New Year’s Message from Carwyn Jones, First Minister of Wales:
“The end of a year is traditionally the time to take stock and reflect on events over the past 12 months.
“2013 was a fantastic year of achievement in Welsh sport. From another Six Nations title; a Welsh dominated Lions team; Cardiff City promoted to the Premier League and a young man from Cardiff becoming the world’s most expensive footballer.
“Away from sport, this autumn saw people from across the world travel to Cardiff to celebrate world music at WOMEX. We also welcomed news that next year’s NATO summit will be held in the Celtic Manor– a major coup for Wales and one we fully intend to take advantage of in promoting Wales to the world.
“This year we lost one of the greatest figures of modern times. Nelson Mandela’s message of forgiveness and peace, to change his country for the better rather than seek retribution, will be remembered for generations to come.
“There are also some positive signs that Wales is recovering well from one of the longest economic downturns in living memory. The number of people in work in Wales is now at a record high – with Wales outperforming the UK as a whole.
“There has also been a big fall in the number of young people out of work – with our flagship Jobs Growth Wales programme helping to create thousands of opportunities for the workforce of the future.
“This year has also seen a massive increase in the level of foreign investment, the result of a major push to attract companies to Wales.
“Despite the hard-fought economic progress, I fully recognise that life continues to be tough for many people in Wales. Spiralling living costs, combined with changes to the welfare system, are clearly impacting upon people’s ability to meet day-to-day costs. That is why we will continue to do everything we can to support people through this difficult period.
“2013 has been an important year in the devolution journey of Wales. The UK government response to the recommendations of the Silk Commission is a significant milestone and will give us the powers we need to continue to deliver for the people of Wales.
“The new system for presumed consent for organ donation – passed by the Assembly in early July - was a landmark piece of legislation, leading the way in the UK and attracting attention from nations across the world. The passing of the Active Travel Bill in October was also a world first.
“We re-affirmed our commitment to a sustainable NHS. Despite UK Government cuts, the budget for the Welsh NHS is the biggest it has ever been, with an additional investment of over £600million secured for the next three years.
“We are open and honest about the challenges we face but our commitment will not falter. Next year we will continue to focus on delivering on the things that matter to you, the people of Wales.
“I wish you all a happy New Year.”
