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23 Aug 2011

Wyt t’in siarad Cymraeg? Then call Newcastle

In the latest of a series of ‘cost-cutting’ measures, the DSA has revolutionised the way it now deals with Welsh-speaking clients.

The administrative office in Cardiff is, in the main, being closed, with only a small DSA presence remaining. The three fluent Welsh speakers who work there are no longer being employed to handle Welsh-speaking callers. Instead, callers are being given a number in Newcastle to ring, where an interpreter will translate their comments for the benefit of the English-speaking call operator.

The translation scheme is being powered by translation giants thebigword. The DSA claims the new system will make it easier for Welsh speakers to get the level of service they expect and are entitled to, whilst reducing costs to the DSA.

Current service users and DSA workers alike have expressed views in both languages that indicate their displeasure with the proposed changes. The Public and Commercial Services union (PCS) have said they are waiting to meet with management to discuss the plans and their ‘benefits’ for Welsh users.

Union president Paul Williams commented: “There are still at least three fluent Welsh-speakers working in the Cardiff office and they should have been given the option of transferring over to carry out this work.”

The use of an outside translation service when there are native speakers available seems to many to be nonsensical. However, the DSA has firmly shown its support for the initiative. Union talks are expected to happen presently, though hopes for talking sense into the driving agency are low.

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