Issue - meetings

The Cabinet decided on behalf of the Council as an employer to adopt Twf – The Welsh Language at Work Charter of  the Welsh Trade Union Congress (Wales TUC), in conjunction with local representatives of the Unison, GMB and Unite unions.

The report was presented by Cllr Llio Elenid Owen

DECISION

The Cabinet resolved on behalf of the Council as an employer to adopt Twf – The Welsh Language at Work Charter of the Welsh Trade Union Congress (Wales TUC), in conjunction with local representatives of the Unison, GMB and Unite unions.

DISCUSSION

It was explained that the aim of the Charter was to support employees, their trade unions and employers to work together to create bilingual workplaces and ensure that employees had access to representation by trade unions in Welsh.

The member reported on the four principles upon which the Council would operate in adopting the Charter, namely

·       Twf and Welsh Language rights

·       Inclusion and linguistic justice

·       Leadership and accountability

·       Continuous learning and confidence building

The key role of the Welsh language within the Council was emphasised, and it was proud that Gwynedd would be the first local authority to adopt this Charter.

It was explained that the Council's officers had been involved in developing the Charter, and the representatives of the Unions were thanked for their enthusiasm towards it. It was hoped that the adoption of the Charter would pave the way for other authorities to do as well.

Observations arising from the discussion:

·       Members expressed pride that the Council was leading the way in the field and reiterated their gratitude to the Unions for their co-operation.

They were thankful and proud that the Unions saw value in this work as well. It was emphasised that there was a good working relationship between the Council and the Unions, and that the relationship could lead to great work such as this Charter.