ROBERT Owen, arguably Newtown's most famous son, who was one of the early founders of socialism and the cooperative movement, re-entered the political arena yesterday, as the subject of a debate at the National Assembly for Wales.
In a debate to mark the 150th anniversary of Robert Owen’s death, Assembly Members celebrated the life and legacy of one of the most internationally influential people in Welsh history.
Assembly Members discussed Robert Owen's pioneering work in social cooperation, education and fighting for better working conditions, and argued that his influence can be seen in Wales today.
Labour Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales, Joyce Watson said:
"The spirit of Robert Owen can be seen in the very best of many of today's community initiatives.
"Last Friday I was in Welshpool where I met representatives from the Robert Owen Credit Union. We were there for the launch of the brand new Monergy Project, Wales' first initiative to combine money and energy advice. This is exactly the kind of community enterprise that Robert Owen would have been proud of, so it's great to see a project like this flourishing in the great man's home town.
"Welsh Labour's policies for supporting communities and promoting social inclusion are very much part of Robert Owen's legacy. He has helped shape modern Wales."
The anniversary of Robert Owen's death has also been marked by the launch of a new online exhibition which explores the relevance of his ideas and actions in today's world. The online exhibition accompanies a physical exhibition which will be touring throughout Wales in 2008.
7th March 2008
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