Proposed Assembly Measure on Welsh Language – have your say.
24 March 2010
The proposed Welsh Language (Wales) Measure 2010 was introduced by the Welsh Government on 4 March.
The National Assembly for Wales’ Legislation Committee No.2 will now scrutinise the Measure and they want to hear your views.
This invitation to have your say comes on the day that Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones AM will appear before the committee to answer questions about the proposed Measure. Click here to view.
The proposed Measure includes a provision to establish the office of Welsh Language Commissioner, which will replace the Welsh Language Board.
The Commissioner will be responsible for promoting and facilitating the use of the Welsh language, and for promoting equality between the Welsh and English languages. The Commissioner will be supported by an advisory panel.
This will include the power to investigate alleged “interferences with individuals’ freedom to use Welsh with one another in certain circumstances”.
It will also make provision for the development of standards of conduct relating to the Welsh language, which will gradually replace existing Welsh language schemes provided for by the 1993 Welsh Language Act - although there will be the ability for individuals to challenge any duties placed upon them in respect of the Measure.
“Welsh is a language for everyone in Wales and we should do everything we can to safeguard its future,” said Committee Chair, Val Lloyd AM.
“The Welsh Government has come forward with its proposals to provide greater clarity and consistency for Welsh speakers in terms of the services they can expect to receive and to reduce the demands placed on those organisations subject to language duties”
“It is important that as many of you have your say to ensure that we have an effective piece of legislation that meets the needs of Welsh speakers”.
To view the Measure in full and the Memorandum of Explanation click here.
To read more information about the Measure and how to submit your views, click here.
To take part in the consultation ...
send submissions to legislationoffice@wales.gsi.gov.uk
to write, send to Owain Roberts, Legislation Committee No.2, 3rd Floor, National Assembly for Wales, Ty Hywel, Cardiff Bay, CF99 1NA.
Or you can comment on our social networking sites: Facebook and Twitter
The deadline for consultations to be submitted is 11 May.