Public urged to sway away from council offices as authorities monitor coronavirus situation

The public are being urged to stay away from council offices unless “absolutely necessary” as local authorities monitor the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Gwynedd and Anglesey Councils have not, at this stage, cancelled any meetings with staff car parks at both authorities also appearing to be full on Wednesday morning.

However, with both authorities employing thousands of staff and among the region’s largest employers, both say that all possible steps are being taken to deal with its potential spread.

Several councillors also fall under the greatest “at risk” category,  with official UK Government advice now urging over 70’s to “minimise social contact.”

Meanwhile, Tuesday saw Anglesey Council urge residents to only visit the Llangefni offices “if absolutely necessary,” diverting people to use its online and telephone services where possible.

Public Health Wales confirmed on Tuesday that 12 new cases had tested positive for Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), bringing the total number of confirmed cases across the nation to 136 – two of these in Anglesey and none thus far in Gwynedd.

An Isle of Anglesey County Council spokesperson said, “We are taking all possible steps to ensure that we are able to deal with the potential impact of the coronavirus.

“We would urge residents to follow the advice issued by Public Health Wales.”

A Gwynedd Council spokesman added, “We want to reassure residents that, in collaboration with our partners, all necessary steps will be taken to ensure the well-being of our communities.

“At the moment Council services remain open. Following the government announcement on Monday, we will be assessing the position and making further detailed announcements shortly.

“Residents and parents are urged to follow the Government’s revised social distancing guidelines and anyone who is experiencing symptoms should continue to follow Public Health Wales advice.”

Meanwhile, Anglesey Council held a meeting with agencies including Medrwn Môn and Menter Môn on Monday, aimed towards working in partnership to support the island’s most vulnerable residents.

The council’s Chief Executive, Annwen Morgan said: “This is a critical time for everyone and it is important that people and communities look after each other.

“With the over 70s and those with chronic health conditions being advised to self-isolate for long periods, we have taken special measures with our partners to take action that will help those in need.

“There have already been two confirmed cases on the island and we are fully aware that residents are concerned. As an authority, we are doing all we can to ensure that services are maintained during this period.

“However, we are likely to face significant additional pressures over the next few months and we will also be seeking the support of our town and community councils as well as communities during this time.”

Officers from the three agencies, together with local communities and volunteers, plan tp identify what community support is already available and map the potential demand the Island faces.

Mrs Morgan concluded, “We aim to have the community support plan in place as soon as possible in order to allow communities to provide consistent support throughout the island.

“This is a challenging period for us all and I’d like to thank those community groups such as the ones in Amlwch, Cemaes, Menai Bridge, Holyhead and Llanfairpwll who have already established in order to help the community.

“There are many more that can help in various different ways and I would urge people to get in touch with Môn Community Link, who will signpost them to the appropriate contact within their community.”

Any community group or town and community council that would like further information should call on 01248 725745, 01248 724944 or 01248 725700 or email linc@medrwnmon.org.

By Gareth Williams – Local Democracy Reporter