European constitution to be translated into Welsh

8 March 2005
icWales

The European Constitution is to be translated into Welsh, the Assembly Government announced today.

The constitutional treaty, signed by heads of state in October last year, has to be approved by all 25 members. Britain, along with several other member states, will hold a referendum on the issue, although no date has been set for the poll.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan hailed the translation as a "milestone in the international recognition of the Welsh language".

He said: "The Constitutional Treaty is important for Wales in very many ways. For the first time it recognises the role of small nations like Wales that are a part of a big member state.

"It is only right and proper that the people of Wales will be able to read the whole Treaty in Welsh as well. It is a real step forward."

Minister for Europe Denis MacShane said: "The decision to translate the Treaty into Welsh shows the Government's commitment to inform the British public about the facts of the Treaty. Experience has shown time and time again that the more people know about the Treaty, the more they realise that it's a good deal for the UK."

The constitution will be the first EU treaty to be made available in Welsh. Translation costs are to be funded by the Foreign Office.

Minister for Europe Denis MacShane said: "The decision to translate the Treaty into Welsh shows the Government's commitment to inform the British public about the facts of the Treaty. Experience has shown time and time again that the more people know about the Treaty, the more they realise that it's a good deal for the UK."

The constitution will be the first EU treaty to be made available in Welsh. Translation costs are to be funded by the Foreign Office.

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