WIREDGOV

A consultation on the Draft Rules for the operation of the Welsh Language Tribunal opened yesterday, with views being sought by 19 January 2015.

The Welsh Language Tribunal has been set up to hear appeals against the Welsh Language Commissioner’s decisions in relation to the Welsh Language Standards. The Draft Rules seek to put in place an operational framework to ensure that all appeals which come infront of the Tribunal are dealt with in a consistent and fair manner.

In July, Keith Bush QC was appointed as the first President of the Tribunal. The Tribunal is currently in the process of appointing legally qualified and lay members.

Launching the consultation, the President of the Welsh Language Tribunal, Keith Bush QC, said:  

"It is vital that everyone who has an interest in the work of the Tribunal should look at the draft procedural Rules and the consultation document that goes with them. The Welsh Language Tribunal is a judicial body unique to Wales and we have full freedom to fashion methods of working which are suitable to the needs of Wales. We look forward to any comments and can assure everyone who responds that their ideas will be given careful and open-minded consideration."    

First Minister Carwyn Jones said:

“The Tribunal will play a key role in the Welsh Language Standards process.  It is important that the judicial body has a robust framework and processes in place to ensure that all hearings are considered in a fair and consistent manner.  I urge people across Wales to get involved and share their views with the Tribunal.”

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