First Minister says crisis not over despite 'encouraging' signs
The coronavirus crisis in “certainly not over” despite encouraging signs, the First Minister has said.
Mark Drakeford said following social distancing rules and remaining vigilant is still important in preparation for any potential lifting of lockdown.
He told the Senedd that the rate of coronavirus spread in Wales remained close to a level that could put the country ''back in danger.''
The UK has approached the end of the second lockdown period.
The number of confirmed cases reported each day by Public Health Wales has consistently been fewer than 200, however Mr Drakeford said the number ofdeaths exceeding 1,000 underlined need for “great caution”.
Daily testing capacity has increased from 1,800 to 2,100, with new drive-through centres opening recently.
Currently, health and social care workers, police, the fire service and prison staff are eligible for tests.
Eight new mobile testing units are to be deployed as part of a plan to test all residents and staff in care homes with a coronavirus outbreak.
The First Minister warned the pandemic was having the greatest impact on those with the fewest resources, and that inequality would be a “key factor” for the Welsh Government’s plans for coming out of lockdown.
In the Welsh Government daily press briefing, Finance Minister, Rebecca Evans, announced a number of funds to help those who have been hit the hardest by the outbreak.
Local authorities will receive up to £40m to continue free school meal provision until schools reopen, or to the end of August.
Thousands of charities in Wales will also receive a £10,000 business support grant. The £26 million package includes charity-run shops, sports premises and community centres that have previously not been eligible to such support.
Finance Minister Rebecca Evans said it would provide the sector with “vital funds” needed to help charities deal with financial pressures from the crisis.