- 12/06/2013
- Posted by: Mike Hedges MS
- Categories: Latest News, Press Releases
Three Labour AMs representing areas in South West Wales have today praised the swift action being taken by the Welsh Labour Government towards achieving one of its key manifesto commitments – after just 2 years in office.
Swansea AMs Mike Hedges and Julie James, along with Aberavon AM David Rees, have congratulated the Welsh Government on almost achieving its ambitious target of getting an extra 500 Police Community Safety Officers (PCSOs) out on the beat in streets and communities up and down Wales.
The news comes in light of the Welsh Government’s Annual Report, which was published last week and provides a progress update on the commitments made in the “Programme for Government” document.
According to the latest figures, 467 PCSOs have already been deployed thanks to funding made available by the Welsh Government, with the remain set of PCSOs expected to be trained and deployed by September 2013.
The South Wales Police Western Division, which covers the Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot areas, is due to benefit from this commitment by getting an extra 58 PCSOs to assist regular warranted police officers in tackling anti-social behaviour and crime.
Speaking from the Senedd, Mike Hedges AM said:
“PCSOs play a valuable role in assisting our police officers in tackling anti-social behaviour and crime, as well as making people feel safer in their communities. An additional 58 PSCOs out on the beat in the Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot areas, paid for and deliver by the Welsh Government, is something I’m pleased to welcome and support.”
Swansea West’s AM Julie James said:
“The fact that the Welsh Government are already well on course to deliver on this key manifesto commitment demonstrates just how committed they are towards supporting policing and reducing crime in the Swansea area.”
Aberavon AM David Rees added:
“From speaking to police officers, I know that the 20% cuts from Westminster are already putting a real strain on our Welsh police forces and on frontline policing. These additional 500 PCSOs will therefore make a real frontline difference towards preventing and tackling crime in our streets and communities.”
