In a further setback for multi-lingual broadcasting in France a Radio station, Kaouenn FM, which had planned to provide a Breton language service in the Tregor-Goëlo area of western Brittany has failed to be allotted a frequency by French regulatory body, the Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel (CSA).

Even had Kaouenn FM been successful in its application the provision of Breton radio services in the Lannion area would hardly have been overwhelming. At present all the FM radios in the area with approx. 2856 hours of coverage only provide 0.5% of the programmes in Breton. The application by Kaouenn radio, if accepted, would have expanded this to about 6% of programmes in Breton. This should be measured against the background of an area in which 42% of the population claim to understand Breton.

Provision of programming in the Celtic languages over recent years has grown apace. In Ireland, Scotland and Wales positive developments have occurred and TV and radio broadcasts in the Celtic languages can be accessed by those who use or have knowledge of their respective languages.

Even in Mannin where the number of speakers is comparatively modest some programming is available and an embryonic Gaelic Broadcasting body is in place.

As is frequently the case France is 'the odd man out' when it comes to respect for the linguistic rights of the minorities within its borders. The CSA is failing to pursue either a rational or reasonable policy in respect of facilitating broadcast opportunities for languages such as Breton.

In applying its functions the CSA would seem to be acting as a further arm of the French State in its repression of the Breton language. If this is the case it is disappointing. The Conseil supérieur de l'audiovisuel claims to be an independent administrative authority and avers that it is open and transparent. The 'openness and transparency' however does not extend to an equitable treatment of Breton or other minority languages in France.

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

25/11/06

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