At 12.30 today members of Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg presented a draft Welsh language measure to the political parties in the National Assembly. The event was co-sponsored by Plaid Cymru, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats, and representatives of these parties addressed the meeting.
Outside the meeting a visual presentation was made by a group of 20 students who wished to stress the need for further Welsh language legislation. Prior to this, a special meeting was held between Cymdeithas members and the Assembly's Presiding Officer. Cymdeithas yr Iaith have accepted his challenge that voluntary groups in Wales draw up measures to be considered by the Assembly.The meeting was a great success, and a great number of Assembly Members attended. Although Alun Pugh, the Culture Minister was unable to attend he has agreed to meet a deputation of Cymdeithas members to discuss the need for a New Welsh Language Act.Catrin Dafydd, Chair of Cymdeithas' New Welsh Language Act Group, said:"The commitment of the opposition parties is a clear sign of their vision for the new period in the Welsh Assembly following the elections in May. A language measure should be the first measure to be passed when the Assembly receives its new powers. We are now keen to receive comments on our draft language measure."She added:"In addition to the draft measure Cymdeithas yr Iaith have collected thousands of names on a petition calling for new Welsh Language Legislation. We will be presenting this in the new year as a further sign that the people of Wales wish to see the Welsh Language being given official status in Wales, as well as establishing specific rights. Rights that would allow people to use the Welsh language in all aspects of everyday life.
- Mesur yr Iaith Gymraeg 2007 (PDF, 56KB) - Drafft Cymdeithas yr Iaith o Ddeddf Iaith Newydd
- Welsh Language Measure 2007 (PDF, 56KB) - Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg’s draft of a new Welsh Language Act
Visual presentation by supporters
Catrin Dafydd meets with Assembly's Presiding Officer
Ieuan Wyn Jones AM addressing the meeting