The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (08 October) urged the Welsh Government to take a renewed look at the number of local Coronavirus figures, so that a more ‘proportional approach’ could be taken to any restrictions.
The Member also urged for fairer funding support for the region’s businesses, who are reeling from restrictions imposed from 18:00 on Thursday 1 October 2020. The speech by Mrs Finch-Saunders came during questions to the Welsh Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales, yesterday.
Commenting on her speech to the Welsh Parliament, Janet said:
“The disproportionate actions of the Welsh Government are having a devastating impact on my constituents and businesses throughout Aberconwy. The North Wales tourism sector has now had only two months to trade properly so as to tide them through the harsh winter months.
“Tragically, the Queen of Welsh resorts has now returned to its lockdown status as a ghost town, while local hoteliers and the retail sector remain bewildered and angry at the threat to their livelihoods.
“This is why I have called for an urgent review of this enforced economic lockdown of the County of Conwy. The Welsh Government’s newly announced lockdown fund is also pennies compared to what's needed to ensure that my constituents do not lose their livelihoods. A fair chance for survival through funding support must be provided.
“Earlier this week, the First Minister had the audacity to suggest that we, as elected politicians, raising valid concerns on behalf of our constituents, were suggesting residents should break the rules. Many of my residents have not only found this suggestion preposterous, but grossly offensive.
“It should go without saying that I will always ensure that public safety is paramount. But any restrictions imposed must remain proportionate to the threat faced. That is why the Welsh Conservatives have been calling for data-led, hyper-local restrictions that gives due consideration to community mental health and job retention.”
ENDS