The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS - has written to the Welsh Government to urge for a review of its guidance on outdoor running events, so that there can be parity on the direction given to firms in England. The constituency is home to the renowned Snowdonia Half Marathon, Conwy Half Marathon and North Wales Half Marathon.
Her letter comes further to a Written Question to the First Minister, which asked for clarity on the discussions undertaken with the Football Association of Wales to support the safe return of youth football tournaments. Combined, Janet hopes the resumption of such events will assist with moves to confront poor mental health by ‘productively channelling energies’ towards sporting success.
Commenting on her letter, Janet said:
“I’m pleased to have written to the Deputy Minister to formally register my concern about the impact of Welsh Government restrictions on the outdoor sporting events sector. From speed walking to marathon running, this events calendar is fundamental to the North Wales tourism offer.
“But more broadly, the suspension of Covid-safe outdoor sporting events has been one of the most enduring challenges to our sense of our collective well-being. For many, these races present a target towards which to productively channel their energies. To curb the organisation of such events remains a questionable thorn in our efforts to combat poor mental health.
“Of course, further to my questions in the Senedd Siambr last week, I am pleased that the Welsh Government updated the guidance to hospitality firms with regards to indoor entertainment. This action showed that urgent reviews of the guidance is now attainable.
“The change to the entertainment guidance recognised the value of such work to the seaside and rural resorts of Aberconwy, as well as the impact of enduring restrictions on our entertainers. I now hope that sense will prevail when it comes to our outdoor sporting events.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
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At present, organised outdoor activities in Wales can have up to 50 people of any age. In England, organised outdoor sport activities can take place in any numbers, subject to sport-specific guidance.
- Please find a copy of Janet’s letter to the Deputy Minister, attached.
