As 2013 draws to a close, it was important we didn’t leave the families of Operation Jasmine facing another Christmas without the hope of justice being done.

Though their campaign for answers began at the steps of Cardiff Crown Court in March, their need for justice stretches back years.

I fear the harrowing images I and fellow MPs were shown were just a glimpse into the “culture of neglect” at care homes across the Gwent area.

The First Minister’s announcement of an independent review took a lot of work from key figures across the political structure. On my part I am proud to have worked for months on this issue, and will continue to work on Care Bill reform in Parliament.

But this was all down to the families who would not take no for an answer. They deserve their story to be told.

Turning towards other matters, it was interesting to be told of the Argus’s story on the RAC Authority figures abut car usage.

It revealed Blaenau Gwent has the largest percentage of workers who use a car or van as a driver or a passenger to get to and from their workplace.

I will always campaign hard for infrastructure improvements for the area, because I believe road and rail are the arteries for any future economic success.

This story proved we are dependent on these roads, are willing to commute and need the best transport links possible.

This is why I asked the Chief Secretary of the Treasury if the electrification of the South Wales Valleys line could be brought forward, giving us the best opportunities sooner rather than later.

Instead of a rebuttal, the Chief Secretary has pledged to ask Network Rail if this can be done.

I hope everyone involved sees the benefits of giving this region the networks and service it deserves.

Finally, being reselected by the local members of the Labour party to fight for my seat has been welcome news.

It is now up to me to continue to represent not only the Labour party, but the community’s best interests regardless of politics.

In recent months I have campaigned on everything from payday loans and Mephedrone use in Blaenau Gwent to the battle to save Blaina Fire Station and the borough’s food bank explosion.

It is my job to not take this responsibility for granted, and to keep campaigning for the borough every day until the election.