ECO JOBS PROVIDE BIG OPPORTUNITY FOR CITY'S ECONOMY (York Liberal Democrats)

York Liberal Democrats <info@yorklibdems.org.uk>

ECO JOBS PROVIDE BIG OPPORTUNITY FOR CITY'S ECONOMY

October 4, 2009 12:00 AM

York could benefit from the growth in the green economy and attract new businesses and jobs to the city, according to a report by the Council's Eco Jobs Task Group.

Government estimates suggest that 400,000 new jobs could be created nationally over the next 8 years. With this in mind, the Eco Jobs Task Group was set up earlier this year to look at how York could take advantage of this opportunity and attract new jobs to the city.

Liberal Democrat Council Leader, Councillor Andrew Waller said, "The Green Jobs Task Group have been busy reviewing how York can best take advantage of the new eco-jobs that will grow in the future so that we retain our competitive advantage as a city."

"There is the potential for future employment in a whole range of jobs from the high tech to the grass roots, creating job opportunities for all York residents."

"Few councils have started this process, and I hope that this work can be picked up and expanded by the business, and environmental communities."

"A number of jobs have already been created in the recycling, re-use, and research sides, by tapping into the renewable energy jobs, and future manufacturing jobs we can help to overcome the losses in other industries."

"It is important that the future housing developments are used to demonstrate new technologies, and help to up skill the local construction industry."

The report from the Eco Jobs Task Group will be presented to the Council's Executive meeting on Tuesday October 6th and will suggest steps the Council can take to encourage green jobs into the city.