Senedd member wants debates back in the chamber

Montgomeryshire's Welsh Parliament Member wants to return to debating in the Senedd's chamber.

Russell George has called on the Senedd to ditch virtual sessions and return to a hybrid model that would allow a combination of physical and virtual debates.

The Welsh Parliament moved to virtual only sittings just before Christmas due to concerns surrounding the omicron variant of coronavirus.
 
And even though the threat of omicron has reduced, and restrictions are easing in Wales, Senedd Members have been informed that fully virtual plenary sessions will remain in place.

He said: "It is vital that elected members have the choice to return to the Senedd to execute their duties as effectively as possible. I understand that some members will have reasons for conducting their work from home, but it is important that there is now that option for Members of the Senedd to return to work in the Welsh Parliament
 
“Being back in the Senedd allows for better scrutiny of the Welsh Government. Zoom is a useful tool but it opens up the opportunity for problems to arise and Minister rely on officials and advisers to provide prompts and off-screen advice.
 
“Being back in the Senedd is not just about scrutinising the Government. It's also important to set an example of going back to the workplace. Being back in the office also benefits people's mental well-being and it helps support the local economies. Simply being able to chat to colleagues and buying lunch from the local businesses surrounding your workplaces helps support health and boosts the local economy.
 
He added: “Parliaments elsewhere in the UK and around the world are able to meet safely and in person, and there is no reason that the Welsh Parliament should be prevented from doing so.” 
 
“Whilst options to work from home can remain, many people will now want to get back to working along colleagues”