BCC Consultation On Draft Irish Language Policy

Belfast City Council has announced a new public consultation on their new draft Irish language policy.

The draft policy sets out how the council plans to promote Irish and use Irish across its services, including interpreting and translation, key documents and publications, signage at facilities, on the council website belfastcity.gov.uk and within the council's corporate identity, including its logo.

It is the first draft policy to be brought forward as part of the council's Language Strategy, which provides a framework for promoting, protecting and enhancing the city's linguistic diversity and ensuring Belfast is a welcoming city for everyone. The other strands in the strategy are Ulster-Scots, sign language (British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language), communicating with those with disabilities and minority ethnic communities. The proposals included in the draft Irish language policy were agreed by elected members in April 2024. Once the consultation closes, elected members will review the feedback received and agree the next steps in developing a final Irish language policy.

Belfast City Council staff have also been invited to share their feedback, and consultation is also taking place with trade unions.

The consultation is open for 14 weeks, closing at midnight on Thursday 28 November.

Five in-person and online information sessions have also been organised and will take place on:

• Thursday 5 September, 7pm – St Mary's University College

• Wednesday 2 October, 2pm – online

• Tuesday 8 October, 7pm – online

• Wednesday 9 October, 6pm – An Droichead, Ormeau Road

• Wednesday 30 October, 4pm – 2 Royal Avenue

To register, visit yoursay.belfastcity.gov.uk