NDM8756 Debate - Natural Resources Wales's 'Case for Change'

NDM8756 Mabon ap Gwynfor (Dwyfor Meirionnydd)

To propose that the Senedd:

1. Notes:

a) Natural Resources Wales’s 'Case for Change' agenda;

b) that 120 staff members are directly impacted by the changes proposed under ‘Case for Change’; and

c) that services provided by NRW will be reduced.

2. Regrets:

a) Natural Resources Wales’s decision to approve the ‘Case for Change’ proposals; and

b) the decision to close catering and retail operations at Coed y Brenin, Nant yr Arian and Ynyslas.

3. Believes that these closures will have a detrimental impact on the mid-Wales economy.

4. Calls on Natural Resources Wales to proactively engage with communities and organisations to expedite the process in order to avoid temporary closure of the centres.

Co-submitters

Jane Dodds (Mid and West Wales)

Sam Rowlands (North Wales)

The following amendment was tabled:

Amendment 1 Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

Delete all after sub-point 1 (a) and replace with:

the economic difficulties caused by 14 years of Conservative UK Government and subsequent pressure on all public bodies, including Natural Resources Wales (NRW);

that NRW continues to support staff members directly impacted by the ‘Case for Change’; and

that reshaping the organisation will allow NRW to focus on the delivery of its core functions and statutory duties.

Acknowledges:

a) the 'Case for Change' includes NRW ceasing its own delivery of catering and retail operations at Coed y Brenin, Nant yr Arian and Ynyslas;

b) the visitor centres sites remain open for walking, biking, car parking and toilet provision; and

c) this allows opportunities for social and community groups and local businesses to provide these services.

Calls on Natural Resources Wales to continue proactively engaging with local community groups and businesses, therefore expediting the process in seeking partners which are better placed to provide these retail and catering services.