Conradh na Gaeilge claims Irish language spoken in Belfast court after almost 300 years
Conradh na Gaeilge, the democratic forum for the Irish-speaking community, made a historic announcement on Monday, January 15, stating that the Irish language was officially spoken in Belfast Courts for the first time since the 18th century. The momentous occasion occurred during an appeal related to a bilingual signage dispute, with members of Conradh na Gaeilge introducing themselves in Irish at the beginning of the proceedings. Witnesses from the organization also used Irish during the tribunal, potentially marking the first official use of the language in Belfast Courts since the enactment of the 1737 Administration of Justice (Language) Act.
This significant development comes as the Language and Identity Act (2022) waits to be triggered. The act includes a provision to repeal the ban on the use of Irish in court documentation. In their case, Conradh na Gaeilge, supported by The PILS Project (Public Interest Litigation Support) and represented by CAJ (Committee on the Administration of Justice), challenged a decision made by Belfast City Council and upheld by the Information Commissioner. The decision pertained to the disclosure of legal documentation regarding the legal test for a call-in made by the DUP regarding bilingual signage at Olympia leisure center.
Belfast City Council had deemed that the legal determination provided met the threshold indicating that bilingual signage could disproportionately affect a section of the inhabitants of the district. However, they refused to disclose the legal opinion following a Freedom of Information request made by Conradh na Gaeilge. The opinion effectively overturned a committee vote that had approved bilingual signage at Olympia with a majority of 12 to 6.
Members of the Irish-speaking community expressed their disappointment with the DUP’s obstruction of Irish language rights during the tribunal. Cuisle Nic Liam, Language Rights Coordinator with Conradh na Gaeilge, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in council policy decisions. The refusal to release the legal opinion prevented the public from understanding the criteria and rationale behind the rejection of bilingual signage at Olympia.
The Tribunal, which reserved judgment, aims to deliver its decision within three weeks. This case highlights the ongoing discussion and consultation around language rights as well as the need for transparency and openness in legal determinations that impact communities. Conradh na Gaeilge hopes that this tribunal will promote a culture of inclusivity and accessibility, allowing future legal determinations paid for by the Council to be readily available for scrutiny and challenge.
The inclusion of the Irish language in the Belfast Courts after almost three centuries signifies a significant milestone for the Irish-speaking community. Through this historic development and the ongoing efforts of organizations like Conradh na Gaeilge, the journey towards preserving and celebrating cultural and linguistic diversity in Ireland continues.
The news of the Irish language making its presence felt once again within the judicial system highlights the persistence and resilience of communities in their quest for recognition and inclusion. As this case draws to a close, it serves as a reminder of the importance of language rights and the need to embrace and respect diverse cultures and traditions.
In a world where language and identity are intertwined, it is crucial to foster an environment that not only acknowledges but celebrates linguistic diversity. The inclusion of the Irish language in Belfast Courts is more than a mere legal occurrence; it sends a powerful message about honoring heritage and ensuring that all voices are heard.
This groundbreaking event will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for further discussions and progress in language rights and cultural preservation in Northern Ireland. As the Tribunal prepares to deliver its judgment, the eyes of the Irish-speaking community and supporters of linguistic diversity around the world eagerly await the outcome.
