Betsi denies 'Christmas is cancelled' in staff rota row

NORTH Wales' health board has denied an accusation it has “cancelled Christmas” after carrying out a review of rotas ahead of the festive period.

- By RICHARD EVANS Local Democracy Reporter

Nurses working at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan have claimed annual leave over the festive period was cancelled “without consultation or explanation”.

However Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has denied this, stating that there has been “no instruction to cancel staff leave”.

Delyth Williams, Head of Nursing for Surgery, Anaesthetics and Critical Care at Glan Clwyd Hospital, said: “I can confirm there has been no instruction to cancel staff leave.

“Earlier this year, it was agreed that annual leave for the Christmas period would be approved closer to the time to help ensure safe staffing levels are maintained.

“A recent review of the rota was carried out to make sure staffing levels over the Christmas period are safe.