Rt. Hon Carwyn Jones, First Minister of Wales
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
On 21 October 2013 I announced the timetable for making the first set of standards in relation to the Welsh language. I am pleased to inform you that those standards have been published today. As you will be aware, the Welsh Language Commissioner will now use these proposed standards as the basis for a standards investigation with local authorities, National Parks and Welsh Ministers.
I look forward to receiving the standards investigation report from the Commissioner outlining the key findings from the investigation. Those findings will contribute to the work of preparing Regulations to make standards.
I have agreed with the Welsh Language Commissioner that I will refrain from making any comments regarding the standards during the investigation period.
The publication of these proposed standards is an important step in fulfilling our vision as stated in our Welsh language strategy to improve Welsh language services to citizens. The operational standards will also provide a platform, especially for public sector organisations, to increase opportunities for people to use Welsh in the workplace.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Assembly returns I would be happy to do so.