PROPOSALS to close two Gwent Remploy factories have been questioned after they enjoyed success over the last few months.

A letter was sent to all staff congratulating them after the company saw a 12.2 per cent growth in sales, a 17 per cent reduction in costs and 27.9 per cent overall improvement in the operating result.

Despite this, a 90-day consultation is nearing its end over the closure of 36 Remploy factories in the UK.

Those affected include seven factories in Wales, with 70 workers employed at sites in Croespenmaen and Abertillery that could close.

Plaid Cymru’s equalities spokesman andAMfor South Wales East Lindsay Whittle said the letter proves Remploy can be a success and called for it to be preserved.

The organisation offers work to people with various disabilities and Mr Whittle said it has a sustainable future.

He said the letter proves there is no justification in the UK government’s plans to close the factories and wants responsibility for them devolved from Westminster to Cardiff Bay.

Mr Whittle added: “Remploy is a successful, important part of Welsh industry and the figures show that it has a bright future.

“Let’s protect this important body and the Welsh workers who are a part of it.”

The call came days before Remploy workers, officials and supporters are due to march in Cardiff.

They will leave City Hall at 11am and march around the city centre in protest at proposals, before speakers address them at the venue between 1pm and 3pm.