Contributing to a Senedd debate on the proposed introduction of Covid-19 passes in Wales, the Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has outlined her opposition to their introduction citing ethical, legal and practical delivery concerns.
Mrs Finch-Saunders highlighted the Equality and Human Rights Commission response to the UK Government’s consultation on the issue of COVID- 19 status certification which highlighted that there remains “concerns about potential for discrimination or for infringement of civil liberties in the use of certification status to travel, go to work, enjoy social activities and access essential services, and the creation of a two tier society whereby only certain groups are able to fully enjoy their rights.”
Their submission also made clear that any proposed scheme should factor in the need for exemptions for particular groups and be informed by assessments on how effective the vaccine is in terms of reducing transmission rates, reducing the severity of symptoms and risk of severe illness or mortality.
Commenting on her opposition, Janet said:
“Today’s debate reviewed an incredibly important and complex issue which goes to the very heart of the functioning of our society. Recent conversations with the Night Time Industries Association Wales have made clear that vaccine passports would require businesses to change their operating model, having invested in reopening without this requirement.
“Our hospitality businesses are already among the most badly hit businesses during the pandemic, with a number being saddled with debt and rent arrears. There are now most pressing and legitimate concerns among our businesses that these regulations may directly lead to potential confrontation with security and other venue staff.
“Likewise, given the protected status of an individual’s medical information, including vaccination status, there could be data protection law considerations concerning any business requesting the vaccination status of individuals entering their buildings. Taken together with concerns over infringements on civil liberties and the complexity of delivery becomes plain.
“Serious questions about the implementation of these certificates remain. Therefore, I will continue to work with my Welsh Conservative colleagues to hold the Welsh Government to account over their COVID-19 policy actions and oppose the implementation of a COVID-19 domestic passes.”
