“THAT’S QUITE A TASK!”

Plaid Cymru demands explanation for vaccine figures that fall short of promised target

Responding to figures released today by Public Health Wales that show just 24% of people aged 80 and older have received a coronavirus vaccine, Plaid Cymru’s Shadow Minister for Health, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said,

“We’ve found out today that 24% of over 80’s are now vaccinated, but the Welsh Government said that 70% of over 80’s would have had the jab by the end of the weekend. That’s quite a task for next 3 days!

“The Health Minister should explain if he thinks we’re still on track. Communication is key in building public trust.”

The comments follow an exchange between Mr ap Iorwerth and the Health Minister Vaughan Gething MS, in Senedd Plenary on Tuesday 19 January.

Mr ap Iorwerth said:

“We in Plaid Cymru want Welsh Government to get this right. We know we have brilliant vaccines and vaccinating teams already at work, all poised ready to go. Government has to now get the strategy right, be absolutely transparent in what’s going on, including about where any problems are in the system, and, crucially, they must build the confidence we need in this all-important vaccination programme.”

To which Mr Gething replied:

“As we stand now, I am confident that seven in 10 over-80s in Wales by the end of this week will have had their first shot.”