Position Of Welsh Language

Position of Welsh Language.

The Welsh Language Act of 1965 called for equal status between English and Welsh in all written documents and in the law courts. It also called for the use of the language in general court proceedings.

Many people see the duplication of all utility bills, census returns etc. as unnecessary and claim that people simply throw the Welsh language versions away, and the cost of providing interpreters for legal purposes is very expensive.

This is a very valid argument, and the waste of paper is worrying when you think about the environment.

So, - why should the money and effort be spent in keeping the language alive?

Many of those emigrating to the Americas in the 19th century found that their whole way of life, and their identity, disappeared as they were forced to assimilate a new language and culture. There were, however, small pockets who proudly clung on to their traditions, and we see today Welsh speaking communities in Patagonia and in parts of North America, particularly Kentucky. In fact Welsh is the second language of Patagonia in Argentina.