Welsh operator launches crowdfund to challenge Government over hospitality reopening
Matt Connolly, founder of Sticky Fingers Street Food in Cardiff, has launched a crowdfund campaign to help cover the costs of bringing a judicial review against the Welsh Government.
He has spoken to the legal team at JMW LLP, the firm of solicitors who are handling the legal challenge against the delayed reopening of hospitality in England led by Greater Manchester's night time economy advisor Sacha Lord, and says they are willing to take on the case for hospitality in Wales.
First Minister Mark Drakeford has been hesitant to provide a reopening date for hospitality in Wales, suggesting the Government may be able to consider reopening outdoor settings at the end of April.
He said this week that pubs and restaurants will be given a 'reliable date' at a point when “the public health position is safe enough for us to do so'.
Similar to Lord, Connolly argues that hospitality in Wales should be allowed to reopen and trade inside at the same time as non-essential retail.
"We have done all that has been asked of us and more with respect to Covid guidelines," he says. "We are well regulated and have proven that we are as safe, if not safer, than the retail sector.
"Here in Wales, the devolved Government have shown no sign or indication of hospitality opening up in 2021. There is no ‘roadmap’ at all. This effects every pubco, bar and restaurant operator, and the supply chain that feeds it.
"We need a voice and we urgently need representation in Wales."
The crowdfund, hosted on GoFundMe, is looking to raise £6,000 in total.
To view the crowdfund, click here.
