Welsh Government to ‘closely monitor’ port situation as more than 40 countries ban UK arrivals

The Welsh Government is to “closely monitor” the situation at ports in Wales as more than 40 countries have banned arrivals from the UK.

The news of the rapid spread of a new strain of Covid-19 across the nation has led to a number of countries taking action to stop flights and ferry crossings, including Ireland.

Officials said it could lead to a requirement for tests to be imposed on all people arriving from the UK.

In the meantime, Stena Line has temporarily suspended passenger travel on all ferry services from the UK into Ireland, including the Holyhead to Dublin route.

Last week saw Holyhead port hit by a triple threat of Brexit stockpiling, weather delays and an outbreak of Covid-19 on a ferry, causing delays to sailings and queuing traffic on the A55.

The government has already taken steps to advise drivers of the potential impact of the end of the EU transition period from January 1, with a temporary contraflow and stacking measures ready to go on the dual carriageway.

While ministers have decided not to bring those traffic management plans forward yet, they are closely monitoring the situation at all ports, including Holyhead.

The issue was raised by Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford during a meeting of UK leaders held yesterday at which he expressed concerns over the possible effect of the travel ban on essential food and medical supplies.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “The First Minister attended a COBR civil contingencies committee meeting earlier today (Monday), which was chaired by the Prime Minister.

“The First Ministers of Scotland and Northern Ireland, along with UK cabinet ministers, were also in attendance.

“It was convened to look urgently at the impact the spread of a new variant of coronavirus is having in the UK, and the subsequent decisions to increase measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

“On the impact of the travel bans imposed by European partners, the First Minister updated the meeting on the current situation at Welsh ports.

“While traffic management plans are not needed at this point, the First Minister made clear that arrangements with the Irish Republic were very important in sustaining that position.

“UK-wide supply chains for food, medical supplies, PPE and vaccines are robust.

“The Welsh Government will continue to closely monitor the situation in the days ahead.”