Calls for health watchdog to be based off A55

CALLS have been made to safeguard patient watchdog scrutiny over the health care in North Wales.

Clwyd West AM Darren Millar has expressed concern that a new, single ‘Citizens’ Voice’ body should not be centralised in Cardiff and urged Ministers to locate it in North Wales.

The new watchdog, which has been proposed by the Welsh Government, would replace the current system of regional Community Health Councils which provide oversight over health bodies such as Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

Calling for a Statement on the matter from the minister for health and social services, Mr Millar said:“While I would prefer Community Health Councils to be retained, if a new body is created then I firmly believe that it should be located in North Wales. My own constituency, being centrally located along the North Wales coast and easily accessible along the A55 corridor would be an ideal location.

“I think that it is important that, where possible, the Welsh Government should ensure that public sector jobs are based outside of Cardiff.

"Locating the new citizens' voice body in North Wales would go a long way to recognising the importance of the region for the Welsh Government.”