Queen's University Belfast (QUB) is facing a pivotal moment in its history as it grapples with the demands of the Irish language community. The recent all-student vote overwhelmingly supported the introduction of dual signage, marking a significant shift towards embracing the Irish language and promoting inclusivity. However, the university's response has been less than enthusiastic, raising questions about its commitment to this cause.
The letter from An Cumann Gaelach and Queen's Students' Union to the university's vice-chancellor, Prof Sir Ian Greer, highlights a stark contrast between the university's actions and the expectations of the Irish language community. While QUB has taken some positive steps, such as launching the An Scéim Chónaithe residential scheme and creating an Irish language officer, the physical infrastructure of the campus remains largely monolingual. The letter emphasizes the need for a comprehensive Irish language policy and a clear implementation timeframe, urging Sir Ian to seize the opportunity to celebrate and embrace the diversity on campus.
The call for dual signage is not without precedent. A referendum in March garnered over 90% support from students, with more than 5,000 ballots cast in favor of equal status for Irish and English. However, the university's hesitation to implement this change is evident in the removal of bilingual signage from the Students' Union in 1997, a decision that was deemed incompatible with a neutral working environment by the Fair Employment Commission. Despite updated guidance from the Equality Commission, the university has yet to reinstate bilingual signage, citing concerns about provocation and offense.
This reluctance to embrace dual signage is further exemplified by the comments of Queen's Young Unionist chair, Jay Basra. While he respects the referendum result, he questions its substance, urging the university and the students' union to engage with the Ulster-Scots community. Basra's critique highlights the low voter turnout and the need for a more inclusive approach to student politics.
The university's response to the letter is a nuanced one. QUB acknowledges the importance of language, culture, and identity as integral components of a diverse and inclusive campus community. It has undertaken considerable activity and ongoing engagement with the Irish Language Commissioner, the Commissioner for Ulster Scots, and the Ulster British Tradition. However, the university's commitment to enhancing its activities in respect of culture and language remains to be seen, as it plans to review relevant models and best practices while considering operational and resource implications.
The tension between the university's actions and the community's expectations is a complex issue. While QUB has made some strides, the lack of visible progress in physical infrastructure and the hesitation to implement dual signage raise questions about the university's commitment to a comprehensive Irish language policy. The Irish language community's call for a public commitment and a clear implementation timeframe is a testament to their determination for change. As QUB navigates this challenge, the outcome will shape its reputation as a truly inclusive and diverse institution.
