Isle of Anglesey County Council is saddened, but not surprised, by 2021 Census results which show that Wales has 24,000 fewer Welsh speakers compared to a decade ago.

Like almost all other areas of the country, Anglesey has seen a fall in its figures. In 2021, 55.8% of the island’s population reported that they speak Welsh, compared to 57.2% in 2011. Despite retaining its place as one of only two counties where over half of the population speaks Welsh, the long-term pattern of small but steady decline since the mid-twentieth century persists.

Communities in the north-east of the island have seen the sharpest fall. However, there is some cause for optimism as numbers have increased in areas where, historically, use of the language has been lower. Areas of Newborough, Beaumaris and Holyhead have all seen an increase. The county has also retained communities where over 70% of the population speaks Welsh; a crucial tipping point in terms of language sustainability.

The age profile of Welsh speakers also appears to have shifted. More younger people between the ages of 16 and 64 on Anglesey said that they spoke Welsh. However, the most worrying trend appears to be the fall in the number of children using the language.

Councillor Ieuan Williams, Education and Welsh language portfolio holder said; “It is particularly troubling that the data shows that fewer children speak Welsh compared to a decade ago. Some have suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic may be a factor and that the figures reflect parents’ interpretation of their children’s skills and not their true Welsh language ability. Thankfully the decline on Anglesey has not been as steep as in other parts of Wales but it is crucial that we understand what is the reason behind this.”

Isle of Anglesey County Council Chief Executive, Dylan J Williams, added, “As a local authority, we have a key role to play in protecting and promoting the Welsh language.”

“We are working hard to strengthen the local economy, attract investment and create jobs and opportunities that will keep young people in their communities; we are busy building new council homes that will offer affordable housing to local residents and ensuring that our schools are prominent in promoting the use of Welsh amongst our children and young people.”

“Despite the disappointing Census results, the county council will continue to promote the language and will ensure that the Welsh Language is a prominent part of its priorities, decisions and work.”

Ffreuer Owen, Policy and Welsh Language Manager said, “Some of Wales’ ‘Welshest’ communities in terms of language use are here on Anglesey. We have a responsibility to sustain them, as well as build upon the encouraging signs of growth in other parts of the county. Continued collaboration with our schools, town and community councils, and all of our partner organisations who make up Fforwm Iaith Ynys Môn (Anglesey Welsh Language Forum) is key.”

Ends 9 December 2022