APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Llun o RuthWe have appointed our first Chief Executive.  Ruth Richards, of Beaumaris, has been appointed to lead the movement.

Ruth Richards has over twenty years of experience in public policy in Wales, including central and local government, with particular emphasis on social policy, the Welsh language, equality and social engagement.

She has worked for ten years as equality and language officer with Gwynedd Council and she had previously worked as anti-poverty coordinator in Gwynedd.  She had several posts before this, including six years as a researcher at the House of Commons.

” It’s always exciting to start the year with a new challenge, and I look forward immensely to starting my new position with Dyfodol i’r Iaith: To working with the organisation’s Directors and members to ensure a strong future for the Welsh language at such an important and lively moment in its history.

Over the coming months, Dyfodol will be setting out a series of priorities in the form of a Language Scheme for Wales, to be launched at the National Eisteddfod. I am very grateful of the opportunity to be involved with such a significant development.”

SUPPORT FOR WELSH LANGUAGE CENTRES

Establishing Canolfannau Cymraeg – Welsh Language Centres – in areas that have seen English becoming the main language is key to reviving the language in those areas.  This is claimed by Dyfodol i’r Iaith as plans for Welsh Centres are becoming a reality in Llanelli and other areas.

Heini Gruffudd, Chair of  Dyfodol i’r Iaith said, “With the decline of traditional establishments that gave the Welsh language a community context, it has become ever more important that communities in Wales are served by centres that make it possible for local people to socialise and to enjoy activities through the Welsh language.”

“Canolfannau Cymraeg give learners a chance to use the language informally, and an opportunity for young people to enjoy Welsh life outside the education system.”

“Models of Canolfannau Cymraeg in Swansea and Merthyr Tudful have proven that they can succeed to become a hub for Welsh life.  Welsh language movements, Welsh for Adults, the Mentrau Iaith and local authorities cooperating can be a key to success, but it is equally important that local volunteers are central to the venture.”

“It’s great that the Government is providing capital grants to support the Canolfannau Cymraeg in many parts of Wales.  The aim is for these to expand in numbers and to become centres of language learning and socialising, like the 200 or so centres in the Basque Country.”

“Together they can contribute creatively to transforming the language in anglicized areas.”