Momentum builds for ensuring local jobs for local people on Ynys Môn
A leading civil engineering firm has become the latest organisation to sign up to an Anglesey MP’s local jobs for local people campaign.
Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK, which delivered the onshore infrastructure for the £36m tidal energy project Morlais on Ynys Môn, recruited personnel from the county as well as boosted the island’s economy.
More than 25 per cent of the 40-strong workforce live on Anglesey, while six subcontractors and nine suppliers, including hospitality and accommodation providers, were utilised.
Twm Tudor, who lives just 10 miles from the scheme, joined Jones Bros in 2022 and is a shining example of the importance of MP Virginia Crosbie’s activity to ensure residents on Anglesey are the ones to benefit from funding and infrastructure projects.
And Jones Bros has thrown its support behind the local jobs for local people campaign, which was launched last month and is gathering momentum with seven businesses signed up.
Huw Jones MBE, chairman of Jones Bros, said: “We are passionate about our projects leaving a lasting legacy in the communities where we work, and providing life-long skills and career opportunities is key to that.
“Being appointed to the Morlais scheme allowed us to strengthen our workforce with local people, such as Twm who has excelled on his higher apprenticeship while with us.
“Our impact on Anglesey’s economy was also hugely positive, with the supply chain featuring many companies based on the island.”
Of equal importance to Jones Bros and Ms Crosbie is protecting the Welsh language, with fears that Welsh speakers could move away in order to find work.
Ms Crosbie, who visited the Morlais site to meet members of the Jones Bros team, said: “My father was born in Wales but had to leave to find work. I am determined that our young people have a future right here on Ynys Môn and that means good quality jobs.
“Businesses such as Jones Bros are critical in the mission to provide local jobs for local people and to help preserve the Welsh language. It has set the standard for other firms to follow.
“I’m determined to ensure Investment at the freeport or at Wylfa results in employment for the residents of Ynys Môn.”
Huw added: “While our work at Morlais has come to an end, we’re still delivering infrastructure projects on the island, including at RAF Valley.
“We’re also excited to explore the opportunities being created as a result of the freeport, which has the chance to transform communities on Anglesey.”
Twm, a higher apprentice and fluent Welsh speaker, said: “It’s fantastic I was able to work in the civil engineering industry where I grew up alongside experienced civil engineers who were also from the island.
“Having the opportunity to speak Welsh on site with colleagues, the client, and suppliers was a big positive and something I don’t take for granted.
“I’m proud to say that I worked on a large development that will benefit my friends and family as well as play a part in Wales’ journey to net zero, and I’m hopeful for more such stories as my career with Jones Bros progresses.”