The Minister for Finance and Trefnydd has given assurances that there will be a focus on improvement and value for money at the heart of Welsh Government considerations of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s plans for 2020-21.

The commitment comes after Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, scrutinised the Minister on the state of the health board’s finances.

Commenting on the matter, Janet said:

“I welcome the fact that there will be a £400 million increase in health and social care in Wales in 2020/21, but we have to make sure that this money is not wasted and that spending targets are met.

“Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has a terrible financial track record.

“It recorded deficits of £20 million in 2015-16, £30 million in 2016-17, £39 million in 2017-18, and £41 million in 2018-19.

“More so, the board is set to have a £35 million deficit this year, and miss its target by £10 million.

“As I told the Minister for Finance, these failures to break even are despite the health board having received £83 million in special measures funding.

“Rather than simply pumping more money into a board which has become a huge financial vacuum, I welcome the fact that the Minister has agreed with me that careful consideration ought to be given to waste and excessive spending.

“Going forward, the Welsh Government must stand ready to reject the health board’s proposals should they not represent value for money”.

Notes:

Questions to the Minister for Finance and Trefnydd: The Budget's Impact on North Wales

North Wales’ health board chair voices frustration as trust faces estimated £35m deficit