DWYFOR and Meirionnydd’s MP hopes to encourage more women to enter into the construction industry.

During a recent visit to a new social housing development in Penrhyndeudraeth, Liz Saville Roberts said more should be done to encourage young people and women in particular into building jobs to address skills shortages in the industry.

The Plaid Cymru MP, the first woman to represent the party in Westminster, said it was encouraging to see local employers such as social housing provider Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd taking on the challenge of addressing the shortage of women in the industry.

She said: “I know the importance of achieving greater diversity in male-dominated professions.

“I believe more can be done to promote opportunities for women in the house-building sector and inspire the sector’s next generation of female leaders.

“It’s hugely encouraging to see local employer Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd recognise that diversity isn’t an optional add-on but a key measure of success in the construction industry. There is however a long way to go to achieve gender balance within the sector and it is incumbent upon both government and employers to identify and break down the barriers preventing more women from entering the industry.”

Director of customers and communities at Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd Sarah Schofield added: “We are extremely proud of the opportunities we give so many young talented people to live and work in Gwynedd.

“The range of professions and trades in the company is quite unique and I’m proud to say that the women get the same chances as the men here."

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