The Royal Welsh Agricultural Show has received recognition for its commitments to the Welsh language by ensuring the Cynnig Cymraeg approval by the Welsh Language Commissioner. The Cynnig Cymraeg is a programme that the Commissioner runs that provides official recognition for institutions and businesses that work with the Comissioner’s office to plan and develop systems and work practices that help and support use of Welsh in the workplace.
Aled Jones, Chief Executive of the Show said:
‘With a higher percentage of workers in the agricultural sector speaking Welsh than any other sector in Wales and the number of Welsh speakers in the industry significantly exceeding the average of the general population, there exists a very real bond between securing the future of the Welsh language, and the agriculture industry.
The Welsh language is core, not only to our work here at the Showground, but on a wider level in rural Wales. The language and culture are an integral part of Welsh agricultural life and receiving official recognition for that helps us further promote the Welsh language with the show’s community in Wales and beyond.
This week is naturally a highlight of the year for us in Wales and receiving the Cynnig Cymraeg makes for a great start.’
During a visit to the Show ground, Welsh Language Commissioner Efa Gruffudd Jones said:
‘The Cynnig Cymraeg gives organisations the opportunity to raise awareness about what they offer through the Welsh language. By doing so it is hoped that it will lead to an increase in the use of Welsh services.
The agricultural industry is a vital part of the economy and culture of rural Welsh communities, where Welsh is the everyday natural language. Ensuring the prosperity of the rural and agricultural economy is therefore vital to seeing growth in the number who speak and use Welsh every day.
At the start of one of our most important festivals I would like to congratulate the Show on securing the Cynnig Cymraeg and wish them every success throughout the week.’
You can learn more about the Cynnig Cymraeg and how you and your institution or business can take part, by following this link to the Comissioner’s website.