Vaughan Gething, former Welsh Health Minister and candidate for First Minister, faces scrutiny from bereaved families for his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and the loss of important WhatsApp messages, raising questions on transparency and decision-making processes.
Former Welsh Health Minister Vaughan Gething has encountered criticism from bereaved families over the handling of the Covid-19 pandemic and the loss of his WhatsApp messages, considered crucial for the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. Gething, who served during the pandemic and is now a candidate for Wales’ next First Minister, faced backlash for the delayed Welsh government’s response to Covid-19, particularly regarding the slow implementation of testing for patients moving from hospitals to care homes.
Critics, including the Covid-19 Bereaved Families Cymru, have drawn comparisons between Gething and former UK Health Minister Matt Hancock, pointing to perceived delays and lack of preparation. The Welsh cabinet reportedly discussed Covid-19 formally a month after risks had been highlighted, indicating a potentially sluggish response to the escalating crisis.
The loss of Gething’s WhatsApp messages, described as a “real embarrassment” by Gething himself, has sparked further controversy. He stated the messages were lost due to a phone security rebuild and were intended for informal usage rather than decision-making processes. Gething’s admission at the UK Covid-19 Inquiry that official business conducted via personal mobiles should be saved has underscored concerns over transparency and record-keeping practices. He acknowledged that better practices for maintaining records should be established moving forward.
In response to the handling of key Covid-19 meetings and decision-making during the pandemic, Gething has faced allegations of inefficiency and lack of preparedness, with some describing his responses as “scatty, incoherent, and rambling.” Despite criticisms, Gething defended certain actions, such as the imposition of the first lockdown, while expressing regret over decisions like keeping schools open for longer.
Bereaved families and groups have expressed dissatisfaction with Gething’s handling of the pandemic and his responses at the inquiry, pointing to a lack of accountability and acknowledgment of mistakes. The inquiry continues, with further evidence and testimonies expected to shed light on the pandemic response in Wales.
