Wales' Welsh Language Commissioner has resigned from her position, with the First Minister confirming that a temporary replacement will take over until a successor is appointed.

Efa Gruffudd Jones, who has held the position since January 2023, stepped down on Tuesday, 20 October, citing personal reasons.

First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth confirmed her departure in a written statement, thanking her for her work over nearly four years. He said: “I have today accepted the resignation of the Welsh Language Commissioner, Efa Gruffudd Jones for personal reasons. I thank her for all her work since her appointment in 2023.”

Lowri Williams, appointed Deputy Welsh Language Commissioner by Ms Gruffudd Jones, will exercise the Commissioner's functions while a full public appointments process takes place.

The departure comes at a significant time for Welsh language policy, with public bodies across Wales continuing to face statutory obligations over the provision of services in Welsh.

Established under the Welsh Language (Wales) Measure 2011, the Commissioner's office is responsible for promoting and facilitating the use of Welsh and ensuring the language is treated no less favourably than English. Its responsibilities include monitoring Welsh language standards, investigating complaints and taking enforcement action where organisations fail to comply with their legal duties.

These powers extend to public authorities serving Welsh speaking communities across Ceredigion, Powys and Gwynedd, where access to services through the medium of Welsh remains an important issue.

According to the Commissioner's office, 124 public organisations are currently implementing Welsh language standards.

The office also provides guidance on Welsh place names and works with organisations to increase opportunities for people to use the language in their everyday lives.

The Welsh Government has not announced a timetable for appointing a permanent successor.

No further explanation for Ms Gruffudd Jones' resignation was given in the First Minister's statement.