Isle of Anglesey County Council

Community spirit should continue into bank holiday weekend

The Isle of Anglesey County Council together with key partners understand and appreciate that the Coronavirus pandemic is an extremely difficult period for many people.

Today (Friday, May 22), Chief Executive, Annwen Morgan, expressed her immensely gratitude for the support shown by the people of Anglesey and local businesses, and the kindness shown by volunteers in the community to keep everyone safe.

She said, “During this crisis, there have been countless examples of communities looking out for each other.

“Coronavirus will be remembered as a time of sadness and sacrifice, but I believe that we should always look back on this time as a time where people came together to help each other.

“The community spirit witnessed during this terrible and unprecedented period has been unforgettable and I want that to continue.”

Coronavirus has, unfortunately, also seen examples of community tension both on Anglesey and across North West Wales.

Council Leader, Councillor Llinos Medi, added, “The bank holiday weekend is here, and could present us and our partners in North Wales Police with a number of challenges.”

“I would ask that everyone is mindful, respectful and sensitive of these community tensions. Also be careful of what you post on social media. Well-meaning comments or posts may have unintended consequences, so please consider the content of any messages and their potential impact on your community or residents.”

“Any acts of criminal damage, vigilantism and online hate messages cannot and will not be tolerated, and should be reported to the Police who will respond accordingly.”

She added, “The stay at home message is still as important as ever and I would urge everyone to do everything they can to promote this to protect communities, protect the NHS and to save lives.”

“Anglesey has a proud history and a thriving tourism industry, so we look forward to welcoming people back to our beautiful island and coasts when this emergency is over.”

Inspector Llinos Davies of North Wales Police, added, “Whilst we can understand the frustrations that local residents have around people who may be flouting the current restrictions, it is unacceptable for people to use offensive or inflammatory language in their attempts to make individuals unwelcome in our areas.

“Teams continue to be out and about in our communities and on the road networks, and will be once again this weekend, ensuring the people are complying with the restrictions.

“We thank you for your continued support and understanding in these exceptional times.”

Ends 22.5.20