The Association is keen to reflect the diversity of language and culture of Wales, and as such is mindful of local authorities' own Welsh Language Schemes.
The Association's role as the umbrella body for local authorities in Wales puts it in the unique position of acting as a representative for the collective view of Welsh local government. It works with a number of partner organizations in Wales, in the form of non-departmental public bodies, voluntary organizations and pressure groups. It is committed to encouraging, supporting and facilitating equality of opportunity through its partnership role with these organizations, which includes the pursuit of equal status for the Welsh language.
The WLGA's Welsh Language Scheme was approved by the Welsh Language Board on 20th August 1999 under section 14 (i) of the Welsh Language Act 1993. The scheme aims to ensure that Welsh and English are treated on an equal basis in all of the Association's dealings with users of its services:
- Elected members and officers of local authorities in Wales;
- Any organizations with which the Association works or comes into contact;
As such, the Association will aim to enable all who use its services to do so through the medium of Welsh or English.
Unlike a local authority, the WLGA does not provide services directly to the people of Wales. Nevertheless where it receives requests for information it will respond through the medium of Welsh or English according to personal choice.
The scheme also aims to support the use of the Welsh language in Welsh local government and by the Association's partner organizations and those bodies with whom it works.
For more information contact: Heledd Bebb