Ahead of Cooperatives Fortnight from the 19 June – 3 July, Plaid Assembly Members have highlighted the importance of co-operatives and social enterprise for the economy of Wales.
Gareth Jones, Plaid Cymru AM for Aberconwy who also Chairs the Enterprise and Learning Committee said:
“I am delighted that the Assembly’s Enterprise Committee will examine the role of social enterprises in our communities and in the wider economy. I would strongly urge all interested parties, particularly those involved in credit unions and cooperatives, to take part and share their experiences.
“I am familiar with the outstanding social and economic contributions made by such organisations. In my own constituency I have seen for myself the expansion of Llandudno and District Credit Union and thanks to support from the Assembly Government, they were able to provide current accounts for local people – a first for a credit union in Wales.
“Over the coming months, the Enterprise Committee will learn more about the work undertaken by social enterprises and I very much look forward to see how we can expand and build upon their invaluable contribution to Welsh communities.”
Chris Franks AM, a Member of the Cross Party Group on Cooperatives and Mutuals, and a member of Plaid Cymru’s own credit union added:
“Credit unions are well regulated and do not get involved with risky investments. If only the banks had taken advice from credit unions about lending and borrowing we may not have reached the economic mess we have at present. Plaid Cymru has been committed to cooperatives for a great deal of time and has their own credit union for members.
“Credit unions have an important role in putting people before big business, and ensuring that we have a fairer more equal society. The future is going to be difficult, particularly because of the cuts coming from the Conservative-Liberal Democrat government in London. Plaid believes that credit unions and the cooperative movement will continue to play their part to encourage good financial management and tackle social exclusion.”
