Category Archives: Dyfodol

VICTORY FOR DYFODOL ON THE PLANNING BILL

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After two years of persistent lobbying to give attention to the Welsh language within the Planning Bill, Dyfodol’s efforts have finally come to fruition. The Welsh Language is now part of the Planning Measure and a statutory consideration, which will transform the way in which housing plans will be treated by local authorities in Wales. This was all won through discussion and persuasion.

Dyfodol i’r Iaith began lobbying in the light of weaknesses in the TAN20 regulations which gave local authorities limited rights to consider the Welsh language. This was followed by a slightly stronger TAN20, but one that still did not give consideration of the language a strong statutory basis.

Dyfodol i’r Iaith met with Carwyn Jones, the Prime Minister three times, and many times with the Government’s planning officers. A presentation was made on the matter to the senedd and contact was made with Assembly Members of all parties.

Success was achieved in convincing the politicians of the need to include the Welsh language within the Bill. Evidence provided by Meirion Davies, a member of Dyfodol’s Board, on the effect of the current house planning structures was a significant contribution. Following this came a detailed discussion on satisfactory wording. During these and former stages, Emyr Lewis’s guidance to the politicians was of key importance. An amendment wording that was clear and simple was successfully arrived at.

As Dyfodol yr Iaith led the public debate, discussing with politicians and officers, doors opened without pushing. Many steps still lie ahead of us, but for now, we can be rightly proud of our achievements

DYFODOL I’R IAITH WELCOMES AMENDMENT TO THE PLANNING BILL

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Dyfodol i’r Iaith welcomes the amendment to the Planning Bill put forward by William Powell and supported by Llyr Huws Griffiths and the Minister, Carl Sargeant.

As a result of this amendment, planning authorities must, when relevant, pay attention to considerations relating to the use of the Welsh language in deciding upon planning applications. This is a great step forward, and should end the uncertainty that has led to Welsh language considerations not being given attention for fear that this would not be within the law.

Dyfodol’s representatives, Meirion Davies and Emyr Lewis have presented strong political and legal arguments for such an amendment to the Planning Committee, and reiterated these arguments in meetings with Carwyn Jones and the Welsh Government’s planning officers.

Dyfodol is delighted that politicians of all parties across Wales have supported this amendment. It is indicative of the wide support across Wales for the need to support Welsh as a living community language. The Minister and all the politicians are to be congratulated on their enlightened response to the lobbying.

It is worrying however that other recommendations made by the Committee have not been adopted; these would have built upon the foundation set by this amendment.

Dyfodol continues to call for a statutory body, at arms’ length from the Government, with responsibility for promoting the Welsh language and planning for its welfare.

Saith Seren: Dyfodol i’r Iaith’s Response

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Dyfodol i’r Iaith were very disappointed to hear that Saith Seren is due to close next month. The venture has been arranging and promoting Welsh medium events and gigs in Wrexham since 2012.

Dyfodol i’r Iaith believes that Welsh Language Centres such as this provide an ideal and entertaining means of promoting the use of the language. They also provide an opportunity to learn Welsh and promote confidence in its use in areas, such as Wrexham, where the opportunities to use Welsh as a natural medium can be comparatively scarce.

Heini Gruffudd, Dyfodol’s Chair said:

“It’s a great shame that Saith Seren has to close.

 

Establishing Welsh Language Centres is an important part of making Welsh a living language in areas where there are fewer speakers. The Welsh Government has accepted this principle, and have started to contribute to the establishment of such centres. While this is to be welcomed, what is needed now is a robust plan to establish Welsh Language Centres across Wales.

 

The hundred and more Language Centres in the Basque Country provides us with an example to follow. These are supported by central and local government, and by organisations responsible for teaching the language to adults.”