Clwyd West MS Darren Millar has called on the Welsh Government to provide clarity on the timescale for reopening the leisure industry.

Speaking in the Welsh Parliament this week, he said the closure of gyms and swimming pools is having an adverse impact on people’s wellbeing and urged Ministers to provide a timetable for the reopening of leisure facilities as soon as possible.

Raising the matter in the Business Statement, he said:  

“I call for a statement on clarity for the leisure industry on when gyms and swimming pools will be able to reopen in Wales.

“A number of constituents have been in touch with me regarding the adverse impact of the closure of gyms and swimming pools on their physical and mental health and this is actually something that affects people of all ages.

“I've had students living alone, fitness instructors who are without an income, and cardiac patients who've been unable to do their rehab, who've been in touch with me in recent weeks.

“The evidence suggests that the risks of harm from Covid infection associated with gyms and swimming pools is very low, while the consequences of not taking adequate exercise, such as obesity, are very significant. We need a statement on a timetable for the reopening of gyms and swimming pools as soon as possible.”

The Trefnydd said she had nothing further to add to the First Minister’s statement last Friday.  

Speaking afterwards, Darren added:

“A great many people are really struggling because of these closures and having a timetable would help them get through this final stage of lockdown. It is therefore extremely disappointing that the Minister was unable to provide even a glimmer of hope.”