Praise to Community During Water Crisis
Janet Finch-Saunders, Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy has thanked all those who provided support during the Conwy County water crisis.
This past week, Conwy County has faced an unprecedented challenge, as around 40,000 homes were left without water. Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water are now reporting that the 900km network has been refilled and supplies restored.
In addition to thanking all those who helped in response to the emergency, Mrs Finch-Saunders has highlighted that there must be serious lessons learnt by Welsh Water, the Welsh Government, and Natural Resources Wales.
Commenting on the crisis, Janet said:
“First, I want to thank every single resident for their extraordinary resilience and patience throughout this crisis. Despite the immense challenges, your community spirit has shone through. The offers of help and kind words of gratitude to those assisting have been truly heartwarming. Aberconwy once again proves that its people are its greatest strength.
“I also want to extend my personal thanks to everyone who stepped up immediately. This includes those who worked tirelessly to hand out and deliver bottled water to vulnerable residents, as well as those who kept us informed with vital updates on social media.
“I extend my heartfelt thanks to Dŵr Cymru, Conwy County Borough Council, North Wales Police, emergency services, and volunteers for organising water deliveries. Gratitude also goes to residents, elected members, spiritual leaders, community groups, and businesses who selflessly supported those in need. A special thanks to NHS staff and carers for their unwavering dedication and to local retailers and hospitality businesses for their patience despite significant challenges.
“I am deeply disappointed by the Welsh Government’s absence during this crisis, with no support or message of solidarity from the First Minister, Eluned Morgan MS. The statement from two of her Cabinet Secretaries was only made on Saturday, and highlighted that no attempt had been made to ask armed forces for support.
“The formal distribution of water, arranged by Welsh Water, has been chaotic. I know of residents on the priority list who have not received any from the water company, and the whole idea of only having to water stations for use by 40,000 households can only be described as madness.
“Natural Resources Wales have serious questions to answer too. Despite river levels being high, they were unable to give me and farmers a clear message that water could be pumped from watercourses. In a crisis situation like this, the immediate answer should have been yes, do what is necessary to keep your livestock healthy.
“I commend my colleague Darren Millar MS for his active support and practical help across our constituencies. Both of us will be raising serious concerns about emergency planning and response in the Senedd this week”.
ENDS
