Labour and Independent group block economy plan

1.19.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 2nd Apr 2009

Elderly people are feeling the effects of the credit crunch too

Liberal Democrat plans for a Recession Taskforce for Merthyr Tydfil have been blocked by Labour and the Independent group. Lib Dem spokesperson for Merthyr Tydfil, Amy Kitcher, called for the Council to use its community leadership role to help families and businesses during the recession.

Amy Kitcher said, "Everyone in our borough will be experiencing some impact from the recession. We understand that the council cannot solve all the problems, but we have an obligation to do what we can. I am simply calling for the Council to take a stronger lead and work to make sure that help is available to lessen the worst impacts on those most vulnerable in our communities."

Merthyr Liberal Democrats have recently carried out a comprehensive survey of shops in Merthyr Tydfil. The results of the survey influenced the proposals put forward by the Lib Dems. The key proposal was to create a single Taskforce to get key council departments working together - signposting residents and businesses to the services that would be of most use to them.

Amy Kitcher added, "One of the residents who contacted me complained that her bank charges had really increased and this was causing her some hardship. We were able to signpost her to the local Credit Union. It's simple measures like this that the whole Council should be adopting - and best of all they're free."

Lib Dem Group Leader and European Candidate, Kevin O'Connor, added, "We have been very disappointed that the Independent group are unwilling to give leadership to the borough. Local businesses will be looking to the council to help them through these difficult times.

"Creating a Recession Taskforce would allow the council to react quickly to these changing times and come up with policies to help local families and businesses that are really struggling. Sadly, Labour and the independents rejected this proposal out of hand."

You can read the full text of the proposals and Amy Kitcher's speech by using the links below.

Related Links:

Amy Kitcher's speech to Full Council

Full Text of the Lib Dem proposals