Ulster Unionist Party Deputy Leader, Robbie Butler MLA, has said the newly appointed Language Commissioners and the Director of the Office of Identity and Cultural Expression must demonstrate that they can deliver real benefit to the public and build trust, rather than deepen division.

Mr Butler said, “This is, of course, the outworking of another Sinn Féin and DUP talks process, which sidelined others and didn’t attract the support of many. Therefore, the Commissioners come in at the outset under a cloak of scepticism. At a time when public finances are stretched to breaking point, every penny spent must show clear value for money for everyone across Northern Ireland”

“Promoting language can be positive, but it must never be forced on communities who do not want it. Past attempts to politicise language have created resentment and mistrust. That approach cannot continue. Commissioners must learn from those mistakes and focus on inclusion, not imposition.

“Language should unite, not divide. Both Irish and Ulster-Scots have shaped our shared culture through literature, music, storytelling and identity, and both deserve recognition. But equally, many people do not identify with either language, and their views matter too. Progress for one language must never come at the expense of another.

“The Ulster Unionist Party believes that fairness, equality and respect must underpin all language policy. The new Commissioners have an important role in ensuring that cultural expression brings people together and helps Northern Ireland move forward as part of a Union for all our people.”