Language commission to be formed

GUERNSEY'S own language is to be the focus of an intense and organised effort to ingrain it into local society over the coming years.

Culture and Leisure Department member Darren Duquemin, pictured, gave a presentation to around 70 members of the public last night in which he outlined how this would be achieved and why it was important.

'The States Strategic Plan says the government of Guernsey aims to improve the island's unique cultural heritage and identity.

'We are here to preserve our culture, and I think the number of people attending is a fantastic indication of the importance of why we are here.'

Deputy Duquemin was made the 'political champion' of Guernesiaise last year and said since then he has been busy learning from other jurisdictions in similar situations. He explained that in Jersey its local language was far more prevalent in society than Guernsey's – something he intended to change.