[lg policy] UK: Welsh language protestors target Boots in Bangor over bilingual policy

[Harold Schiffman]

Welsh language protestors target Boots in Bangor over bilingual policy
Nov 16 2009 by Steve Bagnall, Daily Post



WELSH language protesters took to the streets in a campaign against a
high street superstore. The Welsh Language Society – Cymdeithas yr
Iaith – launched its own mock version of the Boots advantage card as
members protested outside the Bangor store on Saturday. The cards said
"There are no points whatsoever for using Welsh".
The Welsh Language Society is unhappy with Boots over the firm’s
bilingual policy, claiming it falls well short. Protesters also held a
rally to support Osian Jones of Cymdeithas, who is facing criminal
charges for painting slogans about the lack of Welsh language services
provided by major high street stores in North Wales on their
buildings.

Cymdeithas has also targeted Superdrug over its Welsh language policy.
Members are also concerned none of the major high street stores will
be asked to provide basic Welsh language services under a new law
being debated in Parliament. Addressing the protest, Welsh Language
Society chairwoman Menna Machreth said: “As a society, we have tried
to persuade these companies to provide a bilingual service, but
without success. “These companies are ignoring public opinion, 76% of
the public agree that bilingual marketing and signage is important and
81% believe that training staff to learn Welsh is as well.

“Direct action is the last step in any campaign we run.  “Osian is
following the example of many trades unions and other civil rights
campaigns.” Mr Jones added: “All we want is for these big companies to
let the Welsh language live. “I campaigned against only one or two
shops who offer only a superficial service at best. “It’s not good
enough, the Government needs to act to secure rights for people in
Wales to use the language in their everyday lives.” There was no-one
available to comment at Boots yesterday. But in previous statements
the company has said: “Boots UK launched a Welsh language policy in
conjunction with the Welsh Language Board at the National Eisteddfod.
“We understand the needs of our customers and this new policy
demonstrates our commitment to this matter.”

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/2009/11/16/welsh-language-protestors-target-boots-in-bangor-over-bilingual-policy-55578-25175429/

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