The world and its people are facing a period of emergency as the Coronavirus effects individuals, families and communities.
We’re sure that you realise that the situation is changing daily and quickly. As Local Authorities, we must listen to the instructions given by Welsh Government and the UK Government. Not all decisions are within our powers as a County Council.
Our main aim as Anglesey County Council is to safeguard the most vulnerable children and adults in our communities. Both governments have made it clear to us that all Authorities are expected to do this.
With the message that our schools will be closing for an extended period from Monday onwards, we will have to respond to massive challenges over the next few months. We will have to work together and maybe adapt what we do from day to day. It is quite possible that we will have to implement the Emergency Re-deployment Policy in order to ensure that Council staff (that will no longer be in their usual roles) can contribute to other areas where the demand is highest.
We will have to work very closely in collaboration with partners in local Government as well as regionally, nationally and with Health. Also, we will need to build on the relationship which already exists with the voluntary sector in order to ensure that plans such as the food banks are a success and that they fulfil the needs of the most vulnerable.
Today (Thursday, March 19th), as of 5pm, we will close all non-essential buildings to the public until further notice. These are:
- Oriel Ynys Môn, Llangefni
- Anglesey Archives, Llangefni
- All Anglesey libraries (Amlwch, Beaumaris, Benllech, Holyhead, Llangefni, Menai Bridge and Rhosneigr)
- All Anglesey leisure centres (Llangefni, Amlwch, Holyhead and Menai Bridge)
This is not a decision that we have taken lightly; and we would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused. However, the health and well-being of our service users and staff must take priority.
As Leader and Chief Executive, we are proud that so much good work has been done in the background by staff over the last few weeks, the care sector, all our partners and communities across the Island.
We will however be asking for your continued support, patience and good will for some months as the situation changes.
The challenge is therefore enormous, but, we fully believe that we will pull together as one team on behalf of our people and our communities.
Councillor Llinos Medi, Leader of Anglesey County Council
Annwen Morgan, Chief Executive of Anglesey County Council
Updates about Council services during the Coronavirus outbreak can be found on our website www.anglesey.gov.uk/coronavirus
Ends 19.3.20