Questions Without Notice from Party Spokespeople

Part of 2. Questions to the Minister for Health and Social Services – in the Senedd at 2:37 pm on 3 November 2021.

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Photo of Peredur Owen Griffiths Peredur Owen Griffiths Plaid Cymru 2:37, 3 November 2021

Diolch, Llywydd. Gweinidog, unless your head is buried in the sand, you will be aware that COP26 is under way in Glasgow this week. Air pollution is a significant aspect of the climate emergency here in Wales, because it accounts for 1,400 deaths and costs the Welsh NHS £1 billion a year. Within my region, a row of houses has just been demolished as we speak, because they are no longer fit for human habitation, due to air pollution. The First Minister has cited clean air as an area he hoped to work on with other parties, and that this would be a priority for the Government. Despite this, when the Counsel General announced his legislative programme, it was not included. For a Government that lauds its green credentials, in this case, we have a strategic approach but with no urgency. Is the Minister worried, like me, that any further dithering and delay on the clean air Bill will have a detrimental impact on the health and well-being of thousands of people in Wales? In the week of COP26, do you agree with me that it's time for deeds not words, specifically ensuring that there is sufficient investment to help those suffering from the consequences of air pollution?