Further to the furore surrounding the article that appeared in the i the Forum asked for clarification on the First Minister’s position and have had the following from Visit Wales.

“The comments reported do not reflect what the First Minister or Government said in regards to tourism. In fact, the First Minister reaffirmed our absolute commitment to the industry which is a backbone for the Welsh economy. The First Minister has been clear that this Government is committed to doing all we feasibly can to support the sector and to allow for a safe, phased reopening.

“The feedback we’ve had from the tourism industry has been invaluable in helping to support it during the pandemic. We are very aware of the concerns and the desire to reopen but only when it is safe to do so. We are also very aware of the concerns of communities that nothing should be done which could exacerbate the spread of coronavirus.

“Tourism is a vital part of the Welsh economy at a national, regional and local level, it is therefore critical that we continue to work with the industry and local communities to ensure a safe return of tourism, this includes developing detailed guidance and protocols to support the sector and protect the community, staff and visitors.”

https://inews.co.uk/news/uk/wales-shut-tourists-summer-first-minister-mark-drakeford-434873

About Eirlys Jones

Eirlys is the Commercial Director at North Wales Tourism and can be contacted at eirlys.jones@gonorthwales.org.uk or connect with her on LinkedIn you can also follow her on Twitter @EirlysJones5