100 people from North-West Wales’ hospitality and tourism sector have signed an open letter to First Minister Mark Drakeford, protesting the Welsh Government’s ongoing restrictions placed against the industry.
The letter was organised by Charlie Evans, Conservative candidate for Dwyfor Meirionnydd at next year’s Senedd Election and founder of Gwynedd Hospitality which has grown to over 300 members in 72 hours.
Commenting on the letter, Mr Evans said: “The First Minister and Welsh Government are in an unenviable position- having to balance the spread of the coronavirus versus the other health and economic challenges of Wales.
“However, with an increasing number of people being made redundant in North West Wales, with more business owners filing for bankruptcy and rural communities becoming more isolated than ever before, it’s vital restrictions are proportionate. Level 4 restrictions may be appropriate for South Wales, but they are inappropriate for Gwynedd, Anglesey and Conwy. COVID19 in this part of Wales is well managed and under control thanks to the efforts of local people.
“In England, we see different tiers that reflect the various rates of transmission- Herefordshire in Tier 1, London and the South East in Tier 4. In the letter, we make clear to Mr Drakeford that we want regional tiers to be implemented immediately. One size does not fit all.”
Steve Pooley, a co-signatory of the letter said: “We are heartbroken at Bryn Melyn Farm Cottages. Last night I had to phone and explain to our Christmas guests that we had to cancel their booking despite our area having such a low Covid infection rate, due to Welsh Government’s latest restrictions. We would be in Tier 2 if Mr Drakeford was to use a regional approach.
“I had a lump in my throat as I made this call. Our cottages had been rented out by a family group who were hoping to make things as special as possible with all their young kids together for one last Christmas with their Mum. She has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer and is expected to live only a few more short months.
“There won’t be any more Christmases together for this young family, this is not about the money any more for us. We need a more compassionate response from the First Minister.”
Mr Evans said: “There is a real sense of frustration among businesses in North West Wales. I hope the First Minister constructively engages with us.”
This article has been covered in Business Live and North Wales Chronicle
