Report calls for radical shift to protect Welsh

Dr Seimon Brooks says the decline of the Welsh language is a "long term problem"

A “radical shift” is needed to halt the decline of the Welsh language, according to a report launched at the National Eisteddfod.

About 60 measures to strengthen the language were announced on Thursday, including focusing on areas with high numbers of Welsh speakers and creating new policies linking the language with areas of society such as housing.

The report has been produced for the Welsh government by the Commission for Welsh Speaking Communities, which was set up in 2022 to focus on addressing the decline of the Welsh language.

Dr Seimon Brooks, the commission’s chairman, said: "It's a long-term problem which is why we need a radical but practical shift."

He added: "It will require brave moves which go beyond moves at the edge of public policy."

The report said creating designated areas of "higher density linguistic significance" was key.

The recommendation was to set up special areas, focusing on places that have a high percentage of Welsh speakers, and then change policies to keep the language.

These areas would have the ability to create new policies which would centre on things that can affect the use of the Welsh language, such as housing and planning.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said the commission’s establishment was "a vital step in our commitment to strengthening the Welsh language in its heartlands".

"Welsh is our national language and it belongs to all of us. I have asked the commission to look at the use of Welsh in all areas of Wales and beyond," she added.