Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, First Minister
I welcome today’s publication of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry’s fifth report, on the procurement and distribution of key healthcare equipment and supplies during the pandemic, including PPE, ventilators, oxygen and testing kits. I thank the Inquiry’s Chair, Baroness Hallett, and her team for their work.
I am deeply grateful to all those who supported Wales’s pandemic response - including the NHS, social care workers, volunteers, public servants and the wider health and care system - who worked with such dedication under exceptional pressure.
The pandemic had a profound impact on our society, with many families still living with the anguish of losing loved ones.
My government remains committed to reviewing Wales’s Covid response in a manner which gives bereaved families the assurances they deserve that lessons have been learnt and that steps will be taken to ensure we are better prepared for future emergencies.
The Inquiry requires a response to the Module 5 report and recommendations within six months of publication.