“CLARITY AT THE ELEVENTH HOUR… AND WE RISK BEING IN THE SAME POSITION IN A FORTNIGHT”

Plaid Cymru calls for clarity on school staff immunisation rollout, hubs for children of key workers, and more focus on removing the digital divide

Following the announcement that all schools and colleges in Wales will move to online learning until 18 January, Plaid Cymru’s Shadow Minister for Education, Siân Gwenllian MS said:

“This is clarity at the eleventh hour from the Welsh Government, leaving little or no time for parents and teachers to adapt to the changing circumstances.

“In Scotland, the Government has decided to move education on-line until February as the virus has got ahead of the vaccine. The Welsh Government needs to explain why it is lagging behind in taking robust action to get the virus under control.

“It is unclear what the Welsh Government expects will change in just two weeks’ time and so we risk being in the same position yet again with yet more confusion in a fortnight.

“An immunisation programme for all school staff needs to get underway with a timetable for roll out announced.

“Hubs for vulnerable children and the children of key workers are needed. The Education Minister needs to explain what support will be available to children from disadvantaged backgrounds who will now fall further behind with their education, and for parents who are juggling work and looking after children at home.

“Plaid Cymru has long called for a focus on removing the digital divide – that should have happened by now. Urgent action is needed.”