Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has welcomed news that care home residents in Wales are to start receiving the Covid vaccine this week and said it is like an early Christmas gift for the many vulnerable people who have been unable to see loved ones for months on end.

The Welsh Health Minister announced today that a pilot for the roll-out of the COVID-19 Pfizer / BioNtech vaccine to Welsh care homes is to begin on Wednesday (16 December).

Darren is delighted by today’s announcement, and the fact that a designated care home in Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board will be the first in Wales to receive the vaccine.

He said:

“There will be many families across North Wales rejoicing at today’s news.

“One of the cruellest aspects of Covid has been the fact that many vulnerable people have been unable to see their loved ones for months on end, with no clear indication as to when they could.

“Today’s news is like an early Christmas gift for these people, and I am delighted that they have at last been granted what they have long been hoping for.

“I am also pleased that the pilot will commence in North Wales, with teams in additional health boards taking the vaccine to care homes later this week.

“People have been forced to endure so much suffering throughout this pandemic, it is therefore fantastic to have some positive news. There are going to be some emotional reunions in the coming week!”