SCHEMES promoting the use of the Welsh language are being handed a share of £4.2 million from the Welsh Government, Blaenau Gwent AM Alun Davies has announced.

Mr Davies announced the funding, which will be handed to 77 organisations across Wales, in his capacity as minister for the Welsh language.

Among them are Menter Iaith Casnewydd and Menter Caerffili, which cover Newport and Caerphilly and will be given £60,000 and £95,552 respectively.

Mr Davies said the cash was being handed out as part of the Welsh Government’s commitment to create one million Welsh speakers.

“Our aim is to promote the use of Welsh in everyday life across the whole of Wales through opportunities to use the language and supporting organisations to protect and strengthen the position of the Welsh language,” he said.

“These grants recognise the contribution of these organisations to the future well-being of the language.

“I’ve always maintained that government does not have a monopoly on the future of the Welsh language.

“All of us have a part to play in advancing its future.”