Lee Waters AM announces £100k boost for local food production

LOCAL Assembly Member Lee Waters has announced £100,000 of funding for a project to transform local food production and boost the economy across Carmarthenshire.

The project by Carmarthenshire Public Service Board will provide business opportunities for local or regionally-based companies and bring environmental benefits by lowering food miles and associated carbon costs. It has been funded as part of a £4.6m package to boost the foundational economy.

The foundational economy approach is being adopted by cities and regions across the world, but Wales is the first country in the world to embrace it on a national scale. The foundational economy is made up of the everyday goods and services we all need and use with estimates suggesting it accounts for four out of every 10 jobs and £1 in every three we spend.

Lee Waters, who is also the Deputy Minister for Economy and Transport in the Welsh Government, said:

“I came into politics and Government with the aim of helping the communities where I grew up and those like them.

“Supporting the Foundational Economy is a key way to do this. This is a vitally important part of the economy which makes a big difference to the livelihoods of many people as well as our cities, towns, and villages.”

The announcement was made alongside First Minister Mark Drakeford at an event at the University of Wales Trinity St David.

Another project to be awarded funding is being led by Cyfle Building Skills Ltd. It will receive £86,500 to work with construction employers and provide opportunities for apprentices to receive valuable work experience placements throughout the industry in Carmarthenshire.

Lee Waters added

“It’s been great to join the First Minister in Carmarthen to learn more about what is potentially a very exciting project and one which will change the way food is procured locally for the benefit of area’s communities.”

“The Foundational Economy Challenge Fund is a clear demonstration of our commitment to supporting people in all parts of Wales today, tomorrow and into the future.”