For the first time, Limburg’s Provincial Council conducted a debate in the Limburgish language. Two interpreters translated the debate into Dutch for the audience.
This year, the council approved a motion allowing one annual debate in Limburgish. This session focused on a program supporting the Limburgish language, costing 1.1 million euros per year, which was unanimously approved.
The province aims to achieve ‘Part III recognition’ for Limburgish by 2030, which would lead to increased national funding, similar to the existing recognition for the Frisian language. Currently, Limburgish is acknowledged as a regional language, permitting local governments to promote its use.
However, PvdA deputy Jasper Kuntzelaers emphasized that national investment is also necessary, as the government supports other languages like Frisian and Papiamento. Emile Roemer, commissioner of the King, described Limburgish as “a treasure to preserve,” emphasizing its cultural significance and role in fostering community cohesion.
Source: NOS