Single Written FormAs with many smaller languages around the world, Cornish currently has more than one version.Put simply, the written sources we have span several centuries and reflect different periods in the life of the language. In reviving Cornish, spelling systems have been devised which reflect different ideas on how we should use this knowledge to take Cornish forward into the future. Whilst each system will undoubtedly continue to be used, in the same way that dialects continue in most languages, it is important that we have agreement on a form that will be used for formal education and for official use. Working towards agreement on this is a major priority for the Partnership at present. In order to progress the discussion, the Partnership established a process through which everyone’s views could be made known. A Linguistic Working Group was set up comprising Cornish speakers who know the language well and between them encompass a wide range of views and expertise. A Commission drawn from language planners and experts from a range of other language communities provides an independent, objective viewpoint. The role of the Commission, aided by the expertise of the Linguistic Group, was to recommend a way forward to the Partnership. A conference held in September 2006 examined the basis of the different forms and the papers from this can be accessed on this site. Another conference took place in October 2007 at which the Commission presented their findings and recommended a consensus approach for establishing the Single Written Forum, instead of choosing one of the existing forms. The Commission’s statement, as presented at the conference, can be downloaded in full below. A list of abbreviations and website links has been added to the end of the document for clarification and ease of reference. Upon the recommendation of the Commission, an Ad-Hoc Group of representatives from each of the main language groups and orthographies was set up, headed by Dr Trond Trosterud as Arbiter. This group met in November and December 2007 to work on the principles for the Single Written Form. By the end of the second meeting, agreement was achieved and work is now being undertaken to draw up the detail of the agreement, rationale and further details on implementation, and this will be available early in 2008. Reports and statements from each of the working groups can be downloaded below. Anyone wishing for further information or to put any views forward should contact the Development Manager. Related MediaOther useful pagesRelated Links
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