Joint working commitment at Welsh language conference

Over 60 people attended a conference in Gwynedd on 30 April to discuss the future of the Welsh language.

We’re proud that we organised the ‘Iaith ar Waith’ conference and hosted at Tŷ Gwyrddfai, Penygroes.  Speakers included Iwan Trefor Jones, our Chief Executive; Efa Gruffudd Jones, Welsh Language Commissioner; Bethan Griffiths from Welsh Government; Dr Simon Brooks from Comisiwn Cymunedau Cymraeg; Sian Morris Jones from the Urdd and Iwan Hywel from Menter Iaith Gwynedd.

The conference was held to kick-start a conversation on the proposed implementation of Welsh Language Standards in the housing sector over the next 18 months. It also looked at the work that organisations are doing to promote the Welsh language as a living language in the workplace and in communities.

Delegates at the conference represented a number of sectors, including Welsh Government, Welsh Language Commissioner’s office,  local authorities, health, fire and rescue, language initiatives, community groups and individuals with a passion for the Welsh language.

Iwan Trefor Jones, our Chief Executive said: “We were absolutely delighted to host this event – the first of its kind in the housing sector and the amount of interest in the conference clearly showed the commitment to develop the Welsh language and a passion to make a real difference.

“There is a clear link between housing, jobs, economy, culture and the Welsh language and the conference provided the opportunity to share details of our work, but also to hear from other organisations about how they work.

“The conference highlighted the need for organisations and communities to work together, to make sure that plans and policies are aligned and that Welsh language activities and promotional work complement each other.

“As we work towards the target of a million Welsh speakers by 2050, there is now a great opportunity to focus on identifying those activities that will have a positive long term impact on the Welsh language. Sharing ideas and pooling resources are vital if we are to increase the number of Welsh speakers in our communities.

“We will now continue the conversation, linking up with partners and communities to discuss the way forward”.