Written - Iaith Pawb and Welsh Language Scheme Annual Report 2008-09

We, as the Welsh Assembly Government, are committed to promote and support the Welsh language and to work towards the aim of creating a fully bilingual Wales.

The ‘One Wales’ policy document already states our commitment as a Government to devolve legislative powers on the Welsh language from Westminster to the National Assembly, and we are working towards introducing a Legislative Competence Order, Measure and new Welsh Language Strategy in order to acheive that.

By developing this strategy, we can be confident that we are continuing to build on the strong foundations that Iaith Pawb has provided us.

We can be proud at what as already been acheived, as illustrated by the 2008-09 Annual Report on Iaith Pawb and the WAG Welsh Language Scheme,  published today. The Report refers to the services that are now available to the public bilingually, and how departments inside the Assembly Government operate bilingually. 

The Annual Report also includes a number of highlights which show that Welsh language-related matters are being mainstreamed into the Government’s work, and that the Welsh Language Board continues to do pioneering work to promote Welsh, throughout Wales and internationally.

Today, therefore, is a chance to celebrate what has been acheived in the past year as we work towards the aim of a bilingual Wales.