The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (24 June) urged the First Minister to provide more support to those hospitality businesses that are unable to reopen to customers on 13 July.
Her calls come at a worrying time for the Welsh hospitality sector. Recent figures released by North Wales Tourism have suggested that up to 10,500 jobs across the region could be lost, as a result of the restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking after her contribution to the virtual plenary session, Janet said:
“Whilst I welcome the fact that Mark Drakeford has heeded Welsh Conservative calls to reopen our nation’s economy, there is widespread confusion among many local hospitality businesses due to the vague and sparse nature of the Welsh Government’s recommendations.
“Hotels and self-contained accommodation need more guidance on how they can safely reopen, to provide confidence to staff and customers. Touring parks and campsites with shared facilities are also seeking further clarity as to whether they can reopen later in the season.
“Our touring and camping sites are central to the North Wales economy, providing economical holidays that allow families to reconnect and enjoy our beautiful region. But they are also fragile and often reliant on the summer season.
“The Welsh Government must urgently bring more clarity for these essential local job creators, and outline what further financial support they can offer to our touring and campsites should they be prevented from reopening this summer.”
ENDS
