Today at the National Eisteddfod (5 August 2024) the Deputy Welsh Language Commissioner will provide an overview of the Commissioner’s vision for the future. In the Societies tent at 1pm Osian Llywelyn will discuss the method of of co-regulation, as well as the Commissioner’s intention to present outcomes that represent the common aims and objectives of the Welsh Language Commissioner, public organisations, and users of the Welsh language.
Alongside the event the Commissioner will publish their annual report which will outline how those institutions which must conform with the Welsh Language Standards are meeting their obligations.
In a statement Osian Llywelyn said:
‘It’s nice to be able to report that the compliance levels of public organisations that implement Welsh language standards are improving. An increasing number are providing quality Welsh language services on every occasion. It is also encouraging to see that the health sector, after several years of underperforming, is making good progress in a number of key services.
Having said that, there is further work to be done if we want to realise our vision of a Wales where people can live in Welsh. Organisations need to improve people’s awareness of the services available in Welsh, encouraging them to take advantage of them and use them.
By setting specific outcomes it allows us to focus our resources on what will offer the greatest impact. It also means that we can consider the compliance of organisations in the context of the national vision of increasing the number of Welsh speakers and increasing the use of the language.’
Representatives from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, Llandrillo Menai Grŵp and Cwm taf Morgannwg Health board as well as the Welsh Language Comissioner Efa Gruffydd Jones will join Osian to discuss how to co-regulate effectively. The presenter Betsan Powys will chair the event.
Ben Screen, Strategic Leader of the Welsh Language at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, who will be taking part in the discussion said:
‘I fully accept that the organisations which come under the standards need to implement them fully. It is also important that they receive guidance and advice from the Commissioner. The method of co-regulation that has been put in place suggests an inclusive and collaborative way of operating.
The outcomes that have now been presented offer clear guidance about what is expected and emphasise that this is an ongoing process where it will be necessary to expect improvement and constant progress.’
The report shows the following figures regarding thos institutions that come under the Welsh Language Standards and sate:
- That 90% of web pages are now in Welsh
- That 89% of messages on social media are available in Welsh
- That 78% of enquiries are answered in Welsh
- That 88% of correspondence is answered in Welsh
- 84% of job advertisements are available in Welsh
You can find more information about the Commissioner’s presence at the Eisteddfod and a copy of the report by following this link to their website.
