New National Chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith

New National Chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith: next Senedd term needs to be a "turning point" for the language

It was announced today (Saturday, 4 October) during Cymdeithas yr Iaith’s Annual General Meeting that Owain Meirion is the group’s new national Chair.

Originally from Dolgellau, Owain now lives in Cardiff and works at the Senedd.

Owain has been active with the movement for several years. He worked as Communications and Political Liaison Officer for the group between 2023 and 2025, and since then has contributed as a member of Cymdeithas yr Iaith’s Education and Digital campaign groups.

Speaking after being elected national Chair, Owain said:

“I would like to thank Joseff for his work over the past two years. It is an honour to be elected Chair of a movement that is very close to my heart and at such a crucial time for the future of our language.

“As we approach the election for our seventh national Senedd, unfortunately there is no evidence that the position of the language is stable, or that the Welsh Government’s efforts so far have been effective in reversing the decline.

“The next Senedd term must be a turning point for the language if it is to continue as a living language - and that will only happen through investment, not words.”

Joseff Gnagbo said as he handed over the reins as chair:

“Congratulations to Owain on being elected Chair. He has a clear vision and will bring fresh enthusiasm and energy to the movement at an important time. Thank you to everyone for their support during my time as chair, and I look forward to working under Owain’s leadership over the next year to demand better for the Welsh language and our communities.”