Languages of Northern Ireland
| Languages of Northern Ireland | |
|---|---|
| Main languages | English (99.2%) |
| Minority languages | Irish (5.6%),Ulster-Scots (2.0%) |
| Main immigrant languages | Polish (1%) |
| Sign languages | Northern Ireland Sign Language |
| Common keyboard layouts |
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English is the most spoken language in Northern Ireland with Mandarin Chinese being the second most used according to the last census. There are also two recognised regional languages in Northern Ireland: the Irish language (see Irish language in Northern Ireland) and the local variety of Scots known as Ulster Scots.Northern Ireland Sign Language and Irish Sign Language have been recognised since 29 March 2004.
English is spoken as a first language by almost all of the Northern Ireland population. It is the de facto official language and the Administration of Justice (Language) Act (Ireland) 1737 prohibits the use of languages other than English in legal proceedings.
Under the Good Friday Agreement, Irish and Ulster Scots (an Ulster dialect of the Scots language, sometimes known as Ullans), are recognised as "part of the cultural wealth of Northern Ireland". Two all-island bodies for the promotion of these were created under the Agreement: Foras na Gaeilge, which promotes the Irish language, and the Ulster Scots Agency, which promotes the Ulster Scots dialect and culture. These operate separately under the aegis of the North/South Language Body, which reports to the North/South Ministerial Council.
The British government in 2001 ratified the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. Irish (in Northern Ireland) was specified under Part III of the Charter, with a range of specific undertakings in relation to education, translation of statutes, interaction with public authorities, the use of placenames, media access, support for cultural activities and other matters. A lower level of recognition was accorded to Ulster Scots, under Part II of the Charter.
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