Kernewek to have same protections as Welsh, Irish and Scots Gaelic so it can be used in education and legal hearings
The Cornish language is due to be given the same status as Welsh, Irish and Scottish Gaelic after the government submitted it for greater protections under a European charter.
Kernewek, spoken as a first language by 563 people according to the last census, has been recommended by the government for part III status under the European charter for regional or minority languages, the highest level of protection available.
Languages protected under the charter must be actively promoted by government in education, courts, administration, media, culture, economic and social life, overseen by the Council of Europe. It means that citizens have the right to use their protected language in legal hearings and in education.
Leigh Frost, the leader of Cornwall council, said: “This is brilliant news for Cornwall. To see Cornish recognised alongside Welsh, Scottish Gaelic and Gaelic is something we can all be extremely proud of. Our language is a vital part of who we are. This announcement sends a strong message that Cornish matters, and that it deserves the highest level of support and protection. It’s an important step in strengthening our culture for future generations.”
