Plaid Cymru calls for ‘buffer period’ after firebreak

Adam Price sets out party’s position on post-fire break period

The Welsh Government should consider a “a two-week buffer period” when the firebreak ends next week, Plaid Cymru Leader Adam Price has said.

Plaid Cymru Leader Adam Price MS said,

“We won’t know immediately how successful the Fire Break has been in driving down the infection rate. It would therefore be both premature and counterproductive to suddenly ease all measures if the R number continues to be above 1.

“The Welsh Government should take a slow and steady approach rather than pursue a rapid reopening. A ‘buffer period’ of two weeks with mitigation measures as we come out of the fire break could include a phased re-opening of closing hospitality, for example at 18:00, crucially backed by appropriate financial support – and a programme of blended learning in schools allowing for a 2-week rota for older pupils.

“We also need to know how the fire break period has been used to make the test and trace system far more robust, free from its reliance on the failing UK lighthouse lab network. 

“Coming out too early and too quickly risks undoing any benefits gained. A cautious and careful approach will lead to better public health outcomes, greater security for business and will avoid a permanent cycle of locking and unlocking – which would be damaging for all.”