THE chief executive of economic development company Menter a Busnes stressed the organisation's enthusiasm for encouraging Welsh speakers to play a wider role in the economy at a meeting of the Farmers' Union of Wales bilingual and publicity committee.
Explaining the work and structure of the Aberystwyth-based organisation, Alun Jones told delegates it only advertised job vacancies in Welsh in West Wales and the ability to speak Welsh was a requirement for most of its posts.
He highlighted the organisation’s commitment to preserving the Welsh language by training its staff to operate fully bilingually and provide extra training for those members of staff who need to progress their Welsh-speaking ability.
He said bilingual staff offered the company a competitive advantage when competing for tenders and contracts.
At times it can be difficult to recruit bilingual staff but the company tries to ensure its clients get a service in the language of their choice, which sometimes means mobilising staff from adjoining counties, Mr Jones added.
Carmarthenshire delegate Mansel Charles, of Sarngelli, Llanegwad, was re-elected as the committee's chairman and Anglesey delegate Tegwyn Jones, of Hafod, Llanfairpwll, was elected vice chairman.
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WELSH LANGUAGE COMMITMENT: From left, Tegwyn Jones, Alun Jones and Mansel Charles[/caption]