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Date: 11 November 2008

Embargo: For Immediate Release

Attention: Newsdesks, Education and Social Affairs Correspondents

Workplace Skills Key to Wales' Economic Defensive Line

[Photo-Caption: Scott Quinnell with Wales TUC Officers Linsey Shingles, Derek Walker and Vice-President Paul O'Shea]

Welsh rugby legend Scott Quinnell will join Deputy Minister for Skills, John Griffiths AM and 200 workplace union learning reps from across the nation to promote his Quick Reads title at a Wales TUC event, Thursday 13 November 2008 in the Holiday Inn, Newport.

A former Scarlet, 52 times Welsh International and British Lion, Scott is now one of the most recognisable faces in world rugby. His Quick Reads title tells the story of his childhood battling learning disabilities to power his way to a successful rugby career. Now retired, Scott is working hard to promote the issues faced by those who have dyslexia and dyspraxia.

Speaking ahead of the launch he said:

'I am delighted to take part in this important initiative.'

' I wouldn't be where I am today without the help and support of others and it is a privilege to be in a position to carry on that process and put something back, helping people overcome the same difficulties I faced and lead a more fulfilling home, work and family life.'

The launch will be the focal point for the 2-day Conference which brings together the learning community and workers at an uncertain time for them and a crucial time for the Welsh economy.

Wales TUC General Secretary, Martin Mansfield said:

'Workers across Wales are facing an uncertain future as the economic downturn tightens its grip on the Welsh economy. It is particularly at a time like this that a highly skilled workforce and a workplace culture of lifelong learning are crucial to our nation's economic prospects.'

'A highly skilled, trained workforce provides our economy with a fighting chance to mitigate the worst impact of difficult economic conditions and workers with the transferable skills needed to move quickly back into employment if they are made redundant.'

Investment in skills was a key part of a package of seven measures Wales TUC issued jointly with CBI Wales ahead of the Economic Summit Meetings that have taken place in response to the economic crises.

Notes to Editors:

• Media Enquiries: Christopher Hartwell t: 029 2034 7010 or e: chartwell@tuc.org.uk
• The Wales TUC is the voice of Wales at work. With almost 50 affiliated trade unions the Wales TUC represents nearly half a million workers. We campaign for a fair deal at work and for social justice at home and abroad.
• This event is the 7^th Wales TUC Annual Union Learning Reps Conference.
• Quick Reads provides books by bestselling writers and celebrities for people who struggle with reading or regular readers wanting a short, fast read. Quick Reads have reached well in excess of a million new readers and have been shown to have a remarkable influence on confidence, self-esteem, home, work and family life.
• Details of the joint statement issued with CBI Wales can be found at: www.wtuc.org.uk

Press release (600 words) issued 11 Nov 2008