A councillor has apologised for a “silly comment” after he was accused of abandoned his ward for a night in a hotel during the water crisis. Vast areas of Conwy county have been without water for days due to a burst mains at Bryn Cowlyd treatment works at Dolgarrog.
This has seen many organisations, local residents and politicians spring to action to support communities during the crisis – with many praised for their efforts. But one councillor came under fire for posting about going away to a hotel for a night on Friday.
Cllr Dav Jones, who represents part of Llandudno Junction on Conwy county council, announced on Facebook he was spending the evening at Caernarfon Travelodge after posting water updates all day and would have a “nice hot shower and a bottle of vino”.
This saw him attacked on social media with some accusing him of abandoning his ward during the crisis. One person posted: “Well I’m glad he’s relaxing after posting on here all day, while I have been out delivering water to the vulnerable in Old Colwyn and Colwyn Bay.”
The water station at Parc Eirias
(Image: Daily Post Wales)
This morning the councillor apologised for the comment but also explained the situation. He said that his wife had booked the £26 stay at the Travelodge as he has been battling cancer and going through a “tough time”. He said his treatment meant he couldn’t help with physically delivering water and that “those who know me” know he would have been out helping if he could.
The councillor said: “Yesterday, I made a silly comment with no thought for others plight during this water crisis. For that I’m truly sorry. I did spend the day posting Dwr Cymru Welsh Water update and notifying the public about water collection points.
“Unfortunately, because of my health I’m unable to take physical action like the picking up and delivery of water. Those of you that really know me, know I would have been out there. But I was wrong about postings on Facebook about our overnight hotel stay and again, for that, I am truly sorry. I hope everyone’s water is returned speedily over the coming days.”
Explaining the situation, he said: “I’ve spent 24 hours trying to give good advice from my armchair. Friday night away in Caernarfon for £26 was booked by my wife because I have cancer and have been going through a tough time. When she told me I was happy and I posted it on Facebook.
“Because of my health condition I’ve been unable to drive, and cannot walk a great distance so couldn’t deliver water. I should be drinking 3 – 4 pints of water a day which hasn’t been possible because, like many others in need, I not one of the initial 2000 on the priority list.”
In response one person wrote: “Well done for apologising. It was a grave error of judgement. We all make mistakes. Time to move on.”
Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox