IN RESPONSE to the “Service Cut Cancercareline Blackwood” section on the Plaid Cymru Blackwood by-election candidate’s leaflet. (Andrew Farina-Childs).

From what I understand, Aneurin Bevan Health Board was the first to cut £12k from Cancercareline, which had a “domino effect” on the charity. ABHB apparently argued that the charity was duplicating services, when they are actually commissioned work by the bigger cancer charities. This information was passed on to the council and there was an £18k cut made based on that information. Clearly someone has got the wrong end of the stick.

This issue was brought to my attention last Saturday on our first leafleting drop. I was given a compelling story about the struggle the charity faces. The Blackwood Labour team, Cllr Nigel Dix, Cllr Pat, Lord Don Touhig (the charity’s president) and Chris Evans MP have been lobbying to get this case reheard.

So the sweeping statements made by Plaid’s candidate were not quite accurate and, like most of the information they produce, it needs to be taken with a pinch of salt as no doubt they are looking to win votes on a charity’s misfortune.

Allan Rees Labour Candidate Blackwood By-Election