Public Health (Wales) Bill falls at the last hurdle

Crohn’s & Colitis UK worked collaboratively with Assembly Members from all political parties to submit amendments to improve the Bill and felt that the proposals could have significantly improved access to toilets for people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Wales over time.

However, disagreements between the parties over the Bill, which also included proposals for a ban on e-cigarette use in some public places, resulted in it being voted down.

Health and Social Care Minister, Mark Drakeford, said:

“I am deeply disappointed that the Public Health (Wales) Bill will not pass onto the statute book today.  It puts to waste five years of careful preparation and constructive work with a very wide range of stakeholders and supporters.”

Andy McGuinness, Policy and Public Affairs Officer from Crohn’s & Colitis UK said:

“We are very disappointed that this Bill has fallen.  It’s proposals recognised for the first time that access to toilets is a public health issue.

"Increasing the provision of toilets that the public can access would have a positive effect on those living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and reduce the anxiety that is often experienced about finding a toilet.  This can have a devastating impact on a person’s ability to engage in regular activities away from home such as going to work, school, shopping or socialising. 

"Crohn’s & Colitis UK will work to ensure this is back on the agenda after the Welsh Assembly election in May."