The proposed language policy, up for decision on Wednesday evening (1 October), would extend the use of Irish beyond street signs, introducing a bilingual English-Irish corporate identity for council vehicles, staff uniforms, and public signage.

Sinn Féin, which holds 22 of the council’s 60 seats, is leading the push for adoption. The party argues that the move reflects the growing support for Irish and brings Belfast in line with other councils across Northern Ireland, including Mid Ulster, Derry and Strabane, and Newry, Mourne and Down. “The sky isn’t going to fall in when this policy is approved,” said Sinn Féin councillor Tomás Ó Néill, stressing that changes would be phased in gradually and largely made when replacements are due.

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has strongly opposed the plan, calling it “madness” and “divisive.” DUP representatives have warned that bilingual logos on uniforms and vehicles could put frontline staff at risk in certain parts of the city. Councillor Sarah Bunting of Balmoral said staff had raised concerns directly with her. “Those doing bin collections and street cleansing have told us this could pose a safety risk,” she said.

Financial questions also remain. The DUP has criticised the lack of full costings, though the council has indicated that an underspend of £1.9m will cover the initial roll-out. A draft 18-page policy document and a two-year implementation plan have already been approved by the committee, pending ratification at the full council meeting.

Council officials confirmed that design work for the new bilingual identity is underway and that trade unions will be consulted through the industrial relations framework.