The most extensive survey ever into Welsh language use will get under way later this month.

The three year, Wales-wide study, commissioned by the Welsh Language Board, will set its sights on questioning people on their ability to speak Welsh and their use of the language.

Speaking today, Welsh Language Chief Executive Designate Meirion Prys Jones said:

"This is an extremely exciting project. For the first time in over a decade we will be collecting in-depth information on the use of the Welsh language on a national level. We're looking forward to talking to residents up and down the country from Amlwch to Abertridwr and Prestatyn to Pembroke over the next few years.

"We already know from the 2001 census that 21% of the population can speak Welsh and that the proportion of young people able to speak Welsh is increasing. The challenge for the future is to boost the numbers actively using the language in their daily lives. So that we can monitor progress we need to take a snapshot of the current situation: where and how are people using the language?”"

"The survey will begin later this month with over 7,500 houses being visited in the first phase. All those who regard themselves as Welsh speakers will either be interviewed or asked to complete a postal questionnaire asking about their background in the language – such as whether their family could speak Welsh and how they learnt the language - and their current use of the Welsh language."

The survey is in response to the target laid out in the Welsh Assembly Government document on the future of the Welsh language, Iaith Pawb, which emphasises the need to monitor the use of the language.

The survey will be conducted by MORI on behalf of the Welsh Language Board. The work will form part of the Living in Wales study currently being undertaken by the Welsh Assembly Government into housing issues in Wales.