Minister must prove he measures up to language board

2.17.45pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 17th Oct 2005

Eleanor Burnham AM, today challenged the Culture Minister Alun Pugh to prove whether or not he can be the champion for the Welsh language at this Thursday's first meeting of Fforwm Iaith.

Mrs Burnham, Welsh Liberal Democrat spokesperson for the Welsh Language, said, "If Alun Pugh can't make Fforwm Iaith work, face his critics and satisfy the public, what hope has he got in championing the Welsh Language?

"The consultation on Fforwm Iaith closed over a year ago and it is only just meeting now. It hardly inspires confidence or demonstrates any real enthusiasm from the Minister."

Last Wednesday the Government's plan to abolish the Welsh Language Board was postponed by an opposition vote. Mrs Burnham believes that the Fforwm presents the Minister with a real opportunity to prove he has an ability to take on board constructive ideas and fire the public's enthusiasm for the language.

"The Minister wants to abolish the Welsh Language Board and take over its duties; first he must prove that he's up to the challenge."

Mrs Burnham continued, "I have raised serious concerns over this Government's ill thought out plans to take a greater responsibility for the Welsh Language. Alun Pugh heard but he didn't seem to listen and he certainly hasn't answered them.

"So my challenge to Alun Pugh is this - Prove that you can face your critics and not walk away, listen to the public and give real answers. Then maybe we can begin to believe that this Government is capable of safe guarding and promoting the Welsh language."

Diwedd/Ends.