Agenda item

The Leader reiterated the welcome to the Chief Executive and explained that the opening of the Celtic Freeport marks a pivotal moment for the area, with the opportunities that it represents to revitalise the region. He stated that further information will be shared with Council as and when it becomes available.

The Leader continued with an update following the last meeting of the TATA Steel Transition Board whereby the Secretary of State for Wales had released a £13m Business Start Up Growth and Resilience fund. He explained the detail of the fund, which was enthusiastically supported:

- START UP- Grants up to £10k to support former TATA employees, contractors and their families to start up their own businesses.

- GROWTH- Grants up to £25k-£250k to support local business expansion

- RESILIENCE- Grants of between £2.5k- £20k to aid businesses indirectly affected like local shops and cafes.

The Leader concluded that the Council remained committed to the TATA workforce and reminded members of the pledge of a guaranteed interview if the applicant met the essential job criteria. He stated that 87 former TATA employees had applied for jobs at the Council and that 10 had been offered employment.