By Denis Sheehan, H&C News
First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford
PLEASE NOTE: At the bottom of this article is the CORRECT update on rules and guidance from the Welsh Government, and an apology from me for the incorrect information below. Also, following helpful two way correspondence with the First Minister’s Official Spokesman in Welsh Government, all reporting on similar matters will be fully checked prior to publishing.
Denis Sheehan, Publisher, H&C News
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Following verified reliable multiple sources we can report that the Welsh Government this Friday will significantly increase restrictions to further slow the spread of the Omicron Covid variant.
Hospitality will of course, once again, be at the forefront of restrictions, which from midnight Friday 17th December will include…
- Rule of six people in any social group in a pub with table service. Masks to be worn at all times when not seated.
- Nightclubs restricted further and potentially closed.
- Large events cancelled including work festive gatherings larger than twenty people.
- Shops and retail outlets to remain open with limited capacity and mask wearing mandatory, current exclusions for health prevail.
- Up to four homes can form a social bubble.
We ‘understand’ that the decision has been taken and the changes will be brought in this Friday. The decisions were taken in close collaboration with NHS Wales. The decisions were taken due to diminishing confidence in the UK Government in Westminster.
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UPDATE following the official announcement:
Changes to rules.
- Nightclubs will close in Wales 27th December.
- Restrictions on businesses, including social distancing in offices, from 27th December. This includes a two metre rule to protect customers and staff, including one-way systems and physical barriers.
Changes in guidance.
- Take a lateral flow test before going out, going Christmas shopping or visiting people.
- Meet outdoors, or if meeting indoors ensure it is well ventilated.
- Leave a day between social events.
- Socially distance, wear a face covering and wash your hands.
Apology to readers: I was given the information published above by people I spoke with personally who gave me what I and they considered to be bona fide information. Not all of it was wrong, but it was largely wrong as I was to publish it. So, I unreservedly apologise to readers for that.
Denis Sheehan, Publisher, H&C News