Welsh Labour's Skills Minister John Griffiths has announced almost £6.8m for the development of the Welsh for Adults programme across Wales for another three years.

The funding will be split amongst the six Welsh for Adults centres and will help improve the quality of provision, provide more training for tutors and increase the number of learners reaching fluency.

John Griffiths, the Labour-led Welsh Assembly Government's Deputy Minister for Skills announced the funding whilst on a visit to the National Eisteddfod in Cardiff where he also officially opened Maes D, the learner’s pavilion.

John Griffiths said:

"Events such as the National Eisteddfod have an important role to play in encouraging people to practice their Welsh, and in attracting new learners. Maes D provides opportunities for people to learn the language and undertake activities through the medium of Welsh on the Eisteddfod field.

"As a Welsh learner I know how learning the language can open doors to a number of new experiences.  It can enhance your work and personal life and is a challenge, as many Welsh learners will testify.

"The six Welsh for Adults centres have done a tremendous job in ensuring that a full programme of Welsh for Adults courses is available in all parts of Wales. They have exceeded their targets for this academic year and have set a firm basis for the future. I am sure the funding I have announced will help the centres continue to meet the needs of learners and help them encourage others to learn the language.