The Urdd Eisteddfod is a unique celebration of our language and culture, First Minister Carwyn Jones said today as he offered his best wishes for a successful festival as the Eisteddfod kicks off in Caerphilly.
Through the Eisteddfod, 15,000 children and young people get the opportunity to compete and experience a range of activities through the medium of Welsh. It is one of the largest touring festivals in Europe, with over 90,000 visitors annually and provides a real boost to the local economy.
The First Minister will visit the festival on Tuesday to see a number of activities aimed at increasing the use of the Welsh language in daily life. During his visit, the First Minister will also be announcing the Welsh Learner of the Year and the new Welsh children’s poet for 2015 – 17.
First Minister said:
“The Urdd Eisteddfod is a unique celebration of our language and an important part in the cultural life of the nation. The festival provides a fantastic opportunity for our young people to use the language outside of the classroom which is essential to ensuring a living language for the future. I’m looking forward to visiting the maes this week – my best wishes to the organisers and all competitors for a very successful Eisteddfod.”
The Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates, who will visit the festival on Wednesday, said:
“The Urdd is an important and exciting part of our heritage. It continues to play a significant role in introducing young people into culture, arts and sport and is at the heart of what we are trying to achieve in becoming the most creative and active nation in Europe.
“I am delighted the Welsh Government continues to support this valuable celebration of Welsh language, culture and heritage with over £880,000 funding for this financial year. I’m looking forward to experiencing this very special event and encourage fluent Welsh speakers, learners and non-Welsh speakers alike to visit the Maes.”
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