Professor Rhiannon Tudor Edwards, Co-director of the Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation (CHEME), was invited to speak at a joint event between Bangor University and the Institute for Welsh Affairs (IWA). Rhiannon’s presentation explored what a declining working-age population in North Wales means for future resilience economically, socially and in terms of our health, well-being and well-becoming.
North Wales has a lot to offer in terms of agriculture, employment, a stable learning economy, and as a tourism destination. There are various opportunities for work in hospitality, green energy, and the digital economy. Rhiannon spoke of the importance of promoting resilience for the working-age population now and in the future by supporting infrastructure, training, and further education within these industries.
When asked to suggest some ways of promoting resilience, Rhiannon said:
- Recognise the impact of rising fuel costs on the rural population and improve transport so that people can commute to work
- Create opportunities for businesses in North Wales
- Promote university education or industry training for young people
- Promote green energy such as local energy schemes
- Support local planning. For example, Cwmni Bro Ffestiniog is leading economic regeneration locally in the Blaenau Ffestiniog area. They are pioneering a way of creating an environmental, economic, social, cultural and educational future for their local community
- Welcome refugees who will enhance our economy and enrich our culture
Watch a recording of the Taxing Twilight webinar here
To learn more about the local planning organisation Cwmni Bro Ffestiniog click here.
