Thank you, Deputy Presiding Officer. In opening this debate today and asking you to note the annual report of the Welsh Language Commissioner for the year 2021-22, there is of course an element of sadness as we remember Aled Roberts. Aled’s contribution as Welsh Language Commissioner during this period was very innovative and progressive, and set a firm foundation for the commissioner’s work. Even though his time as commissioner was cut short, there is no doubt that he left his mark on the post and on the Welsh language. As Welsh Language Commissioner, Aled took every opportunity to inspire and to support those who needed that support and guidance, and he was a strong advocate for Welsh speakers. He wasn’t afraid of challenging us as Ministers, and his enthusiasm, particularly for improving Welsh language planning, was obvious to everyone. On a personal level, Aled was a kind and honest individual, full of humour, and he was a huge loss to his family and his community. I’m sure that all of us remember Aled today as we discuss this annual report, and we remember his important contribution.

I’m very grateful to Gwenith Price, deputy Welsh language commissioner, for leading the organisation so effectively since February. It’s been a very difficult time for the staff, but I’m very grateful to Gwenith and the staff as a whole for ensuring that the work of the commissioner has continued without interval. It’s also important to note my thanks to the members of the advisory panel and the audit and risk committee for supporting Gwenith.

It's now an opportunity for us to look forward, and in that regard, the First Minister has already announced that Efa Gruffudd Jones has been appointed as Welsh Language Commissioner. Efa will start as commissioner on 9 January. The Welsh language has been at the heart of Efa’s career, as former chief executive of the Urdd for 12 years, and now as chief executive of the National Centre for Learning Welsh for six years. She has a vast amount of experience of supporting Welsh speakers, of attracting new speakers and of working towards increasing the use of the Welsh language. I look forward to working with Efa to ensure greater opportunities for Welsh speakers and those learning the language to use the Welsh language, and to collaborate on that wider aim of increasing use of the Welsh language.