Welsh-speaking communities will be a priority for Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg, according to the organisation’s new Chairman, Robin Farrar.

Robin Crag Farrar, 27, was elected as Cymdeithas yr Iaith’s new chair in the organisation’s executive meeting, the Senedd, today (Saturday, 8th December). Originally from Mynydd Llandygai, Gwynedd, he works as a sustainability projects facilitator in Machynlleth.

On being elected, Robin said:

“The future of the Welsh language depends on Welsh-speaking communities, and that is our main priority for Cymdeithas. We are still celebrating our fiftieth anniversary, and this momentum enables us to concentrate on ensuring a sustainable future for Welsh-speaking communities. If we believe they are important, we must act now.”

He added:

“The Welsh Government claims that sustainability is a big thing for them at the moment, but for all that we’ve seen again and again, this week especially, that they don’t understand the importance of the Welsh language in a sustainability context. The language isn’t a priority for them and that must change.

“I’ve been part of a community group that has decided to act of its own accord to protect a Welsh-speaking community, and we’re succeeding. Ensuring a sustainable future for Welsh-speaking communities is a challenge not only for the Government, but also for all of us to work within our communities. That will be one of our messages in the first of a series of rallies over the coming months. Rali’r Cyfrif, counting the results of the census, this Saturday in Caernarfon, will be an opportunity for people not only to demonstrate their support for Welsh-speaking communities, but also to come together to create the plans that will protect and strengthen their communities.

“It will be an enormous challenge for us, but we’re ready for it. It’s a very exciting time for Cymdeithas yr Iaith and people across Wales, and I believe we can lead the work of ensuring sustainable Welsh-speaking communities.”

Resigning as Chair, Bethan Williams said:

“I wish Robin all the best, and look forward to working with him in my new role as Dyfed Area Officer with Cymdeithas yr Iaith. Leading, with others, an organisation like Cymdeithas yr Iaith has been very exciting and challenging. I’d like to thank all those who’ve been part of our campaigns during my time as Chair sincerely for their work.”

Robin Farrar, originally from Mynydd Llandygái, Gwynedd, is 27. Although he started his career as a teacher, he now works on community projects related to the local environment and economy in the Dyfi Biosphere area. As a member of Cymdeithas yr Iaith, he as been active at a regional level, organising an alternative course for Welsh learners, and in the Sustainable Communities campaign. His hobbies include cycling and trying to learn Polish.