Outdoor activities safety concerns raised by North Wales MS

Sam Rowlands, a Welsh parliament member for the region, requested an update from the Welsh government regarding improvements to outdoor safety.
The chairman of the cross-party group on the outdoor activity sector questioned Huw Irranca-Davies, deputy first minister and cabinet secretary for climate change and rural affairs, about efforts to improve safety for outdoor pursuits.
Mr Rowlands said: "You will know the good work that takes place through the cross-party group on the outdoor activity sector in Wales, and you'll also agree with me that we have some of the best outdoor activity organisations here in Wales that you could possibly imagine.
"There have, though, been some recent tragic high-profile cases where basic safety standards in the outdoors have been ignored and caused tragic circumstances to arise."
He also pointed out ongoing pressures on organisations such as mountain rescue, which aid people who find themselves in dangerous situations outdoors.
Mr Rowlands expressed concern over the lack of clear direction from the Welsh government regarding responsibility for outdoor safety and associated legislation.
He inquired about a point of contact for the sector to engage with as they strive to assure the public of safe outdoor enjoyment.
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In response, the minister confirmed that the Welsh government is committed to promoting safety, with a focus on prevention and risk mitigation for outdoor activities.
Mr Rowlands added: "I firmly believe that everyone should be able to take part in activities safely outdoors and in particular that all young children should have the opportunity to enjoy outdoor education.
"I recently met up with Scouts at Cox Wood Campsite in Rossett to see for myself how young people are able to benefit from taking part in all sorts of activities including being taught survival tips."

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