A THANK YOU TO ALUN DAVIES

Dyfodol i’r Iaith have written to Alun Davies, thanking him for his creative leadership during his time as Minister with responsibility for the Welsh language.

Heini Gruffudd, Dyfodol i’r Iaith’s Chair said, “During Alun Davies’s time as Minister, the Welsh Government has shown its willingness to take action in two areas of great importance to the Welsh language. The first being the intention to extend Welsh medium education, and the second, the presentation of a white paper which will allow the Government to give priority to the promotion of the Welsh language in the community and the workplace.”

“At the same time, we welcome Eluned Morgan to the post, and look forward to seeing the Government’s wishes being realised under her leadership.”

Dyfodol i’r Iaith have from the start suggested that the Government establish a body to be responsible for language planning and promotion. This body would develop expertise and form partnerships with local authorities and other organisations. The body could also take the lead on community and workplace projects with a focus on increasing the usage of the Welsh language. One of the advantages of such a body, following its foundation as part of the next Language Measure, would be to ensure consistent action, irrespective of whatever party may be in power.

 

Meeting with the Welsh Language Minister: Dyfodol stresses the need for robust structures as part of the Welsh Language Bill to promote and defend the language

As part of the consultation on the Welsh Language White Paper, representatives from Dyfodol recently met with Alun Davies, the Welsh Language Minister and his civil servants.

The meeting was very positive, and provided Dyfodol with another opportunity to stress the importance of establishing robust structures to promote the Welsh language across all experiences and sectors, with the specific aim of increasing its use in informal day-to-day situations. This principle of promotion remains our priority, but at the same time time, we also wish to see the enforcement of the language being strengthened, simplified, and expanded to new areas. Striking this balance, along with efficient planning and adequate funding, is essential to the success of the Government’s Welsh Language Strategy.

The Minister and civil servants’ comments were heartening, but we must remember that this is a process, and that we must continue to lobby for structures that are strong and independent enough, and which utilise the necessary expertise to ensure an increase in the number of Welsh speakers and the opportunities to use the language.

There is a link below which will allow you to send a respnse to the White Paper consultation. We would urge you to make the most of this convenient opportunity  to respond (the closing date is 31/10/17), and to press for a foundation and a framework which will support the growth of the Welsh language over the coming years. You can send your response by email to: [email protected]

White Paper Consultation Letter