4 Arrested in Caernarfon – Direct Action taken against Boots & Superdrug

Four members of Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg (The Welsh Language Society), including Cymdeithas' regional officer in the north – Osian Jones, and former Chairman – Steffan Cravos, were arrested in Caernarfon last night for painting slogans and covering the branches of Boots and Superdrug in the town with posters calling for a New Welsh Language Act. Boots and Superdrug branches in Caernarfon, Bangor and Llangefni were also targeted as part of Cymdeithas' 'Transforming the Private Sector' Campaign.

The campaign will continue over the next few months calling on large companies in the private sector to adopt a comprehensive Welsh language policy. Cymdeithas has promised further direct action against Boots and Superdrug unless they show greater commitment to the Welsh Language. Hywel Griffiths, Chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg said:

"Both Boots and Superdrug must realise that they have to show respect for the Welsh language. Since the Government of Wales has not as yet committed itself to a Welsh language Act that has powers extending to the private sector, these companies must be reminded of their obligation to their Welsh-speaking customers who contribute towards their extravagant annual profits."

"Cymdeithas yr Iaith call on Boots and Superdrug to ensure bilingualism throughout their stores in Wales, including bilingual permanent signage, seasonal signage, loud-speaker announcements and own brand packaging and also to offer training for their staff in order to create a bilingual workforce."

Cymdeithas' targets during May and June this year are Boots and Superdrug. Over the next year various leading chain stores will be targeted by Cymdeithas yr Iaith Gymraeg to emphasise the need for a New Welsh Language Act.

'Transforming the Private Sector' Targets:
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May/June '08: Boots/Superdrug
July/August ’08: Woolworths/W H Smiths
September/October ’08: Abbey/Co-op Bank
November/December ’08: Orange/Vodafone

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