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The Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS) has sent a comprehensive response to the Celtic League's query about commitment to Gaelic language and culture. The correspondence is set out in full below and complements earlier responses from individual forces in Wales, Scotland and Mann.
"Dear Rhisiart,
Scottish forces : Scottish Gaelic language and cultural commitment
I refer to your correspondence dated 15 February 2008 which you addressed to all Scottish Chief Constables in connection with the above subject.
I can advise that this response reflects the composite views of all forces in Scotland with the exception of Strathclyde Police, who I believe has responded separately to you.
Members agree there is no doubt that Gaelic continues to play a fundamental part in Scottish life and legitimately claims its place as one of our national languages. The language and culture is spread predominantly throughout Northern Constabulary, which has a large number of resident Gaelic speakers within its boundaries, and part of the Strathclyde Police area. However, within other Scottish Police forces, the percentage of persons, who speak, read, write and understand Gaelic, is low and consequently, in these latter forces, Gaelic is included in languages available through current interpreting and translation provisions.
For the reasons previously stated, the majority of Police Force websites are predominantly in English. Notwithstanding, Northern Constabulary have made provision within their site to guide users to the 'publications' section, which contains their Public Performance Reports from 2002 / 03 onwards, that are available in both English and Gaelic. Hard copies of publications are also available in both languages and the decision by the force to promote their Annual Report in Gaelic is a long-standing commitment.
All Scottish Police forces have adopted the generic Scottish Police Badge, which is the Thistle of Scotland surmounted by a Crown with the motto Semper Vigilo on a scroll below. In addition to the foregoing, and promoting Gaelic on all its marked vehicles, literature and police signs with the words 'Dion is Cuidich', meaning 'protect and serve', Northern Constabulary have a unique force badge. This is an adaptation of a Celtic design registered with the Lord Lyon King of Arms and consequently they would not wish to lose this Celtic connection with their heritage.
Although there is not a Gaelic language policy in place, Northern Constabulary identifies Gaelic as a language and collects information about officers who have Gaelic as a first or second language. In addition, when the MOD Festival visits towns within the Highlands and Islands, the force assists local and national committees by providing liaison officers who are fluent Gaelic speakers.
Police officers are also encouraged and supported, where appropriate, towards any learning and development opportunities, relevant to their duties and functions.
In conclusion, Scottish Police Forces are keen to ensure the service provided is all encompassing both for the public and staff, and in particular, all non-English speaking multi cultural communities. Therefore should evidence emerge to identify a specific need to service requirements for Gaelic within communities, it will receive appropriate consideration and attention.
I trust that the foregoing is of assistance to you.
Yours sincerely
Harry Bunch General Secretary"
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J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League
27/03/08
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