Part of 1. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 1:50 pm on 7 December 2021.
Thank you for that answer, First Minister. It is important that we understand what services might be withdrawn; you alluded to health checks, for example. When might we know the outcome of these negotiations, because people are genuinely concerned? There have been understandable pressures on GP surgeries and getting appointments and I think it's really important that people understand what they can expect in the winter months going forward, with all the pressures that there are on GP surgeries. But importantly, what safeguards are going to be put in place to make sure that people can access the services over the important Christmas period and into the new year? Traditionally, that's a pressure point for understandable reasons and I hope, in those negotiations with primary care, that those discussions are leading to the provision of extra services, so that A&E can get that respite that it desperately needs. We know what went on in an A&E unit in Cardiff over the weekend where a plea went out not to turn up unless it was a life-threatening situation. I would suggest that that is replicated in A&E units across Wales, and so, knowing when those negotiations with primary providers are going to be concluded and what services might be withdrawn, I think is of critical importance. So, if you could give that, we would be most grateful.