4. Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Strategic Assistance for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:31 pm on 3 November 2020.

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Photo of Vaughan Gething Vaughan Gething Labour 4:31, 3 November 2020

Thank you for your comments, and I admire your ability not to properly swear when interrupted. In terms of the challenge that the health board faces, I think we should have more confidence in their ability to deliver. That comes from the tripartite review, and I wouldn't be making this significant and different approach in announcing an investment package of this sort over three and a half years if there wasn't more confidence they'll be able to make good on the plan they have. It's about the level of insight, understanding and acceptance of their need to improve. It's also the fact that partner organisations in north Wales are in a much better place in terms of their confidence in the health board. Nothing is perfect in any partnership or relationship, when it comes to it, as those of us who have other views on partnership working in other fields of life, partners need to come together to work through difficulties as well as coming to agree matters. They're in a much more mature place in north Wales, and they have done that over the last couple of years, so that's a good thing. There is more confidence. This is a fundamentally different approach. In terms of the point about when people will have the service they deserve, that is exactly the whole point of making this choice today and delivering this statement to the Senedd. I believe that people in north Wales deserve high-quality health and care services, and this is about enabling the health board to play its part with more confidence and a greater capacity to deliver the care that every citizen in Wales deserves. 

I do want to finish, Deputy Llywydd, by sharing my own condolences for the nurse from the Maelor who lost their life in a hit-and-run recently. It's a marker that there are always challenges, but we don't expect our staff to lose their lives in these circumstances. I know it's had an impact on friends and colleagues within work and outside as well. So, my best wishes and condolences to the family and all of those who are grieving the loss at this time.