Welsh Government to consult later this year on new Welsh language strategy

News of the consultation comes as the Welsh Government announced that it had accepted all 31 recommendations in its response to the Commission for Welsh-speaking Communities’ second phase report, Cymraeg in every community, strengthening the Welsh language.

The Commission’s report focused on the Welsh language in communities where the density of speakers is medium or lower. Its recommendations covered education, early years, technology, workplaces, sport, culture, planning, research, data and leadership.

In a written statement Anna Brychan MS, Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh language, said the Welsh Government would now turn the recommendations into practical action.

Brychan said: “Although the financial situation is challenging, our ambition for the Welsh language remains firm. Current pressures will not prevent us from acting. They will encourage us to be more creative, coordinated and determined in our delivery. We will make the best use of the funding available.

“We will place the Welsh language at the heart of the work of the whole government and work with our partners to create new opportunities to use the language. This is not only a matter of funding; it is about using the Government’s power, influence and resources in a coordinated way for the benefit of the Welsh language. We will prioritise the actions that will make the greatest difference.”

Brychan added that the report would also help to shape the direction, objectives, policies and actions of the Welsh Government’s new Welsh language strategy for the coming years.

The Welsh Government will conduct a National Survey of Welsh Language Use over the next two financial years. The intention is for it to be conducted every five years thereafter.

Brychan added: “The response to the Commission’s second phase report reflects the fact that Welsh language policy is a responsibility for the whole government. We will ensure that the necessary actions are developed and delivered across government, in partnership with local authorities, health boards, communities, young people and others.”