Decision details

The Director of Communications and Interim Head of Democratic Services provided Members with an overview of the report before them following consideration at the Welsh Language Cabinet Steering Group on the 10^th October, 2018 and the subsequent officer meeting with the Welsh Language Commissioner on the 12^th October.

Members were advised that the Steering Group considered the recommendations made by the Welsh Language Commissioner in respect of the adoption of place-names relevant to Rhondda Cynon Taf, and although acknowledged the work undertaken by the Place-Names Standardisation Panel  were of the view that any changes made to the place-names in RCT, should be consulted upon with the local communities.  The Director also took the opportunity to advise of an Officer meeting with the Commissioner who welcomed the opportunity to work with the Authority on the matter.

Members commented upon the report and the recommendation by the Steering Group to consult with those who will be affected.

It was RESOLVED:

1.    To note the content of the report considered by the Welsh Language Cabinet Steering Group on the 10^th October, 2018 (attached as Appendix 1) and the subsequent oral update provided by the Interim Head of Democratic Services following a meeting with the Commissioner on the 12^th October, 2018 ;

2.    To the recommendations of the Welsh Language Cabinet Steering Group which are listed at 2.2.1 to 2.2.2 of the report and as set out below:

a)    That Cabinet seek written confirmation from the Welsh Language Commissioner, in respect of their rationale for the changes, as set out in the Full Welsh Language Commissioner’s List of Standardised Welsh Place-names, in order to better inform a future decision of the Cabinet.

b)    That Consultation takes place with the communities highlighted within the report and that the rationale adopted by the Welsh Language Commissioner and any further information gathered via engagement sessions with the Commissioner is used as part of this process. Until otherwise agreed, the Council will continue to utilise the current names outlined within Rhondda Cynon Taf’s Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG).