of 94 jobs in a place such as Nantlle Vale, and the closure of the plant is a very big blow for the workforce and the community. And as Siân Gwenllian acknowledged, Welsh Government officials and the officers of Gwynedd Council have been working hard to try and defend those jobs, putting money on the table to try and support those workers that have been loyal to the company over a long period of time. But as Siân Gwenllian says, we must think together about how we can attract alternative investment into the site. Welsh Government is leading a regional remedial partnership, and we will be looking at the future of north Wales post COVID—the whole of north Wales—but also in the context that Siân Gwenllian's constituents will be facing after the decision to close the factory.