The Financial Effect of COVID-19 on Local Authorities

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Finance and Local Government – in the Senedd at 2:05 pm on 23 June 2021.

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Photo of Buffy Williams Buffy Williams Labour 2:05, 23 June 2021

Thank you, Minister. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank local council workers for going above and beyond during the pandemic. Rhondda Cynon Taf's budget hasn't only been hit by the costs of COVID—we also have a bill of £12 million for the landslide remedial works in Tylorstown, and let's not forget millions to enhance culverts and drainage systems following the dreadful floods.

Our forefathers in Rhondda worked their fingers to the bone to make this country rich, many paying the ultimate price of coal. It wouldn't be fair to expect our communities to cover the costs to make our coal tips safe. I was proud to stand on a manifesto that committed to a coal tip safety Act, and I welcome the support from both Welsh Government and the UK Government for the work so far. Will the Minister continue to work closely with UK Government Ministers to ensure we receive the much-needed financial support?