Bilingual road traffic sign pilot in west Belfast an ‘important development’

The installation of bilingual traffic signs and road markings in an area of west Belfast has been hailed as an “important development”.

The signs in Irish and English will be on the Falls Road between the Springfield Road and Whiterock Road showing bus lanes and parking information.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said many businesses and organisations in west Belfast already use bilingual signage within and outside their premises.

“The implementation of bilingual signage on this part of the road network over the next few weeks is a further positive development for the Gaeltacht Quarter and demonstrates my commitment to comply with the European Charter of Minority and Regional Languages,” she said.

“The Irish language reflects a shared identity and culture across this island.

“I thank Forbairt Feirste and Conradh na Gaeilge for campaigning for bi-lingual signage on roads to promote visibility and understanding of the Irish language.”

Speaking on behalf of Forbairt Feirste, Project Manager Piarais Mac Alastair said it is an important and positive development for the Gaeltacht Quarter and for the wider Irish-speaking community.

He also called for the pilot to be expanded to the wider Gaeltacht Quarter.

“Language is a visible expression of identity, and these signs recognise the everyday reality of thousands of people who live, work, study and visit this part of Belfast,” he said.

“This pilot demonstrates what can be achieved when government works collaboratively with communities.

“We commend the Department for Infrastructure and the Minister Kimmins for progressing this initiative and recognising the importance of the Irish language within our shared public spaces.”

Cuisle Nic Liam, language rights coordinator with Conradh na Gaeilge added: “This initiative is the first of its kind anywhere in the north and, given the history of community language revival in the area, it is fitting that West Belfast, one of only five uniquely recognised Irish language planning areas across Ireland, has been selected to pilot this historic scheme.

“This is a critical development in the ongoing realisation of the West Belfast Irish Language Plan, Fís an Phobail.

“Dual language signage plays an essential role in increasing the visibility and normalisation of the Irish language within our shared public space.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the minister and all relevant partners to see this successful pilot replicated in other communities in the very near future.”

Irish Language Commissioner Pól Deeds added his welcome.

“This initiative recognises and supports the vibrant Irish-speaking community in west Belfast, and I hope it will be extended in the future in line with the best practice standards currently being developed by my office,” he said.

“The duty placed on our public authorities through legislation, alongside existing government commitments to support the growth of the Irish language, has a vital role to play in language planning and protection.

“The Department for Infrastructure’s commitment to this initiative strengthens my determination to support public authorities in their efforts to make Northern Ireland a place where the Irish language can thrive as an important part of our unique cultural heritage and wealth.”