Category Archives: Cynllunio Ieithyddol

DYFODOL’S RESPONSE TO THE GOVERNMENT’S EDUCATION PLAN

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Dyfodol i’r Iaith has issued a cautious response to the Welsh Government’s Strategy to develop Welsh language education over the next four years, as part of its aim to create a million Welsh speakers by the year 2050.

The organisation appreciates the background work that went into the Plan, and warmly welcomes its commitment to the growth of Welsh language education. The recognition of the need to recruit teachers is also a positive and necessary step.

The announcement comes at a key stage for the growth of the language, and Heini Gruffudd, Dyfodol’s Chair said, “This Plan has to work, given the Welsh Government’s failure to reach its goals in the past.”

He went on to explain:

“It worries us greatly that the percentage in Welsh-medium education has fallen in 9 counties over the past 5 years. Unlike the Government, we are very doubtful that the English-medium schools can deliver the dramatic and necessary change. These schools simply cannot deliver full language skills in both languages, as Welsh-medium schools are able to.

We therefore call upon the Government to create an emergency programme to ensure the growth of Welsh-medium schools.”

 

A THANK YOU TO ALUN DAVIES

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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.