Children’s Commissioner for Wales opens new youth facility in Burry Port

The Children’s Commissioner for Wales Keith Towler has officially opened a new youth facility at Glan-y-Mor School – the first in his seven years in the job.
Mr Towler said how pleased he was to be able to open a youth centre, instead of seeing one close which has happened more and more over the past few years.
He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the £1.1million youth and leisure facility at the school in Burry Port.
Mr Towler said: “I spend a lot of time talking with children and young people about what is important to them, we need to hear their voices.
“It is clear to me that children and young people in Carmarthenshire do have a voice and they do get that voice heard.”
He praised the vision and commitment of everyone involved in the project, which was delivered through Carmarthenshire County Council’s Modernising Education Programme.
Mr Towler, who is due to complete his seven years as Children’s Commissioner shortly, said he was unlikely to see another youth club opening in his remaining time in office.
“This is a very, very, difficult time for public spending,” he said. “Lots and lots of young people have been approaching me because youth clubs have been closing up and down the country, right across Wales.
“So it is an absolute joy to be here at the opening of this new facility. Every child should have all the support and services they need to achieve their full potential.
“That is my hope for every young person who uses these facilities. Burry Port and Carmarthenshire can be very proud indeed.”
Dignitaries taking place in the ceremony included Carmarthenshire County Council Leader Cllr Kevin Madge, who said: “I remember as a young person becoming a councillor to fight for youth facilities in my local park, this has always been a personal priority for me, so I am delighted to see this new development.”
Local county councillor Pat Jones was praised for her tenacity in securing the development, and thanked the council for delivering the scheme.
She said: “At last we have a purpose built youth club and I know this facility will mean so much to the young people of Burry Port and Pembrey.
“My dream has finally come true!”