7. Will the Minister make a statement on the delivery of health services in the Hywel Dda University Health Board area? OQ55405

The recent focus of the Hywel Dda University Health Board, like the others across Wales, has been on their response to COVID-19. The health board is now planning for the continued provision of essential and key services alongside caring for patients affected by COVID-19.

Minister, a strong accident and emergency service is integral to the effective delivery of health services in hospitals across the Hywel Dda University Health Board area. Now, as you'll be aware, there is a strong campaign to retain A&E services at Withybush General Hospital. Given the recent news that Cwm Taf health board has decided to retain A&E services at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital, the people of Pembrokeshire are now looking at that decision and, quite rightly, asking for the same safeguards. Therefore, can you tell us what the Welsh Government's position is on the delivery of A&E services in Pembrokeshire and, in light of the change in policy in relation to other A&E services across Wales, will you ensure that an A&E service remains at Withybush hospital, just as it now remains at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital?

Well, as the Member will know, the health board in Cwm Taf Morgannwg undertook a consultation about options, and they were able to recruit more staff to safely deliver that service. The Member will also know, over a long period of time, the challenges that have been faced in delivering healthcare across Wales and the plans for the future delivery of healthcare, and he'll also recall the question from his colleague Darren Millar, some weeks ago, which called on the Welsh Government not to interrupt service changes already in train. I expect the health board to continue to deliver safe and effective care and to continue to make sure the transformation of health and care in west Wales, as outlined in their plan, 'A Healthier Mid and West Wales', continues to the benefit of all citizens in every part of mid and west Wales.