ISLWYN MP, Chris Evans, has used a debate in parliament to condemn the government’s continued failure to help former Remploy employees. Most people employed by Remploy were forced out of their jobs following the government’s closure scheme last year.
Mr Evans criticised the initial closure of Remploy factories, calling it “among the most cruel” of decisions taken by the coalition government. In the debate Mr Evans challenged the government to apologise for the hardship their decision imposed on many disabled people across Wales and the UK. In addition Mr Evans reiterated his disgust that Work and Pensions Secretary, Ian Duncan-Smith, had claimed Remploy employees just “made coffee.”
The Disabilities Minister, who represented the government in the debate, refused to apologise for the decision, hardship caused or Ian Duncan-Smith’s derogatory comments.
Speaking after the debate Mr Evans said: “Of all the decisions this government has taken, the closure of Remploy factories is among the most disgraceful. For over 70 years these factories provided thousands of disabled people with good jobs, a sense of purpose and a community to be part of.”
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