The publisher of an Irish-language newspaper has hit back at a report questioning the viability of the proposed daily Welsh newspaper Y Byd (The World).

Earlier this month a report by Dr Tony Bianchi, commissioned by the Welsh Language Board, questioned whether Y Byd would be a success.

But Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, managing director of the Belfast Media Group which publishes Irish paper Lá Nua (New Day), said in his blog: "If I had a blade of grass for every 'unviable' Irish language project which I've seen blossom to success, I'd have the Argentinian Pampas in my back garden.

"Apparently, Mr Bianchi says there's no guarantee of success for the proposed Welsh daily. But then that's life.

"If our goal was to avoid the risks rather than try to progress, we'd still be living in caves."

It was hoped that Y Byd could be launched in March but that has been put back after publication of the report.

Y Byd's owners Dyddiol Cyf are also waiting on a decision whether a grant up to £1m will be allocated from public funds to support the paper's launch.

The paper would contain local, national and international news including sport, business and politics and be complemented by a full website service.

It is planned to have 24 full-time staff working both at their HQ in Machynlleth and around the country.

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