Residents’ safety and peace of mind is my priority, says Carl Sargeant

5 Jul 2017 12:11 PM

Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Children, Carl Sargeant has reiterated that the safety and peace of mind of residents living in tower blocks found to have Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding are his priority.

Updating Assembly Members on actions the Welsh Government has taken since the Grenfell Tower tragedy the Cabinet Secretary said he was keen to deal with the understandable concerns of tenants as quickly as possible.

He outlined a range of measures that had been implemented in Swansea since the failed test results on ACM cladding in four of its tower blocks. These include checking fire risk, ensuring residents fully understand emergency fire procedures and providing fire wardens on-site to reassure tenants.

The Cabinet Secretary visited residents in Swansea recently in order to understand the experience and views of those living in the affected properties.

Carl Sargeant recently said:

"I had some very positive and insightful discussions with residents yesterday which will be helpful in shaping our activity as we move forward. I heard from tenants first hand what their concerns are surrounding the safety of cladding material. I was able to explain the steps being taken to ensure that high rise tower blocks are safe. Residents were very clear that they appreciated the advice provided by the council.

"Clearly this situation demands close cooperation by a range of agencies and services. Resident safety and peace of mind is the very highest priority for all organisations involved with this issue and I am pleased to say that all are working together effectively. Along with others, the Welsh Government is absolutely committed to taking a measured and proportionate response which recognises the importance of tenants’ safety and peace of mind."

The Cabinet Secretary said it is essential that Government action should be based on the best possible professional advice.

"Our excellent Fire and Rescue Services remain closely involved in supporting landlords and in ensuring that all proper and reasonable steps are taken to safeguard tenants. Their professional and measured approach to risk management and fire safety is crucial," he said.