3. Statement by the Minister for Health and Social Services: Update on Coronavirus

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:28 pm on 22 June 2021.

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Photo of Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Labour 3:28, 22 June 2021

Diolch yn fawr, Mark. I think the first thing to say is that we are very aware of the importance of this sector to Wales. I think it's one of the areas, in particular in parts of north Wales and the Brecon Beacons, where, actually, people can have life-changing experiences—taking people outside of their normal environment and exposing them to life outdoors. Of course, we understand how important it is in particular for mental health and well-being as well. We have actually provided support for this sector. It's all very well saying, 'If only we knew a few weeks before'. Well, if only we knew about the virus a few months before. It's a very strange way of suggesting that we make decisions. [Interruption.] No. We have always followed the data. We will continue to follow the data. We know that transmission within residential areas where adults are mixing over a long period of time is likely to spread the virus. We are not going to be pushed around on this. We will stand our ground. Our role is to protect the people of Wales, and that's where we will stand. But, of course, we will continue to give support to sectors that are experiencing a difficult time.