PLAID Cymru MP for Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Liz Saville Roberts has called on the BBC to provide greater clarity over planned changes to Welsh-language broadcasting, including the proposed axing of football programme Ar y Marc and a series of job cuts at its Bangor base.

The broadcaster has announced plans to remove Ar y Marc and Dros Ginio from the Radio Cymru schedule, alongside the loss of several editorial and research posts in Bangor, with the studio being downgraded.

Mrs Saville Roberts is seeking assurances that the proposed changes will not diminish Welsh language coverage of grassroots football and said that Ar y Marc serves as an important gateway for younger audiences engaging with live, Welsh-language broadcasting.

Ar y Marc has long provided dedicated coverage of football across Wales, from the Cymru Premier and Welsh Cup to clubs and volunteers working throughout the grassroots game. The proposed changes come at a time when the Football Association of Wales has identified supporting grassroots football as a key objective within its latest strategy.

Mrs Saville Roberts raised the matter earlier this week during questions to the Secretary of State for Wales in the House of Commons.

Commenting, Liz Saville Roberts MP said: “I would welcome greater clarity from BBC Cymru about how these changes will affect Welsh-language broadcasting and, in particular, coverage of Welsh football.

“For years, Ar y Marc has provided coverage that simply cannot be found elsewhere.

“It shines a spotlight not only on the Cymru Premier, but on clubs, volunteers, and communities across every level of the game in Wales.

“Many Cymru Premier and Welsh Cup matches are now deliberately scheduled on Friday evenings to maximise attention for the domestic game.

“It is therefore reasonable to ask where those matches, clubs and communities will be discussed live on national Welsh-language radio if Ar y Marc is no longer part of the schedule.

“It provides the timely discussion, sense of occasion and connection with supporters that a dedicated radio programme provides, making it an important part of the football calendar for many supporters.

“Just as importantly, Ar y Marc reaches audiences that might not otherwise listen to Radio Cymru. For many younger Welsh speakers, football is their entry point to Welsh-language broadcasting.

“This interactive discussion programme recognises that football in Wales is about far more than the professional game.

“It gives coverage to clubs in communities that often struggle for resources and media attention but form an essential part of Welsh sporting and community life.

“Alongside concerns about Ar y Marc, there are wider questions about the cumulative impact of these proposed changes on Welsh-language broadcasting.

“With fewer roles in Bangor and a reduced presence in north-west Wales, listeners will want assurances that programming will continue to reflect the diversity of Welsh life and the communities it serves.”

Caernarfon Town FC Chairman, Paul Evans added: “It is disappointing to hear that the BBC plans to cancel Ar y Marc.

“The programme has been a constant in our household on a Saturday morning for a number of years and I am sure it has been for many other Welsh football fans.

“Ar y Marc has always stood out as a programme that supported the Welsh system in addition to our national sides.

What has also stood out is that it is produced in our own language, and I cannot think of any other show that provides this important service.

“We are at a pivotal time in the game in this country as the Football Association of Wales tries to grow the Cymru Premier Leagues and make inroads internationally to broaden its’ appeal.

“As a Welsh speaking club, we know the importance of Ar y Marc to our community.

“I would expect the BBC to understand the importance of this show, more than any other, to Welsh football supporters.’