NTIA welcomes end of Welsh Covid Pass but demands inquiry
The Welsh government confirmed the domestic Covid Pass will no longer be required for entry into indoor or outdoor events and venues, including nightclubs, cinemas, theatres and concert halls but events and venues will be able to continue to use it if they choose to.
Scrapping Covid Passes is the first move of a three-week plan to further ease Covid restrictions in Wales. On 28 February, the use of face masks will only be required in shops, including hairdressers and salons, on public transport and in health and social care.
Plan for future
NTIA chief executive Michael Kill said: “The withdrawal of the Covid Pass from today, and further relaxation of restrictions from 28 February, will see businesses finally able to plan for the future with some level of certainty.
“Businesses have welcomed the announcement, with many suggesting these unfounded restrictions have gone on way too long.
“It will not go without notice that the actions of the Welsh government are still subject to a call by our members for evidence to substantiate the closure of nightclubs over and above other businesses.
“A recent release of Freedom of Information request submitted by the NTIA will be released shortly and will present some evidential challenges for the Welsh government within the public inquiry into this crisis.”
Suite of measures
Wales government deputy minister for arts and sport Dawn Bowden said the international Covid Pass will continue to be integral to arrangements for safer international travel.
She said: “When it was introduced, the Covid Pass was part of a suite of measures to give people confidence, keep businesses open and to keep Wales safe.
“I’d like to thank all the sectors for their cooperation and feedback during this challenging time.
“With increasing numbers of people vaccinated and boosted and thanks to the hard work and efforts of everyone across Wales, we are confident that coronavirus rates are falling and we can look forward to brighter times ahead.”
