15. Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Local Coronavirus Restrictions

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 7:01 pm on 29 September 2020.

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Photo of Janet Finch-Saunders Janet Finch-Saunders Conservative 7:01, 29 September 2020

Diolch, Llywydd. Thank you for your statement, Minister. You're quite right to point out the difficulties for, particularly, retired people, and you'll be aware that, of course, Aberconwy, in terms of demographic, has one of the older populations. Now, I can tell you that a lot of my constituents in that sort of bracket really suffered during the last lockdown, and we had the lighter nights, we had the better weather, so, as we go into the much shorter days and bad weather, I really do fear. So, what support network will you be considering putting in place for those who do live alone? Because, in the midst of the last lockdown, Age UK highlighted research showing that over two fifths of people aged 70 and over said that their mental health had been affected badly by coronavirus. So, I really do fear for this category of people who live alone, often not having any family members around. What support can they have? Can they have even friends—a particular friend—visiting? These are the questions that I will be asked when contacted by my constituents.

What consideration have you given to ensuring that the local lockdown rules are in line with article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, and that is the right to respect for private and family life? What extra resources will you be putting in place for our local authorities? Let's be honest, during the last lockdown, I've got to be honest with you, Conwy County Borough Council stood up and they did provide a strong net of support for our local communities, but that came at a cost to our local authorities, and they are still reeling from the pressures that those—you know, the lack of funding from your Government.

Darren Millar was quite right to mention the economic benefit of tourism to our county—around £900 million. Already this afternoon, in fear of what you may be announcing today, our hospitality businesses are really concerned. Now, last time the UK Government stepped up very well for our businesses. Will you now pledge—I know there's been an announcement today, but will you now pledge your Government will step up and support those businesses? Will they be able to still welcome visitors from within and outside the county?

And finally—[Interruption.]—yes, thank you, Llywydd—finally, currently, care home residents in Conwy are now only tested if showing symptoms. Will you now—given the fiasco that we all witnessed in the last lockdown, will you now be advocating weekly testing for all care home, nursing home, residents and staff? Thank you. Thank you, Llywydd.