Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:05 pm on 9 December 2020.
The First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, has already alerted us, as Members of the Senedd, on 1 December, that scientific and medical experts have clearly stated—and I'll repeat—that, by 12 January, the total number of people with COVID in hospital could rise to 2,200 unless we respond now. The First Minister added that there could be between 1,000 and 1,700 preventable deaths over the winter. So, yes, the Welsh Government's coronavirus restrictions—the new restrictions—are tough and they're tough because they need to be. And yes, although the light at the end of this tunnel is now visible, as many have mentioned, we still remain in that tunnel, and with that darkness all around, this Christmas will not be like other Christmases at peacetime across Wales, but it is after Christmas that is the massive concern, and that could very well, with no action, extend this COVID tunnel exponentially in duration.
The seriousness of this situation is further underlined by Welsh Government's technical advisory group that states, and I'll say it slowly, that if people can avoid seeing others over the Christmas period, perhaps postponing celebrations until later next year or meeting remotely, then this is strongly advised. What a sobering and sombre message that we must all consider this Christmas.
So, to sum up and be brief, Deputy Llywydd, these restrictions are off the back of scientific evidence, are proportionate, legitimate and highly balanced, and they bravely attempt to counter the unprecedented and multifaceted dangers that our nation faces. And finally, Deputy Llywydd, I cannot—and I do fail to—understand why any cognisant person in this place would not support the protection of the people they represent and seek instead to abdicate the primary first duty, the very first duty of government, and that is to keep our people safe. Thank you.