A local Conservative Assembly Member has blasted Wales' First Minister Mark Drakeford following what is claimed to be 'unacceptable delays' in helping Llanrwst businesses following recent flooding.

In a very direct and pointed attack in the Senedd on continuing delays, most recently attributed to Business Wales not making claim forms readily available for struggling businesses, Ms. Finch Saunders accussed the First Minister of betraying business people in the Conwy Valley.

"Will you explain First Minister why you have betrayed the businesses in Llanrwst? Why they've had to wait a month and still not seen a penny, and what measures will be taken to improve this access to much-needed funding. It's a disgrace."

Following the devastation caused by Storm Ciara on and the announcement of an emergency funding relief scheme by the First Minister, many residents and business owners have been left waiting for financial support.

Commenting on the situation, Ms. Finch-Saunders said: “On 18 February 2020, the First Minister promised to make urgent financial support available to those whose homes have been flooded and, in particular, to those families without insurance cover.

“Three weeks later, I am being contacted by constituents who have applied for financial support but have yet to receive a single penny.

“Similarly, it took until 4 March 2020 for the Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales to announce direct financial support for businesses.

“A month has passed since storm Ciara, and some businesses have ceased trading, whilst others await insurance pay-outs or have turned to savings to continue operating.

“I am very frustrated with the delay in payments and will call for urgent action on processing funding applications and payments.

“It is grossly unfair that some residents and businesses in Llanrwst have had to wait so long for support.”