Plaid Cymru's Urdd Eisteddfod 'free entry' pledge
The promise supports continued free access to the annual youth festival - which is coming to Newport in 2027 - for families who might otherwise be unable to attend.
Heledd Fychan MS, Plaid Cymru's spokesperson on the Welsh language and culture, said: "The importance of Eisteddfod yr Urdd to the Welsh language and culture cannot be understated.
"The festival supports young people from across Wales to immerse themselves in the Welsh language and develop their language skills.
"Eisteddfod yr Urdd has always, and continues to, play a prominent role in increasing not only the numbers of Welsh speakers but increasing the daily use of Welsh.
"That is why a Plaid Cymru Government will ensure that the Eisteddfod can be enjoyed by all, by supporting free access to families from low-income backgrounds."
Eisteddfod yr Urdd 2025 has already seen a record 119,593 registrations and a 42 per cent increase in competitors who are Welsh learners.
Ms Fychan said the figures highlight the festival's vital role in supporting the use of Welsh beyond the classroom and building confidence among new speakers.
She said a Plaid Cymru government would prioritise continued backing for Urdd Gobaith Cymru and its work.
Ms Fychan said: "Plaid Cymru remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting and growing the Welsh language, and the work undertaken by the Urdd is central to that vision.
"Free entry for low-income families to Eisteddfod yr Urdd is something we have long campaigned for and would be funded by a future Plaid Cymru government."
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