Welsh language advocates have sought an emergency meeting with BBC Cymru executives amid concerns over planned reductions to Welsh-language content and staffing levels.
The campaign group Cymdeithas yr Iaith has contacted the broadcaster following disclosure of modifications to Radio Cymru’s schedule and proposals to eliminate approximately 45 positions at BBC Cymru Wales.
Owain Meirion, the organization’s chair, expressed concern that the corporation had betrayed the confidence of Welsh audiences.
He emphasized that reductions to Welsh-language news and current affairs coverage would have a more significant impact than equivalent cuts to English-language services, given the limited alternatives available in Welsh.
The group is seeking answers regarding what it describes as the Welsh language losing ground across media platforms and is demanding suspension of cuts affecting BBC Radio Cymru output, employment, and other Welsh-language broadcasting activities.
Separately, the organization is examining modifications to the BBC’s broadcasting arrangement with S4C, prompted by freedom of information disclosures about a potential exchange of certain television content for increased visibility on BBC iPlayer.
Meirion stated that Welsh-language media currently operates under the control of politicians and major broadcasters based in London, characterizing the existing British system as unsupportive of Welsh language interests.
The chair has called upon the Welsh Government to take immediate action by accelerating establishment of a Shadow Broadcasting and Communications Authority for Wales to safeguard local and national public-service media.
He also urged Westminster to ensure adequate funding for public-service broadcasting and journalism in Wales.
The meeting request follows Cymdeithas yr Iaith’s initiation of a petition demanding protection for Welsh broadcasting and devolution of related powers and funding.
The BBC’s restructuring proposals include discontinuation of Dros Ginio, replacement of Saturday editions of Dros Frecwast and football programme Ar y Marc with podcast offerings, introduction of Yr Wythnos as a Friday news and politics review programme, relocation of Gwleidydda to Saturday mornings, and elimination of the Bwletin Amaeth agricultural bulletin.
The corporation has indicated that agricultural and rural coverage will be incorporated into its general news bulletins instead.
BBC Cymru Wales has stated that the modifications respond to financial challenges and evolving listening habits, with growing numbers of audiences accessing content through digital platforms.
The organization noted its obligation to contribute toward approximately £500 million in savings across the corporation while endeavouring to limit effects on audiences and prioritize services projected to attract additional viewership and listenership.
Information obtained by Cymdeithas yr Iaith through disclosure requests reveals that S4C’s board endorsed in principle a proposal to trade some programming hours provided by the BBC in exchange for enhanced placement and features on BBC iPlayer.
Former arrangements obligated the BBC to supply S4C with 10 hours of Welsh-language programming weekly.
The Media Act 2024 facilitated modifications to these terms.
The campaign organization has sought clarification regarding the volume of programming relinquished and voiced apprehension regarding consequences for S4C’s own streaming service, Clic.
The group has additionally requested that the Senedd’s Culture Committee summon S4C executives to provide further explanation about the agreement.
The Welsh Government’s 2026-30 Programme for Government includes commitment to pursuing devolution of broadcasting powers, commencing with a shadow authority designed to preserve and enhance public-service media.
Cymdeithas yr Iaith has previously challenged the proposed implementation timeline of spring 2028 at the earliest, maintaining that existing pressures on broadcasters necessitate more rapid intervention.