THE government has been criticised for failing to play its part in protecting the Island’s ancient language by failing to have appropriate Jèrriais signage in its Union Street building.
Tama Coxshall, a Jèrriais advocate with more than 8,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, expressed his disappointment that the language did not form a more central part of the government’s communications.
Mr Coxshall said he was “shocked” when he noticed to lack of Jèrriais, adding: “On paper it looks like the language is being valued, but it isn’t being put into practice.”
In a proposal adopted by the States Chamber in 2019, it was indicated that all Government of Jersey signage and letterheads should be in Jèrriais with an English translation beneath it.
A Government of Jersey spokesperson said: “Signage at the Government building on Union Street is currently being updated as part of wider improvements, reflecting our commitment to promoting Jèrriais as an important part of Jersey’s cultural identity.”
At Philip Le Feuvre House – the former Social Security building – Jèrriais had been a prominent feature on signs, Mr Coxshall said, adding that it gave the language a “purpose because people are seeing it”.
“It also distinguishes that area and it gives it an identity. And because it makes people feel included then that is going to make people want to contribute more to it,” he continued.
“That’s what seeing Jèrriais around does; it gives us a sense of ownership, even if you’re not thinking about it,” he added.
A spokesperson from L’Office du Jèrriais said enthusiasm for the language has reached a “turning point” among people of all ages.
However, they said that despite “positivity” from the public, States Assembly and ministers, they are facing challenges from the civil service.
They explained that “nothing’s joined up” and there is not always a “Jèrriais champion in the room” when decisions were being made.
Mr Coxshall said that these priorities can reflect a society’s values. He added: “You should be able to visit somewhere and see the local language and culture on display because it says that the people who live there care about where they live. It makes you feel welcomed whether you live there or not.”
