Janet Finch-Saunders AM, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, took part in a debate on Eye Health Care in the National Assembly for Wales.

Janet said: "It really is shocking that a staggering 50% of sight loss and 70% of blindness in Wales are avoidable through early detection, yet two-thirds of children in Wales do not have regular eye checks, and 23% of new patients are not seen within the target referral to treatment time.

"By better utilising the valuable skills of our qualified optometrists here in Wales, we can work together to raise awareness, improve preventative programmes and ensure that the structures are in place for those with poor vision or blindness to receive the help, support and treatment they need, within target treatment times.

"I want to see this Welsh Government bring Wales to the forefront of global eye health care, and I hope that the Wales Eyecare Plan drives forward combined emotional, social and medical care and, more importantly, a preventative public health approach."