Mark Drakeford MS, First Minister
I am pleased to announce my decision to appoint Efa Gruffudd Jones as Welsh Language Commissioner for a period of 7 years between 9 January 2023 and 8 January 2030.
Efa appeared before Senedd's Culture, Communications, Welsh language, Sport and International Relations Committee as a preferred candidate for the post on 13 October. I was encouraged by the Committee's report following the hearing which was based on her written answers to the Committee's questionnaire and her responses during the hearing. Based on this the Committee in their report stated that they were willing to approve Efa for the role of Welsh Language Commissioner.
Having considered the recommendations of the selection panel, and the views of the Senedd Committee I am confident that Efa has the skills, experiences, and credibility to be appointed Welsh Language Commissioner.
The Welsh language has been central to Efa's career as Chief Executive of the National Centre for Learning Welsh since 2016, and before that, she was Chief Executive of the Urdd for 11 years. She will therefore come to the post with years of experience of working for the benefit of the Welsh language and of working with Welsh speakers and learners throughout Wales.
In congratulating Efa today on her appointment, we of course remember the valuable contribution of the late Aled Roberts.