THE Welsh Government recently announced a package of funding that will benefit Newport.

Projects in Newport include £40 million for major refurbishment to the Brynglas Tunnels, £29 million for improvements to Junction 28 of the M4 and £0.7 million to the redevelopment of Old Town Dock.

For Junction 28, work is expected to start in 2016 and conclude in 2017, and refurbishment on the Brynglas Tunnels is planned to begin in March 2015 and last for two years. Meanwhile, the redevelopment of Old Town Dock is an ongoing project.

This is excellent news for people of Newport and commuters, and I look forward to updating you on its progress. For further details about the Welsh Government’s Infrastructure Plan Project Pipeline visit: http://wales.gov.uk/funding/wiipindex/pipeline-december-2014.

With the festive season in full swing, it’s important that we remember to show respect to others. I’m happy to support USDAW’s annual ‘Keep Your Cool at Christmas’ campaign which highlights the abuse that some shopworkers face in the run-up to Christmas.

USDAW’s Freedom from Fear campaign seeks to prevent violence, threats and abuse against shopworkers, with a change in the law to protect shopworkers from assault. Violence in any form should not be tolerated. For more information on the campaign and how you can pledge your support visit: http://www.usdaw.org.uk/ourcampaigns/freedomfromfear

On December 6, I supported Small Business Saturday along with people across Newport. Figures show that the UK’s small businesses provide almost two thirds of private sector employment and almost half of private sector turnover. I’ve long been a strong supporter of our local, independent traders and it’s vital that we support them all year.

I would like to take this opportunity to send you season’s greetings for the festive season and best wishes for the New Year. Keep up to date with my activities by visiting www.rosemarybutleram.co.uk or following me on Twitter @RosemaryButler. To be added to my email newsletter list call 01633 222523 or email rosemary.butler@wales.gov.uk