AM holds meeting on future of Welsh language communities

Llanelli Labour AM Keith this week chaired a Cross Party Group meeting in the Assembly on the future of Welsh Language Communities.

Recent census results showed a decrease in the number of Welsh speakers, putting the challenges facing the language firmly on the political agenda. The meeting served as a discussion point for those challenges, with innovative schemes and strategies presented.

A statistical briefing was delivered by Hywel Jones, the Statistician to the Welsh Language Commissioner, to provide a clear analysis of census figures showing trends and their context. Presentations followed by Toni Schiavone, CymdeithasyrIaith, HeiniGruffudd, author and consultant, and OwainGruffydd, Menter Bro Dinefwr. It was attended by AM’s from all four political parties.

Keith Davies AM said:

“It is acknowledged that the recent census results brought disappointing news. Therefore it is more important than ever to hold full and open debate on how to increase the number of speakers and safeguard Welsh-speaking communities, where people can choose to go about their daily lives entirely through the medium of Welsh.”

“This meeting was representative of that. I was very pleased to host representatives of Welsh Language organisations and those directly involved with running on-the-ground schemes to promote the language in more anglicised areas.”

“The need for further support for community factors such as jobs, housing and modern technology was noted. The success of Welsh Language Centres wasidentified as a community hub – especially in more anglicised areas, and we discussed CymdeithasyrIaith’s manifesto.”

Mr Davies added:

“I welcome the work of the Welsh Government in this field, such as their Welsh Language Strategy, ‘A Living Language: A Language for Living’, which came in effect in 2012 and outlines six strategic areas. I especially look forward to the development ofthe ‘Big Conversation’ recently launched by the First Minister to bring all parts of society together to address these challenges.”

“The Cross Party Group meets regularly, and I look forward to re-examining these issues and looking at their impact in the near future.”