Overview

The Identity and Language (Northern Ireland) Bill aims to enhance the recognition and use of the Irish language and Ulster Scots/Ulster British tradition in Northern Ireland, alongside promoting cultural pluralism and reconciliation among different national and cultural identities.

Description

The bill introduces several key measures:

• Establishment of the Office of Identity and Cultural Expression: This new body will promote cultural pluralism, reconciliation, and the celebration of cultural and linguistic heritage in Northern Ireland. It may also establish the Castlereagh Foundation to fund research into identity.
• Irish Language Commissioner: This commissioner will be appointed to create and promote best practice standards for the use of the Irish language by public authorities, and investigate complaints regarding non-compliance.
• Commissioner for the Ulster Scots and Ulster British Tradition: This commissioner will enhance and develop the language, arts, and literature associated with the Ulster Scots and Ulster British tradition, providing advice and support to public authorities, and investigating related complaints.
• Repeal of the Administration of Justice (Language) Act (Ireland) 1737: This act restricted the use of Irish in legal proceedings.
• Promoting Ulster Scots in education: The bill mandates the Department of Education to encourage and facilitate the use and understanding of Ulster Scots in the education system.
• Secretary of State Powers: The Secretary of State is granted concurrent powers with Northern Ireland ministers and departments regarding identity and language functions, including the power to direct other bodies.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify exact figures for government spending. However, it will incur costs associated with establishing and maintaining the Office of Identity and Cultural Expression, the salaries and operational costs of both commissioners, and other administrative and support functions.

Groups Affected

• Irish speakers: The bill could lead to improved access to public services in Irish.
• Ulster Scots/Ulster British community: The bill aims to promote their language, arts, and literature within Northern Ireland.
• Public authorities in Northern Ireland: They will be subject to new duties and responsibilities concerning the Irish language and the Ulster Scots/Ulster British tradition.
• Northern Ireland Assembly: The Assembly will have oversight of the new bodies and will receive reports on their activities.
• Secretary of State for Northern Ireland: The Secretary of State gains considerable influence and oversight through the bill's provisions.

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