THE assembly may only have been back in session for a couple of weeks but already there is much to talk about.

On Thursday I am launching the ministerial taskforce for the Valleys, a new approach to supporting investment in the south Wales valleys region.

I will chair the taskforce as part of my role as Minister for Lifelong Learning and Welsh Language and the group will include representatives from the private and public sector to help the most disadvantaged areas of the valleys, and ensure every individual has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

Here in these valleys, particularly in Blaenau Gwent, we have a strong industrial heritage.

We are proud of our history but the demise of such heavy industry has taken its toll on our communities, our health and our landscapes still bear the scars.

We need a new approach to capturing investment in these valleys and increasing employment in our towns.

Great progress has been made under a Labour Government in Wales, despite the scathing Tory cuts enforced upon us, but there is still work to be done.

I will report back on the progress of the taskforce in the weeks to come.

In other news, the Welsh Government is awaiting the revised business plan from the Circuit of Wales developers.

You may remember back in April that First Minister Carwyn Jones came to Ebbw Vale to discuss the proposal and give the project his commitment.

We just need for the financial underpinning of the plan to be agreed before work can begin.

I know how much the circuit means to the people of Blaenau Gwent and I want to assure you that I will continuing to support the developers in coming to an arrangement with the Welsh Government to ensure this fantastic proposal becomes a reality.

On Friday, September 30 I will be jointly hosting a Macmillan coffee morning with Aneurin Bevan Leisure at Ebbw Vale library from 10 until noon.

All are welcome to pop in for a cuppa and a cake and help raise money for this great cause.