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British-Irish Council to focus on minority languages

09 November 2009

Jersey is hosting the thirteenth British-Irish Council summit this week, on Friday 13 November. It will be attended by the First Ministers, Chief Ministers and Ministers from each of the 8 member administrations. The BIC incorporates the Scottish government, the Welsh Assembly, the Irish government, Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, the Northern Ireland executive and the British government.

The summit’s theme is indigenous, minority and lesser-used languages. The BIC’s minority languages work stream is led by Wales and has recently been focussing on community development. Members of the group have been researching how member administrations promote minority languages, with the aim of sharing share best practice, experiences and expertise.

Jersey’s Minister for Education, Sport and Culture will be addressing the summit on the place of Jèrriais in Jersey’s distinct historic, cultural and political identity. Deputy James Reed said: “I am pleased to be able to take part in this conference and look forward to speaking on how Jersey promotes its own minority language. Teaching Jèrriais to both children and adults is key to maintaining and the development of our unique cultural identity.”

Jersey’s Chief Minister, Senator Terry Le Sueur said: “I am delighted to be welcoming our BIC partners to Jersey, and I hope the discussions will be as useful and rewarding as they have been in previous years. The BIC is a valuable forum for us and provides a unique opportunity to discuss policies and share best practice with the most senior ministers of the eight British and Irish administrations that take part.

“These meetings provide an excellent opportunity for smaller jurisdictions like Jersey and Guernsey to play their part on an equal basis alongside larger countries like England and Scotland."

Jersey last hosted a BIC summit in 2002, which was attended by Tony Blair, then UK Prime Minister.

The BIC’s Minority Languages group is due to meet again in Dublin in December 2009 and is planning to examine the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. It is also hoping to stage a seminar in February 2010 concentrating on language rights and legislation.
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