'The Welsh Government has confirmed it aims to complete the next phase of the vaccination programme by 19 April'

MS for Wrexham

As we close in on the millionth person receiving the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine in Wales, the Welsh Government has confirmed it aims to complete the next phase of the vaccination programme by 19 April. That means all those in priority groups 5 – 9 will be offered the vaccine, which is everyone aged 50 to 69, everyone over 16 with an underlying health condition and many of our invaluable unpaid carers. I received an update from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board last week which states it is confident of reaching this target in North Wales, but it is dependent on vaccine supplies. The vast majority of people aged between 65 – 69 have now received their first dose. This past week, the focus has been on all individuals aged 16 – 64 with underlying health conditions and people aged 60 – 64 should be receiving letters outlining when their appointment will take place. There had been calls for people to prioritised for vaccine based on their occupation rather than age. This was considered by the JCVI but, put simply, the independent body advised all 4 UK Governments that an age-based approach is the simplest, quickest and fairest way of administering the vaccine to the population as a whole. Once everyone aged 50 and over receives their first jab by mid-April, the rest of the adult population will be offered the vaccine, starting with those aged 40 – 49 and ultimately ending with all those aged 18 – 29, by the end of July.

Now coronavirus rates are thankfully decreasing, the Welsh Government has been clear reopening schools will be its priority. Children aged three to seven have already returned and the Welsh Government has already stated it hopes all remaining primary school children will be able to go back to their classrooms from 15 March. That date will also welcome the return of secondary school learners in exam years (years 11 and 13) and there is flexibility for schools to bring in students in years 10 and 12. The Welsh Government has now gone further, confirming schools will be given the opportunity to welcome back students in years 7, 8 and 9 before the Easter break, subject to the next review of the regulations on 12 March. However, this will not be a full return to the classroom just yet. The aim will be to give learners the opportunity to check in with teachers, with a focus on support for wellbeing, and to prepare for a full return to school after the Easter holidays. While the general picture is improving, we must not let our guard down now. People must continue to follow the rules and, together, we will keep Wrexham and Wales safe.