Minutes:
The Leader of the Council, Councillor Ellen ap Gwynn,
provided a verbal update in relation to COVID-19.
She stated that he Delta variant is causing concern in Wales and throughout the UK and that the number of cases are rising. Seven new cases were recorded in Ceredigion during the last week, which is equivalent to 9.6 per hundred thousand; however the positivity rate remained relatively low at 1.2%. The rate for the whole of Wales is equitant to 20.1 per hundred thousand, with a 2% positivity rate. It was noted however that we all need to be careful and ensure that we maintain social distancing, wear face masks and wash our hands frequently. It was noted that the number of cases have not increased significantly in Ceredigion following half-term as compared to other areas.
The vaccine programme continuing effectively with 67% having received their first dose, and 40.4% taking up their second dose in Ceredigion. All those over the age of 18 have now received an invitation to go for their vaccination, and that there is an opportunity for those who may have missed their initial appointment to still go for their vaccine. The JCVI are currently looking at evidence regarding how to apply the vaccination to 16 and 17 year olds, followed by those over 12 years of age.
The Leader noted that she met with all School Headteachers yesterday, and thanked them for all their work during the various lockdowns, and the additional burden of running assessments in place of examinations. Results will be provided during this week, with pupils offered an opportunity to appeal their grades, however the final grades will be announced officially in mid-August.
Care Homes currently have no cases, with the majority of staff and residents vaccinated, and visiting pods located in the gardens. It is hoped that indoor visits will be able to commence soon but this will be monitored carefully in light of any increase in cases
Safe Zones have been adapted since they were introduced last year and the changes were trialled over the recent half term. They have been successful on the whole in what was a busy half term The Safe Zones will be re-introduced for the school summer holiday period.
Hospitality and accommodation providers continue to be busy. Business grants are available both from ‘Business Wales’ and via Ceredigion County Council.
Libraries have re-opened to the public by appointment, and it’s still possible to arrange click and collect.
Outdoor facilities on school sites have re-opened and are now available for community organisations’ use. Lampeter Leisure Centre is now open, however further maintenance work is required at the Lampeter Swimming Pool, and we are expecting a report on the condition of the Plascrug Leisure Centre and Swimming Pool. Discussions are currently underway with Aberystwyth University with regards to providing public access to their Swimming Pool.
Aberaeron Swimming Pool is now open and Councillor Keith Evans noted that the Llandysul Leisure Centre and Swimming Pool are also open to the public.