THE Welsh Government have launched a consultation on what the future of manufacturing in Wales could look like, in light of the pressures the industry currently faces.

With a number of external factors, from Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic, to the need for decarbonisation, the industry is currently going through a challenging period.

Last year alone more than 150,000 across Wales were employed in the manufacturing industry, but this figure is likely to reduce in the coming months, with redundancies being a real threat to many.

The Welsh Government is therefore looking to publish a plan to support and future proof the industry as much as possible and is looking to hear views from across the country, to help shape their plans.

Member of the Senedd for Delyn, Hannah Blythyn, is urging her constituents to take part in the consultation and help shape the future of the industry.

Speaking on the launch of the consultation, the MS said: “'Like many in this corner of the country I have strong family links to our proud industrial heritage, whether that be the steel works in Shotton or the Point of Ayr.

“Having also worked with the manufacturing industry whilst working for Unite the Union, and as a Member of the Senedd, I want to do all I can to ensure the future of the sector here in Flintshire and across Wales.”

Since being elected in 2016, the MS has championed the manufacturing industry, meeting regularly with trade unions, employees and businesses, to hear their concerns and raise them with both the Welsh and UK Government.

Following the announcement of potential job losses at Airbus Broughton, Ms Blythyn also wrote to the UK Government to join colleagues in calling for sector specific support for the aviation industry.

The Delyn MS added: “The circumstances we find ourselves in also provide for the opportunity to reset and restart, particularly within the manufacturing industry.

“It is great to see plans coming forward for green, renewable energy generation, at the Port of Mostyn, as well as investment in the reprocessing of plastics to avoid adding to landfill.

“We must do all we can to support a green recovery going forward, boosting our communities, our economy and our environment.”

The Port of Mostyn recently presented plans for a tidal lagoon across the Dee Estuary to Members of the Welsh Parliament and the UK Parliament, at a briefing hosted by Ms Blythyn.

The consultation remains open until Monday, October 19, and can be found at www.gov.wales/manufacturing-future-wales-framework-action.