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Bilingual Signs Policy Sparks Concerns in Belfast

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The proposal to introduce bilingual signs in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is facing criticism from several quarters. According to North Belfast MLA Brian Kingston, the policy as it stands is creating "huge numbers" of applications for bilingual signs due to a drastic reduction in the criteria required. The Sinn Fein MLA has expressed concerns about the cost and potential damage to community relations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The current policy allows for bilingual signs if just 15% of residents on a street want them, regardless of opposition from others.
  • Prior to July 2022, 33.3% of residents had to sign a petition calling for a formal survey, followed by 66.6% approval in the survey to get a bilingual sign.
  • The city council has received at least 1,271 applications for bilingual signs, relating to 829 different streets, with 256 streets already approved.
  • The policy change is part of the council's updated Irish Language Policy, which also includes installing dual language signage "in all of its facilities".
  • Brian Kingston is concerned that the policy will cause increasing resentment when the wishes of residents are disrespected, and is already causing harm to community relations.
  • The Alliance Party's support for the 15% threshold is seen as inconsistent with their opposition to street signage when the majority of respondents do not agree.
  • An online flyer is circulating calling for a protest against Irish language signs installed at Olympia Leisure Centre in south Belfast.

Statistics:

  • 1,271 applications for bilingual signs are pending, relating to 829 different streets (as of August 19).
  • 256 streets have been approved for bilingual signage as of August 19.
  • 33.3% of residents had to sign a petition calling for a formal survey prior to July 2022 to get a bilingual sign.
  • 66.6% of residents had to approve the bilingual sign plan in the survey prior to July 2022.

Sources:

  • https://www.newsletter.co.uk/news/crime/sinn-fein-mla-refuses-to-say-if-he-supports-arrest-of-vandals-who-damage-londonderry-signs-5358146
  • Belfast City Council's updated Irish Language Policy.

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