Agenda item

Following scrutiny, the report was noted.

Members considered the report as circulated within the agenda pack.

The Cabinet Member outlined that the report summarises the work that Neath Port Talbot Council has undertaken to comply with the Welsh Language Standards. The Welsh Language Standards ensure that the Welsh language is not treated less favourably that English in Wales. A compliance noticed was issued in September 2015 by the commissioner which outlined which standards the authority must comply with. The Council are under a duty to issue an annual report to show that they have complied with the standards. The compliance has been assessed as good by the Welsh Language Commissioner, however it is recognised that there is still work to do in this area.

Members queried if there were ant statistics to accompany the report and if they reflected if there has been an increase in the use of Welsh language throughout the authority. Officers confirmed that in the report there is some anecdotal information which indicates that there has been a small increase. The statistics that are actually collected relate to Welsh speakers, whereby persons are asked to indicate their fluency etc. It is noted that there has been an increase in the use of Welsh internally for example in the employee engagement survey, which was offered in both Welsh and English. These items will be reflected in the report for 2024-2025.

Members referred a paragraph on page 4 of the report which outlined the impact of the standards on public engagement. It has been noticeable where very lengthy questions on the impact of Welsh language on an item has popped up on external consultation documents. Members expressed their concern that the authority was asking the public for the impact on Welsh language, when this could be done by officers in their assessment.

Members noted on page 6 of the report, it refers to simultaneous translation. It should be made clear that it is only Full Council meetings that simultaneous translation is available. Simultaneous translation is limited.

Officers confirmed that the questions which are used to determine what affect a decision taken has on the Welsh language, are taken from the Welsh Language Commissioners guidance on good practice. Officers have tested various ways of setting out the questions. It is also part of the IIA process. Further, in order to ensure that people don’t get overwhelmed, an explanation will be provided outlining the reasons as to why the questions are being asked.

Members referred to the statistics outlined in the report which refers to the number of fluent/fairly fluent Welsh speakers and how this figure is larger than the number identified on the directory. Members indicated that this was a concern to them. Officers outlined that the directory only identifies staff who answer the phone in Welsh. The statistics from iTrent, collect data from all members of staff, including frontline staff who will not be identified on the directory. Members queried the difference in the two sets of data collected and why Welsh speaking frontline staff are not identified on the staff directory. Officers outlined that they are not identified are they are not contactable my email or a telephone line. However, officers can consider how data is collected for future reports.

Members and officers recognised the importance of creating an environment within the organisation which encourages Welsh learners to practice their skills.

Following scrutiny, the report was noted.