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Former Bailiff Sir Richard Collas says he has been inspired by recent enthusiasm for revitalising Guernsey's traditional language - Guernesiais.
Sir Richard, the inaugural Chairman of the relaunched Guernsey Language Commission, is looking forward to leading the development of a strategic plan to promote the status and use of the language once a survey of islanders' views has closed on Sunday.
Anyone who wants to have a say about the future of Guernesiais and the Commission should complete the survey, which is available HERE.
The Commission recently held a public launch. Sir Richard was encouraged by the turnout, which included many fluent Guernesiais speakers.
"Guernesiais is a unique aspect of our island's culture, heritage and identity, and it’s encouraging to know that there are so many islanders who are keen to see it be a part of our future, not just our past," said Sir Richard, pictured top.
"It’s exciting to see how this is now taking shape. By engaging with the community and taking them forwards with us, it’s easier to begin to see how we can make a real and tangible difference."
Pictured: The survey collecting views on Guernesiais and the Commission is open until this coming Sunday, 19 June.
Surveys have already been completed by people ranging in age from under 18 to over 75. Three-quarters of respondents so far are speakers of Guernesiais or people learning to speak it or who want to learn. They have said that Guernesiais is an important part of local culture.
The Commission is also encouraged by the number of people who have expressed an interest in serving as a Commissioner or sitting on one of its working groups.
Guernésiais falls within the responsibilities of the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture, though the Commission operates at arm's length from the States.
In 2020, the States' Assembly approved the relaunch of the Commission, which is able to raise its own funding as well as receiving a grant approved by deputies.
Sir Richard Collas to chair Guernsey Language Commission
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