1. Statement by the First Minister: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:12 pm on 5 August 2020.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Rhun ap Iorwerth Rhun ap Iorwerth Plaid Cymru 2:12, 5 August 2020

(Translated)

Two things—I'll try and go through them quickly. Adam Price has already mentioned the slowness in Government in responding and having earlier intervention in terms of oxygen treatment. I'll remind the First Minister the reason we were calling for that was to take the pressure of the health service and trying to save lives.

Another thing that's likely to cost lives or is at risk of costing lives is the slowness in terms of reintroducing services in the NHS. Now, I've written to the chair of the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board today sharing the frustrations of orthopaedic doctors at Ysbyty Gwynedd who truly do want to recommence their elective work. There are almost 3,000 patients waiting over 36 weeks, so I would like the First Minister's response to that.

But also, as we discuss the relaxation of restrictions today, I want to know more about the willingness of Government to make those regulations stricter where necessary. I also want to see stricter rules on face coverings. But also, many areas of high risk have now been identified—the Wrexham area, parts of the north-west of England. Many people from those areas do come to areas such as my constituency on holiday, and if the Government isn't willing to tell people not to travel, will you, as a bare minimum, be willing to enhance the communication as to how they should conduct themselves once they arrive, because there are risks, of course, that people go into pubs and restaurants or gather in large numbers?