Carwyn Jones to warn of 'challenging times ahead' at TUC conference

As the TUC Conference draws to a close, First Minister Carwyn Jones will address delegates. He's expected to discuss the vital role of public sector workers. However, he's also expected to warn that challenging times are ahead, and only his Government can find progressive answers that save jobs and protect services.

But Conservative AM Angela Burns has slammed the First Minister's appearance at the Conference stating:

“The First Minister has snubbed a major debate on the Queen’s Speech and instead gone to see his union paymasters".

At a fringe meeting on Tuesday, Unite's Wales Regional Secretary Andy Richards endorsed the Welsh Government's approach to dealing with public sector workers and hinted that further devolution, along with a review of the funding model for the Welsh Government could strengthen the relationship.

Regional pay has been high on the agenda as union leaders argue that such a move by the UK Government could further weaken the Welsh economy.

Brendan Barber, the outgoing TUC General Secretary warned delegates that regional pay was a serious threat to workers and would increase inequality within society.