5. Statement by the Minister for Economy: Young Person’s Guarantee

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:16 pm on 29 June 2021.

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Photo of Luke Fletcher Luke Fletcher Plaid Cymru 4:16, 29 June 2021

Diolch, Dirprwy Lywydd. There's a lot to welcome in today's statement. It's very similar to the Plaid Cymru offer during the election. We look forward to seeing the detail, and we'll be keeping an eye on its implementation to ensure it delivers for young people in Wales.

It's positive to know that the Welsh Government is looking at other examples, not just in the UK, hopefully, but in the EU as well. I often say—and it's quite hard for us to admit sometimes—that when we have a good idea, the likelihood is someone's already come up with that idea, so it's always good to learn from others' experiences, so we don't fall into the same traps.

When similar schemes were implemented in Europe, local staff working on the implementation acknowledged that internships and work placements were not always of the highest standards. While measures were taken to ensure quality, it was not always possible for local staff to systematically monitor placements. Can the Minister confirm that, as part of Working Wales's role, they'll be ensuring that job quality meets agreed standards? The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's assessment of similar schemes was a lack of reliable data, and indicators were difficult to come across. Difficulties collecting data and indicators were obvious both at the national level and local level in terms of target population, services and outcomes. How will the Welsh Government obtain data on the proportions of young people directed to each possible option of the scheme? Further to this as well, how does the Welsh Government intend to be able to report on those who obtain secure employment as a result of taking part in the scheme?

If I could also move on to young workers' rights for a moment, the Wales TUC is calling on the Welsh Government to work with unions to ensure that the Welsh economic recovery focuses on good-quality jobs and empowering young workers, and in fact, actually, they have launched a new campaign to drive up union membership among young workers. A Wales TUC and YouGov survey has demonstrated that tens of thousands of workers are facing unfair treatment and a lack of opportunity at work. How will the Welsh Government ensure that young workers can avoid the poor-quality and insecure jobs that characterise the recovery from the last recession?

Finally, on the green recovery, we have a real chance to help both our young people and our planet by ensuring that these jobs are helping contribute to our green economic recovery. So, does the Welsh Government intend to use the guarantee to be a key part of our rapid recovery in Wales, which could prioritise greener homes, better public transport, renewable energy and high-speed broadband? Diolch yn fawr.